For decades, Hollywood has been operating on a contract that has become antiquated and lacks modern flexibility. But recently, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) announced a new contract that could revolutionize how Hollywood works.
The new agreement is the first comprehensive contract struck between the WGA and producers since 2008, meaning it has been nearly a decade since the two groups have updated their structure. The contract will last three years and revamp many of the existing rules around compensation, staffing, and inclusion.
The contract contains a variety of changes, including large pay increases for writers, an increase in the number of staff writers, and more opportunities for new and diverse voices in Hollywood. In addition, producers have agreed to set up new training and mentorship programs in order to foster a more inclusive workplace.
The contract also puts restrictions on non-writing tasks. This means that writers will no longer be required to do “programming, script coverage, and other tasks that were normally done by producers but are not considered writing tasks.” This can help free up time for writers to focus on their creative work as well as eliminate the unpaid labor that has become common in the industry.
The biggest change is the introduction of “franchise writers”, who will now be titled and have greater job security. These writers will work on a franchise for a set amount of time and guarantee that their work will be seen beyond just one project. This opens up opportunities for long-term production deals in sequels, spin-offs, and other types of extended works.
The new WGA contract is a major leap forward for both writers and producers. This contract has the potential to reshape the entire industry and allow for a fairer, more inclusive landscape. It’s an important step towards creating a more equitable industry, and its effects could be seen for years to come.