It's sad that James Cromwell who narrates this piece has his perceptions diminished as to taking away hard fought protections of honest people thanks to the goodness of the founding members of Screen Actors Guild. His great talent of speech misused to misinform and brainwash us out of those hard fought protections. What would Boris Karloff say?
In a SAG Board meeting tonight, David White "informed" the room that he pretty much has no plan of action for the future, and is doing nothing to achieve for the members what forcing this contract through was "supposed to" gain. And he took about 800 words to say nothing, as well, leaving the entire room baffled as to what his response actually was. So that's where we're at now folks-YEAH! a 3 percent (standard gain) increase for the loss of the control of your image & likeness in perpetuity!ya!
These HEARTLESS people think its okay to force through a contract that takes the PENNIES the ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THEIR UNION NEED TO FEED THEMSELVES. That is DEPLORABLE. So that THEY can get their quick pay raises RIGHT NOW, they are literally throwing the Elderly & helpless people out like TRASH. Pre 1971&74 checks eliminated permanently by this contract in black & white! SHAME ON YOU you spoiled GREEDY SCUM. Those of us who have a CONSCIENCE are VOTING NO to protect the helpless and voiceless!
Check out the sequel, SAVE THE BIZ: REDUX. Much better short. I think this one was written during the Writers Strike.... One of the few times where the sequel is actually a big improvement over the original!
These HEARTLESS people think its okay to force through a contract that takes the PENNIES the ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THEIR UNION NEED TO FEED THEMSELVES. That is DEPLORABLE. So that THEY can get their quick pay raises RIGHT NOW, they are literally throwing the Elderly & helpless people out like TRASH. Pre 1971&74 checks eliminated permanently by this contract in black & white! SHAME ON YOU you spoiled GREEDY SCUM. Those of us who have a CONSCIENCE are VOTING NO to protect the helpless and voiceless!
EXACTLY. The good Doctor below is absoluteley right. It's ALL a lie and it's coming to light right now.
We can negotiate the Theatrical Contract without a Strike--the First Step is to VOTE NO and force the AMPTP back to the bargaining table to negotiate with us FAIRLY, and not like we are a bunch of idiots who will fall for the same thing they have done to us TWICE before by trying to get us to vote in a Contract that causes CATASTROPHIC losses to the Membership. Vote No. It's your FUTURE
"We are extremely pleased to report the best non-holiday quarter revenue and earnings in our history, said Peter Oppenheimer, Apples CFO, in announcing the companys March quarter financial results. In its fiscal 2009 second quarter, Apple posted revenue of $8.16 billion and a net quarterly profit of $1.21 billion, or $1.33 per diluted share. Gross margin was 36.4 percent, up from 32.9 percent in the year-ago quarter."
How is your "bad economy" argument true, when a CA company is doig so well?
Please vote when you get your ballot guys! The last TWO times they have screwed us on new media where the Members lost millions of dollars, it was because ONLY THIRTY PERCENT OF SAG VOTED. We will lose AGAIN and get shafted for the third time if WE DON'T VOTE. WE are the majority of this Union--the people who don't make that much money--AND WE STAND TO LOSE THE MOST IF WE LET THEM FORCE THIS CONTRACT THROUGH! PLEASE VOTE. VOTE NO.
Ask yourself only this--If you are NOT a Celebrity who regularly negotiates your deals well above Scale and glides easily from job to job, YOU MUST VOTE 'NO' ON THIS CONTRACT TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FUTURE. FAMOUS & WEALTHY people are pushing SAG to accept this Contract AT THE EXPENSE OF ALL OF US, the typical average Member. They want to "get back to work" RIGHT AWAY, making more money and getting richer and richer, AT OUR EXPENSE. They don't care that this Contract means that we won't be
able to feed ourselves and our families. They don't care that we have paid into this Union for twenty, forty, fifty years to protect us--they only care about getting RICHER RIGHT NOW. WE ARE NOT THE ONES HOLDING UP PRODUCTION--IT'S THE PRODUCERS. WE ARE NOT THE ONES CHOOSING TO 'MOVE OVER' TO A NEW MODEL--IT'S THE PRODUCERS--TO MAKE MORE MONEY, AT OUR EXPENSE. WHY WOULD THEY BE MOVING TO THE INTERNET IF THERE WEREN'T BILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO BE MADE? OUR LIVES AND CAREERS ARE THE ONLY THING
BEING SACRIFICED RIGHT NOW--FOR GREED. THE RICH TO GET RICHER, AT THE EXPENSE OF THE SMALLEST PERSON ON THE TOTEM POLE. They are saying that "because the Economy is bad right now" that WE SHOULD SACRIFICE OUR FUTURES--WHEN THEY ARE CAUSING THIS! They are the ONLY ONES making a PROFIT in a hurting Economy, and they EVEN WANT THE PENNIES THAT WE NEED TO SURVIVE! They say "they are losing money to the cable markets"--THEY OWN THE CABLE MARKETS! IT'S A SCAM! We are compensated for the use/reuse
of our image, which is all we have to sell. Now they want to take that from us nearly for FREE. Half of our own Board was corrupted by Greed which is why we are in this mess. We are the Largest Labor Union in the Country, and the people creating this problem are the top four percentile. This Contract CAN be negotiated fairly without a strike. We are asking for PEANUTS in the big picture here. PEANUTS. Then you have some people other Unions like IATSE blaming us out of IGNORANCE-talk to AMPTP
Ask yourself only this--If you are NOT a Celebrity who regularly negotiates your deals well above Scale and glides easily from job to job, YOU MUST VOTE 'NO' ON THIS CONTRACT TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FUTURE. FAMOUS & WEALTHY people are pushing SAG to accept this Contract AT THE EXPENSE OF ALL OF US, the typical average Member. They want to "get back to work" RIGHT AWAY, making more money and getting richer and richer, AT OUR EXPENSE. They don't care that this Contract means that we won't be
able to feed ourselves and our families. They don't care that we have paid into this Union for twenty, forty, fifty years to protect us--they only care about getting RICHER RIGHT NOW. WE ARE NOT THE ONES HOLDING UP PRODUCTION--IT'S THE PRODUCERS. WE ARE NOT THE ONES CHOOSING TO 'MOVE OVER' TO A NEW MODEL--IT'S THE PRODUCERS--TO MAKE MORE MONEY, AT OUR EXPENSE. WHY WOULD THEY BE MOVING TO THE INTERNET IF THERE WEREN'T BILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO BE MADE? OUR LIVES AND CAREERS ARE THE ONLY THING
BEING SACRIFICED RIGHT NOW--FOR GREED. THE RICH TO GET RICHER, AT THE EXPENSE OF THE SMALLEST PERSON ON THE TOTEM POLE. They are saying that "because the Economy is bad right now" that WE SHOULD SACRIFICE OUR FUTURES--WHEN THEY ARE CAUSING THIS! They are the ONLY ONES making a PROFIT in a hurting Economy, and they EVEN WANT THE PENNIES THAT WE NEED TO SURVIVE! They say "they are losing money to the cable markets"--THEY OWN THE CABLE MARKETS! IT'S A SCAM! We are compensated for the use/reuse
of our image, which is all we have to sell. Now they want to take that from us nearly for FREE. Half of our own Board was corrupted by Greed which is why we are in this mess. We are the Largest Labor Union in the Country, and the people creating this problem are the top four percentile. This Contract CAN be negotiated fairly without a strike. We are asking for PEANUTS in the big picture here. PEANUTS. Then you have some people other Unions like IATSE blaming us out of IGNORANCE-talk to AMPTP
They are trying to break SAG -- not WGA, DGA, etc. who have more power. SAG wants that same power and will get it!
Rosenberg told Daily Variety that he'll strongly oppose ratification, particularly because it doesn't guarantee SAG jurisdiction and residuals on some new-media projects.
Actors are not artists they are morons in wardrobe. Thanks for destroying the film industry and destroying lives. But i guess if you were smart you wouldnt be actors in the first place. Losing so much more than you ever stood to gain, in money, sympathy and respect. People are losing homes and lives are being destroyed.
So what are you then? A security guard? A caterer? What? If you're not a SAG Member, why are you sounding off on OUR contract? Why don't you go sound off on the TEACHERS' Contract too, while you're at it. I paid $140,000 for a College Degree to do what I do for a living. How long did it take to get your "Guard Card"? A weekend? Go somewhere else and get another job, you moron, instead of shooting off your dumb mouth wher it doesn't belong. I've been paying into this Union for 17 years of my life
and got a degree from a top University. ACTORS ARE LOSING HOMES AND OUR LIVES ARE BEING DESTROYED! We're asking for a fair wage. We have rights under the Labor Laws of the United States. Woud you want to work for free? Maybe I should just come to your house and lick your dumb As% for free while I'm at it. You have alot of nerve. Go somewhere else and get another job if you're "losing your house". Why are you blaming US? IT'S NOT YOUR CONTRACT SCUMBAG. You're a leech. Go feed off another Union.
im 23 yrs IATSE and alot of people I know were out of a job bc of you dipshits.
you morons got nothing more for holding out than a complete loss of respect from the rest of working hollywood. ive seen your picture and you really stand to gain zilch from new media. BTW 17 years sag means nothing, it actually is something you should not admit to since you have spent your life on something you are failing at.
WOW! OMG YOU GUYS ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT--WE SHOULD ALL BE PUTTING AS MUCH PRESSURE AS WE CAN ON THE AMPTP TO GIVE SAG A FAIR CONTRACT ie: ENOUGH TO LIVE ON, SO THAT WE CAN ALL GET BACK TO WORK!!!! COME ON AMPTP--DON'T FORCE THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF HUNGRY ACTORS ONTO UNEMPLOYMENT, FURTHER CRIPPLING THE CAL STATE ECONOMY, BECAUSE YOUR GREED HAS LEFT THEM WITHOUT ENOUGH FOOD IN THEIR MOUTHS!!!!! COME ON AMPTP!!!!!!!! THEY JUST WANNA EAT, WHEN YOU WANT TO BUY A BIGGER MANSION. COME ON AMPTP!!!
The stars who are producers but do not back a SAG strike are cowards. Fear of losing your deal or studio pressure to void your deal is influencing you. Sellouts! DeVito (Sony) & Clooney (Warners) and the rest of you! I pray this corruption stops and we can negotiate for a fair percentage on future new media profits. A % of 0 is 0, so there is no risk, but a % of something is something, what an actor deserves for use of his image and likeness. The Producers will not break SAG no matter what.
PEOPLE! WAKE UP! The producers are trying to force SAG out of existence. They want to pay whatever they feel they can get away with, without P&W, without overtime, without residuals. And do you honestly think that once they choose to produce New Media content without SAG actors, what prevents them from cutting out all the other unions as well. SAG is the strongest union and the DGA and the WGA both folded in hopes that SAG would come in and save their butts. IATSE - Be careful, your next.
Most Americans are so far removed from whats at stake here, because they are busy trying to save houses and keep jobs. SAG further distances themselves from sympathy or support by ignoring global economic realities in favor of furthering their already ample paychecks. Producers are greedy, it's their nature. But in the same vein of perception, Actors are spoiled rotten pampered brats. Put aside this fight for now SAG. You want unity? Include the trades in your next encounter with the AMPTP.
The problem is those running SAG are not listening to their members who they are supposed to represent. All these delays are just to put off and try to change the inevitable - that it's members will not authorize a strike. California is bankrupt right now already, this will make things a lot worse. I'm below the line and the writer's strike really hurt and look where it got them. Striking will isn't going to work at this time
Not true. I'm an L.A. SAG actor and I have dozens of SAG friends and we all recognize that if we fold on New Media it will be the death knell for SAG.
It is not SAG , left with no alternative but a strike, that would be responsible for further economic hardship. It is the greed of corporations that will not give a deserved share of its billions in profits to those who have helped create it. SAG is only attempting to ensure a living for its members. But of course, the conglomerates own the media and you have fallen for their propaganda. Remember, the corporate offer for new (now) media is this: nothing. You're next.
IA member - i'm NOT sure if this is the time to strike or not but i do believe that the IA and DGA contracts have very very bad deal regarding "New Media" . while these bad deals theoretically have a "sunset clause" i think it looks like the unions may have trouble beating back this precedent & holding on to "New Media" the next negotiation (3 1/2 years). New Media (internet to monitor) will be damn near 100% of the distribution means in the very near future and i hope we aren't all locked out.
oh ... i haven't done much since the SAG contract expired either. the strike cut my income tremendously . i do not encourage a strike and it seems obvious (with today's firing of the SAG negotiator) that it is all over but the shouting. there will not be a strike. all i'm saying is that i understand the actors paranoia about "New Media". the producers will take the technology and the bad economy as an opportunity to pit us against each other, strip us of jobs and lower our wages. watch out.
Forcing savethebiz redux not to use your work for free on the internet is exactly what SAG is fighting for for it's members. I guess, in the end, we're all fighting for the same thing. Shame we can't support one another.
Here's what I don't understand about your analogy. Savethebiz produced this spot and owns the copyright. Someone took footage that they own outright and reused it. An actor doesn't own the footage he's in unless they are a producer right? Sure that actor should do whatever he can to get paid if his footage is reused through other media but ultimately the actor has to make his deal and live by it. I'm all for actors getting the best, fairest deal they can, but the situations are different.
Law treats ones name,voice,signature,photograph, or likeness as property-similar to copyright.Past SAG contracts have included paid residuals to actors where the producer is making a PROFIT off ones image-ones property.Its a tiny tiny percentage of the PROFIT,but fairness dictates using someones property over time comes at a cost.Savehtebiz is prohibiting free reuse of its property by REDUX but suggesting actors grant producers unprecedented unlimited free property use in the AMPTP offer.
SG - I think actors should be paid residuals for new media. The difference between the situations is that an actor makes an agreement and signs a contract. The contract either allows the actor to share in the residuals or it doesn't. In either event the actor has voluntarily entered into a contract. Redux has not entered in any agreement with STB. They didn't even make a courtesy inquiry about reusing. The simply stole the footage. I've always seen the STB spot as pro-deal not anti-SAG.
I saddens me so much to see sell-out SAG members. These "Working" actors (scabs) just want to keep the jobs they have now. With a strike any of the shows running, or movies about to film are at risk of change.
Also the bigger the actor (sometimes are producers too) have deals they can negotiate which ever way they want. The deals we are trying to save and need don't matter to them. They aren't going to starve if AMPTP wins. They have their own deals. THINK ABOUT IT PEOPLE.
(PRWEB) January 14, 2009 -- Wpromote Inc. is excited to announce that it has been *hired* as the marketing service responsible for seeding the newly released anti-actors-strike video.
This film short was produced by a diverse group of movie industry professionals who *DONATED* their time, expertise and resources towards the cause.
Viral marketers get paid & talent doesn't. Nice going Save The Biz or should that be Save Corporate Cash.
Residuals are threatened to be done away with. DGA WGA don't depend on residuals. Their's is part of the package, gross or merchandizing. An average actor doesnt work for weeks, months or some times years like crew I agree. But why should we take a bad deal. We don't work as often and it' expensive to hone our craft to give the crews work to appreciate. "The only thing that can defeat an actor are other actors" Eddie Cantor
VDG-I feel bad because there is so much misinformation circulated by AMPTP. 1st, the WGA and DGA have a contract clause that if SAG negotiates a better deal those improvements are added to WGA and DGA deals. So no slap there. Also SAG is not being offered the same deal as WGA and DGA. Many of us working steadily will loose our health insurance due to the rollbacks among other losses. If they succeed in taking from us they will use that momentum to take from you and everyone next time around.
I am a union worker, and every other union and guild have made a deal, and if the producers cave to the actors that is a slap in the face to the rest of us. They think that they deserve more than everyone else. But, without writers there are no lines to say, without directors the words won't flow, and without crew the project would not be done at all. WHAT MAKES THE ACTORS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVERYONE ELSE?!!! People who support this strike don't live and work here. SO SHUT UP!!!
As someone with no dog in the fight, just a private citizen who'd rather not see a strike at this time, I think this took a lot of guts, and everyone involved should be proud. Thanks to these actors for their courage, and to all the others involved for their time in trying to prevent a bad mistake from getting worse with each passing day.
This is a vague message by Jamie Cromwell, and all the people he suckered into working for free on his video.
It offers no specifics, never sites any sources - does not substantiate the statistics mentioned for jobs and money lost due to the last strike. Exactly which "last strike" does he refer? WGA 2008 or SAG Commercial Contract 2000?
You speak in vague and fearful terms, Mr. Cromwell. Please be specific, or simply better that you do not speak.
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The writer's strike, you douche! If you value your opinion that much, why don't YOU use your good standing and assortment of friends to put out your own message stating the contrary. I'm sure people would love to hear you sugarcoat a pointless strike that stands to fatten the pockets of "stars" while leaving the 90% of SAG not getting sweetened contract residuals - not to mention the countless crew and artists - twisting in the wind while the country sinks deeper into recession.
Kenneth West, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer of MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT, INC, in his Marvel Entertainment Q3 2008 Earnings Call Transcript:
"Good morning, everyone. Marvel's 3rd quarter results issued this morning included a lot of detail in the press release, so Ill just review the highlights with you now. Net income rose 39% to $50.6 million in Q308, on a 48% increase in net sales, yielding earnings per share of $0.64 versus earnings per share of $0.45 last years Q3."
Hey,DrChebutykin - that's great! You found a little piece of obviousness and posted it to prove why SAG should strike. While you're at it, dig up some statistics that'll highlight the positives of a strike that would shut down/hijack vital elements of the ENTIRE industry. Let's not forget SAG lacks solidarity, so the idea of a "short" strike is laughable at best. Frankly, Marvel is a loose example for you to choose, their company skyrocketed from next to nothing to being the flavor of the month
Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. Announces Earnings Results for the Second Quarter Ended September 30, 2008
10/30/2008: Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. announced earnings results for the second quarter ended September 30, 2008. For the period, the company reported a 3.4% rise in quarterly sales to JPY 196.1 billion on the back of a strong worldwide showing from Hancock, Step Brothers and Pineapple Express, Losses in the gaming segment narrowed to JPY 379 million on a 10% increase in sales.
I do a daily check for "increased quarterly earnings" from the AMPTP global corporations. These conglomerates almost always report increased earnings to stock holders. But, they tell SAG that we're in a bad economy. That's a lie. Evidence; ticket prices at the theatre always go up.
A am a board member of one of the largest I.A.T.S.E. craft locals in Hollywood.
As an ardent backer of labor rights and a keen observer of the greedy tricks that the AMPTP has pulled on our Unions and Guilds in the past, I also recognize the damage left after the Writer's strike of 08 and the damage to our economy after the Bush/Clinton/Bush kingdoms.
Now isn't the time to strike.
Demanding more in an industry that leaves is worthless. 100k one time Actors taking out 100k fulltime crew jobs= N/G
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One commercial can generate $50,000 in residuals for a year (for those that don't know, that can be 1 day of work). Who is getting screwed? Seems like all the contracts have been pretty fair thus far. I'm sick of non-working actors whining about contracts and residuals. If you were good, you would be working. Otherwise, get another job. Remember, it's called ShowBUSINESS.
It's not what SAG asks for, it's how they ask (they're not good at it) and when (also not good). In recent emails from SAG they say they want to "EDUCATE" members about what they're bargaining for. Ummmm, a little late there fellas, I wish I could say that was a joke.
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Poop or get off the pot. Putting off the vote is a good way to Union bust..You keep putting off the vote and pissing off the people this might help. It's getting to the point where I am beginning to agree with Fox and say Hire A.F.T.R.A. actors..
Send this to AMPTP (producers) that will not budge.
Actors don't want to effect anyone else's livelihood. BUT they also don't want to continue to get screwed. Like they have with the VHS, DVD deals. Why try to make actors look or feel bad when all they are trying to do is protect their livelihood?
Why shouldn't actors get paid for New Media? Yes that's what this is about.
Sorry but this video doesn't fly, when you really know what the fight is about.
What makes you think this video wasn't also intended to put pressure on the producers? Everyone at SAG seems to have a guilty conscience and thinks this video is directed at them. I think it's also directed at the producers telling THEM they have to come to the table ready to settle.
It's the timing of this video as SAG is about to send out a strike ballot to its membership that makes it clear it targets the union. Producers at this point have no say in a strike since the union had not presented them with the strike ultimatum. This video speaks in favor of the AMPTP and suggests the union accept the rollbacks in the current contract offer. The video says "no strike" not "come up with a fair deal." You can't tell the AMPTP not to strike-conglomerates don't strike, workers do.
It's the timing, and all the other stuff AMPTP is putting out there. Spending over a million bucks in trade articles aimed at actors. (yeah right money's tight) Who else would this be directed at?
A federal mediator walked away from talks because AMPTP wouldn't budge on one single contract point.
I too want this to be over and settled! Actors have been working without a contract for how long now? While AMPTP is making billions in New Media. And those are their numbers.
(PRWEB) January 14, 2009 -- Wpromote Inc. is excited to announce that it has been *hired* as the marketing service responsible for seeding the newly released anti-actors-strike video.
This film short was produced by a diverse group of movie industry professionals who *DONATED* their time, expertise and resources towards the cause.
Viral marketers get paid & talent doesn't. Nice going Save The Biz or should that be Save Corporate Cash.
One last thing, this video is meant to scare people into submission, it's false. It's not about keeping production here, it's about greed! Production will always be in the U.S. and lots of films are breaking box office records. It's a crap video designed to help get a crap contract signed by SAG. End of Story
One more thing for crew members out there. Instead of slamming SAG, tell the AMPTP to negotiate a fair deal with them and there will be no strike. You know going that route will keep crew working too! Oh I forgot, producers write the checks so they're always the good guys, no matter right or wrong. Since SAG wont start paying crew anytime soon I guess they'll have to play the bad guys in this scene. Wardrobe, we need our villian outfits. HAHA Never loose your sense of humor! Good luck everyone
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I understand that there is already a defacto strike and if there is a official strike lots of crew will be out of work. Unfortunately for them SAG will not bite the bullet for thier well being. Would they bite the bullet for actors? NO. Do most crew members have any respect for bit players or BG? NO. Most crew only respect the stars so of course their not gonna support a strike for the common actors rights and pay. I'd be planning for the worst right now if I were them. But that's just me.
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SAG actors should be payed based on talent. So lets see...., out of your entire guild 2% should actually get what your asking for from the producers, the other 98% should stick to waiting tables. Get over it, lets get back to work already!
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A big thank you to the whole Production team and James Cromwell for this well made message.
Jamie can set his price to work here or anywhere for that matter. A possible strike would affect his category last. Yet he is willing to speak for this industry of unsung Heroes that put in 12-14 hour days and nights indoors and out, in all kinds of weather, so that America can stay numb and entertained.
Well done Brothers and Sisters!
Let's get Hollywood back to the U.S. where it belongs.
This video was made to convince the dumb SAG people to vote no. The smart ones will vote YES. Question is whats the ratio of dumb versus smart SAG members? Guess we'll find out in February when the results are tallied.
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re: Crazea,
By blindly labeling those that agree with your point of view "Smart" and those that see things differently than you do, as Dumb", you've proven that you fall in to the latter category. For your indulgence, that would be the "dumb" category.
do you feel a bit "smarter" now?
Good luck with your "Background Artist" work... in Czechoslovakia.
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I am a Key Grip and I am tired of being told to suck it up and that I should just be happy to be working.
SAG is already out of work because there are no movies in town so they feel like they should go on strike because they have nothing better to do. Hello the rest of us are out of work too. Go on strike already, we are tired of waiting or move on and be done with this.
I hope that you do not break the backs of the rest of us in the mean time!
WERE trying, but now we have A-List actors/Producers now trying to take the SAG members Vote away from them through some stipulations in the union constitution and by laws. Same A-list actors that signed away the internet residuals, siding with the broadcasters during AFTRA's referendum. Eddie Canter, said the only thing that can hurt actors are actors. AMPTP can make a deal anytime. It's not SAG's fault. The AMPTP is just pointing the finger at us. It dont look good for any of us at the moment?
There's more to think about than just your own SAG issues. There are thousands of below-the-line workers that would be devistated with this action. At a time like this in history maybe you can think of implications to all rather than just yourselves.
when she starts talking to the guy right before she continues and passes the fan. A person passes in front of camera and that's the wipe. The gear in the background doesn't line up quite right.
The video doesn't take sides. It appears to point out that a strike at this time would be even more devastating to American filming than the last withering battle.
Well, I may only be a senior in high school, but you needn't be a Rhodes Scholar to see a video with a no strike message as Screen Actor's Guild prepares to send out a strike ballot to it's membership suggests SAG members should vote no strike. Me? I want a future in this business and have been in the union for 5 years. My vote is yes. I hope your powers of persuasion work on the AMPTP and they offer us a fair contract before we have to walk the line.
(PRWEB) January 14, 2009 -- Wpromote Inc. is excited to announce that it has been *hired* as the marketing service responsible for seeding the newly released anti-actors-strike video.
This film short was produced by a diverse group of movie industry professionals who *DONATED* their time, expertise and resources towards the cause.
Viral marketers get paid & talent doesn't. Nice going Save The Biz or should that be Save Corporate Cash.
This should have been resolved long ago. The opportunity has been missed and the fight should wait for another day. Now is not the time. There is a bigger picture to consider that is often overlooked in a stand-off.
As an ardent labor proponent, who works in the film industry, I understand just how important it is to not continue losing ground to the studio heads. We've bargained away so much over these last many years and can't afford to hand over the rest of our benefits and rights.
Yet, watching the current global economic meltdown, it is clear that a quick resolution to this S.A.G. negotiation is in order.
For without it, we face much broader outsourcing of our industry abroad and a gutted industry.
It is not SAG holding things up.The AMPTP could make a deal anytime they want to.
They are out to bust unions. If they get SAG all the other unions are next. They already have AFTRA endorsing non union work. Is that what Unions are suppose to do? Negotiate against the members for non union actors? Wake up people! You are arguing amongst yourself thus playing right into the AMPTP's hands. How about some solidarity amongst the unions instead of bashing SAG that has done nothing but fight for SAG!
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'GrantLaTonne' should know better before casting dispersions against a progressive hero like Cromwell and this important message of our industry's pending, possible doom.
Yeah, But it is not a necessity it is a luxury so any luxury can be dwindled down to almost nothing. People spending time online takes away from that luxury the internet is free. Someone has to pay to make movies and pay a lot so you have to charge.
Hey, this is cool. There has to be a cut in it somewhere, right?, but I can't find it. I thought it might be when she walks behind the fan (1:16) but the screen never goes *completely* black
Maybe, but that would be pretty tricky. I think maybe all of the equipment was on rollers and they broomed it out of the shot while the AD was walking around the stage.
It's sad that James Cromwell who narrates this piece has his perceptions diminished as to taking away hard fought protections of honest people thanks to the goodness of the founding members of Screen Actors Guild. His great talent of speech misused to misinform and brainwash us out of those hard fought protections. What would Boris Karloff say?
tdfoolery 2 years ago
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In a SAG Board meeting tonight, David White "informed" the room that he pretty much has no plan of action for the future, and is doing nothing to achieve for the members what forcing this contract through was "supposed to" gain. And he took about 800 words to say nothing, as well, leaving the entire room baffled as to what his response actually was. So that's where we're at now folks-YEAH! a 3 percent (standard gain) increase for the loss of the control of your image & likeness in perpetuity!ya!
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
These HEARTLESS people think its okay to force through a contract that takes the PENNIES the ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THEIR UNION NEED TO FEED THEMSELVES. That is DEPLORABLE. So that THEY can get their quick pay raises RIGHT NOW, they are literally throwing the Elderly & helpless people out like TRASH. Pre 1971&74 checks eliminated permanently by this contract in black & white! SHAME ON YOU you spoiled GREEDY SCUM. Those of us who have a CONSCIENCE are VOTING NO to protect the helpless and voiceless!
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
Well said Joe.
telusidol 2 years ago
Check out the sequel, SAVE THE BIZ: REDUX. Much better short. I think this one was written during the Writers Strike.... One of the few times where the sequel is actually a big improvement over the original!
ScoutPhantom 2 years ago
I do hope all turns out well for my fellow actors and myself. Let's hope for the best. Yours truly Vic Martino.
Vicmarstar 2 years ago
How do you know when a
SAG Vote Yes member is about to say something smart?
When they start the sentence with something a VOTE NO SAG member says!
LOL ... Ha, ha, ha!
VOTE NO!!!! VOTE NO!!!!
girlygirlindahood 2 years ago
These HEARTLESS people think its okay to force through a contract that takes the PENNIES the ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THEIR UNION NEED TO FEED THEMSELVES. That is DEPLORABLE. So that THEY can get their quick pay raises RIGHT NOW, they are literally throwing the Elderly & helpless people out like TRASH. Pre 1971&74 checks eliminated permanently by this contract in black & white! SHAME ON YOU you spoiled GREEDY SCUM. Those of us who have a CONSCIENCE are VOTING NO to protect the helpless and voiceless!
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
EXACTLY. The good Doctor below is absoluteley right. It's ALL a lie and it's coming to light right now.
We can negotiate the Theatrical Contract without a Strike--the First Step is to VOTE NO and force the AMPTP back to the bargaining table to negotiate with us FAIRLY, and not like we are a bunch of idiots who will fall for the same thing they have done to us TWICE before by trying to get us to vote in a Contract that causes CATASTROPHIC losses to the Membership. Vote No. It's your FUTURE
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 2
"We are extremely pleased to report the best non-holiday quarter revenue and earnings in our history, said Peter Oppenheimer, Apples CFO, in announcing the companys March quarter financial results. In its fiscal 2009 second quarter, Apple posted revenue of $8.16 billion and a net quarterly profit of $1.21 billion, or $1.33 per diluted share. Gross margin was 36.4 percent, up from 32.9 percent in the year-ago quarter."
How is your "bad economy" argument true, when a CA company is doig so well?
DrChebutykin 2 years ago
Please vote when you get your ballot guys! The last TWO times they have screwed us on new media where the Members lost millions of dollars, it was because ONLY THIRTY PERCENT OF SAG VOTED. We will lose AGAIN and get shafted for the third time if WE DON'T VOTE. WE are the majority of this Union--the people who don't make that much money--AND WE STAND TO LOSE THE MOST IF WE LET THEM FORCE THIS CONTRACT THROUGH! PLEASE VOTE. VOTE NO.
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 5
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Ask yourself only this--If you are NOT a Celebrity who regularly negotiates your deals well above Scale and glides easily from job to job, YOU MUST VOTE 'NO' ON THIS CONTRACT TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FUTURE. FAMOUS & WEALTHY people are pushing SAG to accept this Contract AT THE EXPENSE OF ALL OF US, the typical average Member. They want to "get back to work" RIGHT AWAY, making more money and getting richer and richer, AT OUR EXPENSE. They don't care that this Contract means that we won't be
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
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able to feed ourselves and our families. They don't care that we have paid into this Union for twenty, forty, fifty years to protect us--they only care about getting RICHER RIGHT NOW. WE ARE NOT THE ONES HOLDING UP PRODUCTION--IT'S THE PRODUCERS. WE ARE NOT THE ONES CHOOSING TO 'MOVE OVER' TO A NEW MODEL--IT'S THE PRODUCERS--TO MAKE MORE MONEY, AT OUR EXPENSE. WHY WOULD THEY BE MOVING TO THE INTERNET IF THERE WEREN'T BILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO BE MADE? OUR LIVES AND CAREERS ARE THE ONLY THING
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
BEING SACRIFICED RIGHT NOW--FOR GREED. THE RICH TO GET RICHER, AT THE EXPENSE OF THE SMALLEST PERSON ON THE TOTEM POLE. They are saying that "because the Economy is bad right now" that WE SHOULD SACRIFICE OUR FUTURES--WHEN THEY ARE CAUSING THIS! They are the ONLY ONES making a PROFIT in a hurting Economy, and they EVEN WANT THE PENNIES THAT WE NEED TO SURVIVE! They say "they are losing money to the cable markets"--THEY OWN THE CABLE MARKETS! IT'S A SCAM! We are compensated for the use/reuse
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 3
of our image, which is all we have to sell. Now they want to take that from us nearly for FREE. Half of our own Board was corrupted by Greed which is why we are in this mess. We are the Largest Labor Union in the Country, and the people creating this problem are the top four percentile. This Contract CAN be negotiated fairly without a strike. We are asking for PEANUTS in the big picture here. PEANUTS. Then you have some people other Unions like IATSE blaming us out of IGNORANCE-talk to AMPTP
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 2
Ask yourself only this--If you are NOT a Celebrity who regularly negotiates your deals well above Scale and glides easily from job to job, YOU MUST VOTE 'NO' ON THIS CONTRACT TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FUTURE. FAMOUS & WEALTHY people are pushing SAG to accept this Contract AT THE EXPENSE OF ALL OF US, the typical average Member. They want to "get back to work" RIGHT AWAY, making more money and getting richer and richer, AT OUR EXPENSE. They don't care that this Contract means that we won't be
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 2
able to feed ourselves and our families. They don't care that we have paid into this Union for twenty, forty, fifty years to protect us--they only care about getting RICHER RIGHT NOW. WE ARE NOT THE ONES HOLDING UP PRODUCTION--IT'S THE PRODUCERS. WE ARE NOT THE ONES CHOOSING TO 'MOVE OVER' TO A NEW MODEL--IT'S THE PRODUCERS--TO MAKE MORE MONEY, AT OUR EXPENSE. WHY WOULD THEY BE MOVING TO THE INTERNET IF THERE WEREN'T BILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO BE MADE? OUR LIVES AND CAREERS ARE THE ONLY THING
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 3
BEING SACRIFICED RIGHT NOW--FOR GREED. THE RICH TO GET RICHER, AT THE EXPENSE OF THE SMALLEST PERSON ON THE TOTEM POLE. They are saying that "because the Economy is bad right now" that WE SHOULD SACRIFICE OUR FUTURES--WHEN THEY ARE CAUSING THIS! They are the ONLY ONES making a PROFIT in a hurting Economy, and they EVEN WANT THE PENNIES THAT WE NEED TO SURVIVE! They say "they are losing money to the cable markets"--THEY OWN THE CABLE MARKETS! IT'S A SCAM! We are compensated for the use/reuse
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 2
of our image, which is all we have to sell. Now they want to take that from us nearly for FREE. Half of our own Board was corrupted by Greed which is why we are in this mess. We are the Largest Labor Union in the Country, and the people creating this problem are the top four percentile. This Contract CAN be negotiated fairly without a strike. We are asking for PEANUTS in the big picture here. PEANUTS. Then you have some people other Unions like IATSE blaming us out of IGNORANCE-talk to AMPTP
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 4
Comment removed
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
VOTE NO ON CURRENT CONTRACT!!
They are trying to break SAG -- not WGA, DGA, etc. who have more power. SAG wants that same power and will get it!
Rosenberg told Daily Variety that he'll strongly oppose ratification, particularly because it doesn't guarantee SAG jurisdiction and residuals on some new-media projects.
girlygirlindahood 2 years ago
Comment removed
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago
Actors are not artists they are morons in wardrobe. Thanks for destroying the film industry and destroying lives. But i guess if you were smart you wouldnt be actors in the first place. Losing so much more than you ever stood to gain, in money, sympathy and respect. People are losing homes and lives are being destroyed.
jpgalli 2 years ago
So what are you then? A security guard? A caterer? What? If you're not a SAG Member, why are you sounding off on OUR contract? Why don't you go sound off on the TEACHERS' Contract too, while you're at it. I paid $140,000 for a College Degree to do what I do for a living. How long did it take to get your "Guard Card"? A weekend? Go somewhere else and get another job, you moron, instead of shooting off your dumb mouth wher it doesn't belong. I've been paying into this Union for 17 years of my life
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 2
and got a degree from a top University. ACTORS ARE LOSING HOMES AND OUR LIVES ARE BEING DESTROYED! We're asking for a fair wage. We have rights under the Labor Laws of the United States. Woud you want to work for free? Maybe I should just come to your house and lick your dumb As% for free while I'm at it. You have alot of nerve. Go somewhere else and get another job if you're "losing your house". Why are you blaming US? IT'S NOT YOUR CONTRACT SCUMBAG. You're a leech. Go feed off another Union.
RevelationJoeTess 2 years ago 2
im 23 yrs IATSE and alot of people I know were out of a job bc of you dipshits.
you morons got nothing more for holding out than a complete loss of respect from the rest of working hollywood. ive seen your picture and you really stand to gain zilch from new media. BTW 17 years sag means nothing, it actually is something you should not admit to since you have spent your life on something you are failing at.
jpgalli 2 years ago
SAG.... Selfish Angry Gangsters
bluejava 3 years ago
WOW! OMG YOU GUYS ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT--WE SHOULD ALL BE PUTTING AS MUCH PRESSURE AS WE CAN ON THE AMPTP TO GIVE SAG A FAIR CONTRACT ie: ENOUGH TO LIVE ON, SO THAT WE CAN ALL GET BACK TO WORK!!!! COME ON AMPTP--DON'T FORCE THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF HUNGRY ACTORS ONTO UNEMPLOYMENT, FURTHER CRIPPLING THE CAL STATE ECONOMY, BECAUSE YOUR GREED HAS LEFT THEM WITHOUT ENOUGH FOOD IN THEIR MOUTHS!!!!! COME ON AMPTP!!!!!!!! THEY JUST WANNA EAT, WHEN YOU WANT TO BUY A BIGGER MANSION. COME ON AMPTP!!!
michelesantopietro 3 years ago
And residuals -- what the producers do not want to pay -- is WHAT a lot of actors need to live on, to make insurance, etc.
Actors need to be paid for their image and likeness - a producers get paid in perpertuity for using their image.
girlygirlindahood 2 years ago
Comment removed
bluejava 3 years ago
The stars who are producers but do not back a SAG strike are cowards. Fear of losing your deal or studio pressure to void your deal is influencing you. Sellouts! DeVito (Sony) & Clooney (Warners) and the rest of you! I pray this corruption stops and we can negotiate for a fair percentage on future new media profits. A % of 0 is 0, so there is no risk, but a % of something is something, what an actor deserves for use of his image and likeness. The Producers will not break SAG no matter what.
girlygirlindahood 3 years ago
IATSE isn't next. IATSE has been raped from the get go. Producers excuse; "we gave it to the actors and writers, none left for you."
naturalragman1 3 years ago 2
You left off the tag:
"I'm Nicholas Counter III and I approve of this message."
mchughhimself 3 years ago
PEOPLE! WAKE UP! The producers are trying to force SAG out of existence. They want to pay whatever they feel they can get away with, without P&W, without overtime, without residuals. And do you honestly think that once they choose to produce New Media content without SAG actors, what prevents them from cutting out all the other unions as well. SAG is the strongest union and the DGA and the WGA both folded in hopes that SAG would come in and save their butts. IATSE - Be careful, your next.
cindyvirgo 3 years ago
But why aren't you all blaming and asking the AMPTP. Rather than SAG?
Actors are also being forced out of business.
And, if you want no strike, then why not go to the people who have the power to not make a strike, the AMPTP??
They can pay the actors a fair deal, and have no strike, and everybody wins.
And everybody survives, too.
danakaminski 3 years ago
Most Americans are so far removed from whats at stake here, because they are busy trying to save houses and keep jobs. SAG further distances themselves from sympathy or support by ignoring global economic realities in favor of furthering their already ample paychecks. Producers are greedy, it's their nature. But in the same vein of perception, Actors are spoiled rotten pampered brats. Put aside this fight for now SAG. You want unity? Include the trades in your next encounter with the AMPTP.
boyd1 3 years ago
The problem is those running SAG are not listening to their members who they are supposed to represent. All these delays are just to put off and try to change the inevitable - that it's members will not authorize a strike. California is bankrupt right now already, this will make things a lot worse. I'm below the line and the writer's strike really hurt and look where it got them. Striking will isn't going to work at this time
jjmaze 3 years ago
Not true. I'm an L.A. SAG actor and I have dozens of SAG friends and we all recognize that if we fold on New Media it will be the death knell for SAG.
cindyvirgo 3 years ago
Comment removed
jpgalli 2 years ago
???
georgeharmon5 3 years ago
They said the same thing in 1933 when the actors walked and demanded more money.
"It will be the END of the film industry"
WAS IT?
DID THE FILM INDUSTRY FOLD in 1933?
DID THEY STOP MAKING MOVIES??
This is all propoganda and slick MEDIA hype.
HOW DARE YOU PRESENT THESE LIES
141BlackDoggie 3 years ago
Great video. I think it perfectly reflects that state we are currently in. Hopefully SAG and the AMPTP come to some sort of agreement ASAP.
UtopianProductions 3 years ago
It is not SAG , left with no alternative but a strike, that would be responsible for further economic hardship. It is the greed of corporations that will not give a deserved share of its billions in profits to those who have helped create it. SAG is only attempting to ensure a living for its members. But of course, the conglomerates own the media and you have fallen for their propaganda. Remember, the corporate offer for new (now) media is this: nothing. You're next.
edsullivanshow 3 years ago
IA member - i'm NOT sure if this is the time to strike or not but i do believe that the IA and DGA contracts have very very bad deal regarding "New Media" . while these bad deals theoretically have a "sunset clause" i think it looks like the unions may have trouble beating back this precedent & holding on to "New Media" the next negotiation (3 1/2 years). New Media (internet to monitor) will be damn near 100% of the distribution means in the very near future and i hope we aren't all locked out.
kiely 3 years ago
oh ... i haven't done much since the SAG contract expired either. the strike cut my income tremendously . i do not encourage a strike and it seems obvious (with today's firing of the SAG negotiator) that it is all over but the shouting. there will not be a strike. all i'm saying is that i understand the actors paranoia about "New Media". the producers will take the technology and the bad economy as an opportunity to pit us against each other, strip us of jobs and lower our wages. watch out.
kiely 3 years ago
From an IATSE LOCAL 481 MEMBER in Boston to SAG
I am speaking for myself now not my local.
I understand your beef I really do.
BUT this is SO NOT the time to strike.
There is a larger picture here that involves every one of us trying to work in the industry in this current economy.
We (film crews) in Boston are shut down because of this strike threat.
Nobody's going to commit while your union is infighting.
Decide now and let's all move forward
paulcoggins 3 years ago
REUTERS, Fri Dec 12, 2008 6:14am EST:
"NBC Universal, which is 80 percent owned by General Electric Co..."
If you think our employers are hurting, please look at your light bulbs, your fans, your fridge and the locomotive engines that GE manufactures.
NBC Universal is so well diversified in so many different businesses that they can very easily make a better contractual offer to SAG.
DrChebutykin 3 years ago
Forcing savethebiz redux not to use your work for free on the internet is exactly what SAG is fighting for for it's members. I guess, in the end, we're all fighting for the same thing. Shame we can't support one another.
SAGDEAL 3 years ago
Here's what I don't understand about your analogy. Savethebiz produced this spot and owns the copyright. Someone took footage that they own outright and reused it. An actor doesn't own the footage he's in unless they are a producer right? Sure that actor should do whatever he can to get paid if his footage is reused through other media but ultimately the actor has to make his deal and live by it. I'm all for actors getting the best, fairest deal they can, but the situations are different.
slavelli56 3 years ago
Law treats ones name,voice,signature,photograph, or likeness as property-similar to copyright.Past SAG contracts have included paid residuals to actors where the producer is making a PROFIT off ones image-ones property.Its a tiny tiny percentage of the PROFIT,but fairness dictates using someones property over time comes at a cost.Savehtebiz is prohibiting free reuse of its property by REDUX but suggesting actors grant producers unprecedented unlimited free property use in the AMPTP offer.
SAGDEAL 3 years ago
SG - I think actors should be paid residuals for new media. The difference between the situations is that an actor makes an agreement and signs a contract. The contract either allows the actor to share in the residuals or it doesn't. In either event the actor has voluntarily entered into a contract. Redux has not entered in any agreement with STB. They didn't even make a courtesy inquiry about reusing. The simply stole the footage. I've always seen the STB spot as pro-deal not anti-SAG.
slavelli56 3 years ago
I saddens me so much to see sell-out SAG members. These "Working" actors (scabs) just want to keep the jobs they have now. With a strike any of the shows running, or movies about to film are at risk of change.
Also the bigger the actor (sometimes are producers too) have deals they can negotiate which ever way they want. The deals we are trying to save and need don't matter to them. They aren't going to starve if AMPTP wins. They have their own deals. THINK ABOUT IT PEOPLE.
Memphismom 3 years ago 4
Wpromote Inc. Disseminates SAG Anti-Strike Video
(PRWEB) January 14, 2009 -- Wpromote Inc. is excited to announce that it has been *hired* as the marketing service responsible for seeding the newly released anti-actors-strike video.
This film short was produced by a diverse group of movie industry professionals who *DONATED* their time, expertise and resources towards the cause.
Viral marketers get paid & talent doesn't. Nice going Save The Biz or should that be Save Corporate Cash.
whywewatch 3 years ago 5
Duh, all that means is the actors and maybe crew weren't paid.
Have ya ever thought these actors are just kissing up and trying to save there butts?
Memphismom 3 years ago 6
Just to clarify Wpromote donated their services as well.
savethebiz 3 years ago
It takes Actors for all of you to have a job.
That's the difference.
Residuals are threatened to be done away with. DGA WGA don't depend on residuals. Their's is part of the package, gross or merchandizing. An average actor doesnt work for weeks, months or some times years like crew I agree. But why should we take a bad deal. We don't work as often and it' expensive to hone our craft to give the crews work to appreciate. "The only thing that can defeat an actor are other actors" Eddie Cantor
Kelpine 3 years ago 8
VDG-I feel bad because there is so much misinformation circulated by AMPTP. 1st, the WGA and DGA have a contract clause that if SAG negotiates a better deal those improvements are added to WGA and DGA deals. So no slap there. Also SAG is not being offered the same deal as WGA and DGA. Many of us working steadily will loose our health insurance due to the rollbacks among other losses. If they succeed in taking from us they will use that momentum to take from you and everyone next time around.
NashvilleAli 3 years ago 8
I am a union worker, and every other union and guild have made a deal, and if the producers cave to the actors that is a slap in the face to the rest of us. They think that they deserve more than everyone else. But, without writers there are no lines to say, without directors the words won't flow, and without crew the project would not be done at all. WHAT MAKES THE ACTORS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVERYONE ELSE?!!! People who support this strike don't live and work here. SO SHUT UP!!!
VikingDemiGod 3 years ago
As someone with no dog in the fight, just a private citizen who'd rather not see a strike at this time, I think this took a lot of guts, and everyone involved should be proud. Thanks to these actors for their courage, and to all the others involved for their time in trying to prevent a bad mistake from getting worse with each passing day.
trmjr 3 years ago
This is a vague message by Jamie Cromwell, and all the people he suckered into working for free on his video.
It offers no specifics, never sites any sources - does not substantiate the statistics mentioned for jobs and money lost due to the last strike. Exactly which "last strike" does he refer? WGA 2008 or SAG Commercial Contract 2000?
You speak in vague and fearful terms, Mr. Cromwell. Please be specific, or simply better that you do not speak.
DrChebutykin 3 years ago 4
This comment has received too many negative votes show
The writer's strike, you douche! If you value your opinion that much, why don't YOU use your good standing and assortment of friends to put out your own message stating the contrary. I'm sure people would love to hear you sugarcoat a pointless strike that stands to fatten the pockets of "stars" while leaving the 90% of SAG not getting sweetened contract residuals - not to mention the countless crew and artists - twisting in the wind while the country sinks deeper into recession.
kyletube81 3 years ago
Kenneth West, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer of MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT, INC, in his Marvel Entertainment Q3 2008 Earnings Call Transcript:
"Good morning, everyone. Marvel's 3rd quarter results issued this morning included a lot of detail in the press release, so Ill just review the highlights with you now. Net income rose 39% to $50.6 million in Q308, on a 48% increase in net sales, yielding earnings per share of $0.64 versus earnings per share of $0.45 last years Q3."
DrChebutykin 3 years ago 4
Hey,DrChebutykin - that's great! You found a little piece of obviousness and posted it to prove why SAG should strike. While you're at it, dig up some statistics that'll highlight the positives of a strike that would shut down/hijack vital elements of the ENTIRE industry. Let's not forget SAG lacks solidarity, so the idea of a "short" strike is laughable at best. Frankly, Marvel is a loose example for you to choose, their company skyrocketed from next to nothing to being the flavor of the month
kyletube81 3 years ago
Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. Announces Earnings Results for the Second Quarter Ended September 30, 2008
10/30/2008: Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. announced earnings results for the second quarter ended September 30, 2008. For the period, the company reported a 3.4% rise in quarterly sales to JPY 196.1 billion on the back of a strong worldwide showing from Hancock, Step Brothers and Pineapple Express, Losses in the gaming segment narrowed to JPY 379 million on a 10% increase in sales.
DrChebutykin 3 years ago
Thank-you for posting these.
Memphismom 3 years ago
You're very welcome.
I do a daily check for "increased quarterly earnings" from the AMPTP global corporations. These conglomerates almost always report increased earnings to stock holders. But, they tell SAG that we're in a bad economy. That's a lie. Evidence; ticket prices at the theatre always go up.
DrChebutykin 3 years ago
A am a board member of one of the largest I.A.T.S.E. craft locals in Hollywood.
As an ardent backer of labor rights and a keen observer of the greedy tricks that the AMPTP has pulled on our Unions and Guilds in the past, I also recognize the damage left after the Writer's strike of 08 and the damage to our economy after the Bush/Clinton/Bush kingdoms.
Now isn't the time to strike.
Demanding more in an industry that leaves is worthless. 100k one time Actors taking out 100k fulltime crew jobs= N/G
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
One commercial can generate $50,000 in residuals for a year (for those that don't know, that can be 1 day of work). Who is getting screwed? Seems like all the contracts have been pretty fair thus far. I'm sick of non-working actors whining about contracts and residuals. If you were good, you would be working. Otherwise, get another job. Remember, it's called ShowBUSINESS.
VBNate 3 years ago
You clearly do not understand the issues. this has`zero to do with commercial residuals...
TinaDesireeBerg 3 years ago 2
So, fear is all you have to offer? I thought this video might contain some points on the contract. Pathetic.
reallynotdoug 3 years ago 8
It's not what SAG asks for, it's how they ask (they're not good at it) and when (also not good). In recent emails from SAG they say they want to "EDUCATE" members about what they're bargaining for. Ummmm, a little late there fellas, I wish I could say that was a joke.
riotgearhead 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Poop or get off the pot. Putting off the vote is a good way to Union bust..You keep putting off the vote and pissing off the people this might help. It's getting to the point where I am beginning to agree with Fox and say Hire A.F.T.R.A. actors..
My 2 cents
billstein11 3 years ago
Send this to AMPTP (producers) that will not budge.
Actors don't want to effect anyone else's livelihood. BUT they also don't want to continue to get screwed. Like they have with the VHS, DVD deals. Why try to make actors look or feel bad when all they are trying to do is protect their livelihood?
Why shouldn't actors get paid for New Media? Yes that's what this is about.
Sorry but this video doesn't fly, when you really know what the fight is about.
Memphismom 3 years ago 11
What makes you think this video wasn't also intended to put pressure on the producers? Everyone at SAG seems to have a guilty conscience and thinks this video is directed at them. I think it's also directed at the producers telling THEM they have to come to the table ready to settle.
slavelli56 3 years ago
It's the timing of this video as SAG is about to send out a strike ballot to its membership that makes it clear it targets the union. Producers at this point have no say in a strike since the union had not presented them with the strike ultimatum. This video speaks in favor of the AMPTP and suggests the union accept the rollbacks in the current contract offer. The video says "no strike" not "come up with a fair deal." You can't tell the AMPTP not to strike-conglomerates don't strike, workers do.
NashvilleAli 3 years ago 8
It's the timing, and all the other stuff AMPTP is putting out there. Spending over a million bucks in trade articles aimed at actors. (yeah right money's tight) Who else would this be directed at?
A federal mediator walked away from talks because AMPTP wouldn't budge on one single contract point.
I too want this to be over and settled! Actors have been working without a contract for how long now? While AMPTP is making billions in New Media. And those are their numbers.
Memphismom 3 years ago 13
This has been flagged as spam show
Wpromote Inc. Disseminates SAG Anti-Strike Video
(PRWEB) January 14, 2009 -- Wpromote Inc. is excited to announce that it has been *hired* as the marketing service responsible for seeding the newly released anti-actors-strike video.
This film short was produced by a diverse group of movie industry professionals who *DONATED* their time, expertise and resources towards the cause.
Viral marketers get paid & talent doesn't. Nice going Save The Biz or should that be Save Corporate Cash.
whywewatch 3 years ago 3
One last thing, this video is meant to scare people into submission, it's false. It's not about keeping production here, it's about greed! Production will always be in the U.S. and lots of films are breaking box office records. It's a crap video designed to help get a crap contract signed by SAG. End of Story
Crazea 3 years ago 4
I agree...and you are right about he villian comment too...
TinaDesireeBerg 3 years ago 8
One more thing for crew members out there. Instead of slamming SAG, tell the AMPTP to negotiate a fair deal with them and there will be no strike. You know going that route will keep crew working too! Oh I forgot, producers write the checks so they're always the good guys, no matter right or wrong. Since SAG wont start paying crew anytime soon I guess they'll have to play the bad guys in this scene. Wardrobe, we need our villian outfits. HAHA Never loose your sense of humor! Good luck everyone
Crazea 3 years ago 6
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I understand that there is already a defacto strike and if there is a official strike lots of crew will be out of work. Unfortunately for them SAG will not bite the bullet for thier well being. Would they bite the bullet for actors? NO. Do most crew members have any respect for bit players or BG? NO. Most crew only respect the stars so of course their not gonna support a strike for the common actors rights and pay. I'd be planning for the worst right now if I were them. But that's just me.
Crazea 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
SAG actors should be payed based on talent. So lets see...., out of your entire guild 2% should actually get what your asking for from the producers, the other 98% should stick to waiting tables. Get over it, lets get back to work already!
soulkane 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
A big thank you to the whole Production team and James Cromwell for this well made message.
Jamie can set his price to work here or anywhere for that matter. A possible strike would affect his category last. Yet he is willing to speak for this industry of unsung Heroes that put in 12-14 hour days and nights indoors and out, in all kinds of weather, so that America can stay numb and entertained.
Well done Brothers and Sisters!
Let's get Hollywood back to the U.S. where it belongs.
D.M. Local 44
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
This video was made to convince the dumb SAG people to vote no. The smart ones will vote YES. Question is whats the ratio of dumb versus smart SAG members? Guess we'll find out in February when the results are tallied.
Crazea 3 years ago 4
This comment has received too many negative votes show
re: Crazea,
By blindly labeling those that agree with your point of view "Smart" and those that see things differently than you do, as Dumb", you've proven that you fall in to the latter category. For your indulgence, that would be the "dumb" category.
do you feel a bit "smarter" now?
Good luck with your "Background Artist" work... in Czechoslovakia.
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I am a Key Grip and I am tired of being told to suck it up and that I should just be happy to be working.
SAG is already out of work because there are no movies in town so they feel like they should go on strike because they have nothing better to do. Hello the rest of us are out of work too. Go on strike already, we are tired of waiting or move on and be done with this.
I hope that you do not break the backs of the rest of us in the mean time!
Hey SAG - Suck it up And Get back to work!
LAJammer 3 years ago
SAG has worlwwide jurisdiction- lots of SAG films are shot out of town- this makes no sense...
TinaDesireeBerg 3 years ago 7
WERE trying, but now we have A-List actors/Producers now trying to take the SAG members Vote away from them through some stipulations in the union constitution and by laws. Same A-list actors that signed away the internet residuals, siding with the broadcasters during AFTRA's referendum. Eddie Canter, said the only thing that can hurt actors are actors. AMPTP can make a deal anytime. It's not SAG's fault. The AMPTP is just pointing the finger at us. It dont look good for any of us at the moment?
Kelpine 3 years ago 9
There's more to think about than just your own SAG issues. There are thousands of below-the-line workers that would be devistated with this action. At a time like this in history maybe you can think of implications to all rather than just yourselves.
dpken 3 years ago
Nice use of invisible wipe, tho it didn't quite line up
ywwg 3 years ago
Where do you think the invisible wipe is?
slavelli56 3 years ago
when she starts talking to the guy right before she continues and passes the fan. A person passes in front of camera and that's the wipe. The gear in the background doesn't line up quite right.
ywwg 3 years ago
There's no wipe. It's all in one.
MAXV3RIT4S 3 years ago
Good eye.
I had to look at it twice to see you are right. The light cue give it away, I think.
DrChebutykin 3 years ago
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vote NO on the strike
kingsgrl 3 years ago
Youtube strikes again.
The single video that pops up, just now, as a "related video" is one about a 'Hot Asian Girl'.
Way to be a part of the solution, Youtube.
Never mind the man behind the curtain.
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
Learn the Facts. Vote YES. Proud to be UNION.
SAGDEAL 3 years ago 5
A strike would be awful and both my parents work in crew unions. But this video implies the unions are at fault. Was it funded by producers?
NashvilleAli 3 years ago 3
to: NashvilleAli:
The video doesn't take sides. It appears to point out that a strike at this time would be even more devastating to American filming than the last withering battle.
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
Well, I may only be a senior in high school, but you needn't be a Rhodes Scholar to see a video with a no strike message as Screen Actor's Guild prepares to send out a strike ballot to it's membership suggests SAG members should vote no strike. Me? I want a future in this business and have been in the union for 5 years. My vote is yes. I hope your powers of persuasion work on the AMPTP and they offer us a fair contract before we have to walk the line.
NashvilleAli 3 years ago 5
It think this video is cleary biased...
TinaDesireeBerg 3 years ago 10
Wpromote Inc. Disseminates SAG Anti-Strike Video
(PRWEB) January 14, 2009 -- Wpromote Inc. is excited to announce that it has been *hired* as the marketing service responsible for seeding the newly released anti-actors-strike video.
This film short was produced by a diverse group of movie industry professionals who *DONATED* their time, expertise and resources towards the cause.
Viral marketers get paid & talent doesn't. Nice going Save The Biz or should that be Save Corporate Cash.
1viralmarketer 3 years ago 5
Just to clarify Wpromote donated their services as well.
savethebiz 3 years ago
This should have been resolved long ago. The opportunity has been missed and the fight should wait for another day. Now is not the time. There is a bigger picture to consider that is often overlooked in a stand-off.
WixWorK 3 years ago
As an ardent labor proponent, who works in the film industry, I understand just how important it is to not continue losing ground to the studio heads. We've bargained away so much over these last many years and can't afford to hand over the rest of our benefits and rights.
Yet, watching the current global economic meltdown, it is clear that a quick resolution to this S.A.G. negotiation is in order.
For without it, we face much broader outsourcing of our industry abroad and a gutted industry.
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
It is not SAG holding things up.The AMPTP could make a deal anytime they want to.
They are out to bust unions. If they get SAG all the other unions are next. They already have AFTRA endorsing non union work. Is that what Unions are suppose to do? Negotiate against the members for non union actors? Wake up people! You are arguing amongst yourself thus playing right into the AMPTP's hands. How about some solidarity amongst the unions instead of bashing SAG that has done nothing but fight for SAG!
Kelpine 3 years ago 8
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Pure bullshit. There will always be a film industry. Cromwell should know better.
GrantLaTonne 3 years ago
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'GrantLaTonne' should know better before casting dispersions against a progressive hero like Cromwell and this important message of our industry's pending, possible doom.
Dutchoven08 3 years ago
Yeah, But it is not a necessity it is a luxury so any luxury can be dwindled down to almost nothing. People spending time online takes away from that luxury the internet is free. Someone has to pay to make movies and pay a lot so you have to charge.
Emaginationfilms 3 years ago
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Awesome video! Shows the whole tapestry of production in a single take, leading to a blank screen. Delivers message economically and effectively!
antkneec 3 years ago
well presented video. looks great. you can tell a lot of passionate people worked on this.
steviegee83 3 years ago
I can't comment on the technical stuff, but I hope this thing gets settled. Nice video.
heathbar921 3 years ago
Hey, this is cool. There has to be a cut in it somewhere, right?, but I can't find it. I thought it might be when she walks behind the fan (1:16) but the screen never goes *completely* black
puffin88 3 years ago
I think the fan is a green screen element that tracked in at the same speed as the camera move. Either way the video is pretty neat.
slavelli56 3 years ago
Maybe, but that would be pretty tricky. I think maybe all of the equipment was on rollers and they broomed it out of the shot while the AD was walking around the stage.
valtacopino 3 years ago
Very cool video!!
slavelli56 3 years ago