"Hey Netflix, you're no good. Pay your writers like you should."
Writers have a way with words, right?
Welcome to Complicated by Choices.
A multi-media journal that blends my original art, photography, and writing to delve into a diverse range of thought-provoking social and personal topics.
Writers Guild of America Strike
After visiting some of the Writers Guild picket lines in Los Angeles, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on the strike's significance, alongside some photographs of those who are stepping up to secure their future.
Despite appearances, the Writer's strike is not about financial gain or wins and losses. It's a critical move towards shaping the forthcoming era of film and television — a change that will impact both current and future artists, technicians, and audiences alike.
Any industry, ours included, must resist being built on the principle of profit over people. Such a mindset inevitably breeds an environment where employees lack trust in their employers, subsequently hampering their ability to excel in their roles.
This approach sets the stage for a version of Hollywood that's constructed on a shaky foundation, where corporate greed triumphs over genuine passion for storytelling and art. My concern is that, if this trend continues, our industry risks becoming a mere stock market — bereft of trust and devoid of opportunities for creative genius.
I worry that if these differences aren't resolved harmoniously, the result will be a lose-lose situation for everyone involved.
The very essence of Hollywood is at stake.
Regardless of the emotional fallout from this situation — be it joy, anger, or bitterness — its impact will linger beneath the surface for years to come. These emotions will shape the legacy of the next era, captured in the photographs taken and the stories shared.
Consequently, I propose that together — as studios and writers — we can sculpt a narrative that mirrors the resilience, respect, and unity inherent in our industry, rather than one steeped in conflict and disillusionment.
At the end of the day, isn't our shared aim — as artists, technicians, and studios — to produce innovative content and captivate audiences in novel and exciting ways?
That's where our focus should lie.
But hey, I’m an optimist, and I believe there must come a point where corporate greed will yield for the greater good.
Perhaps that time is now.
For anyone featured in the photos within this article who may feel uncomfortable about their image being included, I want you to know that your comfort matters to me.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you'd like your photo removed. I will gladly respect your wishes.
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David - thanks so much for this commentary. I think most of us not in the business don't understand the reasoning behind the strike. Until it's clear how we obtain our entertainment, "word shops" are going to exist, I figure. Respect each other - the world depends on it!