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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 - 2:33 pm ET
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Why Writers Are Striking

I’ve noticed some confusion in the comments for any strike post that I’ve put up, people still don’t really understand why writers are striking. Here’s the two big things writers are asking for:

  • An increase of 4 cents(from 4 to 8) for each DVD sold with their content. That’s right, on a DVD valued at $19.99, writers get 4 cents.
  • Secondly, they want to receive revenue from new media, ie streaming video on websites, webisodes, etc. Studios claim episodes streaming on websites is for promotional purposes, even though they sell ad content. As for content that they’re charging for, like iTunes or Amazon downloads, writers have been shut out of the proceeds entirely. Writers are asking that for any content online, they receive the same payment they would if it were to air on tv, 2.5% of revenue earned.

I know it can be confusing, that’s why I encourage everyone to watch the following WGA produced video detailing why they’re on strike. It’s extremely easy to understand, and should clear up any confusion you may have:


A lot of you are frustrated at the possibility of your favourite show stopping production, or running out of episodes in the new year, but I think it’s important for all us to be informed.

6 Comments

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  1. By Ayla
    1029 days ago

    WGA give the writers their dues. Good Luck.

    Reply

  2. By MrHughesShoes
    1029 days ago

    From what I’ve read it seems like what the writers want is reasonable, the greedy studios just won’t give it to them. I feel sorry for the various crew members, cattering, and others this will put out of a job. Not to mention the negative effect this will have on the L.A. economy.

    Reply

  3. By 24第7季延時播出(未定期) at Blueteeth’s ブログ
    1029 days ago

    [...] increase of 4 cents(from 4 to for each DVD sold with their content. That’s right, on a DVD valued at $19.99, writers get 4 [...]

    Reply

  4. By MrHughesShoes
    1026 days ago

    The ABC sitcom Cavemen has shut down production so every cloud has a silver lining.

    Reply

  5. By SoCalGrl
    1025 days ago

    Hmmmm, ok I say give them the four cent raise. Give them a cut when their movies are sold online. Only thing I don’t agree with is when clips of shows are shown online and they want payment, unless it is the entire show I don’t see why they need to receive anything, regardless if the studio is receiving money for advertising. But the other two items on the agenda I say they are loooooooong over due.

    Reply

  6. By b5media – November Spekked Entertainment News
    1021 days ago

    [...] gone on strike to receive a fair share of earnings made on DVD sales and new media. You can watch this video for more information. What that means, so far, is that production has halted on almost all shows, [...]

    Reply

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