Hollywood power dynamics are in the midst of an extraordinary change, and the excitement is palpable! The revolution that began with Marvel VFX employees voting to unionize has gained further momentum. Following closely in their footsteps, VFX workers at Disney have now filed a motion to unionize under the prestigious International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
It’s official! Visual effects workers (VFX) at Walt Disney Pictures have taken a bold step towards securing their rights by filing for an election with the National Labor Relations Board. If successful, this move will allow them to join the esteemed ranks of IATSE. The news comes hot on the heels of their counterparts at Disney-owned Marvel VFX filing for their own union election amidst the ongoing writers and actors’ strikes represented by WGA and SAGAFTRA.
In a resounding show of solidarity, an impressive 80 percent of the 18 in-house VFX workers at Walt Disney Pictures have already signed union authorization cards. These cards serve as a powerful statement, affirming their unwavering desire to unionize under the banner of IATSE. This collective effort includes various professionals such as data wranglers, witness camera operators, and other invaluable production staff. It is important to note that the Disney and Marvel unionization endeavors specifically target employees directly employed by the studio. However, IATSE currently does not cover the thousands of artists who contribute to Marvel movies through third-party VFX studios.
Following the filing with the NLRB, an election could take place in the next two to three weeks, as stated by IATSE. If a majority of the workers vote in favor of unionization, Walt Disney Pictures would be called upon to commence good-faith negotiations for a union contract. It is worth mentioning that the studio did not voluntarily recognize this unionization effort, according to the union.
At present, Disney has chosen not to comment on the potential unionization of their VFX workers. Nevertheless, the voices of these workers cannot be ignored. They are calling for fair compensation, adequate health care, retirement benefits, and most importantly, the same rights and protections enjoyed by their unionized colleagues who are already represented by IATSE.
Meanwhile, Marvel’s in-house VFX workers have already begun voting on whether to unionize, with a deadline for ballot returns set for September 11th. The momentous wave of change sweeping through the industry is undeniable, heralding a new era for Hollywood’s labor dynamics.
Excitement fills the air as the film industry navigates this transformative period! The filing for unionization by VFX workers at Disney serves as a groundbreaking moment, propelling the industry forward towards a more equitable future. Stay tuned as we eagerly follow the progress of this significant development.
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