As the Hollywood Strikes Continue, AMPTP Could Be Bargaining—But It’s ‘On a Break’

As the Hollywood writer’s strike continues into its fourth week, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) is breaking from the negotiating table and taking a break. This move could prove to be a highly controversial decision for the entertainment industry, as many worry that it could halt progress and delay a resolution even further.

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and AMPTP began negotiations in July to settle disagreements over the rate of payment for scripted television and film writers. Sticking points include salaries for streaming work, representation of writers in credits, and money for DVD sales. WGA has proposed changes that could drastically alter the way writers are compensated and the bargaining power they have with production companies.

Despite good faith negotiations on both sides, AMPTP ultimately broke from the table and declared a hiatus last week. The organization cited “challenges and difficulties” with negotiations and said the break was necessary to “allow both sides to reset and move forward in a constructive manner.”

The decision has left many people in Hollywood frustrated. Those who are feeling the most repercussions from the strike, such as writers and small business owners harmed by the stoppage, are particularly frustrated with the stand-still. The industry is now in a state of limbo, as no new negotiations have been scheduled and production on many projects are severely delayed.

There are worries over how long the hiatus will last and whether it will disrupt progress further. WGA is pushing for more transparency from the AMPTP, instead of what appears to be a “stalemate”. As the strike continues, many are hopeful that both sides will reach an agreement quickly and limit the damage done to their businesses and the economic stability of the area.

Overall, the current situation is causing tension in Hollywood and people are anxiously waiting for resolution. With both sides seemingly at an impasse, it will be interesting to see how AMPTP and WGA will come to an agreement. Until then, many will be anxiously awaiting a resolution to the Hollywood strike.