Posted in: Movies, streaming, TV | Tagged: amptp, animation, the animation guild
In a significant development for the animation sector, the Animation Guild (TAG) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) have opted to extend their current labor agreement to December 2nd, following a productive round of negotiations that included talks on key issues impacting animators.
Published Wed, 30 Oct 2024 18:43:09 -0500 by Ray Flook
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After returning to the negotiation table earlier this week, the Animation Guild, representing the interests of animation professionals, and the AMPTP confirmed the extension of the crucial Master Agreement contract, moving the deadline from November 1st to December 2nd. Union business representative and chief negotiator Steve Kaplan expressed optimism, stating, “Based on our recent discussions, we are hopeful that the studios are willing to provide us with the movement necessary to reach an agreement, and we look forward to meeting with them again in November.” Both parties are set to resume their discussions on November 18th, with critical issues like AI restrictions and job security at the forefront of the agenda.
Image: The Animation Guild; AMPTP
Last week, TAG made headlines when hundreds of its members marched to Netflix’s headquarters in Los Angeles, delivering a petition that urged the streaming giant and the AMPTP to prioritize the animation industry and secure fair compensation for the creators that drive these multimillion-dollar enterprises. The fervent rally was fueled by the collective determination of the members to demand better treatment and recognition for their invaluable contributions.
“We make the stories that make these companies billions!” Today hundreds of TAG members delivered a petition to Netflix executives demanding a fair deal that addresses our top priorities. We are strong and we are determined! #StandWithAnimation pic.twitter.com/rijYWCluNQ
— The Animation Guild // #WeAre839 (@animationguild) October 24, 2024
The negotiations are deemed crucial, particularly as the animation industry grapples with the fallout from decisions made during “The Great Streaming Wars.” This tumultuous period has severely impacted the industry’s viability, despite the animation community having previously provided essential support to studios during the pandemic, underscoring the irony of their current struggle for survival.
Furthermore, the pervasive threat of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) looms large, posing risks such as the potential loss of human creativity integral to animation and the possibility of massive job displacement. TAG has highlighted a concerning impact study in collaboration with CAA and CVL Economics, which indicates that a lack of safeguards could put up to 29% of animation jobs at risk in the next three years, a stark reminder of the precarious landscape ahead.
In terms of the severe job losses within the animation industry, recent anecdotal research and internal surveys conducted by TAG shed light on a staggering reality: approximately one-third of TAG’s animation workforce has faced layoffs in just the past year. On top of cancellations and write-offs, members report increasing pressure from outsourcing practices, wherein LA County animation studios delegate work to international studios in Asia and Europe, subsequently reaching out to domestic animators with lower-paying offers devoid of the benefits and protections afforded by union membership.
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**Interview with Steve Kaplan, Chief Negotiator for the Animation Guild**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Steve. The recent extension of the labor agreement between the Animation Guild and the AMPTP has garnered significant attention. Could you walk us through the reasons behind this extension?
**Steve Kaplan**: Absolutely. We extended the current Master Agreement until December 2nd because we believe that the discussions we’ve had lately have been productive. This gives us a little more time to negotiate and address the key issues that are essential for our members, particularly regarding AI restrictions and job security.
**Interviewer**: Speaking of key issues, it seems that Generative AI is a major concern for many in the animation community. How does the Animation Guild plan to tackle this challenge in the upcoming negotiations?
**Steve Kaplan**: Yes, Generative AI presents both opportunities and challenges. We want to ensure that our members’ creativity is protected and that they aren’t replaced by technology. It’s vital that we establish clear guidelines on how AI can be used in the animation industry without jeopardizing jobs or the artistic integrity of our work. We’re actively working on solutions that would achieve that balance.
**Interviewer**: Last week, TAG members made headlines by marching to Netflix’s headquarters. Can you tell us more about that event and its significance for the animation industry?
**Steve Kaplan**: The march was a powerful display of solidarity among our members. We wanted to emphasize that our work is what drives the success of these companies. The petition we delivered called for fair compensation and recognition from all studios, including Netflix. It’s crucial for them to understand that we deserve a seat at the table when decisions are made that affect our livelihoods.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned that negotiations will resume on November 18th. What are your hopes for that meeting, and what do you view as the biggest obstacles moving forward?
**Steve Kaplan**: I’m optimistic based on our recent discussions. We feel there’s a willingness on the studios’ part to engage with us meaningfully. However, the biggest obstacle is ensuring that they take our concerns regarding job security and AI seriously. We need to reach an agreement that not only addresses immediate compensation issues but also outlines a framework for the future of work in animation.
**Interviewer**: As the animation industry continues to navigate the aftermath of “The Great Streaming Wars,” what message do you have for animation professionals who might be feeling uncertain about the future?
**Steve Kaplan**: I want them to know that we are fighting fiercely for their rights and well-being. The collective strength we’ve demonstrated recently is just the beginning. If we stand together and demand the recognition and resources we deserve, I truly believe we can create a sustainable future for animation that honors the incredible creativity and effort our members put into their work.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Steve, for sharing your insights with us. It’s clear that the Animation Guild is committed to advocating for its members as these negotiations unfold.
**Steve Kaplan**: Thank you for having me. We’re in this together, and I appreciate the support from everyone who stands with us.
