Writers are getting their first look today at the tentative deal struck between union negotiators and the studios. After feedback from the members of the guild, a decision will be made on whether to end the walkout. Things are moving fast now, and the boards of the guild will be meeting Sunday. If things are responded to favorably by the members, they could be back to work on Monday.
If members resist returning immediately, there would probably be some type of vote initiated through the Internet, meetings and fax, over a several day period. That would probably make Wednesday the more likely day they return to work if that happens.
Indications at this time are both the negotiating committee and the guild boards are unanimously recommending the deal.
"I believe it is a good deal. I am going to be recommending this deal to our membership," Michael Winship, president of the Writers Guild of America, East.
Concerning the main issue of revenue from streamed Web programs, they will get a flat fee which won't exceed $1,200 for the first two years of the contract, and in the third year get 2 percent of the revenue generated. The latter was the key element the strike was mostly based upon.
Another improvement in this deal is digital films and TV shows would receive larger residual payments than formerly paid for DVDs ... almost twice the amount. The rate will be determined by the percentage of the distributor's revenue, changing from an old formula.
With most of the goals being attained by the writers, it would be surprising to see this rejected. Most are projecting it's pretty much a done deal.
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