The Hollywood Professional Association (HPA), a nonprofit organization that represents the postproduction community, recently released an open letter expressing deep concern for the survival of the media creation supply chain amidst the ongoing writers and actors strike. In the letter, HPA emphasizes that the long-term impact on areas such as postproduction, visual effects, and production support is already dire.
HPA warns that each passing day of the work stoppage causes more economic damage to supply chain companies and their employees, leading to devastating consequences. It is believed that thousands of individuals in this industry have already lost their jobs, and some companies may even risk closure. This situation is not only resulting in significant financial losses but also leading to a loss of expertise in the field. Without a prompt resolution, the industry may face significant challenges in successfully recovering.
The open letter reads: “The Hollywood Professional Association recognizes the serious and important issues that must be resolved between the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) and the Guilds so that our industry can return to work. We urge the parties to find resolution soon, as the current work stoppage has already brought harsh consequences to the many thousands of people and businesses who support media creation.”
The letter also emphasizes the critical moment currently faced by members of the postproduction, creative, and creative technology communities, as the current work stoppages threaten the long-term viability of the industry pipeline. It acknowledges the need to address the issues between the AMPTP and the Guilds promptly, as the consequences of the work stoppage are already having a significant impact on the supply chain in postproduction, visual effects, and production support.
There is a real risk that, even after the current dispute is resolved and writers, actors, and producers return to work, supply chain companies may not be able to resume their operations. With each passing day without a resolution, the economic damage continues to grow and leads to the loss of jobs, life savings, and talented professionals within the industry. Some companies are even contemplating leaving the industry entirely, taking their expertise with them. Without a near-term resolution, the industry may struggle to recover easily.
During the pandemic, the HPA and its members rose to the occasion by creating innovative ways to continue production and meet the demand of a shut-in global audience. Substantial investments were made to support this effort. The industry cannot afford to lose the talent that made these innovations possible.
The letter concludes by expressing encouragement that participants are returning to the negotiating table and urging them to find common ground. The HPA and the industry supply chain are committed to working together with the writers, actors, and producers to build a strong future for the industry. This future will continue to foster innovation, serve, and support creative vision.
For individuals who want to learn more or share their stories and contribute to the conversation, they are encouraged to visit the HPA’s website at hpaonline.com.
In conclusion, the open letter from the Hollywood Professional Association highlights the serious and detrimental impact that the ongoing writers and actors strike is having on the media creation supply chain. It emphasizes the urgent need for resolution to prevent further economic damage, job losses, and the potential closure of supply chain companies. The letter also highlights the industry’s resilience during the pandemic and the importance of preserving the talent and expertise that has contributed to its success. Ultimately, the HPA and the industry supply chain are committed to working together to ensure a strong future for the industry.