Crunch Time for Film Crew: The Backbone of the Industry

By Carolyn Pitt, Founder of Productions.com

The film and television industry is a complex ecosystem, where every role, no matter how small, plays a crucial part in creating the magic we see on our screens. However, recent strikes by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America have brought to light the challenges faced by the unsung heroes of our industry - the 'below the line' and ‘above the line’ crew members.

As the founder of Productions.com, a platform dedicated to simplifying and diversifying hiring within the production community, I've seen firsthand the dedication, passion, and resilience of these professionals and had the privilege of working with some of the most talented individuals in the film and TV industry.

Yet, the current strikes have left many scrambling for work, struggling to maintain their health insurance, and facing the harsh reality of financial instability. Work stoppages, pauses in production, and decreased job opportunities are just some of the challenges our colleagues are facing.

The Ripple Effect of Strikes

The strikes are a response to a myriad of issues, including streaming pay, working conditions, and the advent of artificial intelligence in the industry. While the SAG-AFTRA strike specifically concerns work performed under the union's TV and theatrical contracts, the ripple effect is felt across the entire entertainment industry.

Crew members are finding themselves in a precarious situation. Many are unable to work on productions affiliated with AMPTP, leading to a pause in production and a decrease in job opportunities. The cost to post-production is acute, and if the strikes continue for an extended period, it could lead to a further decrease in job opportunities for film and TV crew members.

John Campbell, a veteran grip and driver, recently lost his health insurance for the first time in his 29-year career, falling just 7.5 hours short of the threshold needed to maintain eligibility. Bill Bridges, a 54-year-old grip, confessed that many of his bills are going unpaid. These stories are not isolated incidents but represent a broader trend affecting many in our industry.

The strikes have not only halted production but also disrupted the livelihoods of countless crew members. The Motion Picture Industry Pension and Health Plans require crew members to work 400 hours in a six-month period to keep their health insurance. With the strikes extending into the fall, many more could lose their coverage.

While the Motion Picture & Television Fund and the Entertainment Community Fund have been providing emergency grants and assistance, the situation remains dire for many. The strikes have also led to an increase in mental health issues, with many crew members reporting higher levels of stress and depression.

Survival Strategies for Crew Members

Despite these challenges, there are still work options available for film and TV crew members during the strikes. Here are some potential avenues to explore:

• Non-AMPTP productions: Crew members can work on productions not affiliated with AMPTP, including independent films, web series, and other non-union productions.
• Commercial work: Commercial productions are not affected by the strikes, offering another viable option for crew members.

In addition to these options, crew members may explore various side hustles to supplement their income:

• Freelance production work: Crew members can offer their services as freelancers for non-union productions, independent films, or web series.
• Teaching or mentoring: Some crew members may choose to share their expertise by teaching at film schools, offering workshops, or providing one-on-one mentoring to aspiring filmmakers.
• Event production: Crew members can utilize their skills in event production, such as setting up audiovisual equipment, managing logistics, or coordinating technical aspects for conferences, concerts, or corporate events.
• Photography or videography: Crew members with experience in camera operation or cinematography can explore opportunities in photography or videography for events, weddings, or commercial projects.
• Post-production services: Crew members skilled in editing, visual effects, or sound design can offer their services for post-production work on independent projects or corporate videos.
• Equipment rental or sales: Crew members who own their equipment can rent or sell it to other filmmakers or production companies in need.
• Technical consulting: Crew members can provide technical consulting services, advising on equipment purchases, set design, or production workflows for aspiring filmmakers or small-scale productions.

It's important to note that the availability of these side hustles may vary depending on the specific circumstances and location. Additionally, the impact of the strikes on the availability of work in the entertainment industry as a whole may also affect the opportunities for side hustles.

Solidarity in Hard Times

The strikes have also sparked a wave of solidarity within the industry. Many crew members are choosing to support the strikers by participating in picket lines or other forms of activism. Charities and organizations are stepping up to provide financial assistance to those affected by the strikes.

While the strikes present significant challenges, they also highlight the resilience and solidarity of our industry. As we navigate these uncertain times, it's crucial that we support each other and work together to advocate for fair conditions and compensation for all members of our industry.

Looking Ahead

As an industry, we need to do better. We need to ensure that the people who are the backbone of our productions are not left in the lurch when disputes arise. It's time to rethink how we value and support our crew members, not just in times of crisis but always.

At Productions.com, we are committed to advocating for a fair and equitable industry. We believe in the power of connection and community, and we will continue to provide a platform for talented crew members to find work and for productions to source the local talent they need.

The current situation is a stark reminder of the challenges our industry faces. But it's also an opportunity for us to come together, support each other, and build a more resilient, inclusive, and fair industry. We owe it to the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring our favorite stories to life

The road ahead may be challenging, but by standing together, we can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.