Over 50 on-set Marvel VFX artists vote to unionize on the back of reports of poor working conditions. As reported by Vulture, the employees filed a petition for an election to be represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) with the National Labor Relations Board. The workers are looking for the election to be held as early as August 21st.
This of course marks the first time that VFX artists have joined together to demand some of the rights and oversight their colleagues elsewhere on the industry receive.
VFX organizer for IATSE Mark Patch said in a statement,
“For almost half a century, workers in the visual-effects industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry. This is a historic first step for VFX workers coming together with a collective voice demanding respect for what we do.”
“Turnaround times don’t apply to us, protected hours don’t apply to us, and pay equity doesn’t apply to us,” said VFX coordinator Bella Huffman. “Visual effects must become a sustainable and safe department for everyone who’s suffered far too long and for all newcomers who need to know they won’t be exploited.”
“We are witnessing an unprecedented wave of solidarity that’s breaking down old barriers in the industry and proving we’re all in this fight together,” said IATSE International president Matthew D. Loeb. “That doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Entertainment workers everywhere are sticking up for each other’s rights; that’s what our movement is all about. I congratulate these workers on taking this important step and using their collective voice. I urge Marvel Studios to voluntarily recognize their union immediately.”
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One would imagine that this would just be a first step. Eventually this could lead to all third party VFX houses unionizing also. Giving the reports we’ve read about working conditions these artists face, I can’t see any downside to it. At least from a fan, or staff point of view. However, I’m sure Bob Iger will come out to say they should all just work harder. They should be thankful they have jobs and get the job done quicker so Bob can make more millions.
Luckily, humans are still required for VFX and Disney uses a ton of it in all their projects. Ergo, Iger will just have to grumble and moan about this one, because he needs these artists.
Frankly the standard of CGI in the MCU has gotten steadily worse recently. It’s also no coincidence that standards have slipped as the amount of projects has increased exponentially. I think most fans would rather have less MCU content and have it get back to the pre-Endgame standards. Or at least better than what we have gotten in Phase 4 and the start of Phase 5.
So, over 50 on-set Marvel VFX artists vote to unionize on the back of reports of poor working conditions. What do you think of this news? Thoughts below as always.
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