While SAG-AFTRA and WGA union members are on strike, another group has voted to become a part of a union. VFX workers at Marvel Studios have voted to start the unionization process as well. This is a first in the industry and could lead to changes in how movies are made. Vulture is reporting that the VFX workers are looking to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
A group of “more than 50 on-set employees” have filed a petition to join IATSE and have an election as early at August 21, 2023. This would allow these artists to be represented by the labor union with the National Labor Relations Board. Mark Patch, the VFX organizer for IATSE, said this about this move forward toward unionization.
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.
The move to unionization comes after stories have been told of VFX working long hard hours to meet challenging deadlines. It comes as workers in many different industries in Hollywood are seeking better working conditions. If the VFX workers are successful with their initiatives, this could lead to other working groups in Hollywood pursuing unionization as well. This could include other VFX workers in Hollywood and other industry professionals as well.
What do you think of VFX workers at Marvel Studios attempting to unionize? Do you think they will be successful? Do you think they should be? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
