"February 3, 2008 - Word is spreading about a possible conclusion to the writers strike that has crippled Hollywood (and television specifically) since early November. The New York Times is reporting that the informal talks that resumed recently between WGA leaders and the studios, represented by the AMPTP, have been going very well this past week and a deal could be imminent. While this isn't the first time since the strike began that talk of a possible conclusion has occurred, these most recent reports are the most widespread and optimistic yet.
The New York Times says things have gone so well that the potential deal might happen without formal talks between the two sides ever needing to resume. In addition the Los Angeles Times says that it's possible a final contract could be presented to the WGA as early as this coming Friday. Officially both sides have been honoring their previously agreed upon press blackout (which itself is reason for optimism, given the war of words the talks dissolved into twice before) and won't comment on the recent rumors.
While the LA Times says the deal is based on the one recently brokered by the Directors Guild of America, they note that the AMPTP made some key concessions this past Friday on factors the WGA were still concerned about, including better pay terms for online streaming compared to the DGA deal. The AMPTP is said to be very anxious to have a deal in place soon in order to insure the Oscars, scheduled for February 24th, go forth as planned. " |
