Strike…Two

As promised more on the writer’s strike.

Last time, I mentioned that the main thrust of the strike concerned compensation for the writers. They want to be fairly compensated for their work when it is distributed through downloads, websites, cell phones and DVD’s.

Writers have some valid points here. Many shows have started something called “webisodes.” They may be two or three minute storylines that are used to enhance the viewing experience of the show when it is broadcast on mainstream television.

A good example of this is the Sci-Fi program “Battlestar Galactica.” The Sci-Fi Channel has been streaming “webisodes” of Battlestar Galactica for the past few weeks, leading up to a two hour movie release called, “Razor.” The writers believe they should be paid for the work done on the “webisodes.” Studios believe these “webisodes” fall under a “promotional-use" category which exempts them from residual payouts.

In the case of “Galactica,” the “webisodes” were promotional vignettes for the main show, but at the same time the “webisodes” actually advanced the plot line of the series.
Furthermore, the movie was actually designed for a “made for DVD” release.

The Sci-Fi Channel actually ended up airing the movie, but then released an extended DVD version two weeks later that was unrated and uncut.

In cases such as this, the writers have every right to be compensated for the “webisodes” and the DVD release.

Tomorrow: What the writers DON’T deserve.