As was mentioned in a previous post, Visual Effects artists should be incredibly pissed off. We now have documented proof that that Industrial Light and Magic and Pixar colluded to hold down wages of visual effects artists between their two studios.
It's hard to imagine a better reason to initiate change than what we've been shown by these two vfx studio giants. I've written many times in this blog of my disdain for the attempts at widening profit margins over the backs of the visual effects artists. Now, we have proof that this practice exists.
And with it, we have a chance for our voices to be heard ..
If practices like this are a standard part of the industry, I'm honored to be a part of an organization that is dedicated to bringing about equitable and artist-favored change. All visual effects artists should be mad enough to support the changes that will bring contractual protection and employer funded health and pension benefits into their lives.
VFX Soldier sent this DOJ press release to us that announces the settlement in the collusion case. It also gives the public an opportunity to comment and effect a change in their verdict:
The proposed settlement, along with the department's competitive impact statement, will be published in The Federal Register, as required by the Antitrust Procedures and Penalties Act. Any person may submit written comments concerning the proposed settlement within 60 days of its publication to:
James J. Tierney
Chief, Networks & Technology Enforcement Section
Antitrust Division, U.S. Department of Justice
450 Fifth Street N.W.
Suite 7100
Washington D.C. 20530
At the conclusion of the 60-day comment period, the court may enter the final judgment upon a finding that it serves the public interest.
We invite everyone to write to Section Chief Tierney and explain their feelings on the current sanctions on Pixar and ILM. Use this opportunity to let your voice be heard. You now have a chance to express your opinion and effect a positive change in your industry.
A frequent commenter to our blog writes:
Should'nt we expect more from the Department of Justice?!?
WTF!
Yes, Rufus. We believe you should expect more. Here is your chance to let them know what you think.
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4 comments:
As an artist and film maker I applaud the brilliant work both these companies do. However, the way they run their business is another matter entirely. Sure, business is business - but has it ever occurred to these guys to play fair? I suppose not.
No, not Pixar... They're so pure, and those Toys are all so sweet and beautiful.
"I'm shocked! Shocked, to learn gambling is going on in this establishment."
Anybody who thinks they have themselves a lawsuit, and want to explore same, feel free to contact us:
shulett@animationguild.org
skaplan@animationguild.org
(818)-845-7500
We can refer you to lawyers who specialize in this kind of thing.
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