In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the landscape of the visual effects industry, the VFX teams at Walt Disney Studios have initiated the process of unionization. The team has officially approached the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for an election with hopes to form a union.
Strong Support for the Change
A staggering 80% majority of the 18-member in-house VFX team at Walt Disney Pictures has backed this effort. Their signatures on authorization cards have set the wheels in motion for this remarkable venture. Their decision is closely following their counterparts at Marvel Studios, who also chose the path of unionization on August 21.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first instance of VFX professionals rallying for equal rights. The ballots for the decision will be due by September 11, with the results being announced a day later on September 12.
Statements of Solidarity
Mark Patch, the VFX organizer for the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), lauded the valiant efforts of the VFX professionals at Walt Disney Pictures. He expressed his admiration by stating, “Today, courageous Visual Effects workers at Walt Disney Pictures overcame the fear and silence that have kept our community from having a voice on the job for decades. With an overwhelming supermajority of these crews demanding an end to ‘the way VFX has always been,’ this is a clear sign that our campaign is not about one studio or corporation. It’s about VFX workers across the industry using the tools at our disposal to uplift ourselves and forge a better path forward.”
Matthew D. Loeb, the International President of IATSE, echoed these sentiments, commending the unwavering determination of the VFX teams. “Their collective action against the status quo represents a seismic shift in this critical moment in our industry. The chorus of voices demanding change is unprecedented, and demonstrates our united movement is not about any one company, but about setting a precedent of dignity, respect, and fairness for all.”
A Look into the Reason Behind the Change
VFX workers have been functioning outside the domain of unions since the dawn of special effects in cinema. One can trace back their non-union history to when effects were incorporated into films like the original Star Wars during the 1970s and 1980s. But the tides seem to be changing.
The momentum for this change has been building up. VFX professionals are seeking equitable compensation, comprehensive healthcare benefits, appropriate retirement plans, and rights at par with their colleagues already in the IATSE union.
Supporting their claims is the VFX Worker Rate and Conditions Survey conducted by IATSE in 2022. Released in March, the survey results shed light on the necessity for improved conditions in the VFX industry.
With the submission of their request earlier this week, an official vote on unionization could be right around the corner. A positive outcome in favor of the union would propel studios to engage in extensive discussions, aiming to formulate a contract encompassing the needs and rights of these dedicated professionals.
Conclusion
The decision by Walt Disney Studios‘ VFX teams to unionize signifies a pivotal moment in the industry. The collective voice demanding change speaks volumes about the need for fair treatment, respect, and improved working conditions for these unsung heroes of cinema. Only time will tell if their efforts will bear fruit, but one thing is clear: the winds of change are blowing, and they’re blowing strong.
