Hollywood strike

[Susmith]

What are the likely effects of the upcoming Hollywood strike?

[johnjo]

A screenwriters' strike is due to start on May 2. On May 10, the actors' unions start their talks with the studios. If the writers are already on strike, the prediction is that the actors will follow by the end of June. The problem centres around payment for use of their work on videos, the internet, in foreign markets, on cable television and in future communications. If the strikes go ahead, many people, such as agents, make-up artists and drivers, will be affected. The studios have stockpiled enough movies to see them through to 2002 and possibly into 2003. The Writers' Guild has more than $10m (�6.25m) set aside for loans in the event of a strike.