News: Quick Hits

Just some linkeage:

Variety reports that several writers will not be following WGA Strike Rule #8, which stipulates that all writers must turn copies of any uncompleted scripts they have written over to the union, ostensibly to guard against allegations of strikebreaking. Studios sent writers' agents strongly-worded letters before the strike even started, telling writers that they would be in breach of contract if they did any such thing. Writers are justly afraid of being nailed by legal action from the studios, who have already paid for the scripts and would seem to have the high ground here. (Note: I am not a lawyer.) WGA asserts that the scripts do not become studio property until options are exercized, which they wouldn't have been yet on incomplete scripts; they're threatening censure or fines for guild members who do not obey Rule #8. Yikes.

The LA Times has an article detailing the reaction of labor leaders outside the conflict; not surprisingly, they appear to be on the side of the WGA. The most interesting tidbit seems comes from Rose Ann DeMoro, head of the California Nurses' Assosciation, who has a list of the four big needs for a successful strike: 1. Public support. 2. Cohesion among members. 3. Political power. 4. A righteous cause. I would say that #4 is way, way down the list, but it appears that the WGA has #1 on its side -- feeling on the internets, at least, is overwhelmingly in favor of striking writers, at least for now. It appeared that they hand #2, but if they start fining people over Strike Rule 8, that could be a problem. The other two? Well, the current Governor of California used to be a member of a Hollywood guild, so that can't hurt. As far as #4 goes, I'm not sure "righteous" ever comes into the equasion in today's America. I think they're right, but I don't know about righteous.

"Office" writers Michael Schur (who also plays Mose Schrute) and Jen Celotta stopped by Office Tally yesterday to chat with fans; Tanster has posted a chat transcript. It's long, but interesting.

"Office" star Jenna Fischer (Miss Beesly, if you're nasty) has a blog entry discussing the strike.