In a recent development, Directors UK (DUK) has taken a bold step in seeking royalties for its more than 8,000 members from major streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Paramount, Apple, and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). This move comes as a response to the improved streaming residual packages that have been established for writers, actors, and directors in the U.S. However, unlike the U.S., the battle for improved residuals in the UK is just beginning.
The Demand for Fair Compensation
Directors in the UK are seeking fair compensation for their work on streaming projects, emphasizing the need for royalties to be paid to them further down the line. While directors are often paid well for their contributions, DUK insists that they deserve to receive royalties in line with industry standards. This demand aligns with the principle that directors, as copyright owners, should be entitled to royalties for their work.
The Importance of Royalties
According to a spokeswoman for DUK, royalties play a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of a directing career, especially in an industry where making a living as a freelance director is becoming increasingly challenging. DUK aims to ensure that international streaming services align with UK television industry practices when operating in the country, highlighting the significance of fair compensation for directors.
As part of its efforts to secure royalties for its members, DUK has reached out to major streaming services and set a deadline for negotiation. The organization has not ruled out the possibility of withholding copyright from the streamers if an agreement is not reached. This tactic is intended to encourage the streamers to come to the table and engage in discussions regarding fair compensation for directors.
DUK is not the only organization in the UK seeking improved residuals for its members. Equity, the actors union, has also been involved in contract negotiations with Pact to secure enhanced secondary payments. Similarly, the Writers Guild of Great Britain has recently struck deals with Netflix and the BBC to improve residuals for its members. These developments indicate a growing awareness of the importance of fair compensation in the entertainment industry.
In the U.S., the Directors Guild of America was able to negotiate a favorable deal with the AMPTP without resorting to strike action, resulting in a significant increase in foreign residuals for directors. This successful agreement sets a precedent for the importance of collective bargaining and fair compensation in the industry. UK directors are now looking to follow suit and secure similar benefits for their members.
The fight for improved streaming residuals for UK directors is gaining momentum, with organizations like DUK leading the way in advocating for fair compensation. As the industry evolves and streaming platforms continue to dominate the entertainment landscape, it is essential for directors to receive proper recognition and royalties for their creative contributions. The negotiation process between DUK and major streaming services will be crucial in determining the future of residuals for UK directors, highlighting the importance of standing up for fair compensation in the entertainment industry.
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