The battle for improved streaming residuals in the United States may have seen some success, but in the UK, the fight is just beginning. Directors UK (DUK), the body that represents British directors, has taken a bold step by writing to major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Paramount, Apple, and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) in an effort to secure royalties for its 8,000 plus members. This move by DUK has certainly raised the stakes in the ongoing negotiations, as the body has hinted at the possibility of withholding its members’ copyright from these streamers unless they come to the table and engage in meaningful discussions.
While details of the letter sent by DUK remain confidential, it has been circulating within industry circles and is expected to be a focal point of discussion at the upcoming Edinburgh TV Festival. The request for royalties on UK streamer projects is not unreasonable, considering the significant contributions that directors make to these productions. DUK is advocating for a fair share of the revenue generated from streaming platforms, following in the footsteps of writer, actor, and director guilds in the U.S. who successfully negotiated improved residual packages last year.
In the UK, DUK already has established agreements with broadcasters like Sky and producer trade body Pact to ensure that directors receive royalties. However, the absence of a similar arrangement with streaming services has prompted DUK to take action. The principle of directors receiving royalties as copyright owners is well-established, and it is only fair that international streaming platforms adhere to industry standards when operating in the UK.
As DUK manages copyright on behalf of its members, the threat of withholding copyright from streamers is a clear signal that the body is serious about advocating for the rights of directors. The deadline set for negotiations with streaming services is a clear indication that DUK is determined to push for a fair and equitable resolution. The importance of royalties in sustaining a freelance directing career cannot be overstated, and DUK’s efforts reflect the broader push within the UK TV and film industry for improved residuals.
It is not just DUK that is seeking improved residuals in the UK. Actors union Equity has also been engaged in negotiations with Pact to secure better secondary payments. While the possibility of strike action had been previously raised, it appears that progress is being made towards a resolution. Additionally, the Writers Guild of Great Britain recently struck deals with Netflix and the BBC for improved residuals, indicating a growing trend towards fair compensation for industry professionals.
In the United States, the Directors Guild of America was able to secure a groundbreaking deal with the AMPTP without resorting to strike action. This deal resulted in a significant increase in foreign residuals for directors working on major platforms. The success of the Directors Guild serves as a model for other industry bodies, highlighting the importance of unity and negotiation in securing fair compensation for creative professionals.
The fight for improved residuals in the UK is gaining momentum, with Directors UK leading the charge against streaming giants. The push for royalties is not just about financial gain but about recognizing the valuable contributions that directors make to the industry. By standing together and advocating for fair compensation, directors are setting a precedent for the future of the UK TV and film industry.
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