Will Smith’s Music Video Shoot Sparks Union Dispute

Introduction to the Dispute

Will Smith filmed a music video in Los Angeles on Friday, despite the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATE) organizing a protest. The non-union video was produced at Quijote Studios in West Hollywood. Dejon Ellis, the managing director of IATE LOCAL 80, stated that the union asked the producers to recognize the union and provide pension and health benefits on Thursday, but the producers refused.

The Confrontation

On Friday morning, Smith arrived at the shoot as IATE prepared to set up a picket line. According to Ellis, around 20 crew members were let go on Thursday after the union requested recognition. However, Stephen Trivieri, the president of the production company Breathe Entertainment, claimed that only 10 crew members were involved and that they decided not to show up to work on Friday due to the union’s actions.

Disagreement Over Crew Members

Ellis denied that the union had pulled the crew, stating that it was the company that told them not to come in. "The company fired the crew on the spot," said Ellis. "That wasn’t cool." Trivieri maintained that it was made clear from the beginning that the shoot would be non-union.

Production Company’s Perspective

Trivieri explained that the music video was independently financed and produced outside of a large studio or label backing. He stated that the production was based on a clear non-union structure with transparent terms and fair compensation in all departments.

Union’s Efforts to Organize

IATE often attempts to "flip" music videos, commercials, and low-budget films to secure pension and health benefits for the crew. The producers usually give in, but sometimes the union staff must appear and threaten to pull the crew. Ellis stated that IATE is aggressive in trying to turn around such shows, saying "Los Angeles is a union city."

Replacement Crew and Union Response

Some replacement crew members walked out after realizing that the union had set up a picket line. Trivieri claimed that some of the crew wanted to hold a vote and voted against recognizing the union to continue shooting, but IATE would not allow it. Breathe Entertainment, based in Miami and Toronto, claimed to be complying with California law.

Conclusion

The dispute highlights the ongoing issues between production companies and unions in the entertainment industry. While some productions may start as non-union, they can be "flipped" by unions like IATE to secure better benefits for the crew. The incident also raises questions about the treatment of crew members and the importance of fair compensation and benefits in the industry.