Tag: 05.17.00

ACTORS 1, ADVERTISERS, 0

Three weeks into their strike, morale among members of the Screen Actors Guild is high – and commercial producers seem to be getting their message. More than 500 interim agreements have already been signed, guaranteeing union members pay-per-play compensation during productions shot during the strike. “We’ve done picket lines all week long … Everybody’s pumped up.” – Backstage

PLAY NICE AND SHARE

As the £134.5 million Tate Modern opened to wild acclaim last week, other London arts venues, including the South Bank Centre and Royal Opera House, have been struggling to meet development goals. Why isn’t the funding boom felt by all arts institutions alike? “The term ‘arts community’ is a callous misnomer. The performing arts, in Britain and most other places, are shackled by a stifling self-interest that prevents collaboration, communication and common decency.” – The Telegraph (UK)

FIGHTING US MOVIES

South Korean filmmakers call for an international coalition to break the domination of Hollywood internationally. They “urged governments to resist what they say is the United States’ attempts to use free trade treaties to expand the reach of American movies,” echoing sentiments expressed last week in Cannes by French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin. – CBC

WHY MOVIES COST SO MUCH

A William Morris agent says big Hollywood stars are now demanding $30 million to be in big blockbuster movies – $25 million in salary and $5 million for perks. “Until recently, for instance, Travolta would only agree to do blockbusters if a private Lear Jet was put at his disposal, fuelled and ready for take-off 24 hours a day. Even Kim Basinger – who is not the draw she once was – demands $100,000 for her personal hairdresser. Most have entourages which also have to be paid for. – The Guardian 05/17/00

ATTENTION DEFICIT

Video art has been gaining enormous popularity in recent years, with more museums devoting entire galleries to film and video installations. But what does it demand of its viewers? “It is a difficult medium for those of us who have trouble sitting still for more than 30 seconds. Because it is time-based, in most cases you can’t simply stop for a moment in front of an example, see if it grabs your attention, and then move on. Had the artist intended you to have an instantaneous visual fix, he’d have used some other medium.” – The Telegraph (UK) 05/17/00

THE WAY IT OUGHT TO HAVE BEEN

The new box-office hit “U-571″ takes some liberties with World War II history and the Brits are none to happy about it. ‘Hollywood is stealing our history – again!’ complained BBC anchor Jeremy Vine. ‘Why don’t they make a film about brave American fliers winning the Battle of Britain?'” – Washington Post 05/17/00

FIGHTING U.S. MOVIES

South Korean filmmakers call for an international coalition to break the domination of Hollywood internationally. They “urged governments to resist what they say is the United States’ attempts to use free trade treaties to expand the reach of American movies,” echoing sentiments expressed last week in Cannes by French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin. – CBC 05/17/00