Title: Writers Guild of America Members Have Fun with Studios’ “Best and Final Offer” Claim
Subtitle: WGA members use humor and satire to discuss ongoing negotiations with the AMPTP
Date: [Current Date]
In the midst of ongoing negotiations between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), union members found a way to inject some humor into the talks. Over the weekend, the studios made a claim that they had presented their “best and final offer,” sparking amusement and creativity among the writers.
Union members took to social media platform X to have fun with the AMPTP’s choice of words. Mike Flanagan and others came up with possible movie titles, humorously imagining a Hollywood chronicling of the negotiation process. Among the suggestions were “Best Final Offer,” “Best Final Offer: 3D,” and “The Finalest Offer.”
Not to be outdone, Eden Danger, George Samir Nader, and other members also joined in. They proposed titles such as “Final Offer Best & Final Offer,” “Last & Final Offer,” “Smart & Final Offer,” and “Final Offer Tokyo Drift.” The writers’ wit and creativity shone through as they humorously depicted their perspective on the negotiations.
Some members drew comparisons to other situations to comment on the studios’ claim. Warren Leight juxtaposed the phrase with a controversial post by David Brooks regarding a $78 meal. Other members like Mark Agee and Dan Signer used personal anecdotes to add humor to the discussion.
While the majority of WGA members found amusement in the studios’ claims, some members expressed frustration. Former Grey’s Anatomy showrunner Krista Vernoff criticized the CEOs for taking 140 days to negotiate and described their claim as “beyond irresponsible.” David Slack suggested that if the studios had already made multiple “last, best, and final” offers, they should refrain from using the phrase.
Scott Collette even proposed the involvement of a federal mediator, arguing that if the studios’ offer is deemed unsuitable, the WGA could make a case for government intervention. He urged the CEOs to defend their salaries and disclose the studios’ financial records to support their position.
As negotiations continued over the weekend, the writers showcased their ability to find humor in challenging circumstances. Despite differing opinions on the negotiations, it was clear that members of the WGA were united in their dedication to their craft and their desire for fair negotiations with the studios.
It remains to be seen whether the studios’ “best and final offer” will be accepted or if further discussions will be required. The WGA and the AMPTP will continue to pave the way for an agreement that supports the interests of both parties.