MOVIES - May 7, 1991

Contract Approval: There was encouraging word for filmmakers Monday in New York when the Cinematographers Local 644 of the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees voted overwhelmingly to ratify a three-year contract with major motion picture studios for films made on the East Coast. The pact gives the studios more flexible work rules for any project filming in New York City for five days or more. Last month, IATSE Local 52, which represents 2,000 Eastern studio mechanics, rejected the studios’ offer. That vote led most studios to cancel most of their plans to make films in New York City. The president of Local 644 urged colleagues “to review the matter thoroughly and follow suit.”