Long Days on the Set Mean More Money

In response to Claudia Puig’s article “A Call for Industry to Reconsider Time Limits” (Calendar, April 16), allow me to offer a “below-the-line” view of this ill-proposed 14-hour day limitation.

As an IATSE [International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees] Local 44 set dresser and prop person for the film and television industry, I am appalled by this Orwellian proposal. Television and film shows come and go in this industry like clockwork. Some work short hours and many work long hours. The more hours worked, the higher the pay. If a particular show is not conducive to one’s lifestyle or well-being, let it be the choice of that individual whether to continue working. A mandatory ruling should not be for everyone.

True, the death of Brent Hershman is a deplorable tragedy, but that should not infringe upon people’s rights to earn a better living. It’s ludicrous to cite “above-the-line” actors such as Julia Roberts, Sally Field and Tom Berenger as petitioners for this 14-hour limitation workday because “golden time” (the term used for lucrative double-time pay) is not in their vocabulary. Crew members’ salaries pale in comparison to these stars’ exorbitant fees. If they choose not to work long hours, surely they can state so in their individual contracts.

Albeit, it is not far from reason to petition for “resting” facilities for crew members. Perhaps, an extra trailer in addition to the actors’ can be used at various intervals to alleviate sleep deprivation. Surely some sort of common ground can be found. But to govern the bread and butter of many earnest workers by putting a mandatory limit on their workday is a bad “wrap” all the way around.

KEN ABRAHAM

Tarzana

Puig’s article mentions the fact that some crew members fear a loss of overtime pay should Brent’s Rule go into effect. The sad fact of the matter is that Hollywood’s above-the-line workers are earning record-breaking paychecks and receiving ridiculous perks that could, in and of themselves, fund higher wages for below-the-line workers who in recent years have been suffering pay cutbacks.

My feeling has always been that this imbalance is due to the “divide and conquer” nature of IATSE locals. Should they join to form one large union, this more powerful united front could negotiate a contract that provides wages more in line with the lucrative reality of the business as well as hours more conducive to physical and emotional health.

NIKKI CAPSHAW

Burbank