The Writers’ Strike of 2023 and the COVID-19 Pandemic both have changed the TV and Film industry. It’s important for us to know how the industry has changed so that we can adapt and continue to grow in our preferred industry.
As you know, the entertainment industry is no stranger to disruptions, but the combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 Writers’ Strike has had unprecedented effects on TV and Film. These events have reshaped content creation, distribution, and consumption, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. This article delves into how these two crises have transformed the entertainment landscape in seven significant ways.
1. Acceleration of Streaming Services
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the shift towards streaming services, which the 2023 Writers’ Strike further cemented. With theaters closed and traditional TV productions halted, audiences turned to streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max for entertainment. This shift was not just a temporary blip. It fundamentally changed viewing habits, making on-demand content the new norm.
During the Writers’ Strike, the production of new content slowed down, causing networks and studios to dig into their archives and increase their reliance on existing libraries. This situation highlighted the importance of having a robust catalog of content, benefiting streaming platforms that had already invested heavily in diverse offerings. As a result, the competition among streaming services intensified, leading to significant mergers and acquisitions, such as Amazon’s purchase of MGM and WarnerMedia’s merger with Discovery.
Also, it’s not a coincidence that you’re hearing more about having projects on Tubi. Tubi is hoping to cash in on the acceleration of streaming services. And, look at Amazon Prime Video. They released Tyler Perry’s latest movie, DIRECT TO STREAMING.
For Independent Content Creators, the question to ask is:
If Tyler’s movie is going straight to streaming, what is that saying about the industry?
If there is a shift toward streaming services, is there a way that an individual content creator can create a product that can be serviced through streaming services?
What kind of streaming services are looking for the projects that you wanna create?
2. Innovation in Content Creation and Remote Production
Both the pandemic and the Writers’ Strike forced the entertainment industry to innovate in content creation and production. The pandemic necessitated remote work, leading to the widespread adoption of virtual production techniques. Technologies like video conferencing, cloud-based collaboration tools, and real-time rendering became essential for continuing projects amid lockdowns.
The 2023 Writers’ Strike further underscored the need for flexibility in production. Virtual writers’ rooms became a common practice, allowing writers to collaborate from different locations. This shift not only kept projects moving but also opened up opportunities for a more diverse pool of writers who may not be based in traditional industry hubs like Los Angeles or New York.
Technological advancements such as the use of virtual sets and augmented reality (AR) have also gained traction. Productions like “The Mandalorian” demonstrated the potential of using LED screens and real-time rendering to create immersive environments, reducing the need for physical sets and on-location shooting. This technology has now become a staple in the industry, enabling more efficient and cost-effective production processes.
When studios began to kick staff out of the office to work from home, one of our chief responsibilities was to make sure that our home office would allow us to still deliver the quality of work that was necessary – depending on your role. Obviously if you’re a gaffer, you can’t gaff in your living room. But, if you have to take Zoom meetings, be in a writer’s room, go over scripts, review a look book, is your home office up to the task?
I’ve been in production meetings where people haven’t thought about how to make sure their home office is up to the task of remote production. That’s a costly mistake.
Since the beginning of filmmaking and television production, producers have had to be agile. After the strike is over and the pandemic has cooled, we still need to be agile.
3. Changes in Storytelling and Content Diversity
The combined impact of the pandemic and the Writers’ Strike has led to significant changes in storytelling and content diversity. The industry’s halt during the pandemic provided an opportunity for introspection, resulting in a heightened awareness of the need for diverse and inclusive stories. Audiences now demand content that reflects a broader range of experiences and perspectives. This is such a conflicting topic because audiences want certain things, but studios aren’t always willing to deliver. Again, that’s when the innovation of the independent content creator comes into play.
The Writers’ Strike of 2023 emphasized the importance of fair compensation and representation for writers from diverse backgrounds. As a result, studios and networks have been more proactive in commissioning content from underrepresented voices. This shift is evident in the increasing number of shows and films that tackle social issues, feature diverse casts, and are created by talent from various cultural backgrounds.
Streaming platforms, in particular, have been at the forefront of this movement, investing in international content and promoting stories from different parts of the world. This trend not only caters to a global audience but also enriches the storytelling landscape with fresh and unique narratives. Apple’s Pachinko series caters to a global audience and we’re seeing more Asian stories.
Shonda Rhimes’ Bridgerton series which streams on Netflix is another example of a straight to streaming project which says a lot about the networks.
In 2024, I believe a lot of the lip service being paid to DEI has shut down considerably. I don’t believe as many companies are doing the actual work or committing to diversity. There seems to be an ongoing love / hate relationship with diversity in America. I don’t believe the Writer’s Strike or the pandemic has improved that relationship. But what does that mean for us as Black content creators?
I’m including “Black” in front of content creators because when research says we want more diverse content, it may mean Asian, Native American, LatinX, not only Black. And, again, Black people’s stories have often had an interesting history in America.
So, this is our recommendation at Black TV Film Crew:
No matter what is going on in the national dialogue regarding diversity, we have to tell our stories. Period.
We have to tell our stories when no one wants to watch or listen. When George Floyd was murdered on video for the entire world to see – many people, for the first time, saw what we’ve known for decades upon decades. There is unnecessary violence being meted out upon Black people and it’s, literally, killing us. For that reason alone, we have to tell our stories, no matter what the DEI vibe is for the moment. For many it’s a vibe, for us, it’s our very lives.
4. Labor Dynamics and Industry Practices
The 2023 Writers’ Strike brought labor issues to the forefront, highlighting the need for fair treatment and compensation in the entertainment industry. The strike centered around demands for better pay, improved working conditions, and equitable residuals for streaming content. These issues resonated with a broad swath of industry professionals, leading to increased unionization efforts and solidarity among different guilds and unions.
The pandemic had already exposed the vulnerabilities faced by workers in the industry, from cast and crew to support staff. The need for safety protocols and health measures became paramount, and these concerns carried over into the strike. As a result, the industry has seen a push towards better health and safety standards, as well as more comprehensive support systems for workers.
The strike also prompted a reevaluation of traditional working arrangements. The success of remote writers’ rooms and virtual collaboration has led to more flexible working conditions, allowing talent to work from various locations.
This flexibility has been particularly beneficial for those with family obligations or those living outside major entertainment hubs.
As a member of the WGA, I found the strike disappointing and the negotiations disappointing as well. For those who want a simplified explanation of my point of view, here it is:
Networks want to profit off of writer’s content in perpetuity while paying us once for the content even though they can make money off of said content many times over. And, as the profits increase for the said content, they don’t want our profits to increase. How is that fair? Exactly. That sums up my entire position.
5. Financial Impact and New Business Models
The financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Writers’ Strike has been profound, forcing the industry to explore new business models and revenue streams. The pandemic led to massive losses for theaters and disrupted traditional box office revenue. In response, studios experimented with hybrid release models, where films were simultaneously released in theaters and on streaming platforms.
The success of this model during the pandemic encouraged its continuation, with notable releases like “Black Widow” and “Dune” adopting simultaneous streaming and theatrical releases. The 2023 Writers’ Strike further underscored the need for diversified revenue streams, as production delays and content shortages strained financial resources.
Studios and streaming platforms have also explored ad-supported models and subscription tiers to attract a broader audience base. For instance, Netflix introduced a lower-cost ad-supported subscription plan to compete with other streaming services and cater to price-sensitive consumers.
When corporate business models fail, the role of the independent creator is to find new models that work for us.
If you need inspiration for this, research Master P’s success in selling DVD’s out of the back of this trunk.
His brazen sales strategies changed the trajectory of independent record labels FOREVER. Forever- not just for No Limit Records.
As content creators, we must adopt the same brazen attitude in believing in our product and also profitability. Are we business minded or are we vanity filmmakers?
We are far too dependent on corporate business models which have become less profitable for the corporation. So here’s the question:
If the corporation is losing money with their current business model, why would they hire you and you’re not innovating how they are doing things?
If you study successful filmmakers and content creators, you will often find innovation as a part of their recipe for success.
6. Technological Advancements and Virtual Reality
Technological advancements have played a crucial role in adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic and the Writers’ Strike. The need for remote collaboration and efficient production workflows has accelerated the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are increasingly being integrated into production and storytelling. VR offers immersive experiences that allow audiences to engage with content in new ways. AR enhances traditional media with interactive elements. These technologies are transforming how content is created, consumed, and experienced.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are also becoming integral to the industry. AI is used for various aspects of production, from script analysis and casting to marketing and distribution. Streaming platforms like Netflix use AI algorithms to personalize recommendations, ensuring that viewers discover content tailored to their preferences.
Tyler Perry halted an $800 million studio expansion because of AI.
This speaks to how far reaching AI is when we know how innovative Tyler Perry is in creating studio spaces in his hometown of Atlanta. I have learned of people who have created and shot entire film concepts using AI. Whether you are for or against it, it doesn’t really matter. The fact is, AI is here.
7. The Future of Theatrical Releases and Hybrid Models
The future of theatrical releases has been a topic of intense debate following the pandemic and the 2023 Writers’ Strike. While streaming has become a dominant force, the cinematic experience remains a cherished tradition for many. The industry is now navigating a delicate balance between these two modes of consumption.
Hybrid release models are likely to continue, offering audiences the choice between watching a film in theaters or at home. This approach caters to different viewing preferences and provides flexibility in response to changing market conditions. Theaters themselves are evolving, with a focus on enhancing the viewer experience through innovations like luxury seating, premium formats (IMAX, Dolby Cinema), and exclusive content.
Event cinema—live broadcasts of concerts, theater performances, and sports events—has gained popularity. Additionally, drive-in theaters saw a resurgence during the pandemic, offering a safe and nostalgic way for people to enjoy films together.
The release of Eddie Murphy’s latest Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F movie is something we’ve kept an eye on. We kept waiting to see if that hit theaters and so far it’s only been on Netflix. This, of course, gives rise to the importance of the streamers.
But can you believe a whole Eddie Murphy movie didn’t release theatrically?
What does that say about the nature of the business?
8. Honorable Mention – The Rise of Podcasts
Because podcasts have largely worked with non-union writers, some podcast companies have been able to continue to create content without being impacted by the Writer’s Strike. For beginning writers, this provides an interesting opportunity to write both narrative and non-fiction scripts.
Writers, we’re talking to you: Are you familiar with podcast job boards?
You should be. This is a place that you could be looking to expand your resume since the game has changed.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 Writers’ Strike have profoundly impacted the TV and film industry, driving significant changes in content creation, distribution, and consumption.
Technological advancements, new business models, and the evolving future of theatrical releases reflect the industry’s resilience and adaptability. As the entertainment world continues to navigate these changes, the focus will be on finding a balance between traditional and new models. The future of TV and film promises to be dynamic and innovative, driven by the lessons learned from these transformative events.
