The VFX teams at Marvel Studios are embarking on a significant step towards unionization, with the voting process set to commence on August 21. The voting ballots are scheduled to be submitted by September 11, and the final vote count is slated for September 12.
An official press release issued on August 7 highlighted that a “supermajority” of the expansive crew, comprising over 50 workers, had formally endorsed their intent to seek representation from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Mark Patch, the VFX organizer for IATSE, stated, “For nearly five decades, visual effects industry professionals have been devoid of the same safeguards and advantages enjoyed by their peers and colleagues since the inception of the Hollywood film sector. This marks a momentous initial stride as VFX personnel unite to assert their collective voice, advocating for due recognition of our contributions.”
This push for unionization is groundbreaking as it symbolizes the first instance of VFX specialists uniting in this manner, given that this sphere of the industry has primarily existed outside the realm of organized labor. While IATSE currently represents over 168,000 technicians, artisans, and craftspeople engaged in film and television, the kingdom of VFX professionals has historically remained outside its purview. Notably, roles such as production designers/art directors, camera operators, sound technicians, editors, makeup artists, costume designers, script supervisors, grips, lighting experts, and others have traditionally found representation under IATSE, unlike VFX roles.
VFX coordinator Bella Huffman underscored, “The customary rules of turnaround times, safeguarded working hours, and pay parity have yet to encompass our domain. The field of visual effects must evolve into a sustainable and secure realm, catering to the well-being of those who have endured undue hardship and aspiring newcomers seeking an exploitation-free environment.”
This decision by VFX artists is concurrent with a broader surge of union-driven actions within the entertainment industry this summer. Writers and actors simultaneously participate in a historic dual strike, collectively mobilizing for their rights.
Matthew D. Loeb, the International President of IATSE, commented on the timing of the vote amidst this more significant movement, stating, “We are witnessing an unparalleled wave of unity that’s dismantling traditional barriers in the industry, underscoring our shared struggle. This interconnectedness doesn’t occur in isolation. Entertainment professionals worldwide are standing up for each other’s rights; that’s the essence of our movement. I congratulate these professionals for taking this pivotal step and amplifying their collective voice.”
In recent months, Marvel’s VFX artists have garnered significant attention due to the critical reception of their work on current cinematic and television projects, including “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” “Thor: Love and Thunder,” “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law,” and “Secret Invasion.” Concurrently, many exposés have highlighted unfavorable working conditions for VFX artists engaged in Marvel productions. Across various online platforms, these professionals have voiced concerns about the studio’s demanding post-production schedules, ranging from excessive overtime demands to chronic understaffing and the challenge of delivering quality work amid shifting deadlines.
Vulture initially reported the upcoming vote, revealing that workers had expressed a desire for the union election to be held as early as August 21.
