Marvel Studios’ visual effects crews have taken a bold step towards unionization. With a supermajority of over 50 workers signing authorization cards, they have filed for a unionization election with the National Labor Relations Board. The crew members are seeking representation by IATSE, a move that showcases an unprecedented wave of solidarity in the industry.
IATSE President Matthew Loeb commended the workers, stating, “We are witnessing an unprecedented wave of solidarity that’s breaking down old barriers in the industry and proving we’re all in this fight together. Entertainment workers everywhere are sticking up for each other’s rights, that’s what our movement is all about. I congratulate these workers on taking this important step and using their collective voice.”
The unionization effort by Marvel’s visual effects crews is historic, as it marks the first time VFX professionals have come together to demand the same rights and protections as their unionized colleagues in the film industry. Mark Patch, IATSE’s VFX organizer, emphasized the significance of this step, saying, “For almost half a century, workers in the visual effects industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry. This is a historic first step for VFX workers coming together with a collective voice demanding respect for the work we do.”
While positions such as production designers/art directors, camera operators, sound technicians, editors, hair & makeup artists, and more have long been represented by IATSE in film and television, workers in VFX classifications have historically been left out. This unionization effort aims to change that.
Bella Huffman, a VFX coordinator, shed light on some of the challenges faced by VFX workers. “Turnaround times don’t apply to us, protected hours don’t apply to us, and pay equity doesn’t apply to us,” she explained. “Visual effects must become a sustainable and safe department for everyone who’s suffered far too long and for all newcomers who need to know they won’t be exploited.”
The filing for a union election by Marvel’s visual effects crews comes at a pivotal moment in the film and television industry. The ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild and SAG-AFTRA have created a climate of change and empowerment. The Writers Guild has been on strike since May 2, and SAG-AFTRA since July 14. This unionization effort adds to the momentum of workers standing up for their rights and demanding fair treatment in the industry.
