By KRYSTA FAURIA
LOS ANGELES — Valentino’s Costume Group, a company that has faced ongoing struggles due to pandemic-induced production shutdowns, experienced a surge in business last year. Taking advantage of this success, the company relocated to a larger space in North Hollywood in January.
However, the recent strikes by Hollywood screenwriters and actors have created financial strain for Valentino’s, leaving them unable to afford the rent. Co-owner Shon LeBlanc expressed frustration at the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers’ apparent lack of urgency in reaching an agreement with the unions, fearing the collapse of the Los Angeles economy.
These strikes, which have surpassed 100 days for the Writers Guild of America, have had far-reaching effects on the entertainment industry and various sectors of the Los Angeles economy. From studio rentals and set construction to costume dry cleaning and transportation, the impacts are widespread.
Kevin Klowden, chief strategist with the Milken Institute, explained how a single day of filming can generate significant revenue, ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The previous writers strike, which lasted three months over 15 years ago, is estimated to have cost $2.1 billion in lost output. However, quantifying the current strike’s financial impact is difficult due to changes in production processes and increased globalization.
Streaming services’ dominance is one of the key issues being addressed by both guilds during negotiations. The Writers Guild of America is concerned about the use of “mini rooms,” while actors are seeking protections regarding artificial intelligence. Although talks have resumed between the Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, no plans for negotiations have been made between the actors’ union and the studios.
Fran Drescher, President of SAG-AFTRA, expressed confusion and frustration over the lack of communication, suspecting that it may be a tactic to weaken the unions’ resolve. The strikes have prompted concerns about the financial impact on businesses, such as Hudson Pacific’s Quixote and Sunset Studios. Victor Coleman, the company’s chair and CEO, acknowledged the potential damage to the industry and the surrounding businesses.
Beyond the entertainment industry, the strikes have had a negative ripple effect on small businesses in Los Angeles. Restaurants, coffee shops, and nail salons located near major studios are struggling due to the decline in business from halted productions. The timing of the strikes, following the pandemic’s financial recovery, has exacerbated the impact on these businesses without the aid they previously received.
Despite the hardships faced by peripheral workers, there is a sense of solidarity among those on strike. Luvh Rakhe, a member of the Writers Guild of America negotiating committee, acknowledges the financial costs but believes in the necessity of the strike. Businesses like Valentino’s are seeking support through initiatives like GoFundMe to survive the current circumstances.
While the future remains uncertain, there is hope that Halloween and school productions will provide some relief. As LeBlanc reassures the landlord, they just need temporary financial assistance to overcome the current challenges.
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