DGA, IATSE Support Paramount-Warner Merger if Studios Stay Separate, Keep 45-Day Windows
A joint letter from the unions says their goal is to preserve a “vibrant, competitive marketplace” The post DGA, IATSE Support Paramount-Warner Merger if Studios Stay Separate, Keep 45-Day Windows appeared first on TheWrap .
The Directors Guild of America and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) have expressed conditional support for the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, contingent upon certain stipulations. In a joint letter sent to Paramount leadership and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, the unions emphasized their desire to maintain a "vibrant, competitive marketplace" and voiced concerns about price distortions, market abuses, and reduced choice.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of mergers, the unions are particularly concerned about the negative impact a delay in the merger decision could have on their members and the industry. The letter stated that the unions would support the merger if Paramount CEO David Ellison maintains the studios as separate entities, commits to 45-day theatrical windows, and continues to produce 30 films per year.
Paramount has offered to release 30 films annually for three years, which has earned Regal Cinemas's support, but other trade organizations have pushed for a longer commitment. The unions have outlined nine conditions they believe must be met for them to support the merger, including maintaining separate distribution, marketing, and production divisions for Paramount and Warner Bros., keeping the studios' headquarters in Los Angeles, and ensuring a minimum of 15 theatrical films per year with a 45-day exclusive theatrical window.
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