Movie And TV Crews Describe The Horrible Working Conditions In The Industry
This is what happens when the magic is only skin deep
Films and TV shows are meaningful in different ways for people. They can simply serve as entertainment or something to quench curiosity.
For some, they provide an escape from reality for a while or inspire creativity. They stimulate the mind to build sequences and challenge artistic expression.
Whenever you see the sparkles and work on the screen, do you ever think about what goes on behind it? Not just the off-screen chemistry of the actors or the skill of the director, but the crew that helps put everything together.
If you do, you'll realize that it's not as magical as it appears. The industry is filled with sets that have almost inhumane working conditions.
This is why there are laws in various countries and unions to protect workers. Sadly, employers still turn a blind eye to those laws and allow toxic working environments to fester.
These were the topics discussed in these Tumblr posts. The statements initially called for the film and TV industry to implement better labor laws that wouldn't push actors to exceed safety measures to produce shots.
However, people who have worked behind the scenes have also shared their stories. The comments that followed not only exposed how dire the working conditions are but also highlighted how little change has occurred.
Here's the post where it started. OP began their thoughts as an unpopular opinion rant
attackofthebteamIt shouldn't leave anyone traumatized
attackofthebteamA Tumblr user commented on the post and narrated the things people usually don't know about staff experiences when they work on sets
squeeful
Even beyond them, there isn't a clear line regarding the working conditions to which employers should adhere, as their priority is to keep production going
squeeful
People who have experienced the terrors of working in those conditions have been discouraged from taking specific gigs
squeeful
There are sets that are being revolutionized to serve as models of healthy work environments, but in most cases, this is the harsh reality
squeeful
This means that as much as we love to binge-watch and are impatient for new episodes, it is fueled by crews being pushed to the brink
squeeful
There's a lot of cover-up that occurs within the workplace, along with the encouragement to be the most overworked individual
squeeful
The harsh environments don't even end on movie sets but extend to animation studios as well
alexazombie
This user who commented highlighted the differences in labor laws in the U.K.
hunterinabrowncoat
Audiences can complain about cliffhangers and become impatient all they want, but it's the crews' rights that matter above all
hunterinabrowncoat
These are the laws in New Zealand, however
thebyrchentwigges
It's not enough to provide them with tutors or feed them on set; there are many child entertainers who need counseling and better protection laws
Anastasia Rose Damrau
It burns you out quickly
Leigh Stevens
There are many factors to consider, but perhaps if people continue to shed light on the topic, actions will be taken to improve the situation
Anthony Mallette
There are many unheard voices discussing the abuse of labor; take it from this comment
Jean-sebastien Cozic
Many factors contribute to why things are poorly organized and employees are under-compensated. Money, fame, and power play roles in why change is slow to come.
Companies and organizations should recognize that the staff and crews are also people trying to make ends meet. They may be pursuing their dreams of being part of the industry, and it would be truly unfortunate if they lost their inspiration due to these issues.
Have you ever worked on movie and TV sets? Share your stories in the comments.