Labor unrest in Hollywood continues as writers and actors are embroiled in ongoing strikes, demanding improved pay and workplace protections. Amidst this backdrop, renowned filmmaker Steven Soderbergh has voiced his deep concerns about the lack of data transparency from streaming services. In an interview for his new web show Command Z, Soderbergh emphasized the need for better information on how shows perform on streaming platforms.
While others worry about AI replacing human jobs, Soderbergh’s primary concern lies with the lack of transparency in streaming services. He shared his frustration, recounting his experience with a particular streamer, Max, on projects like Let Them All Talk and Full Circle. According to Soderbergh, the streamer provided minimal information about the actual performance of his work, relying on vague statements instead of concrete data. This lack of clarity extends to the public as well, as they receive confusing metrics to gauge a show’s success. For Soderbergh, this lack of data transparency reveals a deeper problem within the industry.
Soderbergh raised two potential reasons for the secrecy around streaming data. One possibility is that streaming companies are making substantial profits and are reluctant to disclose the true extent of their earnings. The other possibility is that they are struggling financially and wish to avoid scrutiny from Wall Street. Regardless of the reasons, Soderbergh believes that this lack of transparency is detrimental to the industry’s future.
He advocates for sweeping changes in the streaming business that prioritize transparency and make information accessible to the public and creatives. Soderbergh acknowledges that such changes might lead to a reduction in the number of projects getting greenlit, but he views it as a necessary step toward rebuilding the industry on a more solid foundation.
Soderbergh’s concerns are validated by past streaming horror stories, such as the case of Orange Is the New Black. The hit series experienced tremendous success, but its cast and creator were not adequately compensated in proportion to the show’s popularity. The lack of data transparency prevented them from realizing the true value of their work until after the show’s conclusion.
In the context of the ongoing strikes, better deals for actors and writers could help remedy some of these issues by ensuring fairer compensation. However, data transparency remains vital to holding streaming services and studios accountable. Transparent access to performance data would allow for a more accurate assessment of a project’s success and prevent companies from misleading their creative partners.
As the situation continues to unfold, FilmSweep will provide further coverage of the Hollywood strikes, offering detailed insights into the demands of both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA sides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Data transparency.
What is the main concern of Steven Soderbergh regarding streaming services?
Steven Soderbergh’s main concern is the lack of data transparency from streaming services, which hinders understanding of how shows are performing.
How does Soderbergh view AI’s impact on the industry?
Unlike some who worry about AI replacing human jobs, Soderbergh’s primary concern lies with data transparency issues and their broader implications for the industry.
What example does Soderbergh use to highlight the lack of data transparency?
Soderbergh cites his experience with the streaming service Max, which provided minimal information on his work’s performance and relied on vague statements.
Why does Soderbergh think data transparency is crucial for the industry’s future?
Soderbergh believes that transparency is essential to ensure fair compensation for creatives and to hold streaming services accountable for their actions.
What are some potential reasons behind the lack of data transparency?
Soderbergh suggests two possibilities: streaming services might be making more money than disclosed, or they could be struggling financially and wish to avoid scrutiny.
How could better data transparency benefit actors and writers in Hollywood?
Improved data transparency could lead to better compensation for actors and writers, ensuring fair revenue sharing based on a project’s true success.
What does Soderbergh advocate for regarding the streaming industry?
Soderbergh advocates for sweeping changes in the streaming business, starting with providing information to the public and creatives to rebuild the industry on a more transparent foundation.
What issues are affecting Hollywood amid the ongoing strikes?
Hollywood is grappling with labor unrest as writers and actors demand better pay, workplace protections, and addressing concerns about generative AI taking over human jobs.
What past example supports Soderbergh’s concerns about data transparency?
The case of Orange Is the New Black exemplifies the lack of data transparency, where the cast and creator were not adequately compensated despite the show’s success.
Where can one find more coverage of the Hollywood strikes?
For further coverage of the Hollywood strikes, readers can turn to FilmSweep for detailed insights into the demands of both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA sides.
More about Data transparency.
- Steven Soderbergh’s interview with Defector: Command Z
- Hollywood labor unrest and strikes: Variety
- Orange Is the New Black exploitation controversy: The Hollywood Reporter
- More coverage of Hollywood strikes: FilmSweep
- WGA (Writers Guild of America) strike information: WGA Website
- SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) strike information: SAG-AFTRA Website
