IN BRIEF
In light of the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, Viola Davis joins the increasing roster of top-tier stars who are opting out of filming, attributing this decision to perceived insensitivity. Davis believes it is unfitting for the G20 production to continue amidst these strikes and supports the actor fraternity and trade unions in their endeavor. Despite transitional accords, actors are dealing with unease and indecisiveness as they ponder the possibility of working during strikes and the potential backlash that may follow.
Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis has emerged as one of the first prominent figures to publicly retract from filming a project during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, despite having received the green light to persist. Davis, who was involved in the production of G20, has decided not to proceed further. As per Deadline, Davis views the decision to work during this period as lacking sensitivity.
This film was among numerous projects that had received authorization through a waiver, which is a provisional SAG-AFTRA agreement essential for initiating or maintaining a project’s production. Nevertheless, Davis has articulated her choice to refrain until the strikes reach a resolution, and all concerned parties have consented to appropriate compensation for their past and future contributions to projects.
“I am deeply fond of this movie, but I don’t think it’s fitting for its production to advance during the strike,” shared Davis, who was honored with the Best Actress Academy Award for her role in Fences in 2016. “I am grateful that the producers concur with this decision. JuVee Productions and I wholeheartedly support the actors, SAG/AFTRA, and the WGA.”
G20, an adrenaline-pumping thriller directed by Patricia Riggen, renowned for her work on The 33, focuses on the G20 Summit. When terrorists seize control of the summit, a riveting narrative of danger and suspense ensues. Davis portrays the character of American President Taylor Sutton, who utilizes her extensive experience in statecraft and military to safeguard her family, fellow leaders, and ultimately, the world.
The Ethical Dilemma of Working Amidst a Strike
Despite obtaining clearance via transitional accords for movies and TV shows, these have sparked controversy among the striking workforce. Approximately 100 films, including this one, are adhering to the interim agreement, compared to companies like A24. A24 isn’t part of the AMPTP – the entity that the screen actors are striking against – and continues to be an independent firm. They haven’t received specific authorization but have consented to the contractual conditions. Consequently, actors desiring to participate in their projects must obtain approval from the Screen Actors’ Guild.
The current state of affairs highlights the discomfort and indecision actors experience during the strike. They are torn between accepting the conditions they are in and potential job opportunities that the interim agreement for a project might provide to many during financially uncertain times. On the flip side, making such a decision could expose them to criticism and allegations of undermining the strike due to the delicate circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Viola Davis SAG-AFTRA strikes
What film has Viola Davis decided not to continue with during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes?
Viola Davis has chosen not to continue with the film ‘G20’ during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, despite being given permission to do so through a waiver.
What is Viola Davis’s reason for stopping her work on ‘G20’?
Davis cites insensitivity as her reason for halting her work on ‘G20’. She believes it’s inappropriate for the production to continue during the strikes and stands in solidarity with the actors and unions involved in the strikes.
What is the waiver Davis had for the ‘G20’ film?
The waiver Davis had for ‘G20’ is a provisional SAG-AFTRA agreement that is necessary to start or continue production on a project during the strikes.
What is the film ‘G20’ about?
‘G20’ is an action-packed thriller that centers around the G20 Summit where a group of terrorists seize control. The film focuses on American President Taylor Sutton, played by Davis, who uses her extensive statecraft and military background to protect her family, fellow leaders, and ultimately, the entire world.
What is the ethical dilemma faced by actors during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes?
The ethical dilemma faced by actors during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes revolves around the decision of whether to accept work during the strikes. On one hand, accepting work could bring employment opportunities to many during financially uncertain times. On the other hand, deciding to work might expose them to criticism and accusations of undermining the strike.
More about Viola Davis SAG-AFTRA strikes
- Viola Davis IMDB Profile
- WGA and SAG-AFTRA Strikes Explained
- More about SAG-AFTRA
- Details about the G20 Film Project
- Information on the film ‘The 33’ directed by Patricia Riggen
- Background on A24 production company
6 comments
Man, I really respect Viola Davis for this! It’s not easy to take a stand like that. She is awesome!!
i’m all for fair pay but…I was so excited to see Davis as a president, hope this gets resolved soon.
guess we’ll have to wait for G20, I was really looking forward to this movie. But it’s for a good cause. Go actors union!
Wow Viola Davis, what a power move. Standing up for what she believes in…even if it means waiting longer for the movie.
its not just about her, its about all the actors, they deserve to be treated fairly. Strikes aren’t easy on anyone…
Can’t help but respect Davis for this move. Sometimes principles must come before the paycheck, huh.