Studios Allegedly Seek Permission to Scan & Retain Background Actors’ Likenesses Permanently

SAG-AFTRA, the guild responsible for safeguarding the working rights of film, television, and radio performers, made an announcement during their recent press conference regarding their ongoing strike. They disclosed that they had rejected a deal from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. This deal would have mandated that background actors in major productions undergo digital scanning, even if they were hired for just one day.

According to sources, studios such as Warner Bros. Discovery, Marvel Studios, and Netflix have been using this technology for several years now. Major productions like “Captain America: Brave New World” and Netflix’s “The Residence” have employed this digital scanning technique. Some background actors have claimed that they were not given the option to decline the scanning process as it was a requirement for their employment.

The use of digital performances has sparked controversy as it allows for the recreation of deceased individuals without their explicit consent. Recently, “The Flash” featured Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of Superman, even though the actor had passed away years prior to the film’s production. While digital performances have been used to make actors appear younger, the creation of performances based on scans from deceased individuals and background actors with minor roles raises new ethical concerns.

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Image via SAG-AFTRA

RELATED: SAG-AFTRA Votes to Strike, Joining the WGA in History-Making Work Stoppage

One of the reasons behind the joint strike by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America is the potential misuse of a vast database of digitally-scanned faces. This strike marks a historic moment for the entertainment industry, as the demand for fair compensation for the people responsible for producing movies and television shows gains traction. It remains to be seen how long the studios are willing to prolong negotiations before acknowledging the legitimate requests of the unions and embracing the future of digital media.

How Does the Strike Affect Hollywood?

Several productions have already been put on hold due to the ongoing conflict, including the final season of “Stranger Things” and “Tron: Ares.” However, the potential delay of highly anticipated movies and television shows is just one concern the industry faces. Had the deal been accepted, studios would have been able to digitally scan performers’ faces without their consent or compensation for future productions. Actors and writers continue to fight for their rights as the double strike enters its first day tomorrow morning.

 

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