Scouting Hollywood: Nov. 2-8

A roundup of news, gossip and history of the entertainment business brought to you from Hollywood, Calif.

An important subject, central to labor negotiations in Hollywood, is what’s known as creative rights. The Directors Guild, which successfully signed a new three-year agreement with the producers, recently provided members with a detailed list of what is required for the director on episodic T.V. and high budgeted streaming content. While these all seem like good business practices when dealing with the creative leader (director) it has to be noted that the list was hammered out due to producers ignoring these issues. Items on the list include: 1) Director must receive script, with the director named thereon, at least 24 hours before prep begins. 2) An office will be provided. 3) On half-hour series, director must be notified at least 72 hours in advance of the date/time/place of the cast table read. 4) Director must participate in all casting sessions for their episode and be able to provide input before casting recommendations or decisions are shared with the production company or network. 5) Director must be consulted on any/all decisions including props, wardrobe, special FX, choreography, music, special equipment, etc. 6) Director must direct all of the originally scheduled principal photography. 7) All notes to cast and crew must come directly from director. Based on my experience, I have seen all of these issues ignored by producers on episodic projects. 

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