Assistants working in the US film industry have complained about poor conditions, capitalising on the #MeToo movement, the impact of new laws protecting gig workers, and reactions on social media. The Guardian has spoken to more than a dozen current or former assistants who said they were paid less than their counterparts at major studios, with some earning as little as £15 an hour. Developments in the industry, however have narrowed the range of opportunities they can take. Writer and Writers Guild of America West board member Liz Alper has launched the #PayUpHollywood Twitter hashtag, and said she received 74 replies in its first 24 hours.
Assistants working in the US film industry have complained about poor conditions, capitalising on the #MeToo movement, the impact of new laws protecting gig workers, and reactions on social media. Up to now, the opportunity for future success has persuaded assistants, who apparently number over 4,000 in Hollywood, to accept gruelling hours and low pay. Developments in the industry, however have narrowed the range of opportunities they can take. Writer and Writers Guild of America West board member Liz Alper has launched the #PayUpHollywood Twitter hashtag, and said she received 74 replies in its first 24 hours.