Sony Pictures Entertainment CEO Addresses Strikes, Highlights Desire for Negotiation
Amidst the ongoing strikes by actors and writers in the U.S. entertainment industry, Tony Vinciquerra, the chief executive of Sony Pictures Entertainment, expressed his willingness to negotiate with the striking parties. Speaking at the Audio-Visual Producers Summit in Trieste, Italy, Vinciquerra emphasized the importance of reaching a resolution and expressed his eagerness to return to the table for discussions.
Contrary to what has been reported in the media, Vinciquerra made it clear that Sony Pictures Entertainment does not shy away from negotiations. Referring specifically to the stalled talks with SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union that has been on strike since July 13, Vinciquerra clarified, It’s not true that we don’t want to negotiate. It’s exactly the opposite. We are sorry for the strike. We are aware of the importance of screenwriters and actors, who are key partners in the production of films and series. The problem must be solved. This situation is difficult for everyone. Even for people who are not union members, who cannot work anyway.
Vinciquerra further informed the audience that the offer presented to SAG-AFTRA was the best that Sony had ever put on the table during negotiations. The CEO’s commitment to finding a resolution was reaffirmed by producer Tarak Ben Ammar, head of Eagle Pictures, which is responsible for distributing Sony films in Italy. Ammar shared an anecdote about encountering picket lines outside the Sony office, emphasizing that both studios and workers desire a swift return to work.
While the U.S. entertainment industry faces a standstill due to the strikes, the situation in Italy presents a contrast, with Cinecittà studios experiencing a surge in activity. Eager to capitalize on this momentum, Ben Ammar announced plans to invest 40-50 million euros in a new production hub, known informally as Cinecittà 2. The agreement for the chosen land is expected to be finalized this summer, with operations commencing by the summer of 2024.
The prosperous collaboration between Eagle Pictures and Sony has already resulted in several co-production projects, including Italian-language films such as the romantic comedy Hotspot – Amore senza rete and remakes such as Sul più bello and Il matrimonio del mio migliore amico. Additionally, an Italian-language co-production inspired by the Spanish film El cuerpo and directed by Vincenzo Alfieri is in the pipeline.
As negotiations continue between Sony Pictures Entertainment and the striking industry unions, the desire for a resolution is palpable. Vinciquerra’s statements shed light on the studio’s willingness to engage in meaningful discussions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between all parties involved. With Italy’s entertainment industry thriving and plans for a new production hub underway, the broader global industry can take inspiration from the potential for growth and collaboration. Moving forward, a balance must be struck to address the concerns of both studios and workers, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious future for the entertainment realm.
