‘Twitter Effect’ Hits Hollywood

Staff / Truthdig Jul 11, 2009 The time frame for projecting the success or failure of a newly released film has already been compressed to the point of asphyxiation, thanks to the Internet, but with the popularity of social networking services like Twitter, the window of box office opportunity has become even shorter, according to The Wrap's Sharon Waxman. Dig deeper ( 1 Min. Read )

Movie Mogul Weinstein Reportedly Pressured Pelosi

Staff / Truthdig May 9, 2008 Studio honcho Harvey Weinstein is a force to be reckoned with -- it was no coincidence that Disney subsidiary Miramax became a major player in the film industry under his watch -- and recently he reportedly attempted to use his powers of persuasion to convince House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to follow his plan for a Democratic primary revote in Florida and Michigan or else. Dig deeper ( 1 Min. Read )

Hollywood Writers Back in Action

Staff / Truthdig Feb 13, 2008 After weeks of striking, the Writers Guild of America has struck a deal with Hollywood honchos, ending the protracted impasse between scribes and studios and allowing the stalled wheels of the entertainment industry to creak back into motion on Wednesday. Dig deeper ( 1 Min. Read )

Eisner: Strike Is Over

Staff / Truthdig Feb 8, 2008 He's not the head honcho at the Mouse House (aka Walt Disney Co.) anymore, but Michael Eisner claims firsthand and reliable knowledge that the writers' strike is over. He says a deal was struck between the WGA and studio execs late last week and will take effect within days. Dig deeper ( 1 Min. Read )

WGA Strikers to Return to the Table Nov. 26

Staff / Truthdig Nov 18, 2007 An end may be in sight for striking television and film writers and their studio bosses if negotiations, now set to resume Nov 26, are effective However, WGA West President Patric Verrone cautioned union members to stand their ground in an e-mail titled "Don't Break Out the Champagne Just Yet". Dig deeper ( 1 Min. Read )

‘Colbert’ Writers Score Big With Strike Parody

Staff / Truthdig Nov 17, 2007 There's one big built-in advantage that many striking WGA members have over the studio honchos they're feuding with: real creative talent. This clip, made by "Colbert Report" writers, showcases their flair for parody, reminding producers why they're indispensable while mercilessly lampooning the executives. Dig deeper ( 1 Min. Read )