Animation Guild leaders reject contract over AI concerns

The Animation Guild faces internal dissent over AI protections in its recently negotiated contract with major studios, highlighting growing concerns about artificial intelligence’s impact on the entertainment industry workforce.

Key dispute overview: The tentative agreement between the Animation Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers has sparked opposition from prominent members over perceived inadequate AI safeguards.

• Mike Rianda, director of “The Mitchells vs. the Machines,” publicly opposed the deal on Instagram, citing insufficient protections against AI replacing workers
• The contract allows studios to implement “technological change” with provisions for retraining and severance pay for displaced workers
• The agreement requires studios to notify and consult about AI use, but critics argue these measures are inadequate

Contract negotiation details: The tentative deal, reached on November 23, is currently undergoing a membership ratification vote that will conclude on December 22.

• The negotiating committee had 56 members, with 29 on the “table team” that voted to recommend the agreement
• The contract includes significant gains in other areas, such as eliminating lower “unit rates” for timers and storyboard artists
• Support team member Joey Clift expressed concerns that the agreement fails to address many members’ top priorities

Industry perspective: Animation professionals are divided on the agreement’s merits, with some viewing it as a solid deal while others fear it leaves workers vulnerable to AI displacement.

• Paula Spence, an art director on the committee, noted that neither side fully understands how AI will impact the industry
• Some members support the deal as the best achievable outcome given current leverage
• Critics like animation writer Chad Quandt argue that notification requirements about AI use are insufficient protection

Historical context: Recent union agreements in Hollywood have shown varied levels of support for contracts addressing AI concerns.

• IATSE’s Basic Agreement, containing similar AI terms, received 86% approval
• SAG-AFTRA’s recent contract faced opposition over AI provisions but achieved 78% member approval
• Ratification votes, while usually routine, have become more contentious in recent years as AI concerns grow

Looking ahead: The Animation Guild’s internal debate over AI protections could signal a broader industry struggle over technological displacement and worker protection.

• If members reject the contract, negotiators would need to return to bargaining
• A strike authorization vote might be necessary to increase leverage
• The outcome could influence future negotiations as other entertainment unions grapple with AI’s growing role in content creation

Strategic implications: This contract vote represents a critical juncture for animation workers, balanced between accepting incremental protections and risking confrontation for stronger safeguards. The result could establish important precedents for how creative industries address AI integration while protecting worker interests.