Which Union Governs Basic Contract Terms for Film Crews?

Film contracts and agreements are necessary to protect the individual rights of film crew workers and those in the film industry. While various film unions govern different aspects of the industry. Offering a necessary support to industry workers in all facets of filmmaking and production. Knowing which union provides which support is important for you as a film crew worker. But, which union governs basic contract terms for film crews and what does that mean for film crew workers?

The film union which governs contract terms for film crews. It largely depends on the crew member that is being represented. Several film unions exist to support workers from Directors to Cinematographers to individual Talent and actors.

While it is the primary job of the IATSE to negotiate film contract terms for film crew workers. Several other unions are also responsible for various other types of contracts and important terms for film crew workers.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common Unions in the film industry which protect contract terms for film crews.

IATSE

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Motion Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States represents film crew workers to facilitate fair wages and working conditions as well as for basic contract terms.

This is the primary union which is responsible for governing basic contract terms for film crews but several other unions also govern crew terms and contract policies. 

International Cinematographer’s Guild

The International Cinematographer’s Guild, Local 600, represents film crew workers by providing collective bargaining for fair wages, sustainable benefits, a safe workplace and support for members and their families.

This union provides film crews with access to medical coverage, retirement programs, contact safety and health protections, legal representation and other support. 

Producers Guild of America

The Producers Guild of America is responsible for the tone and tenor of productions that take place. This film union accomplishes leadership within the film industry through collective inclusion and support.

This union represents all members of the production team and facilitates employment, sustainable practices in production, and safe work culture.

Director’s Guild of America

In addition to the IATSE and other film unions that are responsible for governing basic contract terms for film crew workers, the Director’s Guild of America is also responsible for negotiating minimum salaries.

They also ensure contract negotiations for Directors and other head department individuals involved in filmmaking. Including Unit Production Managers, Assistant Directors, Associated Directors, and Stage Managers.

So, which union governs basic contract terms for film crews? Primarily the IATSE is first in charge in governing basic contract negotiations for most film crew workers.

But several other film unions also take responsibility for contract negotiations based on the individual workers involved.