A Letter to Viewers

To Viewers Near and Far,

This is not a film review. If that is what you are expecting from me, then continuing your aimless scrolling. But, if you actually care about film and your weekly television programming, then please read on.

Recently, over 96% of the Writer's Guild Association members agreed to go on strike for the first time in ten years. The Writer's Guild Association represents the script writers of film and television alike. Although this seems completely unrelated to your life, it has everything to do with it. This strike would potentially halt production on several popular shows on television. These shows include The Walking Dead, Jessica Jones and American Horror Story. Yes, several of your weekly escapes may soon be brought to a halt. How could someone as small as a writer have the right to end our precious television programs? Well, it is simple. Writers are underpaid and overworked. In light of the overwhelming recognition of major directors, actors and composers the writers appear to be completely underappreciated. In reality, this is a complete shame.

Now, I do not want to say we should disregard the work of our directors, actors and composers. Unfortunately, Hollywood has transformed movies and television into a synthetic carbon copy. Movies as an art form do not seem to be valued. Not many people, Hollywood business executives and average viewers alike, appear to understand and appreciate the true art of film-making. No one person is more important than the other. Every person in the cast and crew, every set piece, every costume, every instrument are small pieces to a greater masterpiece. Without one, there would be no such thing as a perfect film.

Every person involved in creating a film or television show is important and should be recognized and appreciated on all levels. Big time movie companies should not be in control of someone's art. That's right, film is art. It is not just a way to pass time, or fill dead-space. It is art. It is art that needs to be better understood and appreciated by all. This includes those who are behind the scenes and never appear in front of a camera. This includes the costume designers, the composers and, most importantly, the writers. I know I cannot make a difference in how film is viewed by the general public. I know I cannot make a difference in how writers are underappreciated. I will say I will not be angry about this writer's strike. Writers need to be heard, and Hollywood needs to remember that they are promoting true art. Hollywood needs to forget politics and greed, and remember that they are a city of dreamers and artists.

Sincerely,

A Passionate Viewer of Film