In a show of solidarity...

I have decided that in my support of the writers, I will not write blogs for the new episodes of Lost until the strike is resolved. With this, my final blog for the time being 4815162342nd will go on indefinate hiatus, just like Lost.

Just kidding folks, but in a show of support for the writers I will post a youtube video in each new blog I post containing content in favor of the WGA. This trend has officially started with my previous blog and will continue with each new blog I post until the strike is resolved.

No Season 4?

This is one step above the blog that I never want to write. We all know what's happened. The negotiations between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for a new contract are at a standstill. The primary demands of the WGA are for larger residuals from video/dvd sales, online downloads, and a cut of advertising money from online episode streams. These are demands that the AMPTP would never be willing to give in to, let alone compromise over.

Most networks are going to air their new episodes and then interrupt the season until the strike is over. In the case of Lost, only eight episodes have completed production. According to TV Guide's Michael Ausiello ABC may air the eight episodes regardless as to how long the lasts. However, if the strike lasts for too long, there is no telling as to when the remaining eight episodes will even get filmed. Which brings me to my next point.

I feel the duration of the strike is in the hands of the AMPTP. DVD sales are expected to generate over $14 billion and online downloads are expected to generate $195 million. On the DVD front, it's clear that business is booming. On the iTunes front, it's clear that business is only starting to take off. It is my opinion that the AMPTP can afford to meet the demands of the WGA or at least offer a fair compromise.

Since I enjoy Lost, Heroes, and have enjoyed a number of brilliant shows that are no longer airing, I know that any good show starts with the writing. A production crew can make it look pretty, but only a talented writer can make numerous refernces to Light and Dark in so many trivial areas, ala a backgammon board. For this reason I have chosen to support with the writers in this matter.