INTIMACY CONTRACTS AGREED

While the film industry remained shut down during the pandemic, actors union leaders were busy hammering out terms for new contracts with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

“Essentially we were negotiating for our future, and we did it,” said SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris (Pictured left).

The result was a new set of rules and regulations addressing the realities and needs of the industry – and not just improved residuals for performers. Better protections regarding nudity and sexual harassment were also key to the talks.

Among the most headline hitting developments were enhanced intimacy protections for actors working in nude or simulated sex scenes.

As well as strict new safeguards at interviews and auditions, written consent forms known as “nudity riders” must now be submitted at least 48 hours in advance of filming so there will be no more last minute demands putting performers under pressure to show more skin.

Ending predatory heavier and creating a safer work environment were cornerstones of the negotiations for both sides and the outcome appears to be safer sets and a halt to unsavory practices.

—Sandro Monetti