Net lures striking writer
The operators of Internet entertainment sites such as MyDamnChannel, Break, Heavy and others have a message for striking Hollywood writers -- give us a look.
Many writers are doing just that, with the hope of retaining total creative control over their work and collecting as much as half of all revenue -- a potentially sweet deal compared to a typical TV gig.
The actual dollars generated by such Internet sites remain minimal, but operators hope that luring veteran entertainment writers will jump-start their bottom lines.
"Everyone has been awakened to the potential," said Kristen Stavola, a screenwriter who is helping launch a site to host short videos created by top talent.
Fellow screenwriter Peter Rader said the effort results from the interest expressed by writers on the picket lines.
"It is taking the studio model and flipping it on its head," Rader said. "Content providers will own and retain their own copyrights."
Movie and TV writers have had plenty of time to consider other options since their strike began Nov. 5 against studios, networks and producers represented by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
Writers are demanding more money when TV shows and films are sold on Internet sites such as Apple Inc.'s iTunes. They also want a share of revenue when advertising-supported episodes and films are streamed for free on sites such as ABC.com.
-- The Associated Press
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07334/837901-42.stm
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