Home / Arts and Entertainment / Louisiana Animators Unionize for Batman Project
Louisiana Animators Unionize for Batman Project
21 Jul
Summary
- Workers at Louisiana's Swaybox Studios have voted to unionize.
- The studio is producing a new Batman universe film for Warner Bros.
- Employees sought better wages, benefits, and working conditions.
Workers at Swaybox Studios in Louisiana have overwhelmingly voted to unionize with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). This vote occurred recently, with 84 eligible workers supporting unionization and 35 opposing it. The studio is currently engaged in producing "Dynamic Duo," a project set within the Batman universe for Warner Bros. Pictures Animation.
This union drive is considered one of IATSE's largest in recent film and television production history. Employees cited a desire for a stronger "voice on the job," along with improved union-standard wages, benefits, and working conditions. IATSE has urged Swaybox Studios and Warner Bros. to promptly negotiate an industry-standard contract following the workers' clear decision.
Swaybox Studios, established in 2014, utilizes a unique "Momo animation" technique blending CGI, stop-motion, and live-action puppetry. The studio previously contributed to an NFL commercial and a canceled Catwoman project. The successful unionization is seen by employees as a legitimizing force as the company expands into large-budget productions.
