Lights, Camera, Strike!

On May 2nd, 2023, Writers went on strike until current times. Many writers were upset because they weren’t getting enough money, especially from streaming websites like Netflix. They also wanted to make sure that artificial intelligence wouldn’t replace them in writing. The strike began in May of 2023 when big companies and writers could not agree with pay and new rules. As a result, writers began protesting outside of movie and TV studios while putting off work. Due to disagreements, the strike caused issues for many shows and movies, which were delayed and canceled. People from the entertainment industry, such as actors, were involved in this and were forced to decide whether or not to support this strike by not working at all. This argument between writers and big companies has continued for months and is a major deal in Hollywood.

I’ve gathered opinions from people in the high school community because this topic is so controversial. Mrs. Lenstra, an English teacher at Waukee High School with acting experience said, “I think it’s essential that they are also going on strike. While AI can help with patterns and structure, it lacks the creativity and craftsmanship that human writers bring to their work. AI might be useful for certain things, but it can’t replace the unique talents of human writers,” highlighting the need to advocate human writers and artists who have unique talents that AI cannot copy. 

Another perspective comes from sophomore Armin, who mentioned,  “I believe that the strike is an excellent cause because so many people are noticed within certain industries, such as the writing and acting ones. Being a writer or an actor is very challenging mentally, so the fact that they make so little money that they cannot even afford to pay for rent or food seems crazy to me. While other industries, like Hulu and Netflix, get paid millions of dollars even though they’re simply selling the movies.” Armin and others feel it is time to bring about a change, and the strike is a way to ask for fairness and appreciation for actors and writers. It is about ensuring that the folks who create the stories we enjoy are treated well and paid properly.

In addition to this, AI can’t mimic things like emotions. Sana Kauser, a junior actor said “To play another character or scene you first [need to] make a connection with yourself and the character.” Not only does artificial intelligence lack emotions, but it also lacks the talent and education behind acting.

 Mrs. Lenstra adds, “Acting is more than just facial expressions. It involves years of study and various techniques. Professional actors work hard, and using AI instead of them doesn’t give them the credit they deserve for their art.”

In short, the writers’ strike and actor support show how important human creativity is in entertainment. AI can’t replicate their unique talents and emotions. The strike calls for fairness and proper pay for those who create our beloved stories. It reminds us that entertainment’s real magic comes from humans, not just technology.