"Disney is nothing without their VFX Artists": Netizens rejoice with memes as Walt Disney VFX Workers look to unionize

The SAG-AFTRA strike, combined with the long-running WGA strike, has almost shaken Hollywood studios like Disney to the core. After months of not being able to resolve the two strikes, it seems that Walt Disney, which is at the center of this struggle, is set to be hit with another big development. According to recent reports, the VFX crews at the company are going forward with unionizing, already having filed for the same with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Thus, there might be an election to unionize soon, which means that even VFX artists, should they feel they are not fairly compensated, would be able to go on strikes against unfair pay and the use of AI. International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) VFX organizer Mark Patch said in a statement:

"Today, courageous Visual Effects workers at Walt Disney Pictures overcame the fear and silence that have kept our community from having a voice on the job for decades. With an overwhelming supermajority of these crews demanding an end to ‘the way VFX has always been,’ this is a clear sign that our campaign is not about one studio or corporation. It’s about VFX workers across the industry using the tools at our disposal to uplift ourselves and forge a better path forward"

A tweet reply to DF's post about VFX workers (Image via X)

This has led to a widespread celebration among fans, who, understanding that Disney will be helpless without the VFX workers, have resorted to memes and celebrations on social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter).

Fans sense trouble for Walt Disney as VFX workers plan to unionize

DF's post about VFX workers (Image via X)

After months of several developments in the strikes, with Disney CEO Bob Iger as one of the primary "villains" in the entire ordeal, fans have come out to support artists involved in the studio's money-cutting mechanisms.

They responded with multiple memes about the situation and expressed how necessary this was.

The SAG-AFTRA strike, meanwhile, rages on with no solution in sight. The WGA strike is also heading in the same direction.

About the author

Sourav is an entertainment writer at SK POP, who is informed by his Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication and Master's degree in Film Studies. Having penned scripts in the television and OTT, he has valuable experience and expertise that lay a strong foundation for his journey in the world of popular culture.

Sourav strives to produce accurate and informative articles and does so by looking for relevant and verified sources. He also enjoys writing explainers and features so he can give readers an in-depth understanding of the topic at hand while steering clear of misinformation.

Sourav admires Martin Scorsese and attributes his work to his affinity for cinema. He also looks up to Bob Dylan and appreciates the honesty with which he pens lyrics while combining the same with a social message. He is also a fan of Jimmy Page's skills as a guitarist.

If he could travel back in time, he would love to attend the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair to experience its magic in person. When he's not busy writing and researching about the latest developments in the industry, he plays the guitar and composes music. He enjoys watching art films and TV shows and also immerses himself in poetry. He additionally loves football and tries to carve out some time at least twice a week for a game.

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Edited by Susrita Das