The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has advised its members not to work with Millennium Films, the production company behind popular action films like The Expendables and The Hitman’s Bodyguard.
The WGA cited Millennium’s history of failing to pay writers on time and not providing proper compensation for their work. The company is currently not a signatory to the WGA’s 2023 Minimum Basic Agreement (MBA), which is necessary for hiring guild writers.
In a statement, the WGA said, “The Guild has determined that Millennium is not financially responsible and requires the posting of an adequate bond before it can become signatory. Millennium has, to date, refused to do so.”
Founded in 1996 by Avi Lerner, Millennium Films has produced a range of independent action movies, including Olympus Has Fallen and The Mechanic. The WGA noted that it has filed multiple claims against the company over the years due to payment issues.
The union urged any members who have worked with Millennium since May 1, 2023, or who have been approached for work, to contact them. “It is crucial that Millennium be prevented from undercutting writers’ standards and conditions,” the statement emphasized. “Until there is resolution, Millennium cannot be allowed to benefit from writing services provided by WGA members.”
Millennium Films has faced legal challenges in the past. In 2021, actor Gerard Butler sued the studio for unpaid royalties related to Olympus Has Fallen, and the case was settled out of court. Additionally, a former executive filed a sexual harassment lawsuit in 2017 against Lerner, alleging a toxic work environment.
In 2013, Millennium also sued the WGA and writer David Callaham over a credit dispute regarding the first Expendables film. That lawsuit was also settled out of court.
The WGA’s current directive reflects ongoing tensions between the union and Millennium Films as they navigate issues related to writer compensation and working conditions.
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