Ongoing SAG-AFTRA Strike Affects American Film Market, Projects Delayed to 2024 Amid Undersupply of Big Films

Sales agents and distributors remain hopeful despite the delay in projects due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike; many high-end film packages expected to hit the market in early 2024 as agents explore options abroad and consider interim waivers.

Due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, many new high-end film packages are expected to reach the market in the first half of 2024, with sales and talent agencies exploring alternatives abroad and considering interim waivers.
Sales agents and distributors remain optimistic, focusing on genre projects like thrillers and horror films to attract buyers, some of the notable projects include Lionsgate’s “Now You See Me 3,” and Black Bear’s “She Rides Shotgun”.
Most projects are expected to begin production in the first half of 2024 with interim SAG-AFTRA waivers or they will be filmed abroad. This includes several high-profile animated projects such as Gaumont’s Paul McCartney feature “High in the Clouds.”
Distributors are cautious due to challenges posed by the strike and global economic climate, with Hollywood companies like Arclight Films progressing with projects in foreign countries, such as Australia and New Zealand.
In the midst of these challenges, many companies are looking to diversify their film portfolios and make better qualitative films, rather than focusing on quantity. Constantin Film, a German media organization, cited their diversified portfolio and ambitious projects as key to their successful navigation of the current film industry climate.

Variety