Unionization of specialty areas, or "verticals," in the writers' guild is permissible
In the ever-evolving world of media, a new format has emerged - the "verticals." These are feature-length narratives, divided into one- to three-minute segments, designed for mobile consumption. While they may be produced on shoestring budgets and with simple scripts, the Writers Guild of America West (WGA West) is taking notice.
The WGA West has made it clear that writing work on these short-form projects, including those under two minutes, is covered by the MBA, their Minimum Basic Agreement. However, if a vertical isn't signed to a union contract, it's not allowed according to union rules.
This stance has been a point of contention for companies like EverBrite Studios, which produces the app TasteLife. Viewers for TasteLife will have to go without stories crafted by WGA writers, for now, as EverBrite Studios is not a contract signatory. Despite reaching out to WGA writers on LinkedIn, the company has been instructed to cease and desist.
EverBrite Studios has been particularly aggressive in courting the union's members, but the WGA West is emphasizing that work for "verticals" can be covered under a union agreement. This shift in focus is a reflection of the changing media landscape, where opportunities for writing are no longer confined to traditional television and film.
Michele Mulroney, running unopposed for president, has stated that the union must be willing to look beyond current employers. She believes that the union should organize verticals, video games, and content creation companies to keep up with the times.
Multiple candidates running for open slots on the WGA West's board have echoed this sentiment. They argue that the union should adapt to the digital age and expand its reach to include these new forms of media.
Examples of apps that produce such "verticals" include ReelShort and DramaBox. Interestingly, TasteLife is produced by TasteLife Studios, and the dramas like It Was Always You and Stroke of Love are created with the support of writers who are members of the Writers Guild of America West.
Content produced by these apps tends to be soapy dramas and romances, resembling The Young and the Restless more than Insecure. However, as the WGA West continues to embrace these new formats, we can expect to see a wider variety of stories being told in this innovative way.
In 2025, the WGA West can't afford to turn down writing opportunities. During "Peak TV," the union might not have been so keen on verticals, but in the current landscape, they are a vital part of the industry. As such, the WGA West is making a conscious effort to include them in their union agreements.
In conclusion, the Writers Guild of America West is adapting to the digital age by embracing short-form content, or "verticals," and ensuring that the writers behind these innovative stories are fairly compensated. This shift in focus is a testament to the union's commitment to staying relevant in an ever-changing media landscape.
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