IATSE Contracts Ratified By VFX Workers at Marvel, Disney, ‘Avatar’

After a long journey to unionize VFX workers, significant progress has been made as visual effects workers on “Avatar,” as well as those at Marvel and Disney, have successfully ratified their first labor contracts. This marks a milestone for the VFX industry and a victory for workers who have long struggled against tight deadlines and long hours.

The contracts include essential union protections such as overtime pay, eligibility for the Motion Picture Industry Pension and Health Plan, meal penalties, rest periods, and turnaround times. The Disney/Marvel contract also includes raises of 4% in the first year and 3.5% in the second year, aligning with the raises negotiated by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees last year.

“I want to congratulate the members of these VFX bargaining units for negotiating fair contracts that have garnered strong support,” said Matthew Loeb, international president of IATSE. “Their leadership and determination throughout this process have been truly inspiring.”

The vote to unionize was unanimous among about 50 Marvel workers in 2023, followed by a 13-0 vote among Disney VFX workers. In January 2024, “Avatar” VFX workers voted 57-19 in favor of unionization. However, it’s important to note that these contracts only cover workers directly employed by Disney, Marvel, or Lightstorm Entertainment for “Avatar,” and not those employed by third-party VFX companies.

“This victory is not just for Marvel/Disney but for the entire VFX industry,” said Cael Liakos-Gilbert, a VFX data wrangler at Marvel. “We have shown what is possible through determination and willpower, and have secured the contract we deserve.”

Justin Meade, a member of the “Avatar” crew, expressed hope that other VFX workers would follow suit and vote to organize. He emphasized the power of solidarity and the importance of equitable working conditions in the industry.

With VFX workers at Apple Studios and DNEG also successfully unionizing in recent years, there is a growing momentum for positive change in the industry. The hope is that these contracts will pave the way for a broader transformation in the VFX sector, ensuring fair treatment and improved working conditions for all workers.