Apple Studios VFX workers secure first IATSE contract

Visual effects workers at Apple Studios have successfully negotiated their first contract with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). The agreement establishes new industry standards for wages, healthcare, retirement benefits, working hours, and workplace safety.

Key provisions of the contract include minimum pay rates for all covered titles, with annual increases aligned with the IATSE-AMPTP Basic Agreement. Workers secured minimum-hour guarantees, overtime protections for holidays and extra workdays, and employer-funded healthcare and pension benefits. Contributions to these plans are retroactive to January 1.

The contract also introduces protections regarding artificial intelligence, mirroring standards in the IATSE-AMPTP Basic Agreement. Additionally, it establishes rest protections, meal break penalties, and extra compensation for hazardous working conditions, bringing VFX workers' safeguards in line with those of editorial crews.