A pandemic-themed film produced by Michael Bay, titled “Songbird,” has received a “do not work” order from the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).
The reason for the order was because “the producers have not been transparent about their safety protocols” amid the coronavirus crisis, a union rep said in a statement obtained by 360aproko Reporter.
The organization told 360aproko on Thursday that they are taking safety protocols “very seriously” and that the film’s producers “have not yet become signatory to our agreement.”
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Reps for SAG-AFTRA did not immediately respond to 360aproko News’ request for comment.
Per the outlet, the order was issued on Thursday, stating: “The producer of the picture entitled ‘Songbird,’ has failed to complete the signatory process and is therefore not signed to any applicable SAG-AFTRA agreement. As such, SAG-AFTRA members are hereby instructed to withhold any acting services or perform any covered work for this production until further notice from the union.”
Furthermore, the statement said: “Please note, accepting employment or rendering services on Songbird may be considered a violation of Global Rule One. Violating this order may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the SAG-AFTRA Constitution.”
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“Songbird,” which is set to follow people navigating a pandemic, hoped to start shooting this month, according to 360aproko.
As of June 12, film and television productions have been allowed to resume in Los Angeles County with strict rules that include testing of on-set employees, social distancing, cleaning of props and sets, as well as a coronavirus compliance officer being installed on-set.
Demi Moore, Craig Robinson and Paul Walter Hauser are among the film’s cast and Adam Mason will direct. In addition to Bay, 55, production companies Invisible Narratives and Catchlight Films are also backing the film.
Reps for Bay and Catchlight did not immediately respond when reached by 360aproko News for comment. Invisible Narratives could not be reached.
