A threatened strike of film and television crew workers could halt production of the Jon Hamm and Tina Fey movie "Maggie Moore(s)," currently being filmed in Albuquerque, according to the New Mexico Film Office.
"Good progress" was reported earlier this week in talks between the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The progress is in the run-up to IATSE's deadline Monday, Oct. 18, for a strike.
“We worked into [Wednesday] night and made some good progress,” Scott Bernard, business representative for the IATSE Local 695 in North Hollywood, said in a Variety news story published Thursday, Oct. 14. "We are not where we need to be and will continue bargaining today while simultaneously continuing the strike preparation."
U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh paid a highly visible visit with IATSE members in Georgia earlier this week but, thus far, has said nothing official about the impending strike deadline.
Among other things, the union wants a new three-year deal with AMPTP, more rest periods and meal breaks and weekend rest time.
The union has said to expect its 60,000 U.S. members to begin striking at 12:01 a.m. Monday if an agreement isn't reached. Such a strike could shut down film and television productions nationwide, including the "Maggie Moore(s)" production.
"Maggie Moore(s)," produced by MX2 Productions Inc., is set to film in New Mexico's largest city this month and next, according to a New Mexico Film Office announcement issued Oct. 13. Maggie Moore(s). The film takes place in a dusty desert town where nothing ever happens but where the police chief suddenly must investigate the back-to-back murders of two women who have same name.
"New Mexico is the perfect desert-set location for this murder mystery that is packed with so many talented filmmakers and actors being reunited again. We welcome the entire team to New Mexico," New Mexico Film Office Director Amber Dodson said in the announcement.
"Maggie Moore(s)" is directed by John Slattery, best known for "God's Pocket" and "Mad Men."
The "Maggie Moore(s)" production, if not derailed, will employ about 150 New Mexico background talents, also known as "extras," and 60 crew members, according to the announcement.