WGAW Screenwriters' Dinner 2007

By all accounts, the Guild’s inaugural Screenwriters’ Gala held to honor its own was an unbridled success with attendance levels reaching just over 300.

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WGA, WEST First Annual Screenwriters’ Dinner - May 23, 2007

By all accounts, the Guild’s inaugural Screenwriters’ Gala held to honor its own was an unbridled success with attendance levels reaching just over 300. Cocktails, dinner, and more cocktails poured forth from the Beverly Wilshire ballroom in late May, as screenwriters for the first time had an opportunity to meet and greet colleagues, and some distinguished Guild members known only by reputation. If mid-week’s full house, with the changing media platforms and with many turning an eye to upcoming negotiations, was any measure— staying informed and connected seems to be the option of choice for many.

The Guild’s Organizing committee spear-headed by the legendary Warren Beatty, was rounded out by Jessica Bendinger (Bring It On), James L. Brooks (As Good As It Gets), Leslie Dixon (Hairspray), Lawrence Kasdan (Body Heat), Aline B. McKenna (The Devil Wears Prada), Nancy Meyers (Something’s Gotta Give), Alvin Sargent (Spider Man 2), and Robert Towne (Chinatown). WGAW President Patric M. Verrone hosted and noted that while the evening’s intent was indeed to bring together some of the brightest screenwriters around the globe, it was also the Guild’s aim to introduce members to those working behind the scenes whose focus remains helping writers navigate the ever-changing landscape, as well as understanding the big industry picture. Writer John Gatins kicked off the evening with a toast, raising his glass to “All of you who inspire me daily.”

On a more serious note, Verrone pointed out that technology is changing the industry at an amazing pace, and though it will always be a collaborative art form, the need to remain “active, engaged, and aware” was pivotal to long-term success. Michael Tolkin addressed the crowd from an institutional as well as familial perspective (scribe’s father is the revered Mel Tolkin) as he illuminated the Guild’s highlights and lowlights that have brought all to present day and what he considers,” Our last best chance to collectively stand for what we are due— specifically with regard to residuals and technology.” In the end, Tolkin summed up what seemed like at least part of the solution by quoting his father: “A show of strength is a good idea.”

Screenwriters Ed Solomon and Phil Alden Robinson stood together to underscore the power and importance of the written word, yet reiterated that an organized effort that remained unified with the “courage of our convictions” is the best way to manage the current crossroads facing all artists. A collaborative effort that remained optimistic and utilized the strength of sister unions was also touched upon as the notion of hybrid creation is a hurdle all artists face, and one which will only continue to grow with the digital age.

The Guild’s Executive Director David Young closed out the evening as he conveyed the significance of the upcoming negotiations hinged on the simple fact that all involved needed to understand that “writers are an essential cost of doing business.” Whatever the conflicts and evolving gray areas, “If we stand united, stick to our principles, and learn from the past, we will succeed.”