As for the possessory credit, the DGA reiterated its long-standing position that the credit should be freely negotiable to anyone involved in the filmmaking process. The DGA's attack was the latest volley in a long-running battle between the two guilds. Directors tend to have far more power on movie sets while the power over TV series often rests with writers who are also the executive producers. In response to the DGA articles, WGA spokeswoman Cheryl Rhoden said her union has sought to reach common ground on these issues with the DGA for the past decade. These proposals are simple and honest.
Writers seek only the recognition they deserve as true collaborators.
She said the proposals also reflect screenwriters merely seeking the same recogntion as TV writers. Despite the differences of opinion on the WGA proposals, the DGA indicated that it still plans to try working together with the WGA to find a middle ground. Shea and the DGA acknowledged in the articles that efforts should be made to secure more recognition and respect for writers. The union also disclosed that Shea and DGA secretary-treasurer Gil Cates had recently met with WGA West prexy John Wells and VP Daniel Petrie Jr. to develop solutions to such problems.