AMPTP, DGA to begin contract talks

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- The Directors Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have agreed to enter into formal contract negotiations.

Talks are slated to begin Saturday and will be held at AMPTP headquarters in Encino, Calif., the AMPTP and DGA said in a joint statement Friday.

"The DGA and the AMPTP have agreed that neither organization will comment to the press regarding negotiations until negotiations have concluded," the statement said.

The Writers Guild of America has been on strike against the AMPTP since Nov. 5. Since then, most scripted TV shows and several film productions have been shut down.

The People's Choice and Golden Globe awards ceremonies were scaled back because many Hollywood stars said they would not cross WGA picket lines to get inside the events.

The WGA awards have been postponed until after the strike ends.

"We wish the DGA well and hope that they achieve a fair deal that incorporates principles that will benefit all creative artists," said a joint statement issued Friday by the Writers Guild of America, West and East divisions, and the Screen Actors Guild. "The DGA has to do what is best for its membership, but it is important to remember that they do not represent actors and writers."