Striking Hollywood writers have reached a deal with the movie studio headed by actor Tom Cruise, while the strike continues against other studios.

The Writers Guild of America, West announced Monday that the agreement with United Artists will enable writers to resume work on the company's films.

The deal is the first reached with a motion picture producer since the writers went on strike November 5.

The writers are seeking a new contract that would give them a larger share of the profits from DVD's and programs distributed over the Internet.

Writers are also on strike against U.S. television networks. Reports from Hollywood Monday said NBC and producers of the Golden Globes Awards show are considering drastic changes to the format of the program.

The reports indicate the network is considering holding a news conference as an alternative to the customary format. Writers have said they would picket the awards, and some actors threatened to boycott the event.

Separately, David Letterman, a television host on the CBS network, reached an independent settlement with the striking writers. The arrangement allowed writers to resume work on his late-night show last week.

The agreement did not apply to other television networks or production companies. // Voice of America


Publication date: 11 January 2008   

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