SAG-AFTRA Updates Intimacy Coordinator Standards for February 2024
SAG-AFTRA has announced revised Standards and Protocols for the Use of Intimacy Coordinators, effective from February 2024. This initiative responds to heightened concerns surrounding on-set safety and performer consent. It aims to ensure a balanced approach between creative expression and enforceable safety measures, especially in scenes involving nudity or simulated sexual activity.
Understanding Intimacy Coordinators
An intimacy coordinator plays multiple roles on set. They act as advocates, liaising between actors and production personnel. Their responsibilities include:
- Ensuring that safety protocols are followed.
- Helping to interpret a director’s artistic vision.
- Providing a safe environment for performers in intimate scenes.
When to Employ an Intimacy Coordinator
SAG-AFTRA recommends hiring intimacy coordinators for all scenes that include nudity or simulated sex. Their involvement is essential for managing the unique challenges posed by hyper-exposed scenes.
Benefits of Employing Intimacy Coordinators
For performers, intimacy coordinators offer a crucial safety net. They help protect personal boundaries during demanding scenes. For production companies, these coordinators assist in:
- Ensuring the safety of all personnel involved.
- Reducing risks related to finances and insurance.
- Minimizing unnecessary production delays.
Overview of the Protocols
The updated protocols outline a comprehensive framework throughout the production process: pre-production, on-set, and post-production. Their main objectives are to safeguard performers and facilitate collaboration among the cast and crew.
Expertise and Training Required for Intimacy Coordinators
Intimacy coordinators must possess extensive training in several crucial areas, including:
- Consent and anti-harassment practices.
- Movement coaching techniques.
- Mediation and conflict resolution.
- Gender identity and sexual orientation sensitivity.
These professionals must also undergo background checks and maintain strict confidentiality regarding performers’ experiences.
Protocols During Production
Intimacy coordinators have clear roles during each phase of production:
Pre-Production
- Meet with the executive producer, writer, and director to discuss intimate scenes.
- Explain script details and secure performer consent.
- Communicate with production departments to ensure appropriate provisions.
On-Set Responsibilities
- Review riders and ensure adherence to safety guidelines.
- Facilitate communication between cast and crew.
- Support the director while maintaining performers’ boundaries.
Post-Production Support
- Be available for performers’ questions after filming.
- Verify that final cuts align with contractual obligations.
The 2024 SAG-AFTRA protocols signal a significant shift in Hollywood, emphasizing informed consent as a contractual necessity. Compliance with these standards helps reduce legal risks for all parties involved. Moreover, the inclusion of certified intimacy coordinators reflects a growing trend towards better workplace safety in the entertainment industry.
For further information, please refer to SAG-AFTRA’s official resources or contact your union representative.
