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In this episode of Inside Indies, Cast & Crew’s John Cooke sits down with Olga Rodriguez-Aguirre and Jessica Johnson—SAG-AFTRA’s Executive Director and National Director of Entertainment Contracts, respectively—to break down what filmmakers need to know about working with union performers on projects with budgets of $2 million or more.
As Johnson puts it, “Why wouldn’t you want to hire the best performers in the world?” SAG-AFTRA talent brings professionalism, training, and efficiency to set—qualities that can improve both your shoot and your final product. Beyond performance, hiring SAG-AFTRA members also increases the likelihood of securing distribution. “Most distributors are more apt to pick up a project that’s covered by SAG-AFTRA,” says Rodriguez-Aguirre.
For larger-budget films, productions move beyond SAG-AFTRA’s lower-budget tiers and into the Basic Agreement or higher-end new media agreements like High Budget SVOD. Each comes with specific requirements and financial implications, so early communication with the union is essential. “Come talk to us,” Johnson emphasizes. “We would absolutely, a hundred percent of the time, rather have that conversation with a producer in advance.”
Producers are advised to budget with realism and transparency. That includes planning for residuals, preparing clear corporate structures, and ensuring accurate compensation. “Being realistic about the type of project that you’re making at the budget level you’re trying to do it for” is critical, Johnson notes.
Many common mistakes stem from poor planning or delayed contact with the union. “The biggest mistakes [are] waiting till the last minute,” says Rodriguez-Aguirre. Starting the signatory process early—ideally four to six weeks before production—helps prevent costly delays.
The SAG-AFTRA team also busts myths: There’s no fee to apply for union signatory status, and you don’t need every detail finalized to begin the process. “Things change along the way,” says Johnson. What matters most is communication.
Watch the full episode above or listen on your favorite podcast platform to understand the SAG-AFTRA agreements that apply to films over $2 million. Want expert guidance on working with union talent? Reach out to John Cooke here for a one-on-one consultation.
Ready to run union compliant payroll? Reach out today!
