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Despite State Support and Signed Guild Contracts, Below-the-Line Workers Say They’re Being Left Behind
By Aria Baci
May 30, 2025 | 11:10 PM EST
Kentucky — Production on the upcoming Terrence Howard-led film Cipher has been brought to a grinding halt after below-the-line crew members launched a strike demanding union representation. The action comes just two weeks into principal photography and casts a shadow over what was intended to be a high-profile film backed by state incentives and big-name talent.
🪧 Strike Ignited by IATSE Dispute
The dispute centers on the production’s refusal to voluntarily recognize the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) as the official bargaining representative for the crew. IATSE, which represents thousands of film professionals across roles such as lighting, sound, grip, and wardrobe, has been actively organizing on set since filming began on May 12.
By Wednesday, May 28, frustrated workers established a picket line outside the film’s base camp and crew parking area, demanding recognition and improved labor conditions.
“These are the people who literally build the set, rig the lights, and keep the cameras rolling,” said an IATSE organizer. “It’s unacceptable that they’re being left out while stars and directors have their guild protections.”
🎥 Big Names, Bigger Questions
Directed by Tony Giglio (Doom: Annihilation), Cipher stars Terrence Howard, alongside Joel David Moore (Avatar) and Paula Patton (Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol). The film has drawn attention for both its star power and the state tax incentives used to lure production to Kentucky. Filming is slated to take place across multiple counties: Adair, Fayette, Russell, and Woodford.
Despite contracts in place with SAG-AFTRA and the Directors Guild of America, the absence of an agreement with IATSE has created a widening rift between producers and the essential crew keeping the set operational.
💸 Taxpayer Dollars, But At What Cost?
The controversy is particularly heated given that Cipher is receiving taxpayer-funded incentives through Kentucky’s film tax credit program. Critics say it’s a troubling use of public funds for a project that appears unwilling to guarantee fair labor standards for local workers.
“Kentuckians should not be subsidizing productions that don’t support fair labor practices,” said a spokesperson for the state’s Labor Rights Coalition. “We’re calling on state officials to take a closer look at who they’re funding.”
🤝 A Call for Recognition
Crew members say they were hopeful that producers would negotiate in good faith after an initial request for union recognition was submitted shortly after filming began. Instead, they claim, their appeal was dismissed—prompting the strike.
Some crew report working long hours under challenging conditions with no formal protections, no clear overtime policies, and little communication from management.
📍 What’s Next?
•Production remains halted as the strike continues into the weekend.
•IATSE is reportedly seeking formal mediation or intervention.
•It’s unclear whether Howard or other lead cast members will cross the picket line in the coming days.
•Pressure is mounting on the film’s producers, as labor advocacy groups and entertainment guilds closely monitor the situation.
🎭 Terrence Howard Silent So Far
As the film’s lead and marquee name, Terrence Howard has yet to issue a public statement. His involvement is pivotal, and some insiders suggest that pressure is growing for him to either support the crew or distance himself from the production entirely.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates on the strike, official responses from producers, and any impact on Cipher’s filming schedule and release date.
