Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1530856
36 C I N E M O N T A G E F E A T U R E By Jeff Sneider T he unsung gatekeepers of Holly- wood are story analysts, many of them Local 700 members. But as the industry undergoes rapid change, as well as a worrisome work slowdown, the role of these vital workers — whose prac- ticed eyes are often among the first in the industry to see scripts, books, graphic novels, and more — is being tested like nev- er before. WHAT'S THE STORY? IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING INDUSTRY, THE WORK OF STORY ANALYSTS IS MORE CRITICAL THAN EVER W i t h p r e s s u r e s f r o m a r t i f i c i a l intelligence, shifting priorities towards in- tellectual property (IP), and a fast-moving, tech-influenced development process, story analysts find their jobs both evolving and at risk. What hasn't changed is their crucial ability to flag material that has potential to make good entertainment, and to sum u p t h a t a p p e a l ( o r l a c k o f i t ) i n t h e i r coverage comments. "Everyone thinks they're the gatekeep- ers of the industry, but story analysts are the first audience to see a script," said Helen Truong, a film school grad who did multiple 'Robots can't love — or hate — a writer.' I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y T Y L E R P OYA N T