The ongoing strike by the U.S. film and television writers is fascinating to watch witness.

I honestly believe that we’re witnessing a shift in the balance of power in that sector of the entertainment industry, and that writers are going to have more of the power, and respect, than they have in years.

Once upon a time, writers were viewed as important.

They will be again, and soon, and the AMPTP is going to be surprised when their tactics of yesteryear don’t work this time.

John Rogers writes about paradigm shifts in media and the world’s social construction, and I think this strike is a part of that shift.

Anyhow, the striking writers – and their supporters – are certainly using the Internet to their advantage. The series of short films branded as Speechless are only one way that the community is rallying support for the writers.

My favourites are “Episode 9” starring Harvey Keitel and “Episode 3” with Sean Penn.

Last week, the writers from Letterman’s show posted a spoof of the Speechless films, starring Gilbert Gottfried, of all people.

Even when they make fun of each other, the writers are winning the battle.