Some might call it fighting talk.

       The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers issued a rare statement Thursday accusing the union representing some 60,000 film crews of mischaracterizing the status of their negotiations.

       Earlier this week, when it announced plans to seek a strike authorization vote, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees said the AMPTP had told the union that it would make no further changes to its position.

       But the AMPTP denied the claim, saying that the two sides had not been in touch about that proposed contract since they agreed to suspend negotiations on Sept. 3. The contract expired July 31 and was extended through Sept. 10 to allow more time for bargaining.

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       “It is unfortunate that IATSE has gone down the path of publishing false information,” the producers alliance said. “This approach unnecessarily polarizes the bargaining parties and elevates tensions at a time when we should be focused on finding ways to avoid a strike.”

       IATSE declined to comment.

       Company Town

       Hollywood union calls for strike authorization vote by crew workers

       IATSE is moving ahead with a vote to strike Hollywood productions.

       The rising tensions come as IATSE has mobilized its thousands of members to prepare to support a strike that could paralyze the industry just when Hollywood is trying to get back on its feet.

       Crews are fighting for better pay from streaming companies, greater contributions to health and pension benefits and more rest periods.

       IATSE’s proposed action has already garnered support from high-profile Hollywood actors and creators such as Seth Rogan and Jane Fonda, who have thrown their weight behind crews via social media.

       Talks over a proposed motion picture and TV contract stalled on Monday and IATSE is due to hold a strike vote on Oct. 1, with the results expected by members to be released on Oct 4.

       A strong vote in favor of a strike would give the union’s negotiating committee more leverage to drive a harder bargain with the producers.

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       Company Town

       The last time it was ‘Hollywood’s Bloody Friday.’ With no deal in sight, will crews strike again?

       Are Hollywood crews ready to strike for the first time since 1945?