The biggest difference between the current writers' strike, and the five month walkout back in '88 that cost the industry an estimated $500 million? Well, this time around "The Cosby Show" won't be affected. But even more importantly, these days writers are able to take their work to the Internet in order to lash out in a creative fashion. It's ironic (considering revenues from new media content is the big issue on the table) and incredibly entertaining for those of us playing along at home. Below, a few of our favorite video pieces to come out of the picket lines. Watch 'em, and join us in praying for a quick resolution...because no one wants more American Idol.

"Heroes of the Writers Strike"
This hilarious short from Gregg Rossen and Brian Sawyer looks at the new jobs Hollywood writers had to seek out during the strike in order to make ends meet. A cameo by our Gen Art Chicago Film Festival alumni director, Harris Goldberg, who has been reduced to selling note cards on the side of the freeway, is pretty priceless.

"Not The Daily Show, With Some Writer"
Jason Rothman, one of The Daily Show's bevy of talented writers broadcasts live from the picket lines in New York. (There are rumors that Stewart's production company, Busboy, is covering all employees' salaries during the strike. Love him.) This one's worth watching for the clips of Viacom's Sumner Redstone, alone.

"Strike You!"
Our friend Matt Boren (who you might recognize from appearances on How I Met Your Mother) stars in this glimpse at a day in the hard knock life of one Guild writer during the strike. The best part: when his actress neighbor wigs out at him because she's been reduced to appearing on The Two Coreys.

- Caroline Stanley

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