My take is that the production companies are channeling their inner Joker; it’s not about the money, it’s about sending a message. They want to break the unions, and are probably getting donations from streaming giants and others who want to see unions take a big loss.
This strike is going to last until someone cries Uncle, and both sides are fired up. I hope I’m wrong, but I’m imagining this strike going down to whoever has the most resources.