By David Zurawik, The Baltimore Sun Nov. 18--When the Writers Guild of America went on strike two weeks ago, experts were predicting an unhappy ending for the 10,500 members heading for picket lines.

HOLLYWOOD: Union contract expires, setting stage for possible strike. By Gary Gentile The Associated Press Hollywood writers and producers broke off contract talks Wednesday without a new deal, allowing the Writers Guild of America's pact to expire at midnight and making a strike more likely.