Behind the Scenes w/ David Brown - Why hollywood keeps casting straight in trans parts and skinny actors in fat suits..
The Complex Reality Behind Hollywood Casting Choices: A Producer's Perspective
Hollywood is no stranger to controversy, and casting decisions often find themselves under the spotlight. Why do we sometimes see skinny actors in fat suits, or cisgender actors playing transgender roles? It's a sensitive topic, and the goal here isn't to excuse these choices, but to understand the reasons why they continue to happen. This article explains some of the challenges involved in film making.
To get more context check out the YouTube video, Behind the Scenes w/ David Brown - Why hollywood keeps casting straight actors for trans/gay roles?.
Authenticity vs. Marketability: The Core Conflict
At the heart of the issue lies a conflict between authenticity and marketability. Ideally, the best actor for a role would also perfectly embody the character's identity. However, casting choices often prioritize actors with established name recognition, even if they don't precisely align with the role's background or identity.
Skinny Actors in Fat Suits
Remember Mrs. Doubtfire? While the movie is a classic, it's also a prime example of a skinny actor (Robin Williams) wearing a fat suit. The criticism here is that these roles could be going to heavy set actors. Are opportunities being missed to give these actors more prominent roles?
Cisgender Actors in Transgender Roles
Movies like "The Danish Girl" (Eddie Redmayne) and "Dallas Buyers Club" (Jared Leto) have faced similar criticism. The argument is that these roles should be played by trans actors who can bring their lived experiences to the characters. Is it misrepresentation? Are trans actors being denied opportunities?
The Economics of Filmmaking: Why Market Value Dominates
To understand these casting choices, it's essential to understand the economics of filmmaking. Movies need funding, and that often comes down to appealing to the international market.
The International Market Factor
Film markets, like the Cannes Film Festival, are crucial for securing financing and distribution deals. International buyers attend these markets, and they're primarily interested in one thing: recognizable names. They need actors who will draw audiences in their countries, regardless of how well someone else might fit the role. Actor name recognition is how films get financed and distributed.
The Role of Presales
Presales, or selling distribution rights to international markets before the film is even made, are a huge part of film financing. International buyers use actor name recognition to predict potential box office revenue. Casting choices directly impact a film's ability to attract investment and actually get made.
Unknown Trans Actress vs. Established Actor: A Hypothetical
Imagine you're casting a trans character. You have a talented, unknown trans actress who is perfect for the role. However, you also have the option of a well-known cisgender actor. Even though the trans actress is a better fit, her lack of name recognition might make it harder to secure financing. In this scenario, market value wins.
Nuance and Context: Looking at Specific Examples
It's easy to criticize from the outside, but sometimes there are unique circumstances to consider.
"The Danish Girl" Exception
"The Danish Girl," starring Eddie Redmayne, faced criticism for casting a cisgender actor in a transgender role. However, it's important to remember that Redmayne's character was portrayed pre-surgery as a male. It would have been difficult to have a trans woman go back and portray that cisgender male.
The Complexities of "Authenticity"
"Authenticity" is a tricky thing. Should it always be the top priority? Are there situations where other factors outweigh the need for perfect representation?
Progress and Positive Examples
Despite the challenges, progress is being made.
Ryan Murphy and Leverne Cox
Producer Ryan Murphy has actively created opportunities for trans actors. Leverne Cox is another example of someone who's broken barriers. She's found success in roles that aren't solely defined by her trans identity.
Leverne Cox: A Case Study
Cox's role in "Orange Is the New Black" is a great example of authentic representation. In flashback scenes showing her character pre-transition, the show cast Cox's real-life brother to play her. You can see her IMDB page to learn more about her work.
Openly Gay Actors in Diverse Roles
Neil Patrick Harris, and Matt Bomer are also examples of openly gay actors who are playing both gay and straight roles. This shows a shift in the industry. "Travelers," starring Matt Bomer, did well in the market, proving that films with openly gay actors in leading roles can succeed.
Daniel Craig and "Queer": A Hypothetical Scenario
Daniel Craig once said that his involvement in a hypothetical "queer" film would be necessary to get it made and bring awareness to the story. While his presence might guarantee funding, wouldn't a gay actor bring the same level of talent and authenticity to the role? It's a tough balance between art and commerce.
Moving Forward: Towards a More Equitable Future
It's time to rethink how "value" is assessed in the film industry. The industry needs to take more risks on diverse talent and challenge old ideas about what sells. Trans actors should be cast in roles beyond just "trans" characters, and gay actors should have the chance to play both gay and straight roles. Casting practices are always changing, and advocating for inclusive representation should continue.