I Got an Opinion for Ya

After many interviews, I’ve noticed an interesting cultural divide. In general (this is the signal that you are about to be fed a whopping generalization - be forewarned), American actors are very hesitant to give opinions. Whereas British actors offer opinions without even needing a question.  

Why is this? 

Both camps are very cautious – and fairly so – about giving any details about their personal lives. If you’ve read any of my previous blog entries, you already know my thoughts on that subject. But when it comes to opinions about how your film will be received, the struggle to get it made, the message, maybe even some kind of analysis of its content…there is a big divide.  

As a writer and admitted cultural studies junkie, I find this fascinating. And I’d be very curious to know what others think. 

British actors get very excited when given the opportunity to give their opinion on politics, class, the pain in the ass elements that made it tough to get their picture financed, the way the director pushed them around to get what s/he wanted. They seem to revel in the chance to have a real conversation.  

American actors are very cautious. And are particularly careful about what they say about anyone involved in the film. It’s like a secret code. Say nothing bad. If you say anything bad, your career will be over and everyone will blacklist you. So be very, very careful where you step little one. 

It’s weird. And makes for some tough (and boring) interviews. But I’m guessing that there must be an unspoken code. Or that managers and agents coach their clients never to say bad things. Until you’re such a big star that everyone is afraid of you and you can say whatever you please.  

Such a shame. The best interviews happen when you talk to an actor who is impassioned about her work and its place in the world. It sucks that people have to tiptoe around what they say for fear of being lambasted or blacklisted. But then, that problem isn’t just limited to interviews.

Just the Film, Ma’am

For a collaborative art form, film sure turns into a combative sport. Toss baby-eating egos and monstrous amounts of money into any mix and — voila! War. Same holds true in the press. Journies and celebs throw mud over the fence, always blaming the other for the mess.  

Which confuses the hell out of me. Aren’t we supposed to be on the same side? Isn’t the point of our relationship allowing audiences a peek behind the film industry curtain?  

I figure, as a journalist, I’m a mediator between the film and the fan. Respect both sides — defend each party if they’re being treated unfairly or slap them if they’re being ridiculous. Well. That should be my job. But most editors like to protect the reputation of their publication. 

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why we blog. 

This week, both sides get a slap upside the head. Why? The absolute, hands-down foolishness of the Brangelina baby pictures.  

A. People, people, people. All babies look the same. Wrinkly and confused. ‘Nuff said.

B. Brad and Angelina. Really? You need a ten page magazine spread about your family? You chose to be in the film business. Not your kids.

C. Both sides. WHY do we consider this news? Congratulations. She gave birth. So have millions of other women. Can we get back to talking about the films now? 

We’ve all picked up tabloids and flipped through them. Me included. But I find them offensive. As a journalist, as a person, and as a film-lover. There are so many things I don’t want to know about an actor as I watch them on screen. Facts I’ll never be able to wipe from my mind.  

So let’s get back to talking about the work. Please.