One of the biggest complaints I heard while living in L.A., and even while mingling among film types around Charlotte, is that quality roles in movies have too often gone to those who, shall we say, are lesser-talented actors.
Singers and rappers and even supermodels have crossed over into film and are landing blockbuster movie roles generally reserved only for those actors who have proven their acting chops through stints on stage, in TV commercials and TV shows, or throughout an potentially embarrassing duration on the B, C, or D movie circuit. But, given the popularity and profit-generating potential that current entertainers possess, they are essentially depleting the crop of quality roles available to passionate, professionally trained actors, particularly black actors.
Actress Nia Long recently said in an interview with UK magazine Pride, If youre a singer not an actress, you should sing. If youre a rapper, you should rap. When asked about Beyonces performance in the movie Obsessed, she went on to say, I didnt see Obsessed, so I cant comment, but its just not about how talented you are anymore. Its about, How much box-office revenue will this person generate? When you see certain people we wont name names they just dont have the skill, and no one in their team has said, You need acting classes.
Now, I am a straight-up capitalist. Hey, generate as much of your own revenue as you see fit, I say. So, I certainly understand that movie studios need to make money. For many people, the argument stops here. But I do think Long actually has a point. I realize this seems contradictory, and perhaps I am too close to the topic; however, those of us who truly love the arts hate to see it fooled around with, and I can understand why Long is bent out of shape by non-actors essentially taking away these opportunities.
Its unfortunate that those actors who have worked for so long to perfect their craft are having huge opportunities snatched right out from under them by Johnny-Come-Latelys who have primarily pursued other careers and whose dream it likely never was to grace the silver screen that is, until the opportunity too easily presented itself.
I dont think that Nia Long is being a hater in this situation. Shes probably just frustrated, and rightfully so. No one wants to see the new guy get a promotion when you have dedicated yourself to toiling away in an industry for years.
Having said that, there are, as in most things, exceptions. Jaime Fox and Jennifer Hudson were both talented singers first who apparently worked hard enough honing their acting kills to score Oscar gold. I think Long appreciates their showing such dedication to and respect for her profession. Too bad not everyone does.
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