Emma Stone, Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Brad Pitt. We know them by name because they starred in the top movies of 2024… and 2023… and 2022 and they will probably star in the top movies of 2025, too. It feels as though the top 15 actors and actresses are all we see these days.
“Dune: Part Two” one of the most anticipated movies of 2024, starring Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Furguson, and of course plenty of other A-lister celebs in Hollywood. But how many fresh faces made it as a relevant cast member in Dune? The answer: none.
I did not find a little-known actor or actress who starred in “Dune: Part Two” until I reached the background character listing. But why does this matter? Who cares what actors and actresses play in one of the biggest movies of the year?
As of May of 2023, there are more than 62,000 actors and actresses in the United States, not counting those who are self-employed, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But do you know how many actors make it? not a lot. There are huge breakthrough issues within the entertainment industry, it’s difficult for actors to break through to success, mostly because actors who have already made it and are easily recognizable are preferred by producers, who are looking to create blockbuster movies.
According to a comprehensive study that examined 2,408,501 performers, “as low as 2% of actors are able to make a living out of acting.” Note the “make a living” part—we’re not even talking about becoming the next Brad Pitt or Margot Robbie. The study shows that it’s rare for actors to maintain productive (meaning “consistent work,” in this case) and lucrative careers, especially over time,” Backstage said.
If a movie is good, then it shouldn’t require all A-list cast members. While yes, directors and producers need to ensure that their movies make enough to not only break even but also create substantial revenue, a cast of all A-listers who require millions to even book, isn’t the way to go. Instead, producers should allow for fair open auditions and look for talented individuals. Actors and actresses need to gain opportunities to showcase their talent to the world, and gain fame.
So Hollywood listen up: We want to see what the new faces who have been hustling for years and years have to offer instead of the same fifty people recycled into the newest plotless star studded movie.
