Most people would agree that television and movies are very enjoyable to watch, and both present unique genres in their fields of entertainment. When it comes to acting, there are differences between TV versus films, and worth learning about as you begin a career in the industry. Entertainment experts have some advice on how to prepare for a job in front of the big screen, the little screen, or both.
The Silver Screen Was the Ultimate
If you look back at movie history a few decades ago, stars who were seen in famous films never made the switch to television. The silver screen was considered the highest level of acting.
Marilyn Monroe, for instance, had made a total of 29 films in her young career, but by her untimely death in 1962, the television industry was coming into its own. Folks going to the movies had decreased by some 50%, and TV was attracting bigger audiences.
Today, actors can work on both platforms.
1. The Pacing
If you’re excited to pursue acting for film, the first thing any seasoned professional will tell you is to be prepared, and that means getting your resume ready to go.
Make sure that you take the best headshots that can help get your foot through the door.
One of the biggest differences you’ll find between acting for movies and acting for TV is the pacing of each genre.
Television works at a fast pace. Your hours will be more regular and fewer than being on a movie set. In addition, you face several pages of the script going before the cameras each day.
Acting in a film depends heavily on the budget, production schedule, director, the movie’s location, etc. The hours can be long and tiring, and there can be lengthy breaks between scenes and filming.
2. The Audience
Another difference actors will find is audience reaction in TV and movies. When your face and body are up on a huge movie screen, the audience becomes very familiar with each facial expression, your performance, how you appear, etc. Films can capture a lot, and sometimes, not what the actor expected.
It takes quite a while to get an audience’s reaction because movies entail several months of making and then, you have to wait for the release. Editing can also change the final product.
The television audience is unique, too, and although some TV shows are filmed before a live audience, more often than not, it may be a few months before the TV show airs, and viewers give their opinions about it.
3. The Money
People often wonder which is the more lucrative entertainment platform. Is it TV or film?
That depends on a few factors. At the moment, television appears to be the most profitable medium with plenty of opportunities for actors of all types. Many big-name TV companies are launching their own streaming services to stay competitive.
Then again, it’s almost impossible to rival Disney, the multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate, which can rake in billions of dollars by combining movies and TV shows with its streaming option.
4. The Location
Hollywood is synonymous with making movies and seeing film stars. If you aspire to have a movie career, then, moving to Los Angeles is mainly where all of the action is.
L.A. is also where you go to establish a television career, and most of the casting takes place there, especially during TV pilot season.
However, the East Coast is amazing, also. Big cities like New York and Chicago as well as Toronto, Canada, have powerful production studios and film a variety of TV dramas.
5. The Unique Experience
Think about it. Every actor has to begin somewhere, right? The great news today is that actors can freely move between TV, film, and theater. Try and choose the artistic experience you would enjoy and prefer, and embrace every new opportunity.
Bottom Line
The acting industry is exciting for sure. Before you jump in, follow the professional guidelines above, and determine where your best fit might be. Television and movies bring so much entertainment to the world. It’s time for you to make your mark!
