Longplay: These are the secret lists that actors do not want to talk about
A new Longplay article discusses the increasing influence of financial backers on casting decisions in Finnish films and TV series, highlighting secret lists ranking actors based on their visibility and popularity.
A recent article by Longplay delves into the challenges faced by the cultural and film industry in Finland, particularly focusing on how actors' working conditions have deteriorated. It reveals that casting decisions in Finnish movies and TV series are increasingly dictated by the wishes of financial backers, rather than purely artistic choices. This trend raises concerns about the integrity of the creative process in the industry.
The article elaborates on this by discussing secret lists that production companies receive from clients, which contain names of actors deemed suitable for roles. These lists are reportedly based on various metrics related to actors' visibility, including social media followers, appearances in entertainment shows, and audience figures for previous leading roles. This reliance on such lists indicates a shift in casting practices, as actors are ranked in terms of popularity, which might undermine the artistic consideration in choosing the right fit for a character.
Interviews conducted for the article reveal that many industry insiders are aware of these ranking systems implemented by television networks. However, despite the growing awareness, only one source agreed to speak on the record about the existence of these lists, indicating the stigma and concern surrounding the topic. This reluctance among industry professionals to publicly address these issues further highlights the tensions between commercial interests and artistic integrity in the creative sector, raising questions about the future landscape of Finnish cinema and television.