Summary of the Key Points
This article discusses the phenomenon where many actors and actresses are flocking to the stage of drama performances but often fail miserably. The downturn in the film and television industry has left a large number of artists, from top stars to lesser-known figures, in a period of unemployment. Drama has become a refuge for them as it helps maintain their visibility and enhance their professional image. However, with the influx of actors with insufficient acting skills, the professionalism of drama performances is being questioned, and the so-called "image-enhancing effect" is no longer effective. Audiences are dissatisfied with actors forgetting their lines and the exorbitant ticket prices, and theaters are beginning to rely on their own content to attract viewers. The ultimate conclusion is that whether in film or television, what really matters is genuine talent; the pretense should be dropped.
1. Why Do So Many Actors Suddenly Have No Work in the Film Industry?
The film industry has recently entered a downturn, with many actors struggling to find work. For example, top star Liu Yifei has been without roles for over three years, and Wang Yibo and Zhao Lusi have not participated in any projects for two years. Even Liu Haoran, who has earned over 20 billion yuan at the box office, has publicly sought employment. Why?
- Industry Contraction: There are fewer film and television projects, and platforms and investors are more cautious with their investments, making good scripts even rarer.
- The Dangers of a Long Layoff: Actors who are not among the top stars risk being forgotten by the market if they remain unemployed for more than three months, leading to a rapid decline in their commercial value. Even top stars fear being criticized for failing to drive box office or viewership numbers.
2. Why Has Drama Become a Lifeline for Actors?
With limited opportunities in film and television, offline venues such as drama and musicals have become highly sought after. The relationship between the two industries is mutually beneficial:
- For Actors: Drama serves as a proof of professional competence; being able to recite lines flawlessly and handle unexpected situations on stage demonstrates solid acting skills. For instance, Hu Ge used drama to move away from his idol image, and actors like Xiao Zhan used it to transition during tough times. Even Wu Jinyan and Yang Chaoye consider drama as a way to improve their skills.
- For Theatres: Stars can bring in more viewers and generate revenue. Tickets for performances by stars like Zhang Ruoyun and Luo Yizhou sell out instantly, and theaters benefit significantly from their endorsements. Drama, once a niche art form, is now gaining popularity thanks to its star presence.
3. Why Has the "Image-Enhancing Effect" Become Ineffective?
The reason why actors' attempts at enhancing their image through drama are no longer successful is straightforward:
- Lack of Professionalism: Actors like Zhou Dongyu have forgotten lines or used cue cards during performances, making the experience less impressive for audiences who pay high prices (880 yuan) to watch what feels like a half-hearted rehearsal.
- Exorbitant Ticket Prices: The presence of stars often leads to price increases; for example, the original ticket price for Xiao Zhan's "Rum Dream" was 3760 yuan, but second-hand tickets were sold for up to 40,000 yuan, which audiences consider a waste of money.
- Lack of Dedication: Some actors do not prepare adequately for rehearsals (due to competing film and television schedules) or even breach their contracts to pursue other opportunities, leaving theaters in a difficult position.
As a result, the audience's enthusiasm for star-studded drama performances has waned, leading to ticket returns and a loss of trust in the "image-enhancing" effect.
4. Can Drama Still Be a Path Forward for Actors?
It's not that actors cannot perform in drama, but they must be sincere and competent:
- Professionalism Is Key: Actors like Xin Zhilei and Ni Ni succeed because they have genuine acting skills and are willing to invest time in rehearsals.
- Theatres No Longer Rely on Stars: Many theaters are now attracting audiences through their own content. For example, Chen Lijun, a Yue opera actress, has gained followers with her performance "New Dragon Inn," and the critically acclaimed "Dream of the Red Chamber" tour has been successful without relying on stars.
- Incompetent Actors Are Exposed: Those who merely use drama as a means to boost their resumes are quickly identified by audiences and will be eliminated by the market.
Conclusion
In the current downturn in the film industry, actors turning to drama is a last resort. However, trying to enhance their image through drama without genuine effort will only lead to failure. Whether on the big screen or small stages, what audiences want is not fame but compelling acting and sincerity. Drama is not a cover for incompetence nor a safe haven; only true talent will stand out.
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