Paying for specific roles?

[Azmyth]

So I know how hard it is out there for actors trying to make a living, just like it is for us film makers.. we spend alot, and make a little (or nothing). I know alot of actors just starting out are ok with working for credit/copy/experience/meals.. but I know the really good talent is worth it, and would like to pay them at least something.

My question is, is it OK to pay say your main actors, but still hire out your supporting roles as copy/credit type deals? How do you do that without causing a fuss? To me it seems more reasonable to ask someone to work say a one day shoot for free vs. someone who has to work for 10-15 days. I can use the newer (just out of acting school) less experienced actors in the copy/credit roles, and hire some pro's for the big roles.

 

[gonzo_entertainment]

I pay my "leads". People without lines or with one or two lines generally don't get paid. That's at microbudget level. If I had more money I'd pay everybody.

Why would anybody know what anybody else is making? It's like any other business. What I am paying you is between me and you and not to be shared with anybody else.

 

[Ted Spencer]

Actors get paid wildly varying amounts in movies all the time. In a Hollywood feature one actor (and not even necessarily all that minor of one) might get scale while the star(s) might get tens of millions. And others are everywhere in between. On a micro-indie short like I plan to make this year, I'll pay more for a higher caliber of actor(s) if it's appropriate. But everyone will get paid well by relative standards, that being diddly-squat in the vast majority of cases. Been there, acted for that... : )

 

[Doc Bernard]

And...... it is wholly unprofessional for anyone to talk about what they are getting paid on any production (or at any workplace, for that matter). There are many times that I am working crew or acting and I am one of two people on the entire shoot that is getting paid.

First rule of getting paid on any production..........you don't talk about getting paid on the production, especially during principle.

 

[sonofaresiii]

And...... it is wholly unprofessional for anyone to talk about what they are getting paid on any production (or at any workplace, for that matter). There are many times that I am working crew or acting and I am one of two people on the entire shoot that is getting paid.

First rule of getting paid on any production..........you don't talk about getting paid on the production, especially during principle.

Absolutely right... but being unprofessional doesn't stop it from happening.