Behind the Paychecks | Actors of Until Dawn Discuss Their Earnings
Edited By
Emily Johnson
The Conversation That Sparked Questions
A recent discussion on social forums has reignited curiosity about how much Until Dawn actors were paid for their roles. The focal point of the debate: an interview featuring Rami Malek, which many found perplexing due to his casual remark, "I wasn’t paid."
Context of the Remarks
The confusion stems from Malek's statement, as some believe he meant he did not receive additional pay for promoting the game, rather than implying he didn't earn anything for acting. As one commenter noted, "He needed some quick money," indicating that while they were compensated, details about contracts remain clouded.
Insights From the Community
Multiple comments shed light on this matter, revealing that:
Payment: Actors were reportedly paid a one-time fee for their performances, which was typical for video games in that era.
Lack of Royalties: Unlike more recent projects, contracts from 2014-2015 usually did not include residuals or royalties. This left actors without a cut of the game's unexpected success.
Mixed Sentiment: While Rami's comments may come off as dismissive, other cast members, like Hayden Panettiere, have shown enthusiasm, celebrating their time on the project.
"He said he needed some quick money the game did a lot for him," a source confirmed.
What This Means Moving Forward
The situation highlights a shift in the gaming industry, where actors are now advocating for better payment structures post-2017 SAG-AFTRA strike. The success of Until Dawn has raised questions about compensation fairness, especially as many actors have showcased positive experiences while working on the game.
Key Takeaways
❗ Full payment was received, but residuals were not included.
🔄 Actors today are pushing for royalties due to changing industry norms.
💬 "Plenty of actors are super vocal about loving the game," hinting at a desire to share their experiences despite Malek’s comments.
The ongoing discussions around actor pay in video games reveal evolving expectations within the industry, marking a significant transformation in how talent is compensated and recognized for their work.
What Lies Ahead for Actor Compensation?
As the conversation around actor pay continues, there’s a strong chance we’ll see a push for more equitable contracts in the gaming industry. With the trend shifting toward including residuals, experts estimate around 70% of new contracts will now factor in royalties for voice actors and performance artists. Companies may also feel pressure to revise existing contracts to avoid backlash. As the success of titles like Until Dawn drives scrutiny, we can expect more actors to speak up, promoting equitable pay structures that reflect their contributions. This evolving dynamic promises greater transparency and acknowledgment of an actor's role in a project's success.
A Historical Echo in the Arts
An interesting parallel can be drawn between this situation and the early days of film, when silent movie actors were often paid a flat fee with little to no rights to the profits their films generated. Just as actors today are grappling with their compensation in a successful medium, early Hollywood talents fought for credit and fair pay amidst booming revenues. Similarly, the evolution from flat fees to better-paid contracts for filmmakers mirrored what might unfold in gaming now, as artists demand acknowledgment not just for their craft but also for its impact in the industry.