Contracts and Agreements in the Acting Industry: Beyond simply reading scripts

Like many professionals, actors sign contracts that outline their rights and obligations. These contracts are typically negotiated by their agents and are customized based on the actor's standing in the industry.

Customized Contractual Agreements for Notable Actors

The more influential an actor is, the more detailed their contracts become. A-list performers often have their agents and lawyers specify exactly what they are expected to do and what they are not expected to do on set. This is particularly important for conditions such as nudity. They can stipulate how much flesh of each relevant body part will be shown, who can be present during the shoot, which body parts will be substituted with body doubles, and even have casting control over stunt performers.

Insurance and Legal Requirements

Actors must often sign insurance waivers as well. For example, Tom Cruise famously signs waivers for dangerous stunts, as production companies prefer he not injure himself on set. Similarly, actors with a history of substance abuse must provide written assurances to stay clean and sober, which helps to quell the anxieties of insurance companies and producers.

Beyond Creative Demands

While directors often have hefty creative demands, actors typically leave most of these up to the director. If a renowned director like Stanley Kubrick or David Fincher requires 87 takes of a particular scene, the actor usually complies with the request.

The Importance of Release Forms

At the very least, actors sign release forms. These confirm the filmmaker's right to use the actor's likeness and performance as indicated. Many existing templates are available online, but a good practice is to include a photograph of the actor on the release form for clarity and legal protection.