The Pay for Zombie Actors in Film: Varies from Free to Professional Rates

The question of whether actors who portray zombies in film receive payment is a nuanced one, dependent on various factors such as the production's budget, the size of the role, and whether the production falls under the purview of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). This article delves into the range of compensation, from fan appreciation to professional contracts, while also highlighting examples of free labor and substantial earnings.

Factors Influencing Payment for Zombie Actors

The payment scale for zombie actors can vary greatly. For background actors or extras, the payment might be less due to the nature of their roles, which often do not involve dialogue or significant scenes. However, these actors are typically compensated for their time on set, often based on an hourly rate or a flat rate for the duration of filming.

In more professional settings, such as a union film, payment scales are rigorously defined and enforced. Actors are paid according to a set scale, ensuring fair compensation for their time and effort, regardless of their specific role. This adherence to union agreements, as indicated by the prominent credits at the end of the film, is crucial for ensuring that actors are properly compensated.

Free Labor and Fan Appreciation

Some directors and producers opt for the creative approach of fan appreciation, as seen in the making of the film Shaun of the Dead. Director Simon Pegg cleverly utilized his fan base by placing ads seeking volunteers who would participate in the film without any financial compensation. These volunteers were a group of fans who were eager to be a part of the project due to their admiration of Pegg and his work.

The response was overwhelming, with over a thousand fans appearing on the day of filming, showcasing the power of fan engagement and community support in the entertainment industry. While this method of utilizing free labor could be seen as backward, it does highlight a different model of production, one that relies on the community rather than the traditional payment structures of the film industry.

Professional Compensation and Indie Films

In contrast, professional zombie actors in indie productions can receive more significant compensation. For instance, Anna Kendrick, known for her role in Camp, took a creative approach to budgeting by housing her cast in a walk-in pantry and shooting scenes in a real summer camp. The actors were paid $75 per day of shooting, which is considerably more than the free labor provided in the Shaun of the Dead scenario.

For smaller roles or background parts in a non-union production, the payment might range from €150 to €500. However, this can vary, and some productions may not offer any compensation at all, especially if they are looking for a large group of people. For example, a friend of the author consistently advertises for extras on Facebook, offering either compensation or perks like food, transportation, or credits in the film.

Conclusion

The payment for zombie actors in film is a flexible arrangement that can range from fan appreciation to professional compensation. Whether it involves fan-based volunteers, union payment scales, or lower compensation for background actors, the landscape of payment in the film industry for these roles is diverse. What is crucial is that actors are compensated fairly, and production practices adhere to the relevant labor laws and agreements to ensure a fair and professional environment.

Understanding the different payment structures can help both filmmakers and actors make informed decisions about their roles and contributions to the film industry. Whether the payment is symbolic, minimal, or substantial, the goal is to ensure that these actors are appreciated and fairly compensated for their contribution to bringing the zombie apocalypse to life on screen.