Why Certain Actors Can Make a Movie Unwatchable
Why Certain Actors Can Make a Movie Unwatchable
It's a common scenario where a movie trailer or poster catches your eye, only to be spoiled by the presence of a well-known actor who consistently ruins the viewing experience. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and highlights two prime examples - Ricky Gervais and Steven Seagal - who not only fail to bring their A-game but actively detract from the quality of their respective projects.
Ricky Gervais: From a Perfect Sidekick to an Endless Ego Trip
Ricky Gervais is perhaps the most recognizable culprit among those who reduce a film to an unworthy watch. His comedic talents initially provided the necessary comedic relief in shows like The Office, where his character, David Brent, was an unapologetic self-absorbed moron. Gervais's performance was both endearing and spot-on. However, his importance in subsequent projects has dramatically escalated, turning what could have been quality content into a perpetual vanity project.
Audit Trail: Extras: A transformation from a relatively average TV comedy to a serving of Gervais's own narcissism. His TV comedy showed promise, but it quickly devolved into self-pity memes about his own celebrity status and complaints against being perceived solely as a comedian.
Case Study: The Simpsons and A Zipcode Away Skits: Gervais's efforts to integrate himself into The Simpsons were a disaster. Despite not having a feasible storyline, he portrayed himself as a sleazy character, using his celebrity to charm Marge Simpson. His other skits, focused solely on the potential consequences of his controversial humor, highlight his obsession with his own image, rather than the narrative of the show.
Further Analysis: The Invention of Lying and After Life: While these recent films have garnered mixed reviews, it's his presence that overshadows the quality of the work. Most often, his films are mediocre or worse, simply because his ego and self-importance overshadow the overall narrative. This has pushed viewers away, with many refusing to watch any of his recent works.
Steven Seagal: The Run-and-Hide Actor
At the opposite end of the spectrum lies Steven Seagal, whose on-screen performance is nearly non-existent. Seagal's presence in films can be summed up in one statement: 'Good for the 1:33 seconds he’s on screen that’s worth watching.' Seagal's methodology is rooted in endurance, rather than skill.
Typical Scene: Run-and-hide sequences: Seagal's protagonists often find themselves in ridiculous action scenes, with the actor’s most notable contribution being his unsustainable running and hiding. Despite his involvement, he remains a mute participant, and most of the plot's primary action is driven by other characters.
Best Example: Under Siege 2: Dark Territory: The film is jam-packed with over the top action, yet the actual scenes with Seagal are sparse and unnecessary. His running and hiding, often against inanimate objects, does little to advance the plot or build suspense. It's these moments that constitute his valuable screen time.
Impact on the Viewing Experience
The difference between a supporting actor enhancing the story and detracting from it is significant. Gervais's vanity and Seagal's methodical running scenes exhibit a detrimental effect on the movie-watching experience. A well-crafted movie allows actors to complement the storyline, while an egocentric or ineffective performance can dilute the narrative and paint the entire production with a negative brush.
Why It Matters for Filmmakers and Actors
For filmmakers and actors, it's crucial to understand the dynamics of a storyline. Even a minor role can have a significant impact on the overall quality and appeal of a movie. Selecting actors who can bring depth, humor, or drama without overshadowing the plot can make the difference between a good and a great film. Understanding the role and contributing to the narrative, rather than prioritizing personal recognition, is key to retaining audience interest and maintaining the integrity of the project.
Conclusion
The choices in casting and the performances delivered by actors play a pivotal role in a movie's success. Ricky Gervais and Steven Seagal are prime examples of actors whose egos and methods, rather than their skills, can diminish a film's quality. Recognizing and avoiding such pitfalls is essential for filmmakers to create compelling, engaging, and unforgettable stories.