Why Do Some TV Shows and Movies Portray High Schoolers as If They Were in Their 30s?

The portrayal of high schoolers who appear much older than their actual age is a common phenomenon in film and television for several reasons. This article delves into the various factors that contribute to this practice.

Casting Choices

One of the major reasons behind this trend is casting choices. Many actors in high school roles are significantly older than their characters. This is often due to the availability of experienced actors who can handle the emotional and dramatic demands of the roles. Casting directors may prefer older actors for their maturity, acting skills, and their ability to connect with the audience. These actors bring a level of nuance and depth to their performances that can elevate the entire production.

Mature Themes

The exploration of complex themes in shows and movies also plays a significant role. Many of these themes require a level of emotional depth and experience. Older actors can often convey these themes more effectively than younger ones. This is particularly true in genres like dramas and psychological thrillers, where the narrative often revolves around mature and thought-provoking issues.

Audience Appeal

Producers often believe that older actors can attract a wider audience. Teens may relate to characters portrayed by older actors, while adults might be more interested in watching shows featuring familiar faces from other genres. This broad appeal can help increase the viewership and the overall success of the show or movie.

Physical Appearance

Another factor is the physical appearance of the actors. Some young actors naturally have mature features, and makeup and styling can enhance this effect further. Additionally, the wardrobe, grooming, and overall presentation of the actors can contribute to an older appearance. These subtle details can significantly impact the viewer's perception of the character's age.

Cultural Trends

Cultural trends also play a role in this portrayal. The depiction of high schoolers has evolved over time, and in some genres, particularly comedies and dramas, there is a tendency to exaggerate certain characteristics for comedic or dramatic effect. This can often lead to a disconnect between the characters' ages and their appearances.

Legal and Practical Considerations

One of the primary practical reasons for this practice is child labor laws. Child actors are subject to strict regulations concerning the number of hours they can work and the kinds of content they can portray. These laws add additional overhead that you don’t have to deal with if you cast a young-looking 22-year-old.

For instance, there are limits as to how many hours per day and how many consecutive hours a child actor can work. If the child actor hits their limit, you would have to stop shooting, even if the scene is not fully filmed. On the other hand, young adult actors can often continue working, making the production process smoother and more efficient.

Long productions, such as the Harry Potter films, often have to arrange for the child actors' schooling, usually by hiring private tutors. This adds to the logistical challenges and costs. In some productions, you may also have borderline-mature content that might be difficult to navigate with an actual child actor. On a contractual level, you might have to involve the actor's parents, as the child may not be old enough to enter into contracts.

While these challenges come with using child actors, they can be entirely avoided when casting young-looking adult actors. This makes the production process more streamlined and cost-effective, especially for long-term projects.

Overall, the combination of these factors results in high school characters that often look older than their supposed age. This trend reflects a complex interplay of artistic, legal, and logistical considerations. By understanding these factors, creators and producers can make more informed decisions about casting, enhancing the quality and appeal of their productions.