Changing an audience's perception of an actor or actress who has remained in one genre all their lives, to suddenly flipping into an opposite genre, one not seen before, removes the overall message of the film. Therefore, public response tends to surround the actor's ability to perform in a new genre, rather than the narrative of the film.
Additionally, the casting of non-acting celebrities within films has corrupted the film industry and diminished some films into merely a debut for celebrities in alternative industries. For example, David O’Russell’s Amsterdam, starring an incredible cast including Christian Bale, Margot Robbie and John David Washington, and the questionable acting performance from Taylor Swift. Her screen appearance was extremely limited due to her character being killed off shortly after her introduction. Although this is the case, her performance must have been notable as she appeared on the original poster, looking elegant and mysterious.
This disruption to the tone of the film risks corrupting the entire narrative.
I argue that the appearance of non-acting celebrities within films takes away the magic of the cinema; not only does it create a gimmick effect, but also, untrained performances can ruin the atmosphere of the story. This disruption to the tone of the film risks corrupting the entire narrative. Additionally, big celebrities taking roles limits opportunities for trained, professional actors, or up-and-coming actors in the industry who are deprived of opportunities.
On the contrary, the advertising of big names in film, both acting and non-acting, can drive up box-office sales, thereby increasing income to a struggling industry. It helps smaller films reach wider audiences and can also sometimes bring a level of authenticity to a movie that perhaps some actors can’t. This shift in dynamic between the people seen on screen challenges the audience’s expectations but runs the risk of removing the entire illusion of cinema. So, is it worth it? Is it better to cast a big name in a small film and risk erasing the message of the movie? Or cast a lesser-known actor and risk a smaller profit?