Marketing a movie always poses challenges, but facing the absence of a charismatic lead to promote it on the press circuit adds a hurdle. This is a scenario that many film teams are experiencing or will soon encounter as the SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike begins in Hollywood.
An example of this predicament was observed during Netflix’s premiere event for “They Cloned Tyrone” in Los Angeles ahead of its scheduled release on July 21. However, the film’s star, Jamie Foxx, was notably absent, having been out of the public eye since his daughter announced his recovery from an undisclosed health issue in April. Other stars have also been missing from red carpet events for various reasons, such as Jonah Hill citing mental health concerns in declining to promote Netflix’s “You People” and Ezra Miller avoiding media interactions for Warner Bros.’ “The Flash” due to personal life headlines.
Compounding the issue, the ongoing writers’ strike has prevented some prominent creatives from supporting their work, as when Noah Baumbach skipped the premiere of “Barbie” in support of the Writers Guild of America. The strike has also limited the use of late-night TV interviews and SNL as promotional tools. With the SAG-AFTRA strike threatening further limitations, talent from high-profile releases is scrambling to utilize every last opportunity, as seen with actors from “Oppenheimer” and “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” going through previously scheduled press interviews before the strike’s commencement.
Stephen Love, producer of “They Cloned Tyrone,” acknowledges the difference in promoting the movie without Jamie Foxx’s presence but believes that Foxx’s legendary status and acclaim can still be felt through the film’s marketing and involvement in the project.
A press tour is an essential weapon in a movie’s marketing arsenal. Jason E. Squire, USC School of Cinematic Arts professor emeritus and host of the podcast “The Movie Business,” emphasizes the importance of critical stars participating in the required publicity tour to support their films. He acknowledges that medical reasons can be a valid exception. Engaging in press tours benefits the movie and enhances the artist’s career.
Promoting a film without its star is not an entirely new dilemma. Russell Schwartz, associate professor at Chapman University and former president of marketing for New Line, recalls similar challenges. “The New World” had to navigate its marketing without the support of press-averse Terrence Malick and absent stars Colin Farrell and Christian Bale. These situations require creative strategies to maintain momentum.
In today’s digital age, social media is significant in reaching audiences. Stars like Foxx sharing trailers on platforms like Instagram can impact awareness. However, striking a balance is essential, as excessive attention on personal matters might distract from the film’s promotion.
The writers’ strike has forced marketers to explore less conventional platforms for movie promotions like Jennifer Lawrence appearing on YouTube’s “Hot Ones” in addition to traditional late-night shows. Debates continue on the actual box office impact of press tours, with some suggesting that star attraction only sometimes translates into ticket sales, mainly when the movie already carries the appeal of a famous brand like DC Comics.
As the actors’ strike unfolds, Hollywood PR firms seek alternatives to traditional press tours. Influencers might play a more prominent role in marketing strategies, with actors needing more time to promote their projects.
In conclusion, marketing a movie without stars requires creative thinking and adaptation to alternative platforms. While the absence of star power poses challenges, a well-crafted marketing campaign, leveraging social media and other unconventional means, can still drive awareness and success for the film.
More Project Casting Entertainment News:
SAG-AFTRA’s Negotiating Committee Unanimously Recommends Strike as Contract Deadline Passes Without a Deal. SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild, and the American…
WGA Strike Won’t End Soon: Hollywood Studios Have A Long-Term Plan
The ongoing 2023 Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, which commenced on May 2, 2023, has caused significant disruptions within the industry. Particularly aff…
How to Get Cast in Disney’s ‘Moana’
How to get cast in Disney’s ‘Moana’. Disney’s ‘Moana’ is now casting and hiring actors to work on scenes filmed in Hawaii. Casting directors are now casting and…
