Elizabeth Banks on why its harder to make money in Hollywood

The actress is all set to direct ‘Charlie’s Angels’ for Sony

Last updated:
5 MIN READ
FILM BANKS Q&A 2-2-1561639203032
FILE — Actress and director Elizabeth Banks at the Universal Studios lot in Universal City, Calif., Dec. 1, 2017. Banks sees more opportunities for film projects, thanks to streaming services, but she says the financial returns will be smaller for everyday workers. (Elizabeth Weinberg/The New York Times)
NYT

Looking at the future of movies, actress and director Elizabeth Banks was bullish about the new opportunities offered by streaming services, but she has noticed that the entire industry has been tightening its purse strings. “Everything is now being scrutinised so deeply that it’s getting harder and harder to get these deals done,” said Banks, who is next directing ‘Charlie’s Angels’ for Sony.

A: There’s a lot more work, but it’s a lot harder to make money on anything. It’s one of the reasons the unions are up in arms right now. For low-end workers, the people on the tail of those big productions, it’s a lot harder to get by. And that’s true for middle-class actors and writers, too.

Q: What will the landscape look like for female directors a decade from now?

Q: Do you think there are certain genres that simply aren’t going to come out in theatres anymore?

Q: When you talk to people younger than you about the way they watch movies and consume pop culture, what do you find striking?

Sign up for the Daily Briefing

Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox