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Chapter VII CAST STARS
Stars are those actors and actresses whose names appear upon all advertising in larger type than that of all others, including the name of the picture itself; and for whom stories are especially written or purchased.
The story must revolve around the star, and the emphasis of the story must be placed upon what happens to the screen character of the star rather than upon the essence and complications of the plot. Hence the numerous close-ups and the special "bits of business" written into the continuity for the star's performance.
Many of the really talented stars insist that the story shall be much more than a mere starring vehicle. Charlie Chaplin, for example, devotes great energy and care to the construction of the story and, being a true artist as well as a "good sport," gi\es all the important players in his cast the opportunity to make the best of their talents.
Any individual who could clearly define the qualifications of a star would deserve a salary of a million dollars a year. The most astute and experienced producer is unable to predict, with any degree of certainty, a player's chances for stardom. The public chooses the stars.
An actor plays a small bit in a picture. His work stands out. The critics comment. The fans write letters. Soon the producer, sensing the demand of the public or the possibility of such demand, gives the actor a more important part. He makes a better impression in the new part. Public approval grows more articulate. Other producers become interested. Rumors fly around Hollywood :
"Did you hear about Jimmy ©'Neil?"
"Sure, I know what I'm talking about. He's going to get a contract— did a bit as a waiter in 'MARY'S LAMB' — registered great. Then he got the reporter part in 'BROADWAY SONG'— trouped like an old-timer. Now Metro's signing him up for the juvenile lead in 'GOING OVER'— he's a comer, all right."
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