Movie director justifies using young actors for elderly roles

Award winning movie director, Frank Garbin says there is nothing wrong to make up a young actor to play the role of an elderly.

Many veterans have raised concerns as to why movie directors and producers will opt for a young actor to play a role of an elderly person when they [the old] are available.

But speaking to Abrantepa on Radio Univers’ mid-morning show, Brunch2Lunch on Monday, the Broni Hiani director stated that actors are selected to be part of the cast based on their talent and strength. According to him, once a young actor can interpret the role well, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that.

“In choosing a cast, you have to look at the strength and talent of actors. Of course, every business man aims at maximising profit so you go in for someone who can promote your movie in terms of sales and also interpret the role well. It depends on your ideology and vision.

Honestly, there is nothing wrong with using a young actor to play such a role. The industry is a make-believe one; so your ability to make things seem real and make impossibilities very possible shows your strength. An actor may look young but his talent and wisdom may exceed that of an elderly,” he said.

Mr. Garbin however stated that the industry still needs the old actors so that the young ones can learn more from them.