Actor

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Usually a stage or film actor. Many stage actors have a background in the classics and, considering themselves "legitimate", have a tendency to look down upon the commercial efforts of the film industry, although by the late twentieth century this is diminished, with film actors able to command greater respect and higher fees.

Movie stars and the film industry have long captured the interest of people across the world. Many stars are made overnight and most of them lead flashy, high profile lives, ever in the media spotlight.

In the 1920's, the theatrical center of the U.S. is in New York City, although there are major stages in most cities across the country. A similar situation exists in England, with touring repertory companies traveling the counties, with London the heart of theatrical shows. Touring companies travel by train, presenting new plays, as well as classics by Shakespeare and others. Some companies spend considerable amounts of time touring foreign parts, such as Canada, Hawaii, Australia, and Europe.

With the introduction of "talkies" in the latter part of the 1920's, many stars of the silent film era cannot cope with the transition to sound. The arm-waving histrionics of silent actors give way to more subtle characterizations. John Garfield and Francis Bushman are forgotten for new stars, such as Gary Cooper and Joan Crawford.

Stage Actor

Occupation Skill Points: EDU x 2 + APP x 2

Credit Rating: 9 - 40

Suggested Contacts: Theatre industry, newspaper arts critics, actor's guild or union

Skills:  Art and Craft (Acting), Disguise, Fighting (any), History, two interpersonal skills (Charm, Fast Talk, Intimidate, or Persuade), Psychology, any one other skill as a personal or era specialty.

Film Star

Occupation Skill Points: EDU x 2 + APP x 2

Credit Rating: 20 - 90

Suggested Contacts: Film industry, media critics, writers

Skills:  Art and Craft (Acting), Disguise, Drive Auto, two interpersonal skills (Charm, Fast Talk, Intimidate, or Persuade), Psychology, any one other skill as a personal or era specialty (e.g. Fighting (Any) or Ride)