Managers vs Agents in Film Business: Everything Performers Must Know

In the film industry, actors and those who have various talents are often supported by the roles of either a manager or an agent. But if you’re new to the industry you’re probably not really sure what the difference is between managers vs agents in film business. Perhaps you’ve heard an actor say that one is better than the other? Or you might have heard the terms used interchangeably. To describe a seemingly similar scenario in which a manager or an agent assists an actor with some area of finding or securing a contract deal. 

Unfortunately, it’s not just those that are entirely new to the film industry who struggle to understand the difference between managers vs agents in film business.

Many long-time actors and others involved in film production are not fully informed as to where the line is. In terms of what these two members of the industry can, and cannot do or what they will. Or will not do for the talent that they’re involved with.

To help you understand the key differences between managers and agents in film business, we’re breaking down key concepts and addressing some stereotypical mishaps along the way.

It’s all part of helping industry professionals get the most out of the many services provided by these professionals. All while we strive to create a more educated film industry. 

The Role of Talent Managers in Film Business

Talent managers in the film industry are really not regulated nor do they have specific restrictions limiting their operation, services, or compensation structure.

In fact, a manager may provide services from any location, to any number of clients. And at any specified rate! (Although most will charge between 10 and 15% commission on client earnings.)

A talent manager does not require any special licensing in order to provide services. Which means that actors must be a little bit more cautious as they find a manager that’s right for them.

What to Look Out For

The best managers will promise their clients maximum attention and will keep a small client list in order to do so. But this is not required so performers beware!

A film manager will generally impose commissions based charges on all of the earnings that a performer receives. This includes charging commissions on each individual aspect of the commissioned work from early on.

For instance until post-production and distribution including commissioning profits. As a result of the sale of all earnings from commercial theater, voiceovers, and other tasks within the industry.

The Role of Talent Agents in Film Business

Talent agents in the film business are responsible for a variety of tasks. Including helping performers to arrange casting calls that are appropriate for their needs and finding adequate contract work.

Agents will often work to negotiate the freelance contracts or employment contracts that are arranged between a production and the talented performer that the agent has been hired by.

The responsibilities of an agent are regulated. They must work as part of an agency providing their services for clients from an office.

The regulations also pertain to the percentage of a client’s earnings that an agent may request as payment. The maximum is 10% commission on client earnings.

Difference Between Managers vs Agents in Film Business

Talent managers and agents have some overlapping roles in the film business. But they are certainly not to be confused as being identical with one another.

The following distinct differences can be recognized between talent managers vs agents in film business:

• Managers are not able to handle contract negotiations. The arrangement of casting calls or securing contract work for performers. This is a role reserved for talent agents.
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• Agents must be licensed and their certification is regulated. In fact, the work of a talent agent must be performed out of an office. More commonly recognized as a talent agency. Likewise, a manager can work basically anywhere as there are no regulations.
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• Due to regulations, agents cannot make more than 10% of their client’s earnings. Whereas there are not regulations or restrictions as to what a manager can make. Most managers make 10% of client earnings. But some can and will ask for more.
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• Agents tend to have large client lists. Whereas managers will typically reserve their time, and attention, for far fewer clients. It’s common for an agent to have up to 150 clients. And for a manager to have a fraction of those usually closer to 20 or 25.

Similarities Between Managers vs Agents in Film Business

While there are certainly a lot of differences between managers vs agents in film business. There are also a lot of similarities between these two important roles within the industry particular.

As they apply to the fact that both work closely with performers to assist in a variety of tasks relative to helping the client to be successful in his or her career. The film industry is an incredibly competitive environment!

In which performers must constantly be on the lookout for their next project. But much of this responsibility is delegated to the talent agent or the manager depending on individual needs of the performer.

Both managers and agents strive to keep their clients satisfied. Although an agent may have a significantly larger client list to maintain. Which could leave the actor or actress feeling like the agent is less than 100% focused on his or her success. 

Do Performers Need Both Talent Agents & Talent Managers?

One of the key questions that arises in regards to talent managers vs agents in film business is whether or not a performer needs the help of one, the other, or both.

As you can see, talent agents and talent managers provide some similar services but also offer unique benefits too. As a performer, you might be wondering if you need the services of both a talent manager and a talent agent?

Both managers and agents in the film business provide unique services. Whether you employ the services of a talent agent or a talent manager is a matter mostly of preference.

The agent will act on your behalf to promote you as a performer and to represent you, handling most interactions between you and the employer as well as financials once the job has been booked and a contract secured.

Different Scales

Hiring a manager brings about a slightly different balance of responsibilities. A great manager is going to help you get work. But they don’t stop at just finding you films to perform in.

They are always looking at how they can help you level-up your career to improve yourself, your reputation and most of all, your finances!

A manager is going to help you achieve your goals in the film industry. By finding you roles that are either directly relative to your goals or similar so that you can work your way into the role of your dreams. 

In Summation

As you can see, the differences between managers vs agents in film business are plentiful and important to understand as knowledge is power in this industry. If you’re just starting out and looking for someone to help you find work, an agency is a great starting point.

Likewise, if you’re looking to advance your career and grow, you’re likely to get a better experience working with a talent manager.