For every Anjelica Huston who started as a model for photographers like Richard Avedon and later won an Oscar, there is a Cindy Crawford – the classic supermodel whose brief film career didn’t achieve the desired success. For models blessed with looks, composure, and recognizability, moving into acting may seem easy, but taking on real roles is a challenge.
Mega-model Kate Upton experienced this as well: despite earning $84 million domestically, her films were harshly judged by critics. She could shine in tight dresses and bikinis, but true acting talent remained underrepresented.
Emily Ratajkowski, who broke free from the provocative music video world, says: “It works both ways, but people are stereotypical. Many expect me to play the sexy girl.” Together with Dree Hemingway and Cara Delevingne, however, she shows that models can do more on screen.
Ratajkowski had a cameo in Entourage and played the female lead in the drama We Are Your Friends. Delevingne appears in Paper Towns and Pan, while Hemingway appears in While We’re Young. Their success depends on talent, hard work, and the willingness to be more than just a model.
Hollywood casting director Marcia Ross emphasizes: “Many models have made a successful transition. Rene Russo took years of acting classes, and Brooklyn Decker is very dedicated.” Cindy Crawford didn’t want to become an actress, but Naomi Campbell shone in Empire.
Being both an actress and a model is no longer a stigma today. Models featured on fashion magazine covers and in perfume campaigns prove that the lines between modeling and acting are blurring.
Jake Schreier, director of Paper Towns, praises Delevingne’s talent: “She didn’t worry about a specific image. We were free to shape the character.” The same goes for Hemingway, whose authenticity and comfort in front of the camera are convincing.
Ratajkowski and Hemingway advise young models: learn, practice, and recognize your skills. “Many models think they should try acting. Ultimately, talent and preparation count,” says Hemingway. For models who seriously want to work in film and television, commitment is the key to success.
