Why do actors get paid tens of millions for their movies instead of a normal salary?

Question

Why do actors get paid tens of millions for their movies instead of a normal salary?

In: Culture

Answer 1

99% of all actors are paid a salary. They get a set amount for a specific movie/TV episode.

Stars however have agents who may negotiate thier contract to get a better deal. This may include big up front payments or “residuals” this is a share of the profit once the film is released.

Basically if the only reason that the audience is going to see a film is because Tom cruise or Stallone is in it, then surely they should get a relatively large slice of the profit.

The Screen Actors Guild sets minimum wages across the industry.