What makes a "supporting actress?"?

Question

I just saw "The Constant Gardener." I know Rachel Weiss got the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, but she seemed more like a main actress. So what's the difference? Are there specific rules that differenciates between an actress and a supporting actress?

Answer 1

Second billing in the credits. Some supporting actors/actresses are pretty major characters, but the awards programs have four top spots: Main Actor, Main Actress, Supporting Actor, and Supporting Actress. The producers usually make the determination in the salary and billing negotiations, yep, the placement of names is an important point of negotiation.

Answer 2

The Best Supporting Actress award should actually be titled "the best performance by an actress in a supporting role."

In 1936, the acting awards were expanded to start recognizing supporting roles. Best Supporting Actress Oscars are traditionally given to actors who stand out in small roles.

First-time nominees often win in this category.

Answer 3

The credits. If the actress is listed as the starrig actress or supporting actress by the size of letters and the placement of the name on the list, they go by that designation.

Answer 4

The 2-3 main people are the actors. The supporting actors are the ones who are importanrt but not as big as the 2 or 3 amin actors

Answer 5

a supporting actress is any actress that doesn't have top billing on the box or advertising

Answer 6

Someone with an extremely good spinal cord, no herniated discs. Or someone who is willing to accept a 'lesser' role, and preform better than the lead. (Bravo!)

Answer 7

She is in the film and doesn't want to run for best actress.

Same thing happen in My Cousin Vinny.

Answer 8

a well supporting bra.