Context:

Stellan Skarsgård took a significant pay cut for his role in the movie 'Sentimental Value' to ensure the film crew received high-quality lunches, an initiative stemming from his negative experience on the set of 'Insomnia' where he faced poor meal provisions. His commitment to improving crew conditions led him to become an executive producer, ensuring meals were served on real china and enjoyed in a sit-down setting rather than on-the-go. Skarsgård's actions highlight a broader trend in Hollywood where actors like Will Smith, Keanu Reeves, and the cast of 'The Big Bang Theory' have also taken pay cuts or used personal funds to benefit others involved in their projects. Smith paid bonuses to the 'King Richard' cast due to the film's simultaneous streaming release, Reeves compensated the 'Matrix' visual effects crew, and the 'Big Bang Theory' cast reduced their salaries to support co-stars. These stories showcase a heartening side of Hollywood where actors prioritize the well-being and fair treatment of their colleagues over personal gain.

Dive Deeper:

• Stellan Skarsgård accepted a salary reduction of half a million kroner for 'Sentimental Value' to fund decent meals for the film crew, contrasting his previous experience on 'Insomnia' where poor food options led to his significant weight loss.

• His insistence on high-quality meals for the crew included a contract stipulation that meals be served on real china with a proper dining setup, aiming to enhance the working environment and overall film quality.

• Beyond Skarsgård, other actors like Will Smith have also prioritized the welfare of their colleagues, as seen when Smith distributed personal bonuses to the 'King Richard' cast to offset financial impacts from the film's dual release format.

• Keanu Reeves demonstrated similar generosity by providing substantial bonuses to the visual effects team of 'The Matrix', ensuring their work was adequately recognized and compensated.

• The principal cast of 'The Big Bang Theory' collectively agreed to decrease their per-episode earnings by $100,000, allowing co-stars Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch to receive higher salaries.

• Ryan Reynolds personally financed the presence of Deadpool's screenwriters on set, countering the studio's refusal to do so, reflecting his commitment to creative collaboration and proper compensation.

• These instances reflect a growing awareness and responsibility among actors to support equitable treatment and improve working conditions in the film and television industries.