Why are actors who play high school kids so old?

[tai38]

Alright I know it has to do with child labor laws and all that nonsense, but sometimes it is just overkill. They could easily be 19, 20, or 21 and not be subject to labor laws, but still look realistically like high schoolers. This is never the case. I just saw the new spider man movie, and the guy who plays Flash is 27 years old. TWENTY SEVEN. Most kids in college aren't that old! Nobody would ever believe he is a high schooler. Why do that?

[jasper]

because if directors choose young actors it wont work , but olders can do it right and they r not annoying

[otis]

It might be because:
1. They want a famous actor in their movies so more people see it
2. No teenagers auditioned for the spot
3. No teenagers were good enough actors
4. No teenagers were attractive enough
:33

[lazaro94]

You're right on all counts. Glee has high school students who are ready for Medicare. Not really obviously, but they haven't seen a high school for a long time. And, it is all because of child labor laws. Since they may only work a few hours a day, they're just about unemployable in any big parts on TV shows.

I realize that actors who play teenagers will all be able to vote, but they shouldn't be able to remember the Truman administration.

[cuartio52]

it's alot easier to work with adults than it is minors.they can work longer hours,the film company doesn't have to hire teachers and social workers to be on the set with minors. a film co. will use an older person that can play younger when ever they can. if it's obvious the actor is too old to play the part then it's the casting directors fault and the directors fault for letting the person get through and be picked. there are numerous occassions where there is just poor casting done.