Loyalty. Just saying the word almost sounds old-fashioned, doesn’t it? Like something your grandparents might have preached about, along with “a firm handshake” and “showing up on time.” But here’s the truth: loyalty might be one of the most undervalued and overlooked currencies in the entertainment industry today.
People everywhere — in all professions — can be short-sighted about their goals, but in the film business, short-sightedness has been refined into an art form. Too many folks are fixated on the next gig, the next paycheck, the next “opportunity” that’s supposedly going to fast-track their career. And while they’re sprinting for the next thing, they’re missing the bigger picture.
Here’s the reality: this business is built on collaboration. Period. You cannot — let me repeat — cannot make a film by yourself. You need the writer, the director, the cast, the crew, the pre-production team, post-production, editors, accountants, and about a hundred other people who never get their names on the poster. Talent alone won’t get you far. Connections, loyalty, and trust — those are the building blocks.
And yet… people treat loyalty like it’s optional.
Chasing the Short Game
I’ve seen it over and over: actors, directors, writers, crew members scrambling to climb the ladder as fast as possible. They’ll ditch a solid project for a slightly bigger paycheck somewhere else, or spend their time on set distracted, constantly sending out résumés for the “next gig.” And in the process? They burn bridges. Sometimes permanently.
“Want to know one of the fastest ways to stall your career? Treat your current job like it doesn’t matter.”
Want to know one of the fastest ways to stall your career? Treat your current job like it doesn’t matter. Nothing will sink your reputation faster than showing the people you’re working with that you’re not fully present. People remember. And they talk.
Loyalty Is in the Details
Loyalty doesn’t just mean sticking around for the credits. It’s about the details. It’s showing up prepared. It’s giving 100% to whatever task you’re handed, no matter how small it seems. It’s supporting the project after you’ve wrapped, whether that means helping in post, showing up for promotion, or saying yes when your name is called again.
You never know which project is going to take off, or who is going to open a door for you down the line. That assistant you brushed off today might be running a studio tomorrow. That “small” indie you dismissed could end up on the awards circuit. Every single job is an opportunity to prove yourself, build connections, and show people that you’re reliable.
Hollywood Has an Elephant’s Memory
This industry doesn’t forget. Ever. And that’s both good and bad. If you’re loyal, hard-working, and dependable, people will remember you — and often, that reputation will get you hired over someone who might even be “more talented.” On the flip side? If you’re flaky, arrogant, or quick to jump ship, you’ll be remembered for that too. And second chances? They’re rare.
I’ve seen lists — literal lists — kept by producers, directors, and executives of people who’ve burned them. Some of those “slights” happened decades ago, back when those folks were just assistants or PAs. And you know what? They never forgot.
Forget the Malibu Dream (For Now)
Not every indie film is going to make $10 million and hand you a house in Malibu with back-end points. Don’t bet on the quick score. Bet on the work. Bet on your reputation. Bet on loyalty. That’s how you build a career with longevity instead of a flash in the pan.
In the film industry, loyalty often outweighs talent. Show up prepared, be present, respect every role, and treat each job like it could be the one that changes your career.
Because at the end of the day, this industry thrives on collaboration, trust, and relationships. And if you can show people that you’re the kind of person they can count on, doors will open — sometimes in ways you never imagined.
So, yeah. Talent matters. But loyalty? That’s the secret weapon nobody talks about. And it just might be the thing that gets you exactly where you want to go.
