Showbiz Kids (HBO)

About Showbiz Kids (HBO)

Showbiz Kids is a 2020 HBO documentary directed by former child actor Alex Winter. The movie provides an in-depth look at the highs, lows, and harsh realities of navigating Hollywood as a child star. The film juxtaposes interview footage from several famous individuals who spent their formative years in the limelight, presenting a compelling analysis of both the pros and cons of early fame.

Making / Production

The documentary is produced by Bill and Ted star Alex Winter, with Glen Zipper as executive producer. The project is a far-reaching exploration that includes firsthand accounts from actors who lived through these experiences, alongside professional analysis from psychologists and specialists in the field of childhood development.

Actors

• Evan Rachel Wood - Wood talks candidly about her experiences as a child actor, offering an honest and often heartbreaking look at the challenges she faced.
• Henry Thomas - Famous for his role in E.T, Thomas provides a well-rounded perspective of a young star's exposure to the harsh realities of fame.
• Wil Wheaton - Known for his role in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Wheaton shares intriguing insights about growing up amidst the pressures of Hollywood.
• Mara Wilson - Having starred in Matilda among other films as a child, Wilson offers a unique viewpoint on the early success and its impact on her personal and professional life.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Director Alex Winter started acting at the age of 13 and used his firsthand experience to help shape the narrative of Showbiz Kids.
• Actor Henry Thomas auditioned for E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial when he was just nine years old.
• Despite common perceptions, not all child actors 'go off the rails' – many transition smoothly into their adult lives and careers.

Quotes

• "I didn't even know who I was when I wasn't working" – Evan Rachel Wood.
• "There's no regard for us as people" – Mara Wilson.
• "It's a very hard thing to navigate" – Henry Thomas.

Music, Soundtrack

• Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes" was used prominently in the promotional material for the film.
• Alex Winter collaborated with acclaimed composer Peter Nashel on the film’s score to create a moving, emotional backdrop to this powerful exploration of early fame.