What do actors drink instead of alcohol?

Answered by Tom Adger

In movies, actors often drink substitutes for alcohol to create the illusion of consuming alcoholic beverages without actually consuming alcohol. There are several options that filmmakers use to replace alcohol on set.

One common substitute for mixed drinks and cocktails is colored dyes in flat or sparkling water. By adding different colored dyes to water, filmmakers can create the appearance of various alcoholic beverages such as vodka, whiskey, or tequila. The dyes mimic the colors of these drinks, giving the actors something visually similar to drink on camera. This allows for realistic-looking scenes without the actors having to consume actual alcohol.

Another substitute for alcohol, particularly wine, is juice. Cranberry, apple, pomegranate, blueberry, grape, and blackcurrant juices are often used to replicate the appearance of wine in movies. These juices have similar colors to different types of wine, allowing actors to appear as though they are drinking wine on screen. By using juice instead of actual wine, actors can avoid the effects of alcohol and maintain their performance throughout filming.

When it comes to champagne, ginger ale or a mixture of sodas is often used as a substitute. These carbonated beverages can mimic the appearance and bubbles of champagne, creating the illusion of actors drinking champagne without actually consuming alcohol. Ginger ale is a popular choice because its golden color resembles champagne, while the fizziness adds to the realism.

In addition to these substitutes, there are other tricks filmmakers use to create the illusion of drinking alcohol. Sometimes, actors may simply pretend to sip the drink without actually consuming any liquid. They may also use empty or partially filled glasses to give the impression of drinking.

It is worth noting that while these substitutes are commonly used, there may be instances where actors do consume alcohol on set. However, even in these cases, the alcohol content is often minimized or diluted to ensure the actors’ safety and performance.

The use of substitutes for alcohol in movies allows actors to portray the consumption of alcoholic beverages realistically without the potential risks and effects of actual alcohol consumption. These alternatives provide a safe and controlled environment for filming while maintaining the desired visual effect on screen.