Stephen David Entertainment

"How does the film casting process actually work?" is a question that as professional agents and directors we are often asked: whether by up-and-coming actors seeking jobs, or by new directors and producers. In this post, we hope to provide a solid insight into the process and give some guidance as to what casting directors, producers and directors needs to be aiming to achieve from the process.

The Casting Process

Let's begin by saying that there is no definitive solution to the question. Projects vary greatly, just as budgets, cast requirements and time-scales. But there are fundamental elements important to note which we think will be helpful to both directors and producers.

Talent Agencies

Briefing the Casting Director

Likely the single most important part of the process is the briefing of your casting director. Any director worth his salt will curently have a clear vision for his film. Hopefully this is the one shared with his producer. That vision has to be effectively communicated towards the CD, who having browse the script can be of inestimable help out with identifying potential casting problems. It's not at all uncommon for a key character to feel underwritten and to disappear for a significant amount of a script. Not helpful if you are hoping for a 'name'. Sometimes a lack of sympathy or redemption can make a part unattractive; any casting 'black hole. ' Tune in to your casting director. They're able to identify these problems. If lead actors consistently miss a script, you will find there's reason.

Key Things to ask…

As a director/producer you may currently have strong casting ideas. Are these consistent with your budget? Are they realistic? Don't become too wedded for an idea. Is that actor actually available? Is it something they would consider? Your casting director is best placed to know or find out for you.

Meeting the talent!

When it comes to meeting actors, the director is in charge of setting the tone from the meeting. It is important that he engages with all the actor, is forthcoming and provide notes. If an actor is motivated to read again, then make it clear what it is you require from them. Will the scene you have supply the actor give sufficient chance to show light and shade. Develop a comprehension of mood. Actors shouldn't ought to jump through hoops. If you're absent from a session and therefore are viewing tapes, believe in CD to elicit the best performance from the actor and do not make rash judgements.

Producers in many cases are guilty of arbitrary objections determined by hair length or shirt colour. Never forget the actor is giving a reading, not just a performance. If you don't just like a particular actor, fair enough but always have good reasons for your decisions.

Be confident in your decisions plus your script!

It is a frequent misconception that everybody is desperate to develop your project and will keep themselves available indefinitely. Sadly this really is rarely the case. Agents could well be juggling projects for clients and there is always the potential of something better approaching. If an actor really loves a script then better the possibility you have of getting him aboard. It is a mistake to throw money at somebody with the aspiration that they will say yes. Money becomes a concern in negotiation if deep down they are not really bothered if they do the job or not. Be guided from your
CD.

The casting process will be as simple or as complicated as you wish to make it. It is the job with the casting director to facilitate that process in a thorough and creative way. However they must always be given clear thoughts, up -to- date information and trust, to have this. As a director/producer, idea hard to let go!

Though trust, whether it is locating the perfect lead, or discovering a thrilling new talent the casting director can play a pivotal role in giving your movie balance - and thus the film has a much greater probability of success!