Casting for your own film is tough, even when you do find actors, they may bail or become unreliable. Here are some tips to help with finding actors for your film.
- Passion! Be sure your actors aren't just your friends or neighbors(unless they're actors), find someone that is an aspiring actor that could use the experience.
- Show previous works or create a quick reel to show the quality of your work. Many actors may be interested in your story, but once they realize you may be a student, they may think the quality of your work may not be good and not even contact you back from their assumptions. Actors may become more excited once they know you produce good quality work.
- Casting websites. Check out Mandy.com, Backstage.com, Actorsequity.org, and in last resort, Craigslist.
- Be cautious! Let's be real, as needy as we are for actors, you may encounter a few delusional crazies that could in turn ruin your film and cause a problem. Interview your actors, really check out their backgrounds, and if you can afford it, run background checks.
Casting is pretty tough from finding the right look, to being sure they will show up on time and ready to shoot. Use a personal release form when dealing with actors and to protect yourself in some legal situations. Stay consistent with your agreements. If you promised a type of compensation be sure to follow through with it. Be honest. If you aren't a big movie director, they'll only find out when it comes to shooting and that will make them want to bail as well. Realize that the sky is the limit, let your actors know your plans after you're done with the film. Distribute it. If aspiring actors know the film will be seen more than just on Youtube or Vimeo they will be more excited in learning there may be some recognition after they give their all into it.
These tips can really help when casting your film and make planning go smoother.
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Filmmaking tips
