July 6: There are many reasons a filmmaker should hire a casting director, especially if they have the budget to do so. Casting directors act as a bridge between actors and filmmakers and specialize in locating the best possible fit for all the characters in your production. However, if there are budget constraints here are a few tips shared by Shivamrut producer, Mayur Gharat, that will surely help navigate the casting process.
Script of Casting -The part or scene you provide for the casting should give the actor a possibility to show what he/ she is capable of. It shouldn’t be too long or extremely emotional.
Ask for self-tapes from actors- Do not forget to ask for those who would like to submit self-taped auditions. You have a busy schedule. Many actors have busy schedules and some stay in different locations. Self-tapes are a great way to weed out the ones that do not match your expectations.
Record the casting session - Make sure to record the casting sessions on camera. First, you’ll most likely want to rewatch the tapes calmly afterward. Second, you need to see how an actor can work on camera. Making a choice may be hard. If you’re in doubt, review the casting tapes.
Always take notes - Write down the first things that attract you to an actor’s performance. You might forget their names, faces, and performances if you have any auditions lined up and your notes will help recollect minute details about the auditions that you notice.
Attach talent to attract other talents - When you attempt to cast known talent, it is usually to raise the profile and budget of your project. While it is difficult to break into the rarified air of movie stardom, if you do, your project immediately becomes something of note and financial worth.
Making choice -Choose in favour of the talent who are flexible, take direction, looks and act convincingly, evoking an emotional response in you. Have an A and B-choice for each part.
Evaluating Chemistry -Do a call back to see the best candidates again and this time put them in a scene in pairs to see how they act against each other. No matter how good they are separate, if they have no chemistry together, the movie will just not work out.
Use these tips for your next project and you are set to find the perfect match for the characters and a great cast for your film.
