Casting Guideposts for Directors
If you feel like someone is the best fit, even though you can’t quite put a finger on why that feeling is still valid.
Ahh casting. The easiest, most simplified aspect of any production, am I right? No, but seriously, casting can be really difficult. Add on the pressure that they say 90% of good directing is good casting, and you’re in for a pretty stressful round of decision making. So whether you’re a director or not, if you’re participating in the casting process you’ll want to check out this nifty little list of Casting Guideposts for Directors we’ve compiled. Sorry for leaving you out of the title, gotta keep things succinct, you know?
You can make a good actor look pretty, but you can’t make a bad actor not stink.
Isn’t that funny and clever? And the best part about that statement is that it’s TRUE.
Trust your gut.
If you feel like someone is the best fit, even though you can’t quite put a finger on why that feeling is still valid. Someone may just have a really good energy that you vibe with or a very subtle mannerism that fits well with the part. In making casting choices (or any choice in life, really) it can sometimes be difficult not to overthink things. However, we’re here to tell you that what you felt initially probably has some validity to
Kindness counts.
And remember the golden rule! Or something like that. And we’re not talking about the actors with this one, we’re talking about YOU. Now it may seem strange to have something that’s directed solely towards you on this list, but this is probably one of the most important suggestions you can give. If you create a positive, welcoming environment during your casting process, all actors auditioning will feel more comfortable and will have a better opportunity to show you their very best. Aside from even that though, your reputation as a director can influence whether or not people will want to come audition for or work with you again. Being professional, understanding, and kind in your interactions with actors while casting is a big thing. We’re not saying you need to hand out chocolates and daisies, but trying to avoid being a total jerk is probably a good thing.
If you were stranded on a desert island, and you could only bring this actor…would you lose your will to live?
Alright, now back to actors and the actual making of casting decisions. We’ve talked about looks and talent, but another important element in casting is the actor’s personality and
If you create a positive, welcoming environment during your casting process, all actors auditioning will feel more comfortable.
Sources for this article
Photos on Unsplash.
Well, that’s all folks! What other tips and tricks do you have when it comes to casting? Any foolproof approaches that work for you? We’d love to hear your thoughts; please comment below!
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