Casting calls

Definition

Casting calls are events or notices where filmmakers, directors, or producers invite actors to audition for roles in a production. These calls are critical in pre-production, as they help identify and select the right talent to bring a script to life, influencing the overall quality and success of the project.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Casting calls can be open to the public or by invitation only, depending on the needs of the production.
2. They often include specific requirements for roles, such as age, gender, and acting experience, helping narrow down suitable candidates.
3. Casting calls can take various forms, including in-person auditions, self-taped submissions, or online casting platforms.
4. In addition to acting skills, casting directors often look for a certain chemistry between actors during group auditions or chemistry reads.
5. The casting process can significantly impact a project's production timeline; thus, efficient casting calls are essential for staying on schedule.

Review Questions

• What is the significance of casting calls in the pre-production phase of film or television projects?
  • Casting calls play a crucial role in pre-production as they allow directors and producers to find the right talent needed for their projects. By inviting actors to audition, they can assess various performances and select individuals who best fit their vision for the characters. This process not only shapes the cast but also has a direct influence on the overall quality of the production.
• How do casting calls differ based on whether they are open or invitation-only, and what implications does this have for actors?
  • Open casting calls allow any actor to audition without prior invitations, promoting inclusivity and access to opportunities. In contrast, invitation-only casting calls limit participation to selected actors, often based on prior work or specific attributes. This distinction impacts actors' chances of being cast, as open calls can lead to more competition while invitation-only sessions may favor those with established connections or reputations.
• Evaluate how the use of technology has changed the landscape of casting calls and auditions in recent years.
  • The rise of technology has dramatically transformed casting calls and auditions through online platforms and self-taped submissions. Actors can now submit audition videos from anywhere, increasing accessibility and convenience. This shift allows casting directors to review a broader range of talent more efficiently but also raises challenges regarding the quality control and authenticity of submissions. Ultimately, technology has streamlined processes but also created a more competitive environment for actors.

Related terms

audition: A performance by an actor in front of casting directors or producers to showcase their skills for a specific role.

casting director:

A professional responsible for selecting actors for roles in film, television, and theater productions.

headshot: A professional photograph of an actor used during casting to help casting directors remember and assess the actor's appearance.