Good performances can make or break a movie, TV show or commercial. But before the cast get to deliver their first on screen lines, they have first to face – and win – the challenge of the auditioning, or casting processes.
The first step of finding actors who match the description of each role – like gender, screen age, ethnicity, physical description and special skills – is relatively simple. The real trick is to see which of these actors can give the performance that best suits the role, the script and the director’s intentions.
We asked top casting director Michelle Bradshaw, who comes from an acting background herself, how she gets the best from performers who come to her castings.
Michelle says: “The most important thing for any casting director or director is to make the actor feel at ease. Auditions are the cruellest process for any actor, as they are generally riddled with nerves. Allowing them rehearsals and a chance to redo takes eliminates their nervous tension, and creates an opportunity for a true reflection of the performer’s talent to be revealed. First and third takes are often surprisingly and vastly different, so never just dismiss an artist on the first take.
I find that imposing your thoughts or character restrictions on the actor doesn’t allow for an inspired or free performance from the actor – they worry more about “getting it right” or “doing what is expected” rather than living and playing in the moment, which is stifling and will never bring about anything fresh. Allow the lines and performance to be a true expression of what the artist has to bring instead of imposing too many guidelines – that can all come later. Watch for life, solid instincts and potential first.”
Casting is, of course, one of the first steps in a production process. To discuss a casting for your project filmed in Southern Africa – (South Africa, Namibia and Mauritius), please feel free to email Glo Films.
Getting a great cast
Good performances can make or break a movie, TV show or commercial. But before the cast get to deliver their first on screen lines, they have first to face – and win – the challenge of the auditioning, or casting processes.
The first step of finding actors who match the description of each role – like gender, screen age, ethnicity, physical description and special skills – is relatively simple. The real trick is to see which of these actors can give the performance that best suits the role, the script and the director’s intentions.
We asked top casting director Michelle Bradshaw, who comes from an acting background herself, how she gets the best from performers who come to her castings.
Michelle says: “The most important thing for any casting director or director is to make the actor feel at ease. Auditions are the cruellest process for any actor, as they are generally riddled with nerves. Allowing them rehearsals and a chance to redo takes eliminates their nervous tension, and creates an opportunity for a true reflection of the performer’s talent to be revealed. First and third takes are often surprisingly and vastly different, so never just dismiss an artist on the first take.
I find that imposing your thoughts or character restrictions on the actor doesn’t allow for an inspired or free performance from the actor – they worry more about “getting it right” or “doing what is expected” rather than living and playing in the moment, which is stifling and will never bring about anything fresh. Allow the lines and performance to be a true expression of what the artist has to bring instead of imposing too many guidelines – that can all come later. Watch for life, solid instincts and potential first.”
Casting is, of course, one of the first steps in a production process. To discuss a casting for your project filmed in Southern Africa – (South Africa, Namibia and Mauritius), please feel free to email Glo Films.