So you're excited about an upcoming movie, tv series or short film project?! I hope these tips provide insight to to bring forth your best to stand out from the crowds in a meaningful way to the casting team!
Do your research on the project, storyline and producing team. Visit the website, social media accounts, IMDB. See if you know anyone already attached. This alone may give you a gut feel if the project will resonate with you.
If you have an agent, check with them BEFORE submitting yourself for a role. Clarify your agent agreement permits actor direct submissions. And if they "allow" direct communications with the Producing team. Ask the project how Agent Fees are calculated - are they taken from your acting rate, or added on top of the rate.
If you are invited to run lines / audition - this is equally about how you as an Actor will get along with the Producer / Director. How well you take direction, know your character from materials provided, how prepared you are for the audition, etc. Ask questions about character, story - it's expected.
Don't be distracted during the audition. I had one guy working on a wood project with power tools while attempting to speak with me about a role. Yikes!
Reserve your questions regarding rate / payment until the follow up with you or your agent.
Blurting out within 5 minutes of the audition "What's the rate?!" may set an unfavorable tone.
Personally I want to know if someone has done their homework and is prepared. The audition is not the time to offer script notes on character or story to the production team. They know the story inside and out, how the characters intertwine and all nuances within. You do not at this stage.
Collaboration is always key to the success of a project. However, be respectful of the Producer / Director roles and their vision for the story and the many moving parts behind the scenes you are not privy to. This is where professionalism, trust and mutual respect take a front seat. If you decline to audition, don't be surprised if you are passed over for a project. Let go of ego and have some fun!
And finally - the industry is changing at a rapid pace with more and more projects electing to forgo union contracts and their high fees. You must be very honest with yourself - are you 100% on board if the project is non-union?
If you are on the fence, you may unknowingly bring an air of mistrust to set which does not help with a cohesive production. Ask viable questions - stay balanced and professional; and steer clear of becoming defensive or argumentative regarding "industry standard".
Questions to ask a non-union production, and frankly also union projects AFTER you are offered a role to include but not limited to:
1. Is there a safety officer and safety plan in place?
2. For child actors / parents - what steps have been taken to ensure the safety and overall wellbeing of child actors during production? Be honest parents, are you prepared to do your part on set? It is your responsibility to stay within ear and eye shot of your child at all times, this includes taking them to the restroom, meals, etc. Please unplug from your phone or other distractions. And NEVER allow your child to be alone on set with anyone!
3. What does the schedule look like? Hours, days off. Overnights?
4. Meals, breaks - are nutritious meals included? Breakfast, lunch, dinner?
4. Payment - is this a contract 1099 role or a W2 role? How often and how do actors and crew receive payment? Do actors and crew track hours worked on set?
5. How are discrimination and sexual harassment claims handled? Is there a zero tolerance policy?
There are hundreds of questions that can be asked, to include does the Production have a Manual that covers all areas of safety and wellness during a production? And are all cast and crew members required to sign off to acknowledge these policies?
With 15 years in the technical recruiting and executive staffing profession and over 10 years in the independent film industry - these are common areas to address to ensure a successful audition and memorable time on set!
Happy Filming!
Andrea M Clarke
Producer, Director, Writer
コメント