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| Version | User | Scope of changes |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 2007, 7:38 PM EDT (current) | TomySky | 1 word added, 1 word deleted |
| Aug 15 2007, 7:37 PM EDT | TomySky | 490 words added |
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In low-budget films, it is often the cast who determine the shoot schedule. Since you're not paying them and they are merely doing this because they like you (for now), you can't tell them when they will be on set. You will ask. This will play a major role in your ShedulingScheduling. So, who are you going to get?
My first suggestion is that you cast everyone who is interested in working with you on this film first. Pretend that someone actually said, "Hey, I'd like to help you make that movie." If they were serious, find a role that fits them. People who are excited to help out will be more committed and also more likely to put their effort into the acting. Let me give you an example:
I once cast a girl who said she was "willing" to play the part. Whenever she was on screen, she looked like she would rather be dead than working on my film. It turned out to be rather funny, especially since the guy I cast really was into the whole acting thing. The difference between the two of them was night and day, and the only difference was that he wanted to be there, and she didn't.
If you don't have anyone particularly interested in helping you out, go to your friends and acquaintances. Tell them about your movie and the character you would love to have them play. When people hear you want them, they are more likely to at least consider helping you out.
(NB: This is a great excuse to talk to that cute person of the opposite gender. Besides, even if they don't know who you are, it's about time you started talking to them because you've known their name for over a year. And, hey, I got to know my wife while working on a film set... so it is possible!)
If these two methods fail you, you may want to seriously consider dropping/combining some characters (I really don't think you should have 47 characters in a 5-10 page script anyway). But if you really need that janitor guy to mop the floors and every person, friend, or relative has shot you down, you do have options. There are some publications that list actors looking for work (if you're in California, at least... but I don't know if elsewhere. Of course, I'm not in California, so I'd stick with friends). You could also try calling acting agencies and see if they have any suggestions. Believe it or not, some actors are so desperate for gigs, they may actually come help you out for nothing more than a fast-food lunch.
A note about using "real" actors: Treat them well. Treat everyone who helps you out well, for that matter. But remember that these people are trying to actually make money, so be considerate of their time and schedule them for as few days as possible.
My first suggestion is that you cast everyone who is interested in working with you on this film first. Pretend that someone actually said, "Hey, I'd like to help you make that movie." If they were serious, find a role that fits them. People who are excited to help out will be more committed and also more likely to put their effort into the acting. Let me give you an example:
I once cast a girl who said she was "willing" to play the part. Whenever she was on screen, she looked like she would rather be dead than working on my film. It turned out to be rather funny, especially since the guy I cast really was into the whole acting thing. The difference between the two of them was night and day, and the only difference was that he wanted to be there, and she didn't.
If you don't have anyone particularly interested in helping you out, go to your friends and acquaintances. Tell them about your movie and the character you would love to have them play. When people hear you want them, they are more likely to at least consider helping you out.
(NB: This is a great excuse to talk to that cute person of the opposite gender. Besides, even if they don't know who you are, it's about time you started talking to them because you've known their name for over a year. And, hey, I got to know my wife while working on a film set... so it is possible!)
If these two methods fail you, you may want to seriously consider dropping/combining some characters (I really don't think you should have 47 characters in a 5-10 page script anyway). But if you really need that janitor guy to mop the floors and every person, friend, or relative has shot you down, you do have options. There are some publications that list actors looking for work (if you're in California, at least... but I don't know if elsewhere. Of course, I'm not in California, so I'd stick with friends). You could also try calling acting agencies and see if they have any suggestions. Believe it or not, some actors are so desperate for gigs, they may actually come help you out for nothing more than a fast-food lunch.
A note about using "real" actors: Treat them well. Treat everyone who helps you out well, for that matter. But remember that these people are trying to actually make money, so be considerate of their time and schedule them for as few days as possible.
