Film Auditions 101

You maybe thinking that the easiest way to break into Hollywood is by wowing the director or casting agent with a suave persona and overacting, the film audition process is much more than this. A film audition is where an assembled group of actors/actresses to “try out” for the leading role or another role that is being cast for a major motion picture.

Starting right with film auditions

Most film auditions are posted via casting notices, these notices will describe in detail about the character they want to portray as well as the feature or disposition they see their character. Casting notices will also explain the date, time and location where the film auditions are being held. Some auditions are by private invitation via their agent. It is your job to be ready for when they call your name and say “Action!”

To prepare for film auditions keep the dress casual, yet conservative. Have a photographer take a current headshot photo of you. This photo is usually 8x10 and you can print your resume on back of the photo or attach a resume to it. Remember to choose a picture that looks like you right now. Pick an outfit that makes you feel good and do your best to show your talents of your personality and not so much the body parts you may want to expose. There will be a casting agent, producer, director as well as other actors that were cast previously. Be courteous and humble to everyone, as you may not know whom you may be talking to in the process.

During the film audition, a part of a script will be rationed for you to act out. Sometimes there is another reader to help keep the conversation up-tempo. It’s up to you to “hit the lines” as best as you can. Upon completion you may be asked about previous assignments and your availability should you receive the role. You will never be asked how much money you want. Negotiations will be made at another place and time. This is not that time.

Some actors in the past won their film auditions by being themselves. Actors can bring a presence or charisma that someone may get a twinkle of during the audition. This is why most film auditions are videotaped. Perhaps it may capture a moment they think properly reflects this character.

Not all film auditions warranted a good read. Actress Kate Winslet read the script for Titanic and knew she was destined to play the part of “Rose”. She actually found director James Cameron and continued to hound him that she was the chosen one to portray this character. Upon reviewing various auditions Winslet’s views won out and the actress would play one of the greatest roles in movie history. If it weren’t for her tenacious blood thirst for this role, perhaps she would not have won the honors. Prior to this film she waded among obscurity until its release and she “rose” to stardom.

After having various characters try for the part of Han Solo, director and producer of Star Wars, George Lucas found himself at a loss. He immediately knew an actor who was performing some menial carpenter duties in the next office over. He called over to Harrison Ford and asked him if he would mind reading along for the other actors”. Needless to say, Harrison Ford’s ability to read and intermingle with the other readers won him the part of Han Solo and opened up a slew of other opportunities that would make him one of the leading actors for the past twenty-five years.

In order to get into an audition, you have to find a film audition. The best place to look for casting notices are in the local theatre, newspaper, trade papers, and the Internet. There are so many opportunities to find a role that you would benefit for looking for more than one audition. Don’t sit and wait around for phone calls keep looking. If you really want to act in show business, you must be willing to work in any part of the film industry to get involved.