A casting assistant finds suitable actors for TV and film roles by reading scripts, contacting agents, assisting with auditions, and keeping records. They analyze scenes, discuss with producers and directors, and record auditions for review. Their job ends once contracts are signed.
A casting assistant plays an essential role in acquiring actors in both television and film. Ultimately, it’s your job to find the most talented and suitable actors for television and film roles. While every job is a little different, the primary duties of a casting assistant are basically the same. This includes reading scripts and finding suitable actors to fill roles, contacting and negotiating with actors’ agents, assisting with auditions, and keeping actor records.
Generally, a casting assistant’s first responsibility for every job is to read the script for a television series or movie. During that time he will analyze each scene and get an idea of what kind of actor each role needs. He usually starts with a rough idea in mind and gradually narrows it down until he has a list of ideal actors. Once the casting assistant knows which actors are best suited for the production, he will usually discuss this information with the producers and director. During this time, he will ensure that everyone is on the same page and work out other details about roles.
Once the initial phases of this process are completed, it is the casting assistant’s responsibility to contact the agents of the actors he has in mind. At this stage, he will check the availability and interest of each actor in the production. He will also talk about contractual agreements and set audition times for each actor.
During the audition period, the casting assistant’s job is to provide all actors with scripts and any other information pertinent to the role. From there it will be part of the screen testing process and will typically run the camera for each audition. It will record each actor’s performance from a selected scene, to be reviewed by the director and producers later. It is also his responsibility to set up catering services and provide the actors with refreshments.
After all the actors have auditioned, the casting assistant will record any important information about each actor. Unless the actor is extremely well known, he too will keep a headshot and carry on. Once he has this information, the casting assistant will send the audition tapes along with other relevant information to the director and producers. At that point, most of the work is complete, and the director and producer will finalize the rest of the casting process. Once all the actors are given contracts, the casting assistant’s work is complete and he will move on to the next task.
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