Columbia Casting Calls

Actor/Musician Casting Call – Project “Songwriting”

Job Description
A short film project titled Songwriting is now casting talented actors and musicians to portray two emotionally complex lead roles. This character-driven story centers on a couple navigating love, fear, and creative expression during a pivotal dinner conversation. Performers will have the opportunity to collaborate in an intimate, music-centered narrative exploring art, vulnerability, and connection.

Job Responsibilities

• Bring emotional depth and authenticity to dramatic, dialogue-heavy scenes.

• Collaborate closely with the director to capture the creative and musical tone of the story.

• For musicians, perform live or simulated music in scenes requiring instrumental talent.

• Participate in rehearsals and follow direction on set.

Requirements

• Hendrix (Male, 20s–30s): A quiet, avoidant musical genius—sensitive, inward, and yearning to believe in love. Must play an instrument.

• Kendra (Female, 20s–30s): Sophisticated, confident, and raised with privilege. Sharp and in control but secretly afraid of vulnerability.

• Must be professional, reliable, and collaborative on set.

Compensation

• $50 per day, plus credit and copy.

Casting Call for Short Film – “Plantasy”

Job Description
A horror sci-fi comedy short film is seeking talented actors for a one-day shoot. The story follows a botanist who leaves for an expedition, entrusting her carefree boyfriend to look after a mysterious plant that begins developing a mind of its own. This project offers a unique blend of humor, tension, and surreal storytelling.

Job Responsibilities

• Bring dynamic and emotionally authentic performances to character-driven roles

• Collaborate closely with the director and creative team to capture the film’s tone

• Participate in rehearsals and perform during the scheduled shoot day

Requirements

• Lynn (20s/30s): Intelligent, compassionate, and bubbly, yet naive about her boyfriend’s immaturity. A modern-day hippie who loves all living things.

• Garson (20s/30s): The definition of male hedonism—lazy, charming, and self-indulgent. Smokes indoors, drinks beer, and plays video games all night.

• The Plant (voice role): A sentient plant that doesn’t understand the world or itself. Speaks with emotional complexity as it grows attached to Lynn and lashes out at Garson.

• Prop Designer: Creative individual to help design and build “The Plant” and its vines.

Compensation

• Credit and copy provided

“Hell’s Door” Short Film – Casting in Chicago, IL

Job Description:
A Columbia College Chicago Directing II short film is now casting for Hell’s Door, a gripping period drama set in the late 1970s. The story follows a determined Black mother and her young son as they face a terrifying choice during a deadly blizzard — flee or fight when a demonic creature threatens their home.

Job Responsibilities:

• Bring authenticity and emotional depth to the film’s dramatic and suspenseful scenes

• Collaborate closely with the director and crew to bring the vision to life

• Participate in a full-day shoot, following all production schedules and directions

• Engage in a period-accurate performance set in the 1970s

Requirements:

• Talent must be local to Chicago, IL

• Must be available for the scheduled shoot date

• Open to actors comfortable working in emotionally intense and suspenseful scenes

Compensation:

• Credit

• Copy of film

• Meals provided