Casting Call for Paid Actors for Independent Film

Actors & Extras for Short Film

Job Description

A new short film is casting talented actors and extras for an exciting independent production. This filmmaking opportunity is seeking kids, teens, and adult performers to help bring a creative vision to life. Whether you’re an experienced actor or looking to gain on-set experience, this project offers a welcoming environment where performers can collaborate, build their resumes, and contribute to an inspiring film production.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform assigned roles in a short film production
• Participate in rehearsals, auditions, and filming as scheduled
• Follow direction from the director and production team
• Collaborate professionally with cast and crew members
• Help bring characters and scenes to life through authentic performances

Requirements

• Kids ages 7–16 encouraged to apply for youth roles
• Men and women ages 35–50 encouraged to apply for adult roles
• Extras of various ages and backgrounds welcome
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Passion for acting, filmmaking, and storytelling
• Reliable and able to follow production instructions

Compensation

• IMDb credit
• Resume-building experience
• Opportunity to gain acting and filmmaking experience
• Professional networking opportunities
• Fun and creative production environment

Actors for Short Film “Below Surface”

Job Description

An independent short film is casting multiple speaking and featured roles for a dramatic narrative project filming in the Chicagoland area. This non-union production is seeking talented actors who can bring emotional depth, authenticity, and complexity to a story centered on relationships, personal struggles, and transformative life experiences. Opportunities are available for both lead and featured performers across a variety of age ranges.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform scripted scenes in an independent short film
• Collaborate with the director and fellow cast members
• Attend rehearsals, auditions, callbacks, and filming dates as scheduled
• Bring emotional authenticity and character depth to performances
• Follow production direction and maintain professionalism on set

Requirements

• Open to non-union actors
• Strong acting and storytelling abilities
• Comfortable performing emotionally driven material
• Must be available for rehearsals and filming in the Chicagoland area
• Professional headshot or recent photo required
• Ability to take direction and work collaboratively

Roles

• Jane Madeleine – Female, ages 20–38. A successful lawyer with a savior complex, driven by ambition and perfectionism while struggling with deep emotional challenges.
• Officer Barlow – Male, ages 30–55. A compassionate homicide detective known for his patience, empathy, and determination to uncover the truth.
• Emerson – White Female, ages 20–35. Charismatic and affectionate, yet carrying unresolved frustrations beneath her outward charm. Role includes a kissing scene and wardrobe consistent with swimwear or undergarments on a closed set.
• Lillian – Female, ages 5–20. A pivotal character connected to an important case, requiring strong nonverbal emotional expression.
• Young Janie – Female, ages 5–20. A thoughtful and observant child featured in a significant flashback sequence. No dialogue.
• Young Emerson – Female, ages 5–20. A bright and outgoing child appearing in a featured flashback role. No dialogue.
• Party Guest / Other Woman – Female, ages 18–35. Appears in a pivotal flashback sequence and includes brief on-screen intimacy (kissing).

Compensation

• Copy, credit, and meals provided
• Lead and featured role opportunities
• Professional independent film experience
• Valuable footage for actor reels
• Collaboration with an emerging filmmaking team

Job Description

A non-union independent film based on a true story is seeking actors for multiple paid, deferred-compensation roles in What Remains of Me. The story follows a troubled man confronting the consequences of his past as memories of a failed robbery and arrest resurface. Producers are looking for talented performers capable of delivering authentic, emotionally driven performances.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray assigned characters in a dramatic narrative film.
• Attend rehearsals and filming as scheduled.
• Follow direction from the director and production team.
• Deliver believable and emotionally compelling performances.
• Collaborate professionally with cast and crew members.

Available Roles

Robert (Lead)

• Male, ages 25–35.
• African American preferred (open to all strong submissions).
• Must deliver an intense, layered performance.
• Significant screen time.
• Strong emotional depth and ability to portray internal conflict.

Store Clerk

• Any gender.
• Age 40+.
• All ethnicities welcome.

Customer #1

• Any gender.
• Ages 18–50.

Customer #2 (Optional)

• Any gender.
• Ages 18–50.

Officer #1

• Any gender.
• Ages 35–50.
• All ethnicities welcome.

Officer #2

• Any gender.
• Ages 35–50.
• All ethnicities welcome.

Requirements

• Previous acting experience preferred.
• Ability to portray realistic dramatic characters.
• Professional attitude and reliability.
• Submit required application materials for consideration.

Compensation Details

• Non-union production.
• Paid, deferred compensation.
• Additional compensation details will be provided to selected talent.

Job Description

An independent film production is seeking background performers for an upcoming motion picture filming in Ashland. This is an opportunity for aspiring and experienced actors to gain on-set experience while participating in a feature film production. In addition to background roles, the production is also actively seeking talent for principal and supporting roles.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform as a background actor in various film scenes.
• Follow direction from the director and production team.
• Maintain continuity and professionalism during filming.
• Arrive prepared and available for the full filming schedule.
• Complete required production paperwork and release forms.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be available for the full filming window.
• Must complete a production release form.
• Actors are encouraged to bring a current headshot and résumé.
• Previous acting experience is helpful but not required.

Compensation Details

• Compensation details were not provided.
• Opportunity to gain experience on an independent film production.
• Consideration may also be given for principal and supporting roles.

Job Description

A dramatic film project is holding an open casting call for a closed Zoom table read. The story follows a grieving artist who seeks refuge with her estranged sister after losing the chance to say goodbye to her mother. As she confronts haunting visions of what could have been, she must decide whether to forgive herself or risk losing the only family she has left.

Producers are seeking talented actors interested in participating in a virtual table read and collaborating on a character-driven dramatic project.

Job Responsibilities

• Participate in a virtual table read via Zoom.
• Read scripted dialogue and perform assigned characters.
• Collaborate with writers, directors, and fellow cast members.
• Help bring the story and characters to life during the reading.
• Attend scheduled rehearsals or discussions if requested.

Requirements

• Acting experience preferred but not required.
• Strong reading and performance skills.
• Access to a reliable internet connection and Zoom.
• Must submit a résumé, headshot, and reel link for consideration.
• Ability to participate in a virtual table read environment.

Compensation Details

• Compensation details were not provided.
• Opportunity to collaborate with filmmakers and industry professionals.
• Valuable script reading and networking experience.

Lead Roles for Short Film “Forgotten Words”

Job Description

An independent short film is casting lead actors for a heartfelt drama centered on family, caregiving, and the emotional impact of Alzheimer’s disease. The story follows a devoted caretaker struggling to support his father as memory loss reshapes their relationship and family dynamic. Production is seeking talented performers to bring depth, authenticity, and emotional range to these powerful lead roles. Union and non-union actors are welcome to apply.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray a lead character in an independent short film
• Participate in rehearsals and principal photography
• Deliver emotionally compelling performances
• Collaborate closely with the director and cast
• Attend all scheduled production activities
• Bring authenticity and depth to character-driven scenes

Requirements

• Actors with strong dramatic acting abilities
• Open to union and non-union talent
• Must be able to work as a local hire in the New York area
• Comfortable performing emotionally complex material
• Available for rehearsals and filming as scheduled

Roles

• Will – Male, ages 35–45, any ethnicity. A devoted caretaker and family man carrying the emotional weight of caring for his father as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
• Alan – Male, ages 65–85, any ethnicity. A resilient and introspective father facing the challenges of memory loss while reflecting on a life filled with love, family, and personal growth.
• Additional roles may be available for qualified talent.

Compensation

• $150 per day
• Copy, credit, and meals provided
• Lead role opportunity in an independent short film
• Professional film set experience
• Opportunity to collaborate with an emerging creative team

Job Description

A short film production is seeking background extras to portray funeral attendees in an upcoming scene filming in Chicago. This is a great opportunity for aspiring actors, film enthusiasts, and individuals interested in gaining on-set experience while contributing to an independent film project.

Selected participants will help create an authentic funeral atmosphere and may have the opportunity to work alongside the film’s cast and crew during production.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray funeral attendees in background scenes.
• Follow direction from the production team and assistant directors.
• Remain available throughout the filming period as needed.
• Maintain professional behavior on set.
• Participate in crowd and group scenes to help create a realistic environment.

Requirements

• Open to individuals of various backgrounds and experience levels.
• Ability to follow on-set instructions and work collaboratively.
• Reliable transportation to the filming location or ability to utilize provided transportation options.
• Must be comfortable participating in a funeral-themed scene.
• Friends and groups are encouraged to apply together.

Compensation Details

• Unpaid background extra opportunity.
• Free lunch and snacks provided on set.
• Transportation assistance provided.
• Valuable on-set experience and networking opportunities with filmmakers and cast.

Job Description

Aidan Middlebrook is casting actors for How Does This Work?, an independent short film exploring identity, friendship, and belonging within a high school basketball team environment. The story follows Trevor Joan, a closeted teenager who struggles to navigate a homophobic social circle while searching for meaningful connections and acceptance.

Both union and non-union actors are encouraged to submit. All performers must be at least 18 years old and able to portray younger teenage characters.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray assigned characters in a dramatic narrative short film.
• Participate in rehearsals and principal photography.
• Collaborate with the director and fellow cast members.
• Deliver authentic and emotionally grounded performances.
• Follow production guidelines regarding scripted scenes, including simulated smoking and intimacy when applicable.

Requirements

Lead Role

• Trevor Joan – Male, plays age 16, any race/ethnicity. A thoughtful teenager who suppresses his emotions and fears social rejection due to his sexuality. Includes simulated smoking and male-male intimacy scenes. An intimacy coordinator will be present.

Supporting Roles

• Chris Carlyle – Male, plays age 16, White. Popular teammate who is narrow-minded but socially successful. Includes simulated smoking.
• Sam Kelley – Male, plays age 18, any race/ethnicity. Party-focused and immature despite being older than his peers. Includes simulated smoking.
• Kyrie Davis – Male, plays age 17, Black or African American. Charismatic, confident, and well-liked. Includes simulated smoking.
• Derrick West – Male, plays age 17, White. Loyal follower who mirrors his best friend’s behavior. Includes simulated smoking.

Background Roles

• Basketball teammates and additional extras.

All actors must be 18 years or older and capable of portraying teenage characters.

Compensation Details

• This is a non-paid opportunity.
• Open to both union and non-union performers.
• Actors will receive experience, footage consideration, and networking opportunities through participation in the production.

Job Description

A psychological coming-of-age short film is casting lead and supporting roles for an upcoming production. The story follows a teenage boy navigating friendship, obsession, family trauma, and self-discovery as his relationships begin to unravel. The project explores themes of identity, loneliness, and emotional conflict through a dark and dramatic narrative.

Production is seeking talented actors capable of portraying emotionally complex characters. Some roles involve intense dramatic material, including scenes depicting violence and intimacy.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform scripted scenes for a narrative short film.
• Attend auditions, rehearsals, and filming as scheduled.
• Collaborate with the director and production team to develop authentic character portrayals.
• Participate in emotionally demanding dramatic scenes when required.
• Maintain professionalism throughout production.

Requirements

Oscar (Lead)

• Male, ages 18–21
• Caucasian
• Timid and shy teenager with underlying rebellious tendencies
• Strong dramatic acting skills
• Role includes violent and intimate scenes

Jane (Lead)

• Female, ages 18–21
• Caucasian
• Emotionally complex teenage character
• Strong dramatic acting abilities
• Role includes violent and intimate scenes

Tom (Supporting)

• Male, ages 18–21
• Any ethnicity
• Outgoing and supportive best friend character

Caroline (Supporting)

• Female, ages 18–21
• Any ethnicity
• Intelligent, empathetic, and independent personality

Megan/Mom (Supporting)

• Female, ages 40–50
• Caucasian
• Emotionally layered maternal role

Ralph (Supporting)

• Male, ages 10–14
• Caucasian
• Young supporting character dealing with family loss

Jared (Supporting)

• Male, ages 25–35
• Caucasian
• Confident supporting role with significant dramatic scenes

Compensation Details

• Compensation details will be provided to selected actors.
• Lead and supporting roles available.

Job Description

A comedy skit production is seeking talented actors and actresses with strong improvisational skills for upcoming sketch comedy content. Casting directors are looking for performers between the ages of 30 and 50 who can deliver authentic, engaging, and comedic performances in a collaborative production environment.

This opportunity is ideal for experienced performers who excel at improvisation and character-driven storytelling.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform in comedy skits and scripted content productions.
• Utilize strong improvisational abilities during rehearsals and filming.
• Collaborate with directors, writers, and fellow cast members.
• Bring unique character interpretations and comedic timing to scenes.
• Attend scheduled auditions, rehearsals, and filming sessions as required.

Requirements

• Ages 30–50.
• Strong improvisation skills are required.
• Previous acting experience preferred.
• Professional headshot and acting résumé.
• Demo reel showcasing acting experience and performance ability.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented production environment.

Compensation Details

• Compensation details will be disclosed to selected candidates.

Job Description

An independent narrative film production is seeking actors of all experience levels for a dramatic short film exploring immigration, identity, family, politics, justice, and the human stories that connect them. Casting directors are looking for performers who can bring authenticity, emotional depth, and humanity to a powerful story. Multiple paid principal and supporting roles are available.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray assigned characters in a dramatic short film.
• Participate in rehearsals, filming, and production activities as required.
• Deliver emotionally compelling performances.
• Collaborate with the director, cast, and crew throughout production.
• Follow creative direction while maintaining professionalism on set.

Requirements

Principal Roles

Shri Thanedar

• Male, 50–70
• South Asian
• Determined politician navigating public scrutiny, personal conviction, and political pressure.

Mateo Duarte

• Male, 20–40
• Latino
• Intelligent, resilient, and deeply connected to his family and community.

Maria Jose

• Female, 20–40
• Latina
• Strong-willed and compassionate, carrying significant emotional weight.

Shashi

• Female, 40–70
• South Asian
• Maternal figure whose wisdom and emotional depth anchor key moments of the film.

Catalina

• Female, 20–40
• Latina
• Confident, outspoken, and driven by a strong sense of justice.

Judith Brooks

• Female, 40–70
• Any ethnicity
• Seasoned political figure balancing principle, optics, and public responsibility.

Rose Johnson

• Female, 30–60
• Any ethnicity
• Professional, composed, and influential within the political landscape.

Supporting Roles

ICE Regional Director

• Male or Female, 40–70
• Any ethnicity
• Authoritative, strategic, and composed under pressure.

Police Officer

• Male or Female, 25–60
• Any ethnicity
• Professional law enforcement presence.

Congressional Aides

• Male or Female, 20–40
• Any ethnicity
• Sharp, ambitious, and politically savvy.

Reporter

• Male or Female, 25–60
• Any ethnicity
• Strong on-camera presence and confident delivery.

Compensation Details

• Paid roles
• Compensation will be discussed with selected candidates.

Patty (“Mee Maw”) – Supporting Role

Job Description

A non-union narrative short film is casting an actress to portray Patty, also known as “Mee Maw.” Chelsea’s grandmother is sharp-tongued, funny, and unforgettable, bringing humor and wisdom to the story. Producers are seeking a performer with strong character acting abilities and a memorable screen presence.

This featured supporting role offers the chance to play a vibrant character in a heartfelt narrative film.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray Patty (“Mee Maw”) in scripted scenes
• Participate in rehearsal and filming sessions
• Deliver authentic and engaging character performances
• Collaborate with cast and production staff
• Follow direction from the creative team

Requirements

• Woman, ages 65–77
• Hispanic, Indigenous, or Mixed ethnicity
• Strong personality and character acting skills
• Ability to portray a humorous and outspoken grandmother
• Local hire in the San Antonio, Texas area
• Available for rehearsal and filming dates

Compensation

• $200 per day