Crew Call Casting Call for Independent Sci-Fi Thriller Production

Job Description

An independent sci-fi thriller proof-of-concept series is seeking passionate crew members to join a collaborative filmmaking team. The project follows a group of escaped experimental subjects uncovering connections between a covert government program and emerging wartime escalation protocols.

The production focuses on psychological tension, cinematic realism, survival storytelling, and natural-environment filmmaking. Multiple crew positions are available for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience while contributing to a festival-focused independent production.

Job Responsibilities

Available crew roles include:

• Co-Director
• Director of Photography (DP)
• Camera Operator
• Sound Recordist
• Film Editor
• Post-Production Supervisor
• Colorist / Color Grader
• VFX / CGI Artist
• Fight / Movement Coordinator
• Set Provider / Location Support
• Prop Master
• Production Assistant (PA)
• Lighting Assistant / Gaffer
• Composer / Sound Designer
• Behind-the-Scenes Photographer / Videographer

Responsibilities vary by role and may include production planning, camera operation, audio recording, editing, visual effects creation, location support, lighting setup, music composition, and overall production coordination.

Requirements

• Passion for independent filmmaking and collaborative storytelling.
• Ability to work effectively within a creative team environment.
• Relevant experience for the selected crew position is preferred.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Willingness to contribute to a zero-budget independent production.
• Availability for production activities in the Greater Toronto Area.
• Portfolio, reel, or previous experience is considered an asset where applicable.

Compensation Details

• This is a voluntary, unpaid opportunity.
• Contributors will receive on-screen credit.
• Portfolio and reel footage access may be provided.
• Festival submission credits where applicable.
• Meals and snacks may be available on shoot days.
• Opportunity to gain collaborative experience on a cinematic independent production.

Job Description

A173 West Studios is seeking crew members for the upcoming short film In the Backyard, directed by Ben Cruz. The emotionally driven coming-of-age film explores childhood memories, family relationships, and the realities of aging through the eyes of a young boy during the summer of 2010.

Production is now hiring passionate and creative crew members for several key behind-the-scenes positions. This is a non-union volunteer opportunity with catering provided.

Job Responsibilities

On-Set Sound Mixer / Boom Operator

• Handle on-set audio recording during filming
• Operate boom microphones and lavalier systems
• Ensure clean and professional sound capture throughout production

VFX Supervisor / Animator

• Create and supervise visual effects for a featured scene
• Design animation involving a shadow extension effect with movement
• Collaborate with the director to execute the visual concept

Key Hair / Key Makeup

• Design hair and makeup looks fitting the early 2010 setting
• Apply aging makeup effects for grandparent characters
• Maintain continuity throughout filming

Requirements

• Prior experience in the relevant crew department preferred
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Passion for independent filmmaking
• Ability to work collaboratively in a production environment
• Reliable availability during filming weekends

Compensation Details

• Non-union volunteer position
• Catering provided on set
• IMDb and Letterboxd credit provided after completion
• Behind-the-scenes photos included