Everything We Know About America’s Favorite: New Feature Film Set to Shoot in Virginia This Summer
Virginia continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the East Coast’s fastest-growing production hubs with the announcement of America’s Favorite, a new feature film set to begin production across Coastal Virginia this summer.
The upcoming thriller brings together an accomplished cast and creative team while creating new opportunities for local film professionals, businesses, and aspiring actors. As production prepares to roll cameras, America’s Favorite is already generating excitement among the entertainment industry and audiences alike.
If you’re hoping to land a role in the film, now is the perfect time to keep this project on your radar.
America’s Favorite Begins Filming in Virginia
Production on America’s Favorite will take place throughout the Hampton Roads region of Coastal Virginia, with filming expected to begin this summer.
Virginia officials say projects like America’s Favorite continue to strengthen the state’s film industry by creating jobs, supporting local vendors, and showcasing Virginia’s diverse filming locations to audiences around the world.
Governor Abigail Spanberger praised the production, noting that attracting major film projects helps boost the Commonwealth’s economy while expanding opportunities for local entertainment professionals.
What Is America’s Favorite About?
America’s Favorite centers on Peter Bale, an investigative reporter whose career has fallen from the spotlight.
Determined to rebuild his reputation, Bale hosts a live television special where he attempts to solve a string of murders in real time. As the investigation unfolds, the stakes rise, creating an intense thriller that blends crime, mystery, and live television drama.
Cast and Creative Team
Leading the film is Dane DeHaan, who stars as Peter Bale. DeHaan is widely recognized for performances in:
- Oppenheimer
- The Amazing Spider-Man 2
The film is directed by Eric Bross, whose previous directing credits include:
- Affairs of State
- A Country Christmas Story
Serving as executive producer is Robbie Brenner, whose impressive producing credits include:
- Barbie
- Dallas Buyers Club
The project is produced by independent producer Stephen Israel, who has previously brought several feature films to Virginia, including:
- The Gateway
- Last Moment of Clarity
- Affairs of State
Additional high-profile cast members are expected to be announced as production moves forward.
Who Are the Casting Directors for America’s Favorite?
Casting for America’s Favorite is being led by Michelle Lewitt Casting, with Hutson Talent Agency also serving as one of the casting companies behind the project.
Michelle Lewitt is an accomplished casting director, producer, and casting professional who has been working in the entertainment industry since 1999. After transitioning from a background in athletics, she built an impressive career casting feature films, television productions, and independent projects. Her experience discovering talented performers and assembling standout casts has made her one of the industry’s respected casting professionals.
Joining the project is Hutson Talent Agency, which is also helping oversee casting for America’s Favorite. The agency has extensive experience working with actors across film, television, commercial, and entertainment productions, helping connect talent with opportunities throughout the industry.
With experienced casting professionals leading the project, actors can expect a professional casting process once auditions officially begin.
Why Hampton Roads Was Chosen
Producer Stephen Israel continues to return to Coastal Virginia because of its diverse filming locations, experienced crews, and film-friendly communities.
The Hampton Roads region offers productions everything from urban landscapes and waterfront settings to suburban neighborhoods, making it an ideal location for feature filmmaking.
Its growing production infrastructure has also helped attract more studios and independent filmmakers to the region in recent years.
Economic Impact of America’s Favorite
Beyond entertainment, America’s Favorite is expected to bring meaningful economic benefits to Virginia.
Feature film productions often support local communities by:
- Hiring local cast and crew
- Renting equipment from regional vendors
- Booking hotels and accommodations
- Supporting restaurants, transportation services, and local businesses
- Showcasing Virginia locations to audiences worldwide
Projects like America’s Favorite help strengthen Virginia’s position as an increasingly attractive destination for film and television production.
Where Will America’s Favorite Film?
While production locations have not yet been officially finalized, filming is expected to take place primarily in:
- Norfolk, Virginia
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
Additional Hampton Roads locations may also be used throughout production.
More filming details are expected as production gets underway.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Corporate Office Employees
Corporate Office Employees for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray corporate office employees in a downtown office setting. Casting directors are looking for professional-looking talent to help create an authentic corporate environment. This featured background opportunity is open to both SAG-AFTRA and non-union performers.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray a corporate office employee in background scenes.
- Follow on-set direction from the production team.
- Maintain continuity throughout filming.
- Arrive in professional business attire suitable for an office environment.
Requirements
- Ages 22–65.
- Any gender.
- Any ethnicity.
- SAG-AFTRA and non-union talent welcome.
- Able to portray a professional office employee.
- Available to work both filming days.
Compensation
- SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
- Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Male Stand-Ins
Male Stand-Ins for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking two male stand-ins for an upcoming production. This behind-the-scenes role is ideal for dependable performers interested in working closely with the camera and lighting departments to prepare scenes before filming.
Job Responsibilities
- Stand in for principal actors during lighting and camera setups.
- Hit marks accurately and remain still as directed.
- Assist the crew in preparing scenes for filming.
- Follow instructions from the camera and lighting departments.
Requirements
- Male, ages 25–60.
- Must be approximately 5’10” or 5’8″.
- Comfortable working exclusively as a stand-in.
- Available for both filming days.
Compensation
- SAG-AFTRA: $270 for 8 hours, plus overtime.
- Non-union rate provided upon booking.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Paparazzi and Press Photographers
Paparazzi and Press Photographers for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray paparazzi and press photographers during a red carpet gala scene. This night shoot is seeking energetic performers who can help create an authentic media atmosphere.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray paparazzi or press photographers at a red carpet event.
- Follow production direction during filming.
- Handle prop cameras as instructed.
- Help create a realistic press environment.
Requirements
- Ages 18–65.
- Any gender.
- Any ethnicity.
- Comfortable working overnight.
- Real photography experience is a plus but not required.
- Available for both filming nights.
Compensation
- SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
- Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Female Utility Stand-In
Female Utility Stand-In for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking a female utility stand-in to assist the camera and lighting departments during production. This role is perfect for reliable performers interested in behind-the-scenes work on a professional film set.
Job Responsibilities
- Stand in during lighting and camera setups.
- Match production requirements for height and appearance.
- Follow crew instructions and remain consistent between takes.
- Work exclusively as a stand-in during filming.
Requirements
- Female.
- Caucasian.
- Height: 5’6″.
- Ages 18–65.
- Comfortable standing for extended periods.
- Available for the scheduled night shoot.
Compensation
- $270 for 8 hours, plus applicable overtime.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Male Utility Stand-In
Male Utility Stand-In for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting a male utility stand-in for an upcoming night shoot. This production is seeking a dependable performer to support the camera and lighting teams by standing in for actors during technical setup.
Job Responsibilities
- Serve as a utility stand-in during production.
- Follow camera and lighting crew instructions.
- Maintain accurate positioning throughout setups.
- Work exclusively as a stand-in during filming.
Requirements
- Male.
- Ages 18–65.
- Comfortable standing for extended periods.
- Available for the scheduled night shoot.
Compensation
- $270 for 8 hours, plus applicable overtime.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Office Employees
Office Employees for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray office employees working in a newsroom and television production office. Casting directors are seeking professional-looking performers to create an authentic workplace environment for multiple filming days. This opportunity is open to both SAG-AFTRA and non-union talent.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray office employees in newsroom and television production scenes.
- Follow on-set direction from the production team.
- Maintain continuity throughout filming.
- Wear business casual wardrobe appropriate for a professional office setting.
Requirements
- Ages 22–60.
- Any gender.
- Any ethnicity.
- SAG-AFTRA and non-union performers welcome.
- Able to portray office professionals.
- Available for all scheduled filming days.
Compensation
- SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
- Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Production Driver
Production Driver for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is seeking a skilled production driver to transport cast members in a production vehicle during filming. This paid background role is ideal for experienced drivers who are comfortable operating high-end vehicles on camera with precision.
Job Responsibilities
- Drive a production vehicle during filming.
- Safely transport cast members as directed.
- Follow on-set driving instructions and production safety guidelines.
- Maintain professionalism throughout the shoot.
Requirements
- Ages 21–70.
- Any gender.
- Any ethnicity.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Comfortable driving a high-end production vehicle on camera.
- Chauffeur, livery, or picture-car experience is a plus.
Compensation
- SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
- Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
“America’s Favorite” Casting Call for Gala and Executive Security
Gala and Executive Security for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film is casting background actors to portray gala and executive security personnel during an upscale event scene. Casting directors are looking for clean-cut performers who can convincingly portray professional security staff in a formal setting.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray executive security personnel during gala scenes.
- Follow production direction throughout filming.
- Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
- Help create an authentic event security environment.
Requirements
- Ages 25–60.
- Any gender.
- Any ethnicity.
- Clean-cut appearance.
- Comfortable portraying security personnel.
- Available for night filming.
Compensation
- SAG-AFTRA: $231 for 8 hours, plus overtime and applicable allowances.
- Non-union: $13.00/hour (approximately $104 for 8 hours), with time and one-half after 8 hours.
How to Audition for America’s Favorite
No official casting calls have been announced for America’s Favorite at this time.
However, productions of this size typically hire:
- Lead and supporting actors
- Featured extras
- Background actors
- Stand-ins
- Photo doubles
- Local production crew
Actors interested in joining the production should have updated headshots, résumés, demo reels, and casting profiles ready as auditions are expected to be announced closer to production.
Final Thoughts
With an accomplished creative team, an intriguing mystery thriller storyline, and production taking place across Coastal Virginia, America’s Favorite is shaping up to be one of the region’s most exciting film productions.
Between its experienced filmmakers, respected casting team, and anticipated casting announcements, the project presents exciting opportunities for actors and film professionals alike.
If you’re hoping to be part of America’s Favorite, now is the time to stay informed as production continues to move forward.
Stay Updated on America’s Favorite Casting Calls
Looking to audition for America’s Favorite? Stay tuned to Project Casting for the latest casting calls, background actor opportunities, and production updates. We’ll keep you posted as soon as auditions and jobs become available so you don’t miss your opportunity to join this exciting feature film.
