Not-So-Average-Audience Studios

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