Casting Call for Supporting Roles in Non-Union Short Film Inspired by Charles Bukowski

Casting Boys Ages 9–11 for Short Film “The Kids Are Alright”

Job Description
A university-produced short film is seeking two boys ages 9–11 for lead and supporting roles. The story follows two best friends who discover a mysterious glowing bone. Their curiosity leads them down a strange path that tests their beliefs and their bond. Filming will take place in Montreal in mid-January 2026, and all roles are paid and non-union. New young actors are encouraged to apply.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform in a narrative-driven short film as one of the main young characters

• Take direction from the director to portray emotional and adventurous scenes

• Collaborate with fellow young actors in dialogue and action sequences

• Bring authentic personality, curiosity, and emotion to the role

Requirements

• Boys ages 9–11

• Two roles available:

  • Sam (Main Character) – Dark hair, dark eyes; confident, curious, a natural leader, friendly but bold

  • Mickey (Friend) – Any appearance; clumsy, kind, easily scared

• Must be available to film in Montreal

• All experience levels welcome

Compensation

• Paid non-union roles (rate provided upon selection)

Lead Role – Jimmy

Job Description
Casting a lead actor for a dark comedy–drama short film centered around Jimmy, a man navigating burnout, emotional chaos, and the strange humor that comes with life’s lowest moments. The role demands honesty, grounded humor, and the ability to blend vulnerability with sharp comedic instincts. Jimmy is self-aware, bitterly funny, and charmingly miserable—someone who finds awkward charm in discomfort and truth in absurdity.

Job Responsibilities

• Portray a complex character balancing humor, despair, and emotional depth

• Deliver sharp comedic timing with subtle, realistic delivery

• Explore vulnerable moments with authenticity and nuance

• Collaborate with the creative team to shape Jimmy’s emotional arc

• Bring strong presence to both comedic and dramatic scenes

Requirements

• Non-union

• Male, ages 25–35

• Strong comedic timing with grounded delivery

• Comfortable exploring emotional vulnerability and dark humor

• Ideal for performers experienced in character-based comedy or dramatic storytelling

Compensation

• Unpaid

• Meals provided

• IMDb credit and copy included

Job Description
A comedic short film is seeking a variety of performers for a playful, deadpan story centered on an eight-year-old boy who hilariously “faces arrest” after refusing to eat his vegetables. Featuring quirky humor, eccentric adults, and youthful characters, this project offers fun, character-driven roles perfect for actors who enjoy comedic timing and imaginative storytelling. The production will take place in the Toronto/GTA area.

Job Responsibilities

• Bring strong comedic instincts and clear character choices

• Collaborate with the director and cast to deliver engaging performances

• Participate in rehearsals and filming days

• Contribute professionalism and energy to a student-led production

Requirements

Tommy — Lead, Boy, 8–10

• Deadpan humor, expressive reactions

• Must handle comedic dialogue and situational humor

Lucy — Girl, 8–10

• Sharp, clever, confident energy

• Plays Tommy’s classmate and unexpected legal “expert”

Detective Singh — Adult, Any Gender

• Comedic seriousness with exaggerated detective flair

• Must deliver absurd dialogue with conviction

Chicken Lady — Adult Female

• Eccentric, over-the-top performance style

• Bold physicality and comedic timing

Chad — Adult Male

• Goofy, lovable personality

• Strong comedic instincts

Waitress — Adult Female

• Warm, friendly, grounded presence

• Light comedic moments

Compensation

• Unpaid student film

• Food provided

• Professional set experience and material for reels