Are you an aspiring actor ready to audition with the aim of getting your first movie gig? Auditions might make you tremble, but even legendary actors, like Kate Winslet and Denzel Washington, started from scratch. First, you'll need to memorize some monologues and prepare your portfolio to show that you know how the film industry works, then find an open casting and perform in front of the audition director. If you want to learn more about how to audition for a role in a film, read on.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Preparing for the auditions
Step 1. Memorize monologues
In most movie auditions, you'll be required to recite a monologue, or two. This is your chance to showcase your flexibility as an actor. Choose monologues that suit your personality and acting style. Having at least three memorized at any given time will keep you prepared for any casting calls; you never know when one will turn up.
- Choose three to four monologues that are different from each other. Go for a dramatic one, a comic one, and so on. You need to show the casting manager that you are capable of capturing more than one type of emotion or style.
- Read books containing monologues to find unique ones you've never heard of before. Casting directors will be tired of hearing the same old choices hundreds of times.
- Practice monologues often, so you won't be rusty if you have to perform at the last minute.
- Time your monologues and make sure they all last two minutes or less. Castings are timed and you will be cut if you go beyond two minutes or so.
Step 2. Take close-up photos.
Photographs that portray the face often represent the highlight that gets you into a casting. Hire a photographer who has a lot of experience with this type of photography, quite different from regular portraits. These shots are designed to highlight your personality type and to emphasize the physical characteristics that make you unique.
- Ask for recommendations from people you know in the industry. Close-up photographers can be quite expensive, so make sure you have the money before you go for the photo shoot.
- When researching the right photo studio for you, ask a makeup artist if he or she will be available to work with you during the shoot. If not, it might be worth paying a little more to hire someone who can always keep your look fresh in your images.
Step 3. Create a demo reel
This is a compilation of clips from other movie projects you have made. The cutscenes should be the result of careful selections from the scenes that showcase your acting talent to achieve the best possible effect. You can use video editing software to do it yourself or hire a video editor to make a professionally finished one. The entire demo should not exceed two to three minutes.
- The demo should be as easy to open as possible. Some directors will ask you to email an electronic file, while others will ask you for a physical copy on DVD. Prepare the demo so that it is available in both formats.
- If you've never been in a movie before, include clips from a play you starred in that was filmed. You can also include clips from movies made when you were studying.
- In recent years, some casting directors have requested custom clips for the audition-related project. For example, if you are auditioning to play the captain of a football team, try sending a clip in which you have a similar role.
- Do not start the demo with an introduction or montage. It should start with your name and then throw the first scene directly.
- Don't leave the best for the end. Casting directors have a lot of demos to watch. If yours doesn't start with your strongest scenes, they'll likely move on to the next candidate's presentation.
Step 4. Find specimens
The easiest way to find out about hearings in your area is by doing a web search. For example, if you live in the US, backstage.com presents a comprehensive list of auditions held in various cities. You can also take a look at the classifieds section in the local newspaper or read the classifieds on the university's websites to find audition calls for student films.
In the US, New York City and Los Angeles have the highest concentration of audition calls, as both cities are big in the film business. However, many smaller towns and cities boast a thriving film community and you are sure to find opportunities in your area if you know where to look. Read art blogs, alternative weeklies and other art publications to find more information
Step 5. Give all required materials to the casting director
They may ask you for a resume and cover letter in addition to your close-ups and demo reel. They may ask you to bring everything you need with you to the casting or send it in early. Make sure it's all formatted according to the casting director's directions, and don't forget to include the basics. Complicating the casting manager's visualization of your materials will be absolutely detrimental to your chances.
Step 6. Plan to customize your performance for each audition
You need to have monologues ready to be recited at any time, but you shouldn't treat every audition the same way. Think about the part you are proposing for and choose monologues that best fit that role. If possible, memorize a new one before audition day arrives.
You should also dress appropriately for the part. You don't have to wear an actual costume, but make sure you look like a believable version of the character you are going to play. If you're auditioning for the role of a classy businesswoman and CEO, don't show up in jeans and tennis shoes
Step 7. Prepare to take a cold read
In addition to reciting one of your monologues, you will probably be required to cold-read a section of the script without having a chance to take a look at it first. Most casting calls include a description of the characters, so hopefully you already have an idea of how to get into the role.
Part 2 of 3: Shine at the Auditions
Step 1. Make a good first impression by trying to appear confident
When you walk in for the audition, look the casting director and other managers in the eye. Try to have good posture and don't walk too fast or walk in too quickly until you're out of breath. From the moment you show up, you will be judged by your attitude and presence, so be sure to take a deep breath and gather yourself instead of hurrying around the room. You need to look relaxed and peaceful.
Step 2. Walk to the marked spot
It is usually indicated with a simple X on the floor, created with masking tape; this is where you will start acting for the audition. It is usually located frontally, several meters away from the seats where the casting director and other managers will sit, so they can have the best possible view of your audition.
You don't have to feel anchored to the sign on the ground during your audition; it's just a starting point. You should use the space in a way that makes sense for the role you are playing
Step 3. Master your presentation
You should do an introduction to a sentence just before starting the monologue. When you reach the spot marked on the floor, speak to the casting director, make eye contact and say your name and a brief description of what you are about to do. Example: “Good evening, I'm Felicia Woods and this piece is taken from the second act of Hamlet”.
- Don't waste too much time talking before performing. Most auditions are timed, and the clock starts as soon as you enter. You want to maximize the time of your performance.
- Don't ask for the name of the casting director and other people in charge, and don't exchange any formalities other than saying "Good evening" or something like that. Still, you don't have time to do that.
Part 3 of 3: Improving Your Chance
Step 1. Act as much as possible
Take a class and practice your art as often as possible to increase your chances of impressing a casting manager. Take feedback from auditions, keep it in mind, and work as hard as you can to improve, then try again. It may take dozens of auditions before you land a role, but every time you perform in front of a casting director, you'll have an extra valuable experience.
Step 2. Perfect various skills and various talents
You can stand out among all actors by demonstrating your talents, provided they are relevant to the role. Knowing how to sing, dance, play an instrument, play a sport, and so on can give you an edge. Don't be afraid to sing at an audition if you think it will increase your chances.
Step 3. Consider finding an agent
This professional is responsible for finding roles that fit your style and experience level, eliminating the need to chase opportunities on your own. Casting directors often send descriptions to talent agents regarding the type of actor they are looking for, and these professionals then notify casting directors if they represent someone who would be a good choice. Working with an agent is a good way to get into the business after you've had some experience.
- If you go down this road, be sure to work with an experienced and qualified agent. Some people pass themselves off as talent agents for having vulnerable young actors as their prey. You can expect to pay your agent 10% of your proceeds.
- You can find an agent by attending a casting workshop, during which you will audition both in front of the agent and in front of the casting director. Search online to find workshops in your area.
- Find a list of reputable agents. Read the list and get in touch directly with the professionals you are interested in.
Step 4. If you live in the US, get a SAG-AFTRA card
By becoming a member of SAG-AFTRA, the screen actors union, you can have access to higher pay and higher profile jobs. You are also provided with health insurance and they guarantee that your work will not be used illegally.
Warnings
- Before you audition or apply for an agency, make sure you really want to be an actor.
- Make sure you have a profession to fall back on in case it doesn't work out.
