Casting directors are responsible for organizing and facilitating the casting of actors/actresses needed for a movie or television drama. They choose actors/actresses based on the script and work closely with directors and producers. Based on the production schedule requirements, their work may depend on the actor’s availability, contract, etc.
Education and Qualifications
Though a degree in a specific major is not a must, it does help to study the basics of filmmaking, so a bachelor’s degree in film or related fields is recommended. There are also master’s degrees available, but they are not make-or-break in becoming a casting director.
Experience plays a significant role in becoming a good casting director; though not required, working with other film directors in junior/assistant roles is recommended prior to becoming a casting director.
Responsibilities and a Day in the Life
In most cases, casting directors are hired on a project-by-project basis; some projects may last only a few months, and others could go on for a very long time. Usually, at the beginning of a project, almost the entire cast has to be identified, so casting directors typically work very long hours – 10-12 hours minimum per day – and work often spills over into late evenings or weekends. Once the main cast is identified, the workload may be normal until the next project takes off. Most casting directors may be involved in more than one project at any given time. The job also involves some travel as well.
Some typical responsibilities include the following:
- Reading and analyzing scripts to understand various characters in the film or television production.
- Meeting with the director and producer to understand their expectations
- Contacting actors/actresses and scheduling auditions
- Interviewing actors/actresses and selecting suitable ones for the production
- Working with directors and producers in finalizing the cast
- Writing, negotiating, and managing contracts with actors/actresses based on the budget and other factors
- Finding replacements when needed
- Hiring, training, and supervising junior or assistant casting directors
- Maintaining knowledge of industry trends and popular actors/actresses
Other Necessary Skills
- Communication skills
- Motivational and leadership skills
- Ability to work within budgets
- Great negotiation skill
- Networking
Salary
- BLS does not track the casting director role. The median salary of a director is about $94K per year. However, there is a huge range of income potential.
Summary
If you possess the following traits, you may consider a career as a casting director:
- You are a great planner and pay attention to even the tiniest aspects of acting
- You have the ability to recognize talent and pick actors for various roles
- Excellent contracting and negotiating skills
- You love working behind the scenes in making successful films, television dramas, or commercials.
This career is pretty niche so it’s a bit unlikely that you will have an interest specifically in this, but nevertheless, if you’re interested in film, keep your eye out for interesting careers like this one.
