Aspiring to be an actor and ready to audition for a role in your first film? This may seem daunting, but even top actors like Kate Winslet and Denzel Washington had to start from the bottom. First of all, you should memorize a few monologues and prepare your portfolio to show that you know how the film business works. Then look for the movie audition announcement and appear before the casting director. If you want to learn more about how to have a great film audition, keep reading.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Preparing for the Audition
Step 1. Memorize your monologue
In most film auditions, you will be asked to appear with one or two monologues. This is your chance to show your versatility and reach as an actor. Choose a monologue that fits your personality and acting style. Have at least 3 monologues to remember at any time so you're always ready for a potential audition call; You never know when the call will come.
- Choose 3-4 different monologues. Have a dramatic monologue, a comedic monologue, and so on. You have to show the casting director that you are capable of more than one kind of emotion or style.
- Read books containing collections of monologues to see unique monologues you've never heard before. Casting directors will definitely get tired of hearing the same monologue choices hundreds of times.
- Practice your monologue as often as you can so that you don't look messy if you have to come out right away.
- Count the length of your monologue and make sure it's 2 minutes or less. Auditions will be timed, so your performance will be cut off if you perform longer than 2 minutes or so.
Step 2. Make a portrait
Facial portraits are often the factor that gets you a casting call. Hire photographers who are experienced in making portraits, because portraits are quite different from regular portraits. Facial portraits are tailor-made to showcase your personality type and highlight a physical appearance that makes you unique.
- Ask for recommendations from people you know in the film industry. The cost for a portrait photographer can be quite expensive, so make sure you're prepared for the costs before you shoot.
- When you are looking for a photography studio to use, also ask if there is a makeup artist who can help you during the shooting process. If not, you may need to increase the cost of hiring someone on duty to keep you looking fresh during your photos.
Step 3. Make a demo video (demo reel)
Demo videos are compilations of video clips from various film projects you have worked on. The clips should be a carefully selected collection of scenes that will best showcase your acting talent. You can use video editing software to create your own demo videos, or hire a video editor to create professionally slick videos. The total length of the video should not exceed 2-3 minutes.
- The video should be easily viewable. Some casting directors will ask you to email them electronically, while others will ask for a physical copy on DVD. Prepare your video in both formats.
- If you've never been involved in filming before, include clips from recorded plays you've played. You can also include clips from school film projects.
- In recent years, some casting directors have requested clips related to the project at hand. For example, if you want to audition for the lead character on a soccer team, try sending a clip that shows you playing a similar character.
- Don't start your video with a self-introduction or a collection of clips. The video should start with your name, then jump straight to the first scene.
- Don't save the best part at the end of the video. There are many videos that casting directors have to judge. If you don't start your video with a great scene, chances are they'll skip it and move on to the next aspiring actor video.
Step 4. Find the audition schedule
The easiest way to find auditions in your area is to do an online search. Casting.id has a long list of auditions in various cities. You can also look at the special section of your local newspaper or view casting calls for a school film project in the special section of the university website.
The cities of Jakarta and Bandung are cities with many casting opportunities, because the interest in the film business in both cities is very large. However, there are thriving film communities in many smaller cities and towns, and you're sure to find opportunities in your area if you know where to look. Check out art blogs, weekly newspapers and other art publications for more information
Step 5. Provide all requested documents to the casting director
You may be asked to provide a resume and letter in addition to your portrait and demo video. You may have to take these documents with you to the casting location or submit them beforehand. Either way, make sure the format of the document matches the requirements given by the casting director, and don't leave anything out. Making things uncomfortable for the casting director will definitely ruin your chances.
Step 6. Prepare to match your appearance at each audition
Even if you already have a monologue ready to be shown at any time, you shouldn't assume that all auditions are the same. Think about the role you want to audition for and choose the monologue that best fits the role. If possible, memorize the new monologue before audition day arrives.
You also have to dress modestly to land the role. Don't come in full-body costumes, but make yourself look like a believable version of the character you're about to play. If you're auditioning as an elegant businesswoman or CEO, don't come wearing jeans and sneakers
Step 7. Get ready to do a cold read
In addition to performing one of your monologues, you may also be asked to read part of the manuscript without being given the opportunity to see it beforehand. Most casting calls include an explanation of the character, so hopefully you have a way of getting into a character already.
Method 2 of 3: Pass the Audition
Step 1. Make a first impression that conveys your confidence
As you walk into the audition room, make eye contact with the casting director and other assessors. Maintain good posture, and don't enter too quickly or enter out of breath. From the moment you walk into the room, you will be judged on your attitude and presence, so make sure you take a deep breath and calm yourself rather than rushing into the audition room. You have to look calm and confident.
Step 2. Walk towards the standing sign
The standing sign, which usually takes the form of a simple "x" shaped with masking tape on the floor, is the position where you start acting in your audition. Standing signs are usually placed a few feet in front of the casting directors and judges' seats so they can get the best view of your performance.
You don't have to feel glued to the standing sign during your audition; it's just the starting position. You have to use the room in a way that makes sense for the role you are playing
Step 3. Power your slate
A slate is a one-sentence introduction that you do before starting your monologue. When you reach the standing sign, face the casting director, make eye contact, and state your name and a brief description of what you're about to feature. For example: "Good afternoon, I'm Felicia, and this section is taken from the second half of Hamlet."
- Don't spend too much time talking before you perform. Most auditions are timed, and time starts as soon as you walk in. You should make the most of the duration of your performance.
- Don't ask for the names of the casting directors and raters, and don't make small talk more than just saying "good afternoon" or something. Again, you don't have time for that.
Method 3 of 3: Increase Your Chances
Step 1. Act as much as possible
Taking courses and practicing your skills as often as possible will increase your chances of impressing the casting director. Take the audition assessment as input and work as hard as you can to improve, then try again. You may have to go through dozens of auditions before you land a role, but every time you act before a casting director, you get valuable practice.
Step 2. Hone your various skills and talents
You can stand out from the crowd by showing other talents, if those talents are related to the role. Knowing how to sing, dance, play an instrument, play sports, and so on can give you an edge. Don't be afraid to switch to singing a song at the audition if you think it will increase your chances.
Step 3. Consider finding a talent agency
Talent agents are responsible for finding roles that match your style and level of experience, eliminating the need for you to seek out these roles on your own. Casting directors often send an explanation of the type of actor they are looking for to the talent agency, then the talent agent tells the casting director that he represents someone who might be right for the role. Working with a talent agency is a great way to gain "entry in" once you've gained the experience that's been your capital.
- If you choose this path, make sure you work with a licensed and experienced agent. Some people pretend to be talent agents to take advantage of innocent young actors. You can be prepared to pay talent agencies about 10% of your income.
- You can find an agent by attending a casting workshop, which is where you can audition before the casting agent and director. Search for workshops in your area online.
- The Call Sheet is a list of reputable talent agencies. Take a look at the list and contact the agent directly.
Step 4. Get a PARFI membership card (or SAG-AFTRA if you are planning to start a career in Hollywood)
Becoming a member of PARFI, the Indonesian Film Artist Association, can provide access to higher paying and prestige jobs. This membership also provides health insurance and ensures that your work is not illegally exploited.
Warning
- Before auditioning or applying to an agency, make sure you really want to be an actor.
- Make sure you have educational knowledge in case your efforts don't work.
