Casting directors help bring movies and TV shows to life. They cast actors into both prominent and minor roles. And, they ensure that creative projects have the best talent possible.
In short, casting directors improve the chances of a TV show or movie becoming successful. But, what are the benefits of being a casting director? And why might this be the right job for you?
I’ll answer all these questions throughout the post, and I will talk about why it rocks to be a casting director here! This might seem like a simple job, but there are a lot of things to love about being a casting director.
Top 10 Reasons Why It Rocks to Be a Casting Director:
1. You Get to Scout Out Emerging Talent
Many casting directors will come into contact with big movie stars or TV stars. This is especially true if you are employed by big production companies. However, casting isn’t all about meeting the biggest stars in Hollywood. In fact, this job gives you the chance to scout out some new talent!
If you want to bring new actors into the spotlight or enjoy scouting out promising actors for projects, this is the right job for you. You will get the chance to jump-start someone’s career and create the next big Hollywood star!
2. You Get to See Your Favorite Actors in Action
Still, if you are interested in working with famous actors and actresses, you will also be given this opportunity. Casting directors interview and work with many actors throughout their careers. They have to find the right people for a role, and this involves doing a lot of research and work with actors one on one.
You won’t meet big stars right away, as you have to have experience working in the industry first. But, over time, you will be able to see your favorite actors or actresses perform for you as they try out for roles.
3. You Get to Work With Talented Directors and Producers
You don’t just get to work with bug movie stars when you are a casting director. In fact, you will work closely with some of the biggest directors and producers to find the best actors for various roles. This can be extremely exciting, especially if you are passionate about filmmaking or TV show production.
4. You Get to Read Movie Scripts and Pick Out the Perfect People for a Role
Directors and producers will have a say in casting, of course. But, as a casting director, your voice will matter the most. As a casting director, you will do research on the role. You will get to read movie scripts in advance and have meetings with the director and writers of the script. This way you fully understand the scope of each role.
Finally, once you have talked about it with other people on set, you will get the chance to find the perfect actor or actress for a role.
5. You Can Help Make a Change in the Industry
Casting directors have an important role to play, not only in a creative sense but in a social sense. As a casting director, you help create media that will be viewed by thousands if not millions of people. And, by casting new and diverse actors in your project, you can help create better media representation for minorities and other important social groups.
This can seem like a big burden for some people. But, as a casting director, you can be a part of a growing change in television and movies. This can be highly rewarding for you and the people viewing the projects you are working on!
6. You Get to Attend Theater Productions and Shows
Casting directors don’t just sit back and wait for talent to appear in front of them. In fact, as a casting director, you will actively be looking for actors that meet your requirements. You might look at headshots or look at acting reels. However, this isn’t the only method you will use.
In some cases, you will attend theater productions or other shows to scout out potential roles. Sometimes, the production company will pay for these expenses. But it depends on where you work. Regardless, you get the chance to really explore and experience the world of acting as a casting director.
7. You Make Good Money
Most casting directors won’t get insanely rich from working in this field. But, unlike other jobs in the film industry, you will receive a stable salary. Some well-known casting directors can even make a six-figure salary if they have enough experience and skill.
8. You Get to Travel Around the World
Not every casting director will get to travel the world. This benefit is dependent on the type of creative project you are working on and the scope and budget of the production.
However, in some cases, you could travel across the world to meet actors and cast them in your project. Additionally, if you are well known enough, you could get invited to film festivals and red carpet events around the globe!
9. You Make Great Connections With Industry Professionals
You make great connections on film and tv sets, especially when you are working on a successful franchise or project. And, when you are the person who has cast an unknown, and that show or movie catapults to fame, you will make even better connections.
More producers and directors will want to work with you. This can lead to further success in your career, and more openings for jobs and projects!
10. You Get to See Film Making and TV Production Unfold
Finally, if you love movies or TV shows, this is an amazing job to have. Casting directors get a behind-the-scenes look into film and TV production. And, they help create a project from the ground up. It’s a very specialized job, but you play a big part in the film and TV industry. And you get to work hand in hand with some of the best talent and creative minds in the world!