Working within budget when casting

I'm still waiting. But I got a wonderful note from the executive movie producer that went something like, "Sorry I haven't finished your manuscript...but love what I've read so far..."

Well, that's kind of spinning their answer down a bit, so don't quote me on that. But they really did say nice things..."Really nice work so far, great writing, interesting story, good characters..." - actual quote.

So instead of beating myself up, which I was doing for about a week or two thinking they hated my novel and just didn't want to hurt my feelings, I'm back to being hopeful.

And I'm back to imagining who I want in my perfect cast, completely oblivious to the realities of budgeting and how they can afford all the big names or if they'll be available.

I like Viggo Mortenson, and finally figured out a part he can play that will do him justice. Lol- this actually took awhile and I had to go into the second book to find the character. So far- in my imagination I've got Viggo, Clive Owen, and Jeremy Irons.

The producer knows Viggo and says he's really nice in real life- hey we all knew that didn't we. So maybe if I can get get Viggo, maybe that will convince Clive and Jeremy to jump in. And if I have them, I think finding the rest will be a breeze.

Oh, I like dreaming.

Mac H. said:

One thing that you can do to squeeze the most out of a casting budget is to use someone well known for a TV role, but who isn't known for films.

They are likely to be quite recognisable to the audience (and give lots of pre-built vibes) but not be too expensive.

One low budget indy that has done this is 'Rogue' .. which put Alias star Michael Vartan in the lead.

Mac

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Thanks Mac. At this point, I'm dreaming. I'm still hoping for a "Yes", and at this point, I'm just trying to be optimistic.

But I imagine that at some point (if that happens) they will want to consult with me in regards to the characters. When I talked to this person on the phone they did mention wanting me involved in the screenplay.

So even if I can't choose who will play what part, I can at least use these names as prototypes for what I'm looking for.

I have no doubts at all about Jeremy Irons fitting in, if that's an option. He would play a seer, who can be vulnerable, a little sardonic, and self-effacing. He is full of ailments but has to speak with a powerful voice when confronting the enemies.

My only fear for Viggo, is that in putting him in a swashbuckling role, he could come across as Aragorn being transferred to another set.

The strange thing with Clive Owen, is that when I first thought of him, I never imagined him being cast in Elizabeth. And he is so perfect to play the lord of the territory in my story, it's almost frighteningly ironic he plays a similar personality in Elizabeth. He's secretive and holds his cards close to the vest, but he's also very resilient and nobody's fool, and can pull off dry-witted banter with the leading female in the story who will have to pull off several shooting from the hip conversations.

NikeeGoddess said:

did you say "novel"?
honey, unless you're on the fasttrack you can forget casting those guys. because it'll be years before your novel turns script and then goes into production. those guys are way too old. think young... and someone who won't need a butt double in 10 years

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Lol. I have an executive movie producer looking at my novels. They saw one, and asked to see a second one, and based on this read, they said if they like it they will offer me a contract. Now that doesn't mean the movie(s) will be made right away, so I don't know who will be what age when.

This all came about in a rather odd fashion, and right now I'm nervous. Lol- I'm pathetic. I just got an email to call their office today, and I just checked my mail minutes ago. So I have a feeling I'll have some kind of an answer by tomorrow, depending on if I can still reach them today. Yikes, I'm almost shaking.

Talk to you all later.

nate