Film making

There are two things you should be prepared to encounter as an aspiring actor: a screening interview and a call back. The former refers to a short meeting; the latter refers to a longer, more involved interview. A screening interview is the time when the casting director decides if you’re the best actor to play the part. This is when you really want to shine — it’s that whole “first impression” thing.

The only difference is that, in a callback interview, it is most likely that the director has already made the choice and the purpose for inviting you over is to finalize that decision. This process is what people sometimes refer to as “chemistry.” A callback interview can have different durations. Some are measured in minutes, while others last a whole day. Your talent agency should be able to advise you on how to handle these meetings, so it’s important to develop a relationship with an honest agency.

Once you get the call, try to find out as much as you can about the interview. Ask the coordinator the names of who will be interviewing you. With this information in mind, it will give you a head start as well as prepare you for the interview that will finally seal the deal. In connection with this, research more about the film, the production company, the script, the part you will play, the other actors and most especially the director.

In a call back, aspiring actors will not only meet the casting director but all other members of the production staff as well. Since most of them will be meeting you for the first time, expect that some questions will be repeated. Just be patient and answer them thoroughly. Do not get frustrated on having to repeat the same answers.

In a call back, always arrive at the venue a few minutes before your appointment. Arriving too early will make you anxious and lose your cool. Arriving too late, on the other hand, makes you look bad. While waiting, you can practice what you will be saying to the interviewers.

Once you are in the interview room, try to be engaging and smart. Enthusiastic but not overwhelming. Do not move in your seat too much. Try to make the conversation as light as you can but with a bit of formality. When answering questions go straight to the point. Try avoiding fillers such as “uh” and “um” in between words and never interrupt the interviewer while he is talking.

Expect that you will be required to read a script because, after all, this is an acting job. In connection with this, it is smart to bring extra copies of your resume as well as other documents that will show your training and acting experiences.

After the call back interview, try to recall each of the interviewer’s names and send them a thank you note later on. While this practice is already acceptable, it will also make a good impression as well as help them remember you when making the final decision.

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