Monty Montgomery on Casting

Casting is always a difficult process. We have Monty here to talk a bit about what goes into casting a film and time is essential to finding character.

Q: What was the process of casting this film like?

M: As we were the last studio drama to film, we had a bit more time than others. This gave us the ability to thoroughly look through our applicants and decide who would be best for our characters. To do so, however, we did need to start the actual application process. We did this by posting on both union and non-union groups within Toronto. This led us to an incoming stream of self-tapes. After this, we held two sets of in person auditions. The more time you can have with an actor the better! This way, you can see the range they may have, as well as how well they understand the character. This also gave our director, Cameron, an opportunity to test out their ability to understand his direction and intentions with this film. Once cast, we were able to fit in a chemistry read and two rehearsals with our actors. After that, the real action began!

Q: Did you run into any challenges?

M: At one point, we were struggling to find the right person for some of our roles. We really had to buckle down and reach out to some contacts to help us find the right match. Luckily enough, we found the people that best portrayed our characters in the nick of time.

What is your favorite thing about casting?

M: I really like seeing the characters on the page come to life. It is a wonderful feeling finding the right actor and seeing them turn into the character that we have all grown so fond of.

Q: How did you collaborate with Cam on who you decided to cast?

M: I left the final decisions of the casting up to Cameron. He was great to work with in the sense of collaboration – he listened to my input and my opinions on the actors. We had a very good line of communication in terms of what we were looking for. When it came to actually casting them, Cameron took the lead and made the final decisions.

" I want people to empathize with Audrey’s position. She knows the morally right thing to do – not only for herself, but for the people who have grown to trust her as an anchor – but she by doing so, she is risking the jobs of her crew and herself "

Q: What was your biggest concern on set?

M: I didn’t have many concerns on set. My role of Casting Director had finished. I had moved on to BTS Photographer.

Q: What do you want people to take away from this film?

M: I want people to empathize with Audrey’s position. She knows the morally right thing to do – not only for herself, but for the people who have grown to trust her as an anchor – but she by doing so, she is risking the jobs of her crew and herself. I hope people see this internal struggle and come to see the world of news and politics in a new light.

Q: Do you have any upcoming projects or things you would like readers to know?

M: I am always on the hunt for new and exciting artistic endeavors. In my off time, I like to create photo series and spend time writing new scripts. You can follow any and all of my behind the scenes action on my Instagram @filmsbymonty!