ASK & DISCUSS INDEX

7 years, 5 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

I am not a talent agent, but have used several for feature films. I may be able to help if you don't get a specific response.

In general, though, if you want an A-list actor, you're going to need real money and approach them with it. Not "we are hoping to raise..." money, but actual cash in the bank money as you are going to be asked for "pay or play" (or "pay to play", used interchangeably) money, probably 50% of the fee, to block out the dates in the diary. Calendars are often blocked out a year in advance, and other projects may take priority. Without specific dates and pay or play money you're not likely to be taken seriously.

If you do have dates and cash, they will probably be happy to look at your project. A-list talent have a million requests for their time, so they will be very picky about projects and directors. They will often not want to work with small-time directors who haven't proved themselves yet working on other features with other represented talent. To get an A-lister, you'll probably have worked with B-listers, to get B-listers you'll have worked with C-listers, etc., and not have pissed them off along the way! They don't want to be wasting time on the set of a film where the director dithers, where tech is slow or unsafe, etc., and a good way to do this is to check in with other actors if you're good to work with. Script-wise, they can be very picky too.

May not have covered it, ask if I can help and you don't find anyone else :)

7 years, 5 months ago - Alnoor Dewshi

Hi Paddy. That's not my issue.
I'm sure it's a common question that comes up here though..! Thanks for taking the time to input
:)