Casting Experts Reveal Challenges of Bringing Authenticity to Film Roles

As the 98th Oscars approach, the Academy is finally introducing an award to honor the work of casting directors, a role that has long been overlooked. At a recent Deadline Contenders London event, several veteran casting professionals discussed the unique challenges they face in bringing authenticity to film and television roles.

For the upcoming F1 film starring Brad Pitt, casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann had to find a young actor who could not only hold his own against the Hollywood star, but also convincingly drive a race car. After auditioning extensively, they landed on Damson Idris, who impressed them with his driving skills during a test at the racetrack.

Similarly, Jo Harris, who worked on the play Hedda, had to assemble a cast that could capture the heightened nature of the characters while still feeling grounded and emotionally true. "We needed people that could bring some kind mad energy to it but also had a kind of emotional truth," Harris explained.

Across various projects, the casting experts emphasized the importance of truly understanding the worlds they're working in, whether it's the high-stakes world of Formula One or the unique setting of a single-night play. By doing their research and finding the right actors, they are able to create on-screen performances that feel authentic and immersive for the audience.