Unmasking the Horror Film Audition
by Pamela S. Kramer, Award Winning Casting Director / Producer
My journey into the world of Horror, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy began in childhood, evolving from a love of the genres into a career of acting, casting, and teaching. For the past 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching the Horror class and, for 6 years, the Sci-Fi/Fantasy class at Actors Connection—the only courses of their kind in the country. Over the years, countless actors have taken what they’ve learned in these rooms and successfully applied it across all genres in film and television.
And now, I want to share the core advice I offer actors when they come in to audition for me.
Your First Take: Show Me Your Creative Choices
Auditioning for these specific genres is a different beast entirely. When you walk into my room, I do not offer direction on the first take. Why? I don’t want to squash your creative ideas.
I want to see the choices you’ve made, how you use the space, and the energetic connection you bring. Your preparation is your chance to show me what you think this character and scene need. Don’t be afraid to take chances; I can always pull you back.
Master the Space: Physicality and Energy
Using the audition space is crucial. If you are auditioning live, it’s always wise to ask: “How much space am I allowed to use?”
I don’t want to see an actor merely standing still. Even for less-physical roles, I want to see how you use the space, whether it’s physically or energetically.
- Live Auditions: Utilize your allowed space to convey the character’s state. Movement helps bring these heightened worlds to life.
- Self-Tapes: Given the limited space, be less physical. Movements that work live often don’t translate well on a self-tape camera and can appear distracting.
Attire: Suggestion, Not Full Costume
I generally dislike full costumes in an audition—they often distract from the performance. However, for Horror, I appreciate a simple suggestion.
For example, if applicable, a light application of blood on the clothes can signal your commitment to the character and genre. (Remember: a suggestion of blood, not a bucket full!) A little bit of creativity goes a long way, but never let your wardrobe choice overshadow your performance.
The Power of Silences and Energy
Often, an actor is brought in because they already look the part. While the delivery of the lines is key to closing the deal, your audition is your opportunity to show us something we may not have considered—through your choices.
It’s critical to consider the type of film you’re auditioning for. If it’s something cerebral, the physicality may not be as necessary. But what does come into play are the silences and the energy that fills the space in betweenthe dialogue.
This is where my background as an energetic body healer and clairvoyant medium informs my work. The silences and energy play a huge part in my assessment:
- Can I hear the silences? Do they create tension or tell a story?
- Do I feel your energy connecting with me?
In the audition process, I am less concerned with the technical perfection of the words and more focused on your connection to the character and the underlying truth of the scene.
The Final Word: Commit and Enjoy the Ride
You were invited to the party. You have the look, you have the talent, now you just need the conviction.
My final piece of advice is simple: Don’t be afraid to take chances. You were invited to the audition because we believe you could be the one. So commit fully to your choices, show us your unique vision, and enjoy the ride!
Pamela S. Kramer is known for casting Comedy Central’s hit TV series Strangers with Candy. Her recent credits include the features Torture Chamber (Horror)(directed by Dante Tomaselli), The Unborn (Horror), Tomato Limbo(Romantic Comedy) as well as several award-winning shorts Charred (Thriller), The Orchard (Coming of Age), Always Have Paris(Thriller), Alien Contact (Sci-fi) and many, many more.
