Producing : Agencies and Talent by Atkin Korkis

1. Never, ever, ever approach talent outside of their rep unless it is in a situation where they would expect you to do so - ie. when you ALREADY know them and it's in an appropriate situation. And expect you will be referred to their rep very quickly if they are interested. 2. If you cannot answer the question "what's in it for my client?" besides a payday - you better have cash in hand already. You should be leading with that. Because if you are just begging for a name to help you raise cash - you are asking for a favor and why would anyone possibly care to do you a favor? Also, the more prominent the name, the more protective they will be be about their brand and who else is attached. An A-lister is NOT going to attach to a film directed by a first time director. Understand these dynamics and you will be more successful in attaching talent.

Thank you Shadow for your insights. When approaching talent for your projects what are some factors you carefully consider before trying to attach any talent? Theres always a conversation with creatives of who they imagine for a role, but that usually comes from a place thats exclusively a creative vision. From a producer stand-point I feel it’s always many variables you have to consider.

Hi Atkin, are you working with casting professionals at all?

Hey Niki, yes, specifically a couple of casting Directors. Im used to collaborating with casting directors to attach talent.