A casting call has gone out seeking various talent to work on the upcoming MGM Aretha Franklin biopic, Respect. Based on the life story of the iconic superstar who bridged the worlds of pop, gospel and soul with her musical genius and became a social and political icon with anthems like the song of the title. The feature will star Academy Award-winner Jennifer Hudson. Liesl Tommy will direct. Callie Khouri, who wrote “Thelma & Louise” and is the creator of “Nashville,” is writing the screenplay for “Respect,” following the rise of Franklin’s career — from a child singing in her father’s church choir to a superstar. Tradecraft’s Scott Bernstein, who produced “Straight Outta Compton,” and Harvey Mason Jr., who has written and produced songs for both Franklin and Hudson, are serving as producers on the movie.
Franklin, who died on Aug. 16 at the age of 76, won 17 Grammys, starting with “Respect” in 1968 and “Chain of Fools” in 1969.
**This is a period piece so parts of the feature is set in the 1960’s. Filming is set to begin on November 1st 2019 as various scenes will film in NYC. The casting director is seeking the following to work on the feature as paid background and possible featured talent.
- AFRICAN-AMERICAN/LATINA GIRLS – Seeking African American and Latina children (specifically girls ages 10-14 years) to jump double dutch. Must attend a costume fitting in Brooklyn. Please put DOUBLE DUTCH in the subject line of your email.
- AFRICAN-AMERICAN FEMALE FRIEND – Seeking 1960s African-American Female Friends of Principal Actress, 18-20s age range. Works 11/1 & 11/5 matching. Please write “FACEBOOK, RESPECT SUBMISSION.” in the email subject line.
- CUTE BOYS – Seeking 1960s African-American Cute Boys, 18-20s age range. Works 11/1 & 11/5 matching. Please write “FACEBOOK, RESPECT SUBMISSION.” in the email subject line.
- PROSTITUTE TYPES – Seeking 1960s Very Young African-American Female Prostitutes, 18 + to look younger, works 11/2 exterior scene. Please write “FACEBOOK, RESPECT SUBMISSION.” in the email subject line.
If interested please email bgcasting@gwcnyc.com with the following:
-what role are you submitting for?
-name/child’s name
-union status
-avail for dates for your role
-all sizes: MEN- height, weight, suit, shirt, pants, and shoe / WOMEN- height, weight, bust-waist-hip, dress, and shoe
-2-3 recent candid photos/selfies showing your current hair and look (please include close up and full body photos)
-Age
-All women must have 1960s appropriate hair (no braids, dreads, weaves, extensions, ombre, unnatural colors, etc)
-MEN- are you ok getting a hair cut? are you ok being clean shaven?
-do you have visible tattoos?
-confirm ok working around atmospheric smoke
-what ID can you provide for your I9? (please note if you have a visa or restricted ID or any kind?)
-phone number
Source: Grant Wilfley Casting