Is Reading Fundamental in the Film and TV Industry?

Recently, I shared a press release stating that we’re looking for clients. I made it clear, and even included our email address,  and yet, we were flooded with résumés from people seeking jobs.

Not once did I mention that we’re hiring. Not once.

So, it made me pause and ask:

 Is reading no longer a skill in our industry? Are people only skimming, assuming, or just reacting emotionally without comprehension?

As an avid reader, asking myself these questions made me a bit sad. Recently, I cast a short film through my casting company, and so many actors didn’t read or follow directions. (Please DO NOT email Atlanta Film and TV about anything casting related!) I even sent an email out to a group of actors and asked if they already submitted one headshot, to not submit another. Fast forward to a few days later, and actor - who by the way was included in that email AND who previously submitted to this same project, CLEARLY did not read my email and sent a second and a third headshot believing I hadn’t received their first. Another actor took it upon themselves to continuously contact me asking had I received their audition, and if I did, was it good enough? As Industry professionals, we should know these are HUGE NO No’s in the industry. Number one because casting directors DO NOT have time to email people individually. Especially after receiving numerous submissions. It is important for you the actor to be a professional and read what is sent or put before you! 

In an industry where details matter, where a missed word in a script can change the tone of a scene, or a skipped line in a contract can cost a production, why are we overlooking the fundamentals?

This isn’t about calling anyone out. It’s about asking a serious question:How can we move forward as professionals if we don’t take the time to actually read and understand what’s in front of us?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Is this a one-off experience, or a sign of a deeper issue?

Share your thoughts by sending an email to atlantafilmandtv2019@gmail.com