Actors Wanted For Student Film

CALL FOR ACTORS: We’re looking for enthusiastic actors to audition for a Murdoch University Honours Student production. Auditions will be held around 25/04/11 – 08/05/11. “The Sick Room”, by writer/director Adam Hillman, explores the issue of mental health and its effect on the long-suffering families behind it. Noah Mason's mental illness holds him captive inside his own mind, as his body and life deteriorate beneath it. Having been neglected and ignored by psychiatrists for over a decade, his long-suffering family must now take matters into their own hands, if they ever want to get Noah the help that he so desparately needs. It is a sordid state of affairs, one that must be rectified and forces the unwilling participants into a stand-off that will almost certainly end in bloodshed. **This film contains violence and coarse language** MAIN CHARACTERS: (Will be required for most of the shoot, plus rehearsals prior) Noah Mason (Late 30’s-40's) – unhealthy-looking man with severe mental disability. Son of Grace & Uncle to Eli. Is basically unaware of anything going on around him, living in the world violently manifest in this head and survives by drinking/consuming excessive amounts of cola & cigarettes. He constantly talks to the people in his mind, that are unseen by others around him. (Note: This actor is required to shave his head on screen, smoke and must be OK with holding a live snake) Grace Mason (60-70’s) – Passionate, religious older woman, whose main focus is family and getting help for her ailing son Noah. She is the grandmother of Eli. Has only her faith and grandson to hold her together, as she is ignored by medical professionals. Eli Mason (18) – nephew of Noah & grandson of Grace. Bears the weight of the world on his shoulders and takes action when others won't stand up and help his uncle. Very loyal and emotional young man, having lost his parents when he was very young. (Note: This is a very intense role and will be required for majority of the shoot, including night scenes) Dr Woo (35-40’s) – female mental health professional treating Noah. Is frustrated by the restrictions placed on her from the health system, and her younger notions of actually helping patients has long dissolved, leaving only dissatisfaction and bluntness. SMALLER CHARACTERS: (May only be required for 1-2 days of the shoot) Eli’s Girlfriend (18) – one scene only. May require some nudity. Small Girl (7-8 x2) – one scene each only. No dialogue Young Eli (7-8) – one scene only. No dialogue Medical Assistants (x3) – no on screen dialogue Attending Teachers (x3) – one scene only. No dialogue Doctors (x4) – no dialogue. Strong actors needed to hold down and administer medication to a thrashing patient. Filming is set to be between 11/06/11 – 26/06/11, with prior rehearsal time required for lead actors. **Please note that since this is a student film, we are operating on no budget. All actors will be engaged on a volunteer basis. Catering will be provided and any special dietary requirements will be taken where possible.** If you would like to arrange for an audition or have further questions, please contact Kristen at kristenberry86@gmail.com