Valkyrie Win!

Best First-Time Filmmaker Award!

"Manic" Update
The Valkyrie International Film Festival screenings were epic, with amazing Q&As after every block where the filmmakers attended to represent their films.
Amelia's film recieved a warm reception, and Amelia herself was recongized by the judges as knocking it out of the park with her debut film! She was awarded the "Best First-Time Filmmaker Award"!
Huge Congratulations to director and filmmaker Amelia Favata!

SEPTEMBER
INFO COMING SOON
There are events brewing around town for next month that haven't been announced yet. Stay tuned for updates!

Annual Shawna Foundation fundraiser
$8,467/$10K -- in just four days!
Shawna Foundation founder and director Skip Shea and his team run an annual fundraiser during the month of August (into September) to honor the life and independent artistic spirit of Shawna Shea. The foundation runs scholarships, as well as the three film festivals we've come to know and love, (and other programs - you should sub to their newsletter if you haven't yet). All donations are tax deductible, and fuel the programs for the rest of the year.
Donate to the Shawna Foundation's PayPal link here: https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/1392300
"The Ride"
$3,233/$3.5K -- There's still time to donate!
Filmmaker Ryan Nunes and writer/actor Paul Kandarian are making a new film that promises to be spectacular.
The film follows Gizzy, a grad student visiting her grandparents while carrying the weight of a deeply personal decision. Nervous and afraid of being judged, she turns to her grandmother for support, but their conversation reveals the complicated divide between love, faith, fear, and acceptance.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-ride-a-film-on-family-and-compassion
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***If you have any filmmaking fundraisers you know about, let us know!*** |
CASTING
Seeking Paid "injured citizen" role players for a National Guard training exercise:
- Where: Joint Base Cape Cod
- When: August 25, 26 & 27, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
- Pay: Paid, plus free food & drinks
- Requirements: 18+, valid state ID, no experience needed
- Sign up: https://forms.gle/8e9K7xAr1HA7Rsr7A
CASTING
Jodi Purdy Casting Director seeks Non-Union People of Color for a series filming in the Boston area.
These are Background Roles:
Men and Women
21 to 45
Shoot Dates:
August 18th
10 BG
3pm - 7pm
August 19th
14 BG
1pm - 6pm
August 20th
8 BG
1pm - 4pm
Filming is in the Back Bay
Typical Lounge Patrons: casual chic, smart casual. Look like you want to step out but not go to a gala. Nighttime glam.
VIP Guests: Men: Crisp T-shirt, nice jeans, loud or expensive-looking shoes and jewelry.
Women: Expensive, slightly understated but definitely still sexy.
Submit: Photos, Name, Cell, Email, Location, Dates available
Subj: Series Casting
CASTING - IN PERSON GIG
$35/HR NEW HAMPSHIRE NASCAR!
Branded Promo Talent, a leading experiential marketing agency, is seeking dependable, outgoing, and kid-friendly Brand Ambassadors to represent the LEGO City NASCAR Kids Zone at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, NH!
Dates & Times:
Friday, August 21, 2026
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, August 22, 2026
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, August 23, 2026
9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Additional Sunday Hours:
Breakdown until 5:00 PM (4 BAs)
**Must be available all days.**
Location:
New Hampshire Motor Speedway
1122 NH-106
Loudon, NH 03307
Compensation:
$35 per hour — 1099, paid weekly —
Attire:
Branded shirts provided. Black jeans/pants, or shorts/skorts (appropriate length, no rips) and comfortable black gym shoes.
Event Details:
Our participation in this event focuses on creating a fun, safe, and interactive experience. Staff will lead games and activities, engage children and families with energy and enthusiasm, and encourage participation to ensure everyone has a memorable time.
Staff Duties:
• Welcome children and families with a friendly and energetic attitude.
• Engage guests in games and activities, making sure everyone feels included and has fun.
• Provide clear instructions for activities while keeping energy levels high.
• Assist with managing lines and maintaining smooth guest flow throughout the event.
• Keep the event space clean, safe, and organized.
• Represent the brand with positivity and professionalism at all times.
Staff Expectations:
We are looking for high-energy, kid-friendly staff who love interacting with families. You must be punctual, professional, and ready to deliver fun, excitement, and enthusiasm from start to finish!
Application Process:
To be considered, email [email protected] with the following:
• Availability
• Resume
• Headshot
• Relevant experience
• A brief description of why you’re an excellent fit for this role.
Please use "NASCAR Kids Zone - New Hampshire" as the subject of your email.
Note: Only applicants who follow all instructions will be considered. Our team will review qualifications via email and schedule a call with eligible candidates.
GRIP P.A.
NOW HIRING – Utility PA (Grip & Lighting Experience Preferred)
We're looking for a Utility PA to assist with grip and lighting on a short film scene.
📍 Location: Medford, MA
📅 Date: Sunday, August 30
💲 Rate: $250/day
We're looking for someone who:
• Experience on film sets
• Knowledge of grip equipment and basic lighting
• Reliable, hard-working, and a team player
Please email [email protected] with your resume and phone number.
CASTING
Core Casting Group is casting people ages 18+ NATIONWIDE who are FLUENT IN ITALIAN to participate in a paid remote zoom call motion capture session.
Compensation is $75 flat and sessions are 1.5 hours
Apply here: https://cutt.ly/ITALIAN
CAMERA OP
ISO: videographer/someone comfortable with a small digital camera that's available any weekend mornings/ afternoons in august for 1 hour of filming a lowkey interview.
CT/NYC based
Compensation: $115 stipend + round trip MTA ticket (if from NYC).
Please contact Kendyl Davis at [email protected]
CASTING
Hello, my name is John. I am the assistant director for “The Lovely Realization of a Dandelion,” a short film that Ezra (the director) and I have been working closely on. Our project is looking to take an honest approach to the challenges that youth, and especially those with mental illness are facing.
As the mental struggle is often an unseen one, we’re looking to effectively put you in the character’s mindset. If you’d like to participate in this as an actor or extra, please feel free to fill out the interest form below.
More Info on Casting + Application here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QRO2xa5ogUS4PyZurIsr1DAJd81s83oLxBFVgpMj6Pc/edit?tab=t.0
HMUA
HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST NEEDED – FILM PRODUCTION | MIDDLETOWN, CT
We are looking for an experienced Hair & Makeup Artist (HMU) for an upcoming film production shooting on Monday, August 10th, in Middletown, Connecticut.
The scene is centered around a summer wedding, and we are seeking an HMU artist to work specifically with the bride and create a polished, natural wedding-day hair and makeup look that will translate well on camera.
Location: Middletown, Connecticut
Shoot Date: Monday, August 10th
Production Schedule: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
The ideal candidate should have experience with bridal hair and makeup and be comfortable working in a film production environment.
If you are interested, please email [email protected] with:
- Your portfolio or website/social media page showcasing your work
- Your availability for August 10th
- Your day rate or hourly rate
- Your location and whether you are able to travel to Middletown, CT
- Any relevant film, television, bridal, or event experience
Please include "HMU – August 10th" in the subject line of your email.
Additional production details, including the bride's call time and HMU responsibilities, will be provided to the selected artist.
CASTING
Short film: HOT DANCING GRANNY in search of a Script Supervisor fluent in Mandarin (read/write in Simplified) and English.
Production dates are currently a 2-2.5 day shoot between 10/1-10/4. Stipend available.
Please send us an email at [email protected]
You can learn more about our film here: https://tinyurl.com/fundhdg
CASTING
Rhode Island Stage Actors:
The Bristol Historical & Preservation Society seeks actors between the ages of 20 and 80 for multiple paid roles with stipends between $150 and $400 for ‘Bad Character’ an original 70-minute stageplay based on Reverend Ephraim Avery's murder trial from 1833.
AUDITIONS:
MON. AUG 10th IN CRANSTON
TUES. AUG 11th IN BRISTOL
Must commit to weekly rehearsals between Providence and Bristol in Sept., biweekly rehearsals in Oct., tech rehearsal on November 7 in Bristol, dress rehearsal on November 8 in Bristol, and 4 performances between 11/14 - 11/16, 2026 in Bristol.
Email [email protected] for audition sign-up information.
CASTING
***Casting Call COMEDIC COMMERCIAL in Georgia***
We are currently seeking actors to fill a couple roles in an upcoming comedic commercial for a Vinyl Tile Flooring brand! We're looking for individuals with great comedic timing who can bring fun, personality, and energy to the screen. Please review the roles below and submit if you think you'd be a great fit.
ROLES
DAVE (35-45 any ethnicity)
Dave is the well-meaning DIY enthusiast who confidently takes on every home improvement project. Whether he's qualified or not. He's friendly, expressive, and naturally funny, with strong comedic timing.
GREG (30-40 any ethnicity)
Greg is the effortlessly capable neighbor who always seems to have everything under control. He's charismatic, approachable, and confident without coming across as arrogant. This role relies on subtle comedic delivery, natural reactions, and an easygoing presence.
Project: Vinyl Tile Flooring Commercial
Directors: Luke Pilgrim and Brad Kennedy
Production Company: Sozo Bear Films
Website:sozobearfilms.com
Union/Non Union: Non Union
Shooting Location: North Georgia
Compensation: $250.00 a day + $1,000.00 Buyout
Filming Dates: August 2026 (Date TBD)
To apply, please email [email protected] with the subject line YOUR NAME - ROLE YOU ARE SUBMITTING FOR. Please include a headshot, resume, and reel if you have one.
HMUA
Seeking Additional HMU – Feature Film
HMU team is growing, looking for additional Hair & Makeup Artists to join our indie feature film shooting in Connecticut through early August.
$250/ day per 10 hours
Please email Ami Porder: [email protected]
Please include your name and phone number
CASTING
NOW CASTING – FLIGHT OF THE DRAGONS
A New Fantasy Series from Vintage Productions
Filming Location: Boston, Massachusetts (and surrounding areas)
Vintage Productions is seeking talented actors for lead, supporting, and ensemble roles in Flight of the Dragons, an epic fantasy series about destiny, friendship, war, and discovering where you truly belong.
[Note - Compensation: $400/8 for Leads; double check rates for other roles when you email.]
On her 18th birthday, Stormy is gifted a reckless dragon unlike any other. Instead of following tradition, the dragon carries her into a mysterious new world filled with allies, danger, romance, and ancient secrets. As war threatens the home she left behind, Stormy must choose between the life she's always known and the future she's only begun to imagine.
Lead Roles:
Stormy – Female, 18–25. Brave, compassionate, determined.
Lyra – Female, 18–30. Wise healer with quiet strength.
Wren – Female, 18–30. Clever rogue with a guarded heart.
Elara – Female, 20–35. Fearless warrior and mentor.
Kaiya – Female, 18–30. Princess determined to change her kingdom.
Sorenna – Female, 20–35. Powerful mystic with knowledge of both worlds.
Supporting Roles:
Zara – Female, 20–35. Skilled hunter and survivor.
Isla – Female, 18–30. Dreamer filled with hope.
Maeve – Female, 20–35. Sorceress hiding a dangerous past.
Brielle – Female, 20–35. Loyal protector.
Arian – Male, 20–35. Charming rogue with hidden depth.
Rhys – Male, 20–35. Noble warrior torn by duty.
Asher – Male, 18–30. Quiet mystic gifted with rare magic.
Ensemble Roles:
Seeking performers ages 16–30 for villagers, warriors, scholars, mercenaries, soldiers, court members, and other fantasy world characters.
Travel and lodging provided
Meals on set
IMDb credit
Filming in and around Boston, MA
Please email the following to: [email protected]
Include: Headshot, Resume, Demo reel (if available), character(s) you are interested in portraying
CASTING
Jodi Purdy Casting Director is seeking Non-Union Actors & Actresses to submit for the below captioned roles for an Independent Feature Film
Written & Directed by David J. McDivitt
“NIGHT WATCH”
Filming: Medford, MA
August 2026
Compensation: TBD
MUST BE LOCAL TO BOSTON!
Submit the following via Google Drive or Email Attachment to:
Subject: NIGHT WATCH – [ROLE] – [YOUR NAME]
Name, Cell, Email, Location, Photos, Acting Resume, Reels - if available, Links - if available, 1 minute Introduction Video
CHARACTER: GRANDMA (BETTE). Supporting / Day Player | Female, 60s–70s
Sarah’s mother — warm, doting, a little blunt, thrilled to whisk the grandkids off to New York for the holiday.
CASTING
posted by Nelson Reis
Project : Twelve
Through Michael’s final twelve seconds, the story shows that while grief, regret, and tragedy are unavoidable parts of being human, they do not erase the beautiful, quiet moments of connection we share with others. It is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to forgive, to choose to keep moving forward, and to ensure that the people we care about know they are loved.
Emily
Emily is the late wife of Michael and the source of his greatest joy and deepest sorrow. In the early flashbacks, she is "radiant and alive," forming the "golden warmth" of Michael’s domestic life. Her character serves as the catalyst for Michael’s emotional spiral; her illness and the "flatlining" monitor in the hospital represent the moment Michael’s world turned to darkness. She is the woman Michael met by a firepit when "the world was young," and her memory remains so potent that Michael falls to his knees at the mere mention of her name. She represents the "fleeting moments" that The Guide insists truly matter.
Age: 30-35
The Mother
Appearing in the first memory of Michael’s transition, the Mother is a figure of pure nostalgia and childhood innocence.
Seen in a backyard with sprinklers, she is "radiant and alive,". She represents the foundational love that Michael lost long ago, serving as the starting point for his twelve-second retrospective of a life lived through both sunshine and rain.
Age : 35-40
Principal Photography: September 12, 2026
Status : non-union
Location : killingly CT
Compensation: Paid
Headshots/reels/Resume to : [email protected]
CASTING
Jodi Purdy Casting Director is seeking Non-Union Actors & Actresses to submit for the below captioned roles for an Independent Feature Film
Written & Directed by David J. McDivitt
“NIGHT WATCH”
Filming: Medford, MA in August 2026
Compensation: TBD
Submit the following via Google Drive or Email Attachment to:
Subject: NIGHT WATCH – [ROLE] – [YOUR NAME]
Name
Cell
Email
Location
Photos
Acting Resume
Reels - if available
Links - if available
1 minute Introduction Video
Questions? Send in Email!
ROLES:
SARAH (Lead) Female | 30s | Caucasian
A Vanguard Financial administrator whose Christmas is shattered when a hit squad invades her home and forces her to use her Level 5 server access.
Terrified, intelligent, protective, and deeply devoted to her husband. Sarah is one of the film’s most layered characters, balancing vulnerability with extraordinary strength.
MARK (Lead) Male | 40s | Caucasian
A recently retired detective held captive and tortured during the home invasion. Calm under pressure, morally grounded, and impossible to break. His battle with the antagonist is one of philosophy and willpower as much as survival.
ONE (Lead/Antagonist) Male | 40s | Open Ethnicity
The brilliant, philosophical leader of the hit squad. Calm, precise, and chillingly intelligent. He doesn’t see himself as a villain—he believes he’s correcting a broken system. Looking for an actor who can command a scene through quiet confidence rather than intimidation.
BENNY (Supporting) Male | 20s | Open Ethnicity
A young security guard with a passion for technology and cybersecurity. Friendly, funny, and genuinely likable. Benny unexpectedly becomes one of the story’s emotional anchors.
THE CHAIRMAN - (Supporting) Male | 60s | Caucasian
The unseen power behind the operation. Sophisticated, elegant, and completely in control. Few lines—but every word carries enormous weight. A memorable role for a seasoned actor.
HACKER (Supporting) Female | 20s–30s | Open Ethnicity
The technical specialist of the hit squad. Brilliant, fearless, and physically capable. Sharp-witted with a dry sense of humor, she’s completely at home inside the server room—and dangerous in a fight.
BRUNO (Supporting) Male | 30s–40s | Open Ethnicity
The team’s physical enforcer. Tough, impulsive, and impatient. Beneath the muscle is a man carrying personal pain and quiet regret, giving the character surprising emotional depth.
CASTING
Lead Role - "Out of Town" Short-Film (OPEN CALL)
Casting various roles including lead NOLA for "OUT OF TOWN," an independent Short Film shooting in Berlin, NH.
SHOOT DATES: August 24-28th, 2026
APPLY: On Backstage: https://www.backstage.com/casting/out-of-town-3188698/?role_id=5571789&role_id=5571797&role_id=5571799
or Via Email: [email protected]
Status: Non-Union.
Compensation: Paid, Day Rate (exact info on the Backstage per role).
For more info on the project, visit our Backstage: https://www.backstage.com/casting/out-of-town-3188698/?role_id=5571789&role_id=5571797&role_id=5571799
LOCATION CALL
Venue Rental request from Breann Vergara:
Email is [email protected]
Looking for a cute apartment to shoot at August 2nd, 8th, and 9th. It’s for a short film (coming of age, comedy) based in Somerville/Cambridge [Boston] area.
Budget is $100 per day, for a 3 day shoot 4pm-9pm.
Dates Aug. 2nd, 8th, and 9th.
6 to 7 people will be involved in the shoot.
LOCATION CALL
ISO Locations, posted by Andrew Drachman:
Putting together a shoot in Rhode Island for the beginning of August (8/3-8/4) and production is looking for two distinct locations to use for half a day.
1. A treehouse
2. A garage that can be used as a "man cave"
Budget is $600 per location
Any help is greatly appreciated! Please email Andrew at [email protected].
HMUA
MAKEUP ARTIST NEEDED – AUGUST 23
Seeking an experienced Hair & Makeup Artist for a film/demo reel shoot in the Medford, MA area.
- Pay: $350
- Date: August 23
- Must be great with kids and teens
- Film/video experience preferred
Please send your portfolio, experience, and contact info to:
CASTING
Project type: short film for MFA thesis project
Character: Jude (25, female) - a vampiric creature who blends into society, but chooses to live a solo, nomadio life. She is inherently a people-pleaser, but she puts on a tough exterior.
Logline: In the wake of a blood borne plague, a vampire and a mutilated girl search for life beyond the power lines.
Location/Dates:
Providence, RI
Mid-October
Non-union
Payment TBD (likely a flat rate) & IMDb credit, meals, and transportation
Email [email protected] with a headshot and resume
CASTING
Project name: Gunshine
Type: Feature film
Compensation: $100/day
Production Companies: RandomAss Films and Dreaming Giant Media
Director: Sam Cohen
Dates: TBD, but aiming for late July/early August
Duration: 3 days for the first portion of the film, then 11 additional days in Spring 2027 (MUST be willing and able to commit to the project long term).
Location: Central MA
Status: Union, under the SAG micro budget agreement, but can accept non-union talent.
Logline: A day in the life of a hitman who moonlights as a janitor goes terribly wrong
Role details: Character of “Joe,” lead role. Age range of 50-65, male, white, burly. Character references below.
Please submit headshots, reel, and résumé to [email protected]
CASTING CALL
COMEDY DRAMA SHORT FILMING IN AUGUST (8/14-8/17)
Non-Union $150/day
Title: "Chester Wetherspoon - A Retrospective"
Logline: A pompous conman wildly embellishes his life story to a weary public defender while serving time in a minimum security prison. When his gullible cellmate mistakes him for an undercover actor researching for a role, the conman seizes an opportunity to manipulate his way to freedom.
Location: Middlesex County in Massachusetts - Locations still being finalized
Film Setting: 1970s-1980s
Audition: Please send an email to [email protected]
- Please include a headshot and/or a reel. Let them know which character you are interested in to receive the sides.
Characters:
CELLMATE: (Male in his mid-twenties to early-thirties)
An earnest, enthusiastic aspiring actor whose confidence far exceeds his common sense. Friendly, trusting, and endlessly optimistic, he sees every new situation as an opportunity and throws himself into it wholeheartedly. Convinced he's on the verge of something bigger, he's eager to prove himself and make his mark. While intelligent enough to be resourceful, his desire to see the best in others often blinds him to their true intentions, leaving him vulnerable to manipulation.
ARLO: (Any gender of indiscriminate age) -
A weary public defender with a sharp mind, and a dry sense of humor. Practical, organized, and firmly grounded in reality, Arlo approaches every situation with professionalism and common sense, even when surrounded by chaos. Though often exasperated by the people they deal with, they remain committed to doing their job and helping others, no matter how difficult the task.
Cellmate will most likely be required for 2 days of filming. - TBD as the schedule is being finalized.
Arlo will most likely be required for 1 day of filming. - TBD as the schedule is being finalized.
You can also learn more about the project here:
https://seedandspark.com/fund/chester-wetherspoon-a-retrospective
EDITOR
EDITOR NEEDED — "Bar Car" | Connecticut Feature Film (PAID & FULLY FUNDED) - posted by Andrew Breunig
We are currently seeking an Editor for Bar Car, a character-driven independent feature film currently in pre-production.
PROJECT DETAILS:
• Feature-length drama
• Approximately 65–70 page screenplay
• Editing timeline: Mid-August through late October 2026
• Connecticut-based applicants preferred, but not required
• Paid position
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:
• Experience editing narrative films, shorts, or features
• Strong storytelling instincts and sense of pacing
• Understanding of narrative structure and how to tighten a story in the edit
• Familiarity with sound design and audio polishing
• Experience with color grading or color workflow
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to work closely with the director
• Ability to balance performance, tone, and emotion throughout the edit
TO SUBMIT:
Email [email protected] with:
• Resume and/or relevant credits
• Reel or sample work
• Your typical editing rates
• A brief introduction about yourself and your experience
We're looking forward to finding the right creative partner to help shape this film in post-production.
CREW - MULTIPLE
Crew needed for student short film:
Senior Skip Day
Logline: When an overachieving athlete is convinced to skip school by a carefree classmate, the two form a budding connection as they spend the day wandering around Boston.
Looking for: Sound mixer, gaffer, 1st AC, PA
Shoot Dates: 8/3-8/14
Rates:
Gaffer: $200/day
AC: $200/day
Sound: $250-300/day
PA: unpaid
Contact: Ruby Zatz [email protected]
SOUND MIXER
Seeking MA-based Sound Designer/Mixer
Molly Bynum is seeking a stellar sound mixer for an ultra-low budget SAG Feature Film shooting in Millis, MA and surrounding areas this fall.
Must have your own kit and be available Aug 17-19 and Sep 21-Oct 13. Rate is $210/day.
Finding someone based in the eastern MA/Boston greater area is a high priority as housing is unfortunately unavailable.
Please reach out for more details: [email protected]
**As always, if you know of any paid local gigs, reply to this email and I’ll share with the rest of community!**
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THANK YOU!
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