Getting a role in Bollywood films is no longer about just looking good. Whether the actor fits the character and how well he or she blends with the rest of the cast has become crucial. Be it casting for Dangal, Secret Superstar or the newly released Gully Boy, casting directors have become an integral part of the filmmaking process.
"The biggest challenge is to get new faces who are good actors," says casting director Adityoa Suranna. Adityoa, who has been casting since 2009 when he assisted casting director Harry Parmar says things have certainly evolved. Adityoa, who has worked on 55 shows that include Kya Kasoor Hai Amla Ka, Gutar Gu and Dastan E Mohabbat Salim Anarkali, shares his tips on how aspiring actors need to prepare themselves for the industry. "Be patient, be positive and be sporty enough to understand your shortcomings," he says. Adityoa also talks about how most actors who are really good at their art are excellent observers. "If you want to be a good actor, you need to have an in-depth idea of how different characters work. You need to be a good observer. Look at people around you. The way they walk, talk and sit, you need to understand all of this," he offers.
Now that he has seen so many young people who flock to studios and production houses for an audition, Adityoa has one practical tip to share. "It's usually hot in Mumbai. So I always tell these aspirants, 'Don't apply makeup before coming to the audition.' They can carry their makeup kits and do the makeup just before going for the audition so that they look fresh on camera. Presentation matters a lot. But there are also those aspirants who have no idea about makeup and dressing. But we usually advice them on grooming if they have the face and talent," he advises. A lot of young people Adityoa says come to become stars and not actors. That's something which could have a negative impact on an aspiring actor's career. He says, it's always advisable to take workshops and get better at one's craft.