Thoughts on this, actors? Sony launches Online Casting Call Service, but it’s not what you think. Hint: it’s not called SonyCasting.com or FutureSonyStars.com or SonyFindsTalent.com. It’s called FaceOfTheFan.com.
The tagline: “Turning today’s fans into tomorrow’s stars.” Sony’s America’s Got Talent… and a Webcam?
Per a quote from Dwight Caines, president, Worldwide Digital Marketing for Sony Pictures on Deadline, “As new Face of the Fan initiatives roll out, we hope to provide a unique way to reward those people who show tremendous enthusiasm for their favorite movies or TV shows by giving them an opportunity to meet talent and filmmakers.” So, does that mean cast them, or invite them to the set for an autograph and a hug?
Now, to be honest, the press release is 100% vague as to how the casting process will work. Will they be utilizing the web to find unrepresented talent or will they simply be rewarding superfans because they, um, tweet a lot or something. Or will they be doing none of the above due to some clause that says they are not guaranteed to cast someone online? Don’t know.
So, what do you think? Is this a brilliant social media marketing tactic? Social media gone mad? A way for actors to cut through the studio casting system? Or completely insulting to actors and their craft?
Or is it too early to tell?
Chime in.
Click HERE to read Deadline article.
Interestingly… OPRAH did this with a contest to have your own talk show… and everyone submitted their video for a chance to “learn how-to” and then host a show…
Insult or more access to people who don’t know how to get “discovered”… but there are a lot of “social media stars” out there Lexus is using social media “stars” like Brian Solis… Lexus Debuts Darkcasting: A New Social Web Series
http://www.briansolis.com/2010/11/lexus-debuts-darkcasting-a-new-social-web-series/
The writers strike screwed SAG… and Reality Stars are cheaper and for some reason… people watch it. So, you tell me? (Personally, I think it is an insult… of course, I raised a classically trained actor and SAG member).
(I am a mother who raised…) long night. But yeah, there is something to understanding the CRAFT of acting… let’s not let this be a lost art too!!