Lights, Camera, Action! Casting Call for Young Actors in ‘Josh’s Story’
Ready to step into the spotlight? An awesome opportunity is calling your name! Josh’s Story, a powerful short film, is looking for talented teens and adults to fill four speaking roles and several silent extra spots. This project is part of the Sliding Doors Project, a collab between First Take and Wirral Council’s Harm Outside the Home Services. Plus, you could be considered for roles in four other short films in the same project. How cool is that?
What’s Josh’s Story About?
Picture this: Josh, a 15-year-old lad, is fed up with life at home with his alcoholic mum. Desperate for a change, he turns to his dad, but things take a wild turn when his dad gets him hooked on cocaine. After a crazy chain of events lands Josh in the hospital and his dad in trouble, Josh’s life is a mess. With the help of a kind social worker named Paul, Josh fights to take control of his future. This short film dives deep into the choices young people make and the consequences that follow. It’s real, raw, and relatable.
Why Should You Get Involved?
Paid Gigs: Speaking roles pay £100 for a full day or £50 for a half day. Silent extras get travel expenses covered.
Pro Credits: Everyone gets professional credits to boost your acting resume.
Make a Difference: The film will be shown in Merseyside schools to spark convo about real-life issues.
More Opportunities: Apply for Josh’s Story and you’ll also be considered for four other films in the Sliding Doors Project.
Who Are They Looking For?
Speaking Roles:
Josh: 15-year-old white male with a Scouse accent. Sweet but strong, craving a bond with his flawed dad. He battles cocaine addiction but wants to turn his life around.
Kath (Mum): Late 30s, white female, Scouse accent. Josh’s mum, struggling with alcoholism and a rocky relationship with her son.
Chris (Dad): 40-year-old white male, Scouse accent. Josh’s irresponsible, party-loving dad who’s more like a mate than a parent.
Paul: 30s–40s, male, any ethnicity, Scouse accent. A caring social worker who’s passionate about helping others.
Silent Extras:
Young Woman/Teenage Girl: Ages 15–20, any gender, any ethnicity.
Cafe Goers (Green Hut): Any age, any gender, any ethnicity.
Gym Goers: Any age, any gender, any ethnicity.
When and Where?
Filming Dates: July 10–11, 2025.
Location: Merseyside.
Screen Test Date: June 12, 2025 (time slots between 10 a.m.–6 p.m.).
How to Apply
Send an email to becky@firsttake.org.uk with the subject line CURTIS CASTING CALL. Include:
Your name and pronouns
Your playing age (the age you can convincingly play)
Whether you’re up for speaking and non-speaking roles
A link to your CV or Spotlight profile
If you’re free for the screen test on June 12
Your availability for filming in May–June 2025 (note any dates you can’t do)
A recent headshot
Deadline: Midnight, June 3, 2025. You’ll hear back by June 4.
What’s the Sliding Doors Project?
First Take and Wirral Council are teaming up to create five short films that shine a light on tough choices young people face. Directed by Lynne Harwood, these films are based on real stories from five young people. They’ll be shown in schools across Merseyside to get students talking about big issues like addiction and family struggles.
Who’s First Take?
First Take is an award-winning filmmaking crew that works with communities to tell bold, authentic stories that don’t get enough airtime. They’re all about making films that hit home and change how people see the world.
Spread the Word!
Know someone who’d be perfect for this? Share this casting call! Whether you’re an aspiring actor or just want to be part of something meaningful, this is your chance to shine. Email your application to becky@firsttake.org.uk and get ready to tell Josh’s story!
Got questions? Hit up First Take at becky@firsttake.org.uk. Let’s make movie magic!