Imagine a behind-the-scenes role in Hollywood that's as crucial as directing or cinematography, yet it's been overlooked for nearly a century—until now. This year marks a groundbreaking moment: casting directors are finally stepping into the spotlight at the Academy Awards, recognizing their pivotal part in bringing stories to life. But here's where it gets intriguing: what if the real stars of these films aren't the polished actors you've always admired, but everyday people like athletes and non-professionals? Let's dive into the fascinating world of casting non-actors and athletes in blockbuster hits like ‘F1,’ ‘The Smashing Machine,’ and ‘Marty Supreme,’ and uncover why this shift is revolutionizing filmmaking.
Lucy Bevan, a seasoned casting director with an impressive roster including the Brad Pitt-starring ‘F1: The Movie,’ expresses her excitement about this newfound visibility. 'Our work is just as vital as that of any other department head, and I'm thrilled we're finally discussing what casting truly entails,' she shares. For beginners wondering what casting really involves, think of it as the glue that holds a film's cast together. It's always been a cornerstone of filmmaking, but the detailed, often secretive process of assembling a group that matches a director's vision has typically stayed hidden from public view. And this is the part most people miss: casting isn't a straightforward task; it's more like an art form, blending intuition and a dash of magic. There's no one-size-fits-all formula—it's about finding that perfect chemistry, even if it means reimagining an audition for a different role entirely.
'We're constantly considering what an actor might bring to various parts,' Bevan explains. 'Someone might show up for a role that's not quite right for them, but we could see them fitting perfectly elsewhere. It happens more often than you might think.'
Delving deeper, the role demands a wide array of skills, as Jennifer Venditti, who handled casting for Yorgos Lanthimos' ‘Poor Things’ and collaborated with the Safdies on their Oscar-nominated films ‘Uncut Gems’ and ‘No Sudden Move’—wait, in the original it's Bugonia, but actually ‘Poor Things,’ and ‘The Smashing Machine’ and ‘Marty Supreme’—explains. 'I often describe myself as a detective, a director, a social worker, a psychologist, a sociologist, and an anthropologist rolled into one,' she says. This variety helps clarify why casting is so dynamic: it requires investigating people, understanding human behavior, and piecing together diverse backgrounds to create authentic ensembles.
The surge in sports-themed films this year highlights casting directors' expertise even more, as they pair athletes and non-actors with seasoned performers. When portraying real-life figures or events, casting teams must rapidly become specialists in a sport, consulting experts and poring over historical materials like old photographs, newspaper articles, and documentaries. For instance, in ‘F1,’ which drew from actual races, real drivers such as producer Lewis Hamilton and their crews appeared as themselves, adding unmatched realism. Bevan recalls, 'No matter their experience level, every single person delivered flawlessly. They were prepared and natural in their moments.'
To enhance believability, films often include actual professionals in supporting roles. In ‘The Smashing Machine,’ Venditti collaborated with stunt coordinators to select fighters with the right physique who could perform safely without causing harm, while still appearing genuine. Her research led to casting Ryan Bader as Mark Kerr's (played by Dwayne Johnson) friend and opponent, Mark Coleman; Bas Rutten as himself; and Oleksandr Usyk as Igor Vovchanchyn. And here's a point that might spark debate: athletes often leap at these opportunities because they broaden the reach of their sport. In ‘The Smashing Machine,’ Venditti notes, 'These individuals sacrificed their well-being and time, yet went unrecognized. Many in the community were eager to support a project that celebrates their predecessors.' But is there a downside to this trend? Some argue that relying on real athletes might overshadow trained actors, potentially undervaluing the craft of acting. What do you think—does authenticity trump performance, or should we prioritize acting talent? Share your views in the comments!
For ‘Marty Supreme,’ Venditti tackled an even bigger challenge, sourcing over 150 roles by mixing A-list stars with newcomers. She sent scouts across New York City's five boroughs to discover authentic faces that could convincingly embody the 1950s era. As a casting director and filmmaker, she thrives on merging fact and fiction, seeking that 'raw essence of human experience' in every project. 'What I adore about this profession is my fascination with people,' she reflects. 'Each film allows me to explore new worlds and individuals I might never encounter otherwise, deepening my understanding and empathy.'
This piece originally ran in a special November edition of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. If you'd like to get the magazine delivered, subscribe here to stay in the loop on Hollywood's evolving landscape.
As we wrap up, consider this controversial angle: In an industry that's all about representation, is casting non-actors a step toward inclusivity, or does it risk excluding those who train tirelessly to perfect their craft? Do films gain more by blurring lines between reality and fiction, or should we stick to traditional acting? We'd love to hear your take—agree, disagree, or offer a fresh perspective. Drop a comment below and join the conversation!
