This course is ideal for filmmakers at any stage—whether you’re casting your first feature or looking to refine and rethink your existing approach!

Overview

Get a step-by-step breakdown of the casting process for low-budget features in this practical, 3-hour class led by Development Executive Kevin Christoffersen of Film StartUp. From selecting the right casting director to understanding SAG offer structures and talent agency dynamics, this course will walk filmmakers through the real-world tools, documents, and strategies needed to cast their films effectively and professionally.

To close out the session, you'll hear directly from Danielle Pretsfelder Demchick (DPD Casting) in an exclusive guest mentor Q&A.

• How to go about choosing the Casting Director that is right for your film based on genre and budget
• Offer Letter: SAG Scale / Double Scale / Schedule F
• Retainer and long form agreements to cast primary leads, minor roles, and extras
• Creating realistic cast wish lists for each role through updated Google Excel Sheet
• Casting Director maintaining ongoing communication chain with Agents and Managers
• Director’s Letter to Actors
• Talent Agencies overview: Gersh, WME, Buchwald, UTA, CAA, Innovative…
• Navigating the SAG signatory application process to qualify your production
• Actor’s production company as co-producing partner
• Utilizing an A.I. program to help facilitate casting choices and sales projections

Instructors

Kevin Christoffersen

Film StartUp - Development Executive

Kevin Christoffersen is a seasoned Development Executive, and Educator with nearly 30 years of experience across four continents. As the head of Film StartUp, he specializes in guiding filmmakers through the entire feature film development process.

Kevin works closely with filmmakers to transform scripts into market-ready projects. He provides in-depth consultations, development labs, and workshop courses covering essential aspects such as script refinement, pitching strategies, financing structures, and packaging projects for investors. His expertise extends to securing international co-productions and distribution deals, ensuring that films reach the right audiences across multiple platforms.

Beyond individual mentorship, Kevin’s extensive network includes industry professionals in Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver, and across Europe, allowing him to connect filmmakers with the right partners for success.

Previously, Kevin served as Executive Producer at World Television in Switzerland, managing large-scale live broadcasts for Fortune 500 companies, United Nations agencies, and NGOs. He continues to expand his influence within global film development.