Casting: 'The Electric Oracle'

As a cast member in 'The Electric Oracle,' your primary responsibility will be to effectively portray complex characters while engaging in intense emotional scenes. You'll collaborate with the director to dive deep into the psychological aspects of the characters, including the roles of 'The Seer' and 'The Stranger.' Actors will need to memorize lines, adapt to the on-set environment, and contribute ideas that enhance the narrative. Since the project is an experimental film, a level of improvisation may also be required to bring authenticity to the performance.

To audition for 'The Electric Oracle,' we prefer actors who have experience in performing arts, particularly in drama or experimental theater. While formal training is a plus, we greatly value passion, versatility, and a willingness to explore challenging scenes. Candidates should have a comfortable understanding of character analysis, emotional range, and the ability to work collaboratively in a creative environment. Experience with film or short-form projects is also helpful as this UCLA MFA Production has a unique narrative style.

Actors participating in 'The Electric Oracle' can expect a dynamic filming process on the picturesque UCLA campus. The shoot will involve various locations, requiring flexibility and adaptability to different settings. Each scene is designed to explore deep emotional landscapes, allowing actors to experiment with their performances. You’ll work closely with our first-year MFA director, who encourages collaboration to bring out your best work. Filming will be intense and immersive, creating opportunities to dive into an artistic dialogue with fellow cast members.

The themes of voyeurism, female rage, and violent gaze are integral to understanding your character in 'The Electric Oracle.' Actors will need to intertwine these themes into their performances, creating complex portrayals that challenge viewers' perceptions. Each character has a deeply rooted narrative that reflects broader societal issues, making your role pivotal in conveying critical commentary through performance. Actors will engage in discussions about these themes, allowing for a richer interpretation and fostering a collaborative environment.

Absolutely! While the primary focus of 'The Electric Oracle' is on casting actors, there are opportunities for those interested in being involved behind the scenes. Depending on your interests, you could engage in areas such as script supervision, production assistance, or even media promotion. This UCLA MFA Production encourages a collaborative spirit, and anyone passionate about film can find a meaningful role, even if it isn't in front of the camera!

When discussing your character, focus on their motivations and emotional journey. Dive into their relationships with other characters, particularly how these connections relate to the themes of voyeurism and rage that permeate the film. Highlight any transformative moments in their arc, and be prepared to explain why you believe those moments are critical to the narrative.

Preparation for intense emotional scenes can involve various techniques. Discuss any personal methods you have, such as using sense memory or physical movement to connect with a character's feelings. Be sure to mention how these methods can help you align with your character’s experience, especially in the context of 'The Electric Oracle's' themes of aggression and observation.

Reflect on your understanding of voyeurism in terms of both its literal and metaphorical implications. Consider how you would express this in your acting and what it means to portray a character entangled in such complexities. Relate your answer to the dynamics between characters and the underlying messages presented in the film.

Character development in a complex narrative like 'The Electric Oracle' requires a deep dive into motivations, backstory, and relationships. Discuss how you analyze the script, embody the character’s emotional states, and utilize feedback during rehearsals to enhance your portrayal. Emphasize the collaborative nature of creating a character that resonates with the audience.

The gaze in 'The Electric Oracle' offers a critical lens through which power dynamics and personal agency are examined. Discuss your perspective on how the film challenges traditional views of spectatorship and the implications of ‘the watcher’ versus ‘the watched.' Express how your role supports this exploration and what you aim to convey through your performance.

Delivering dialogue that conveys tension often hinges on tone, pacing, and body language. Discuss techniques like varying your speech rhythm and utilizing pauses to create unease. Reference how these elements can enhance the psychological complexities of your character as seen in 'The Electric Oracle.'

Collaboration is essential, especially for an experimental film like 'The Electric Oracle.' Discuss how you value input from directors, fellow actors, and crew, and how a shared vision can heighten the overall artistic quality. Emphasize your readiness to engage openly in discussions and explore creative ideas during the production process.

Identify a specific scene from the script that presents emotional or physical challenges. Describe your approach to tackling it, including any preparation or research needed to authentically embody your character’s experience. Show that you are ready to embrace the scene’s intensity and showcase your growth as an actor.

Express your aspirations for personal growth and skill enhancement through this project. Whether it’s deepening your understanding of complex characters or honing your ability to work in an experimental format, let it be clear that you're eager for the artistic journey.

Talk about the importance of remaining open to feedback and how it can be a useful tool for growth. Provide examples of how you’ve adapted based on past experiences, and express your enthusiasm for constructive criticism on your performance in 'The Electric Oracle!'