TheCastingDirector.com
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Reviews - 5925
Views - 4
Fans - 9
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8162 Orion Ave Van Nuys!
Los Angeles
818.782.2277
http://www.TheCastingDirector.com
Categories: Networking / Online Communities
Casting / Websites
818.782.2277
http://www.TheCastingDirector.com
Categories: Networking / Online Communities
Casting / Websites
Description
Chances are you've heard your friends, colleagues, or even acting coach talking about it, but what is it? TheCastingDirector.com is the hottest new site in casting that has one simple mission -- to give every actor a fair shot at success. TheCastingDirector.com was founded in 2006 as a means to report and expose scams in the entertainment industry....
Chances are you've heard your friends, colleagues, or even acting coach talking about it, but what is it? TheCastingDirector.com is the hottest new site in casting that has one simple mission -- to give every actor a fair shot at success. TheCastingDirector.com was founded in 2006 as a means to report and expose scams in the entertainment industry. In 2009, We re-launched with an additional focus of connecting actors with those who have the power to hire them: casting directors, producers, directors, and credible industry professionals. Not only are we the most affordable casting site around, but we offer more services (free!) for our members than anyone else.
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Apr 27, 2012
I am recent to The Casting Director and my review is based on my experiences to present. As time goes on I'll continue to review.
Before being accepted in to TCD (the weekly class) is was spending way too much time with online submissions and looking for ways to get involved with people who are doing things and I can be a part of. Since my acceptance I've been spending a lot less wasted time on the computer and much more time working on acting and the business of acting. I've had the opportunity to work with some talented actors and soon began working with the credited and awarded talent on the production side. When I attended the first class I did with the intention of deciding if this was a place that was worthy of my time (I've wasted way too much time in other places). After working with Mike and some of the actors, seeing the talent of some of the actors and asking about resources and access to them I decided to get to work. Mike is very effective with scene analysis and helping me make very interesting choices.
'Till the next review... I wish you the best
Owner Reply:Apr 28, 2012
Thanks Jackie! It's an absolute pleasure having you around. You did an amazing job today. The footage looks great!
Flag as inappropriateApr 20, 2012
I don't usually write reviews...heck, this is my first review EVER on any website, but I wanted to give you a perspective from someone who is new into the business and how TCD can help you NO MATTER WHAT LEVEL YOU ARE ON. I've started on this acting journey in January and I've been learning how the business works since then while trying to progress myself in the industry.
Mike, the owner, is probably one of the honest people I have ever met while learning how the acting business works. He really cares about actors, and he will go out of your way no matter what to help you. I remember the first time I signed up for TCD, and I came in on the wrong day for a Mock Audition. He took time out of his busy day to give me a Mock Audition anyway and he gave a lot of useful tips to help me get better. On top of that, you get clips of your audition the following day so you can watch yourself, take note, and improve.
The other cool thing about TCD is the casting. I currently don't have an agent, so you can imagine how hard it is when you start out with no agent and even try to fish out what audition notices are out there! I've signed up on Actors Access and LA Casting, but if you're new to the industry, getting a response for a casting is really hard to come by for those websites. For TCD, they respond to all submissions, so you get a chance to show them what you got. I've only been signed up for TCD for less than a month, and I've been to more castings with them than Actors Access and LA Casting COMBINED. So far, I've learned how auditions work, and hopefully, I've been getting better on every audition that has popped up. Also, the casting board is updated WEEKLY...so that means you're always going to get called in for new auditions.
I have yet to go to headshot day, but with the low price of TCD services, this is a no brainer. You get FREE HEADSHOTS as long as you're a member. If you don't bother to use any of their services besides their free headshot day, then you've already got more out of what you spent on the membership fee. I've seen the quality of their headshots, and they are PROFESSIONALLY DONE....so you're not just paying a cheap price for poorly done photos.
The community that TCD brings to the industry is great. They have mixers where you can network (Mike, I still have to attend to one since I totally missed out the last time!), and the services are here to help you. I have yet to learn more about the acting industry, but Mike and his gang has made the process so much sweeter because they've been so helpful along the way.
They are about to move to Hollywood as they are expanding, so their prices will jump...but I'll tell you this, TCD has always listened to their members, so they will not try to increase their prices to try to steal money out of you. They will always try to keep their prices low, but because of their expansion and their move to Hollywood, price jumps are inevitable.
Overall, TCD has been amazing. I go to Mock Auditions weekly and I attend every audition that I've signed up for. I will continue to be a member of TCD, and I invite anyone to sign up.
Owner Reply:Apr 21, 2012
Bro! That's a great review! Thanks so much for taking the time to write that. See ya next week my man! I see you're on the casting list for a couple projects on Tuesday. See ya then!
0
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Anonymous
Mar 09, 2012
If an actor wants to be proactive,The Casting Director is a great place to be. Waiting on your agent to call, or submitting electronic submissions(to make you feel busy)isn't enough. At TCD, you can go to actual(and mock) auditions, get headshots, take classes, network and much more. Michael is a great guy, who's sharp, dedicated and passionate. He is always working and constantly making things better (which is the mark of a true professional). Good luck guys!
Owner Reply:Mar 09, 2012
Well thank you Mr OR Mrs Anonymous! Thanks for the kind words:)
Feb 19, 2012
The people at www.TheCastingDirector.com are an amazing group of dedicated, talented creators. They are truly working hard for the actors. Since I became a member, I have taken part in mock auditions, one which helped me greatly when appearing in a stage role, and another for a Showcase. In addition to filming my scenes at these 'mocks', at NO cost, I have received free headshots! They are terrific! Also, I have been given the opportunity to audition for many projects, and soon I will appear in several. This group is the real deal - it's about the work for them, and helping everyone to succeed as an actor! Bravo. Well worth the nominal cost.
Owner Reply:Feb 19, 2012
Jeff! Thanks buddy! We're looking forward to shooting, "Me speaka no Engwish" Haha. Your audition was so funny. See ya soon my man!
Feb 10, 2012
The Team over at The Casting Director has always shown genuine concern for those who have chosen a career in the Entertainment Industry. Whether new to the industry or veterans, we can always count on them to keep us informed on changes in the industry, new scams, or new information on old scams. They provide services that help to advance individual career objectives, such as Head Shots, Nightly Mocks (audition prep), Demo Reels, casting opportunities in Web Series. Experienced or not, they help get you to where you need to be without shelling out the big bucks.
Their expectations are yours. They share your dreams and goals. The difference between them and others is that they prove it with action. Never ever be afraid to sign up with them. because they WILL make you feel at home.
Thanks Team!
Owner Reply:Feb 16, 2012
WOW! Great review! Thanks so much for the kind words. Looking forward to hanging out at the launch party on March 1st. Hope you can make it.Feb 01, 2012
Hats off !!
Truly A Amazing Group of Dedicated Visionaries. As one once said to me ... Luck comes from hard work.
This group not only works round the clock, they have done their homework, mean what they say and say what they mean.
I am a new comer to TCD, however, I have networked and met many amazing good people in the industry and look forward to bringing together the best with the best .
Having my own successful company for many years saw in this group they are on the cutting edge and know what it takes.
They didn't just step out of the box ... They are making The Box soon others will line up to be a part of.
Thank You for all the support and showing me there are, good, honest, hard working, knowledgeable and very talented people who join together forming no less than a winning team.
Maggie
Owner Reply:Feb 03, 2012
My girl mary Ann! Thanks for the kid words. See ya Sunday!
Jan 20, 2012
If you are a young (or old) and budding actor, The Casting Director (TCD) is a great place to start. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. In the rare chance that they can't answer your question, they will always point you in the right direction. The owner (Mike) is a true workaholic, and It's very rare that you'll ever hear "no" to use his space and time during "Mock Auditions". You can use you slot to do cold readings with helpful feedback, prepare for auditions (granted you haven't signed a NDA with whomever you've gotten your script from), be put on video to submit for a casting online, etc. Also, if you want to become a SAG actor because you think that will catapult your career to the next level. Join the TCD, this is probably going to be the quickest way to do it (lots of union jobs on the casting board).
Cheers!
p.s. If you want to take a peek at some stuff they are working on - for the web (online streaming), check out www.webseriesjobs.com If you want to be able to audition for one, join the TCD.
Owner Reply:Jan 21, 2012
Thanks Pete! Thanks for all your support. I'll see ya Sunday.Jan 19, 2012
Although the price has gone up, TheCastingDirector.com is going though some huge changes! With the price increase you still get the Mock nights, and free space to rehearse on tape, 12 headshot sessions a year (3x more then at the 6.99 price) and in production original web content. I love how TCD has put together a group of producers, directors, actors, and crew for their 50 or so in-house productions under TCD Studios (www.TCDstudios.com).
Now I've been working in LA for 11 years, and I don't know of another site that is willing to develop projects around who you are. 2012 is bringing lots of original web content and inviting the members to work on who they want to be in the industry. Web based content is blowing up, and the people making their own web shows are ahead of the game. For me, the business model is an up and coming film studio (letting you contribute your own thoughts and ideas), casting office, open rehearsal space, & headshot studio. TCD simply wants to help you set yourself up for this very competitive business, of course it won't be right for everyone, but what in is city is? TheCastingDirector.com is the most actor friendly and helpful "friend in the business." I'm proud to be a part of it.
Owner Reply:Jan 19, 2012
I'm so happy you're with the TCD team. We're gonna blow it up this year kid:) Just met that guy I was talking to you about. WOW! Can't wait to tell you about it. It's going to bring in so many more castings for the members. See ya soon!Jan 19, 2012
This is hands down THE best resource for actors of all levels. Not only are jobs posted weekly, especially with all the web pilots going on, but these guys really know how to make industry professionals feel welcomed. I've cast many projects for TCD, and am always amazed at the caliber of talent readily available. I recommend this company to all actors that are seeking a one-stop resource for education, business advice, and career development.
Owner Reply:Jan 19, 2012
Thanks Byron! 0 1
Anonymous
Jan 19, 2012
I've heard amazing things about this place, obviously the 5 star reviews on this page speak for themselves, however, and this is an early review of my experience, the reviews seem a bit over the top. Also, none of the pricing information you see here is accurate, even though the latest review is from 20 odd days ago. Since the review on the 29th instead of 6.99 a month, its now 20$ a month, or if you pay 200$ upfront, roughly 17$ a month. That is a HUGE increase in price. Now, the mocks and free headshot days are a wonderful service to provide for the actor looking to hone audition skills or those with little film experience, however, looking through the castings and auditions...im confused by the business model. Currently there are zero auditions. Zero. There are also no current castings either. Looking through the past castings, it looks like there are from 4-7 a month, not a bad amount for a small and very actor friendly studio space, but also, when combined with the zero auditions, not worth 200 dollars a year/20 a month. I am a member of a different audition studio that charges 108/year or 15/month for a very active audition board with very specific search criteria, where casting directors always tape your audition and leave at least one note on your casting session on your profile. My question, i guess, why the massive price up for a very sparse selection of audition opportunities? Is it simply because of the operating costs of the Mock and Headshot services? These are great tools, and you should be commended for building this, i am just unsure if it is a great value for an intermediate actor looking to audition as much as possible while still saving money. ActorsAccess is 68$/year LACasting is 154/yr and Cazt (a backstage award winner) is 108/YR. All those while not offering the mocks and free headshots, still provide many, many more auditions. So...Whats the value here? It is an honest question, i truly would love an answer, because im curious and respect what Mike is trying to do here.
Owner Reply:Feb 20, 2012
The 5 star reviews are 100% honest feedback from actual members but I can see how all 5 star reviews would look like bullshit. I would think that too but they're not. All of them are from our customers that greatly appreciate what we do for them. There is 1 review from "markS" that's pretty darn hilarious. Scroll down and check that one out. Zero castings? I don't know what website you're looking at but that's not true. I'll be honest here, it kinda sounds like you work for one of the companies you mentioned. We have a lot of casting calls, mostly SAG and more than the sites you mentioned and the big difference between us and them, if an actor submits, they ALWAYS get called in. Can you say that about the other casting sites? No, you can't. As far as the price increase, I know it sucks and I REALLY didn't want to do it and if you ask any members of TCD, they'll tell you how I bend over backwards to find free services for them but I have a full staff now and in order to grow and to continue to provide the services we offer, I was forced to raise the price. Trust me, I lost a lot of sleep over it. We actually started at 2.99 a month because I didn't feel comfortable charging that much until I could prove that we could truly help actors. Over the past 3 years, I feel we've gone above and beyond doing that. Those members still pay 2.99. I would never raise their cost. They deserve to stay at that crazy low price for the simple fact that they trusted me and stayed with us from the very beginning. Much love to the "Old school" customers. That's what we call them:) I LOVE them for their loyalty. I work 7 days a week, 12-14 hours a day doing whatever I can to assist the members. The staff and I were laughing about the hours last night after our Mocks. Since opening in 2009, I've had a total of 12 days off. I'm not complaining at all. I LOVE what I do and I love the members for trusting TCD to help with their careers. I hate having days off:) The castings page is private for members but we do have just as many casting calls if not more than most of those mentioned. The jobs listed on our site are exclusively for our members and aren't available anywhere else. We also have Emmy award winning producers on staff as well as very experienced directors developing over 50 web series in 2012. Anyway, feel free to call the office and I can answer any questions you may have. I can also send you a private link to the current casting calls. Do we know each other? You mentioned "Mike" as if we knew each other. Just in case you're a paid workshop owner, We're 100% against paid workshops:) Sorry. Had to throw that in there. Take care and Best of luck with your future endeavors. FYI - Even if you're not a member of TCD and need some advice, feel free to call or stop by. We're here to help.Dec 29, 2011
I joined Thecastingdirector.com 2 weeks ago and here's what happened:
1)got called in for an audition
2) booked it
3) Shot it with a very fun and professional team
4) signed up to next FREE headshot day coming up in January
5) met a very cool casting director at my 1st MOCK (free workshop).
Can't get better than that! This place definitely gives actors valuable tools to keep us on top of our game ON ALL LEVELS. No more excuses, $6/month, sign up ASAP!
Hunter F.
Owner Reply:Jan 19, 2012
Saw your footage bud. 1 word...AWESOME!Oct 17, 2011
I recently used thecastingdirector.com for a commercial. It is a fantastic facility and the owner, Michael Valentino is a great guy and generous person, who knows how to run a good and honest business and help filmmakers with casting their projects with asking for nothing in return (only person I have seen in LA to do this to date). I would highly recommend thecastingdiretor.com for all of the services they offer.
Barry Kneller
director | writer
Owner Reply:Oct 18, 2011
Barry! Looking forward to Actorfest bud. Thanks for all the support. 0 1
Anonymous
Sep 28, 2011
Mike and thecastingdirector.com is great place for education, headshots, and support. Very inexpensive, this guy is truly out to help you move forward. This is refreshing. Thank you so much Mike for putting this together and being SO DEDICATED to actors!
Owner Reply:Oct 16, 2011
Thanks for the kind words Janet. It was a pleasure meeting you.Aug 29, 2011
This organization has been a life-saver for our production company. Mike Valentino is diligent, focused and goes beyond the call of duty to get talent and producers connected. Great work. Thanks for your continued support.
Owner Reply:Aug 31, 2011
Thanks Armand. Always a pleasure.Jul 23, 2011
I meant to rate this place awhile ago. On the other hand it is almost wiser to keep it a secret, as it has to be one the best, if not the best kept secret in LA.
I have studied and performed in both Vancouver and LA, and I have never seen anything as good as this. I do admit I don't like to put 5-stars down on anything but I really wouldn't feel right taking 1/2 off for no particular reason.
In this business there are soooo many scams. These guys are the opposite. Just some of the things they do:
-mock auditions
-occasional free headshots
-provide an opportunity to be seen by casting directors
I would challenge you to find all that for under $700.00, and yet you can get it for about $7 a month.
Most importantly, Mike cares about actors.
Owner Reply:Jul 23, 2011
Whoever you are, thanks so much for the awesome words.Jul 05, 2011
Greetings all!
I found theCastingDirector.com (TCD) about three years ago. And as you can see from my last 10 films, I used TCD's services. I'm a producer, director and writer. I know actors are mainly on this site researching companies but TCD is for everyone. They help you out in finding the perfect cast - even if I needed a replacement for a sick actor at 7am - which I did for a TV show on NBC and guess what, I got two recommendations and one brilliant actress who showed up ready to shine.
I do all of my casting through TCD and TCD will help in anyway they can - sometimes too much! Just pay them back with lost of positive reviews, beer and hugs - you won't regret it.
I guess I should sign up as an actor next.... :)
Owner Reply:Aug 31, 2011
You're the best kiddo. See ya soon.Jun 09, 2011
Sorry Mike. I kept typing 'TCN'. It's NOT TCN, it's TCD... TCD... TCD... I got it now. I couldn't edit after I posted. My apologies.
P. David
Owner Reply:Jul 05, 2011
My Man P David! Looking forward to your next visit but. Hope all is well and thanks so much for the positive review.Jun 09, 2011
Hello one and all. I've known Mike and TCN since he first started TheCastingDirector.com I first thought it a sham given that all that is provided to Actors is FREE. Now, being in Hollywood and a working Actor, my initial thought was how good can this be for an Actor if it doesn't cost anything. Nothing is free. Especially when it concerns a quality service intended for Actors. Well, Mike showed me the nuts and bolts of what he was doing and his reasons why he started TCN. I'm glad I took the time to listen and gave it a go. True to his word, TCN does NOT charge an Actor (Except for the monthly or annual fee, which is dirt cheap, to help maintain the website.) for ANY of, what is called, "Mock Auditions" nor for the Headshot specials that is held every few months. So, the "Mocks" are always with an Industry professional who enjoy teaching Actors how to audition better or give advice if they feel an Actor needs a little more development or training. I applaud Mike and what he is doing with TCN. I go to his "Mocks" when I can and he is always nice, cordial and professional. The caliber of Casting Directors, Directors, Producers, Agents and Acting Coaches are always top notch. As I close this, I just want to thank you Mike for doing what you do and I, for one, am glad you offer a much better alternative than the usual "pay-to-be-seen/for educational purposes only" workshops that are all over Los Angeles. Cheers.
» Was the review: Useful(0) | Funny(0) | Lame(0)Jun 08, 2011
Last night, I was there working on a monologue with Brent Gorcie. I appreciated the time he spent with me and the constructive criticism he gave so I take my monologue to the next level. Where else can one find CDs who are willing to work with actors that closely?
Owner Reply:Jun 09, 2011
Well whoever you are, you're more than welcome and we greatly appreciate your support.Jun 08, 2011
What kind of person *cough* MarkS *cough* comes to write a positive review (his own words) and then gets upset that everyone else gives positive reviews so they give 2 stars for absolutely no legitimate reason? This website (and TheCastingDirector.com) is here to help fellow actors. By writing a senseless and unwarranted negative review, you're doing a disservice to other actors. Or possibly this is one of those things where the service is so great you don't want to tell other people about it so you can have a better chance of booking auditions? I get it, I do that with my veterinarian.
If you want to know the truth about TheCastingDirector.com read all of the other 5 star reviews that speak for themselves. This company is amazing and you won't find anyone who will work harder for you in this industry! Heck, most actors don't even work as hard for themselves as TCD does for them! :) At only $6.99 a month (I think it's less if you pay for the year at once) you're more than getting your money's worth if you go to only one free headshot session, so what do you have to lose? Not to mention there are a bunch of free headshot days a year, multiple free practice auditions a week, auditons and classes with top industry professionals, and much more. Check it out for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
» Was the review: Useful(0) | Funny(0) | Lame(0)
Jun 08, 2011
I can't believe it's almost 3 years now ; but I was in a play and one of the actors referred me to Mike & TCD,; so in my usual crazy whirlwind kind of way, I met Mike in an office that was just big enough for us to breathe. We exchanged info. and that began and continues to be an invaluable path not just for professional resources, but to re-instill the knowledge that there are down to earth, kind, actual human beings that want to help their compatriots without deceit or greed. Because of TCD & MIke , I landed roles in 3 films, a web series, and the opportunity to hone my audition skills at the mock auditions.
Just when you think the world has become so jaded.
and self-indulgent; ENTER: "MIKE & THE CASTING DIRECTOR"!!!!!!!!!!!
Owner Reply:Jun 08, 2011
Haha. I remember. That office was pretty small but the new spot is great. Looking forward to seeing you read for Red Gecko. Thanks for all the support.Jun 08, 2011
Everytime I need to get myyself on tape for an audition, mike always has time. The site is awesome, at the office they are always very inviting. I booked my first sag acting job with TCD. Thanks guys, you rock my worl:)
Owner Reply:Jun 08, 2011
Man, that seems like so long ago. Thanks kiddo. See ya soon and come by the new office.
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