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In conversation with Rohit Khilnani, casting director Karan Mally opens up about the art and process of casting, the changing opportunities for…
In conversation with Rohit Khilnani, casting director Karan Mally opens up about the art and process of casting, the changing opportunities for actors, and what it really takes to find the right face for a character.
Karan addresses some of the biggest misconceptions about casting directors and explains how the rise of OTT has created far more opportunities for actors. He also discusses how actors today are more prepared and approach auditions differently, while sharing why an actor’s journey matters more than being selective about the size of a role, citing Shah Rukh Khan’s early career as an example.
Karan looks back at his experience working with Excel Entertainment and Zoya Akhtar, including the casting process for Gully Boy and the experience of meeting and auditioning so many rappers for the film.
He also recalls casting Musafir Cafe, including auditioning Vedika Pinto and Mahima Makwana, and talks about the journey of finding the right actors for the series. He explains why casting is not simply about deciding whether an actor is good or bad, but about finding the right person for the right character at the right time.
Karan further shares advice for actors trying to reach casting directors, from using social media and online profiles effectively to investing in self-tests, preparation and learning. He also addresses the myth of being typecast, reflecting on the journeys of actors such as Vijay Varma, Jaideep Ahlawat and Rajkummar Rao.
From the role of social media influencers in casting to why he never casts someone simply because of their follower count, Karan explains what he looks for in an actor. He also speaks about why casting should be a collaborative process and why he does not see himself as a casting coordinator, especially when a project can involve auditioning and evaluating hundreds of actors.
Karan also weighs in on nepotism, explaining why where an actor comes from ultimately matters less than their talent and ability to deliver. Finally, he talks about casting reality shows such as The Traitors and Alliance, the challenge of bringing together very different kinds of people, convincing them to participate, and how contestants can go on to find opportunities in scripted projects as well.
Watch the full conversation with Karan Mally and Rohit Khilnani for an insight into what really happens behind the casting process.
