Vertical series are changing the game for actors—but how do you actually get cast? We asked Alex Amsellem, head of casting at the mobile-first streaming app GoodShort, to share his best audition advice for landing a role in vertical entertainment. If you want to stand out in a crowded inbox, Amsellem says these five tips will truly set you apart.
1. Have a strong, professional self-tape setup: “Vertical casting moves incredibly fast and at a high volume, so we need to be able to clearly see and hear actors without distractions. Clean framing, good lighting, and solid sound can make a huge difference.”
2. Keep your materials fresh: “Actors should ensure their materials, headshots, résumés, and profiles across casting platforms and IMDb are fully up to date. In a fast-paced space like vertical, casting decisions are often made quickly, and having accurate, current materials and contact information is key to being seriously considered.”
3. Find an agent: “For actors already working in the space, I strongly recommend seeking representation that understands vertical content. More talent agencies and management companies are building dedicated vertical departments, and for many actors, having a team that knows the landscape can help open doors.”
4. Don’t underestimate the value of starting small: “Taking on day player or smaller roles can be a great way to get on set, understand the workflow, and adapt to the speed of vertical productions. It’s a very fast-paced environment, and that experience is invaluable.”
5. Understand the cadence: “Vertical acting really has its own language. There’s a heightened emotional pace similar to soap operas, but it still requires specificity and control. That’s why I always recommend actors seek out vertical-specific training. Understanding that rhythm and structure make it much easier to move through a high volume of self-tapes efficiently without sacrificing quality.”