BAFTA-winning Des Hamilton Casting is looking for a young boy aged 10–14 to take a lead role in a BFI-funded short film shooting in the UK in June 2026.
The production company, known for their work on films including Morvern Callar and Jojo Rabbit, is running an open call for the role – meaning no acting experience is necessary.
No experience needed
Des Hamilton Casting has a long track record of finding talented young people outside of traditional acting circles, regularly visiting schools, drama groups and community centres rather than restricting auditions to trained performers.
Perhaps their most celebrated discovery came when they visited a centre for children excluded from school, where they met Thomas Turgoose. He went on to star in Shane Meadows’ This Is England, and won the Most Promising Newcomer award at the British Independent Film Awards.
The casting team also found much of the cast for Channel 4’s acclaimed drama series Top Boy by visiting schools and youth clubs in and around London.
What they’re looking for
For this new project, the team is seeking a white male aged between 10 and 14, with a regional UK accent and a larger build.
The character is described as inquisitive, playful and energised.
How to apply
The role is paid, and the production will shoot somewhere in the UK in June 2026.
Anyone with questions can email [email protected] with the subject line ‘SHORT FILM – YOUNG BOY’.
To apply, parents or guardians should visit the website.
Represented actors should go through their agents rather than applying via this open call.
