The Film That Changed Hollywood: Casting By Screening + Talkback

Join us for a special screening of the landmark documentary Casting By, followed by a live talkback with the film’s director, composer, and distinguished casting professionals.

Released in 2012, Casting By shines a spotlight on one of the most influential yet historically overlooked roles in filmmaking: the casting director. The film tells the story of legendary casting director Marion Dougherty, whose groundbreaking work helped shape the modern casting profession while remaining largely unrecognized by major awards bodies.

More than a documentary, Casting By became a catalyst for change. By revealing the profound impact casting directors have on the films we love, the film helped fuel a long-running movement to recognize casting as an essential creative discipline. The advocacy that followed ultimately led the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to establish a new Best Casting category beginning with the 98th Academy Awards.

Following the screening, stay for a conversation with industry leaders as they discuss:

• The lasting impact of Casting By on the film industry

• The journey to achieving official Oscar recognition for casting directors

• The evolving role of casting in shaping film and television

• Personal insights from working casting professionals

This is a rare opportunity for actors, filmmakers, and film lovers to hear directly from the people behind the movement that changed how the industry recognizes one of its most important creative voices.

Come watch the film that helped change the Oscars and the industry forever.

Stay for the Talkback

After the screening, stay for a live conversation with the director, composer, and respected casting professionals whose work helped elevate casting into the spotlight. Together, they’ll reflect on the journey behind Casting By, the fight for recognition within the industry, and what the creation of the Best Casting category at the Oscars means for the future of filmmaking.

This conversation will explore how casting directors shape the stories we see on screen, the advocacy that led to long-overdue recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and why the profession’s moment has finally arrived with the introduction of the new Best Casting award beginning with the 98th Academy Awards.

Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or simply someone who loves cinema, this is a rare chance to hear directly from the artists and industry leaders who helped change how Hollywood recognizes one of its most essential creative roles.

Event Details:
Doors: 6:30 PM | Screening: 7:00 PM
Street Parking Available
Snacks + Drinks Available for Purchase

Seating in the LACAE Theatre is limited to 75 guests, and advance registration is recommended.

*all proceeds go to support arts education and programming through Future Artists of Los Angeles, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Thank you for your donation!