Robert Jerome Pagan Creations
Casting Calls

Urn My Way to the Stars

 Casting Call

A Heartfelt Extraterrestrial Adventure

Are you looking to be part of a heartwarming and comedic film that explores themes of grief, family connection, and the power of unexpected journeys? Urn My Way to the Stars is seeking talented actors to join its cast for a unique road trip adventure!

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The Story Unfolds

This film follows Michael, a workaholic lawyer grappling with the sudden loss of his husband, Ricardo. Struggling to connect with his teenage daughter, Emma, Michael finds himself at a crossroads. In a surprising turn, Emma suggests a road trip along the Nevada Extraterrestrial Highway - a route Ricardo was fascinated by - as a way to honor his memory. Michael, initially hesitant, agrees, and their unplanned adventure through the vast Nevada desert begins.

Laughter, Healing, and the Enduring Power of Love

Their journey along the Extraterrestrial Highway is far from ordinary. They encounter quirky characters, unexpected situations, and the whimsical charm of alien-themed attractions. Adding a touch of humor to their somber journey is their unconventional "urn" - a novelty alien cookie jar. Through laughter, mishaps, and moments of unexpected bonding, Michael and Emma begin to heal and rediscover their connection as father and daughter. Ricardo's presence is woven throughout the film through flashbacks and voiceover narration, serving as a guiding light for them both.

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Characters We Need

• Michael (40s, Open Ethnicity): A dedicated lawyer burdened by grief. Strong and competent on the surface, Michael struggles to express his emotions and navigate fatherhood as a single parent. We need an actor who can portray the complexities of Michael's situation - his strength in the face of loss, his vulnerability as he learns to connect with his daughter, and the journey of rediscovering himself.

• Ricardo (Deceased, 30s-Early 40s, Latino): The heart and soul of the family. Warm, humorous, and emotionally intelligent, Ricardo's presence is felt throughout the film. We need an actor who can bring Ricardo to life through flashbacks and voiceover narration, showcasing his warmth, his love for Michael and Emma, and the adventurous spirit that continues to inspire them.

• Young Michael (Age 21, Open Ethnicity): An ambitious law student with a focused determination. We see a glimpse into his personality when he meets Ricardo, hinting at a playful side beneath his serious exterior. The actor portraying Young Michael should be able to embody his drive and ambition, while also sparking a believable connection with the actor portraying Young Ricardo.

• Young Ricardo (Age 19, Latino): A free spirit with an infectious zest for life. Playful, creative, and unconventional, Ricardo challenges Michael's seriousness and sparks a connection that transcends differences. The actor we seek should be able to capture Ricardo's energy, his humor, and the spark that ignites a deeper bond with Young Michael.

 

Be Part of the Journey

Are you located in Henderson, NV or Las Vegas, NV and ready to embark on this heartwarming adventure? We are seeking talented actors to fill these roles. Submit your headshot, resume, and a short video (slating yourself and performing a scene of your choice) to https://www.backstage.com/ or through our Google Form (link provided upon request).

Compensation & Contract

• All Roles: Deferred compensation with an agreed-upon amount based on the project's success.

• Additional compensation based on the crowdfunding campaign for the project.

Filming Location

• Public Lands and locations throughout the Nevada and Arizona Desert.

The Team Behind the Film

• Director/Writer/Cinematographer: Robert Jerome Pagan

  • Award-winning director of the "Last Gasp" film saga, An American Posada (9.8 score on IMDb), and “Trillberry Murders.” Robert's expertise has led him to gain over 200 credits in direction for stage and film.

  • His films have been picked up by popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Tubi, Fawsome and his YouTube Channel garners over 50k in views monthly. One of the rising stars not only as a filmmaker in the Queer space but as festival director and activist.

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Meet Our Star

• Annabelle Darling (Playing the role of Emma)

  • Known for Black Rose (2023).

  • "I am so very honored to be playing the role of Emma! This will be my very first project as the lead, and I'm so excited that it's for Urn My Way to the Stars

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Character: Michael

Age: 40s 

Ethnicity: Open (We can consider actors of all ethnicities)

Appearance: Sharp, professional attire hides a grieving heart. Michael carries himself with the confident air of someone who thrives in a high-powered environment. However, there's a flicker of exhaustion in his eyes that betrays the emotional toll of his recent loss.

Personality: Michael is a dedicated lawyer, a fierce competitor in the courtroom, and a loving, if somewhat clueless, father. He's used to being the provider, the rock of his family. Now, with Ricardo gone, Michael is forced to navigate uncharted territory - emotional support. He's uncomfortable with vulnerability, but his love for his daughter compels him to try.

Key Traits:

• Strong, competent, but struggling with grief.

• High-powered career masks emotional vulnerability.

• More comfortable providing than comforting.

• Learning to be a single parent and emotional support for his daughter.

• Deeply loving towards his family.

Notes:

• We're looking for an actor who can portray the complexities of Michael's situation. He's grieving, overwhelmed, but determined to be the best dad he can be.

• The chemistry between Michael and his daughter is crucial. We need to see the love and support, even as they navigate this challenging new dynamic.

Character: Ricardo (Deceased)

Age: 30s-Early 40s

Ethnicity: Latino

Appearance: Warm, inviting smile. Ricardo has a twinkle in his eyes and a disarmingly casual style, even when dealing with life's challenges. He projects an aura of calm and acceptance.

Personality: Ricardo is the heart and soul of the family. He's a talented writer with a knack for finding humor in everyday life. He possesses an emotional intelligence that allows him to connect deeply with Michael and their daughter, Emma. He's the one who initiates family adventures, fostering a strong sense of connection within the unit.

Function in the Story:

• Though deceased, Ricardo plays a vital role through flashbacks and voiceover narration.

• The flashbacks showcase his warmth, humor, and the love he shared with Michael and Emma.

• His voiceover, often through excerpts from a book he wrote, serves as a guide for Michael and Emma on their journey of grief and connection.

Key Traits:

• Warm, humorous, and emotionally intelligent.

• The glue that held the family together.

• Instilled a love for adventure and connection.

• Voiceover guides Michael and Emma through their grief.

Notes:

• We need an actor who can make Ricardo instantly likable and relatable.

• The voiceover delivery should be warm, encouraging, and full of love, even as it addresses difficult topics.

• The chemistry between Ricardo and Michael should be evident in flashbacks, highlighting the strength of their bond.

Character: Young Michael (Age 21)

Appears in flashbacks 

Ethnicity: Open (We can consider actors of all ethnicities)

Appearance: Clean-cut and ambitious. Michael is put together, favoring neat clothes and a polished appearance. He carries himself with the confidence of someone who knows what he wants and how to get it. A hint of nervous energy betrays his excitement for his future in law school.

Personality: Driven and focused, Michael has a clear vision for his future. He throws himself wholeheartedly into his studies, determined to succeed. Despite his ambition, a playful streak peeks through occasionally.

Meeting Ricardo: When Michael meets Ricardo, he's initially caught off guard by Ricardo's easygoing nature. However, he's drawn to Ricardo's humor and warmth, qualities that offer a welcome contrast to his own seriousness.

Key Traits:

• Ambitious and driven with a clear plan for the future.

• Focused and hardworking, but not without a playful side.

• Initially taken aback by Ricardo's carefree nature, but ultimately drawn to it.

Notes:

• We need an actor who can portray the focused determination of a young man on a mission, while also hinting at a capacity for lightheartedness.

• The chemistry between Michael and Ricardo should be evident from the start, a spark that ignites a connection that transcends differences.

Character: Young  Ricardo (Age 19)

Ethnicity: Latino

Appears in flashbacks 

Appearance: Ricardo has an infectious smile and a laid-back style. He doesn't conform to societal expectations of dress or demeanor, preferring a more relaxed and expressive approach. His eyes twinkle with mischief and a love for life.

Personality: Ricardo is a free spirit with a vibrant personality. He sees the world through a playful lens, finding humor and joy in everyday moments. While he doesn't have a clear career path yet, he possesses a spark of creativity and a passion for storytelling.

Meeting Michael: Ricardo finds Michael's seriousness both amusing and intriguing. He enjoys challenging Michael's rigid focus, introducing him to new experiences and perspectives.

Key Traits:

• Free-spirited, humorous, and full of life.

• Doesn't follow conventional paths, preferring a more relaxed and creative approach.

• Sees the beauty and humor in everyday moments.

• Finds Michael's ambition both amusing and endearing.

Notes:

• We need an actor who can embody Ricardo's infectious energy and zest for life.

• The chemistry between Ricardo and Michael should be undeniable, a playful opposition that sparks a deeper connection.