FailedEagle

Not exactly sure where this belongs, but I've got a script written and we are planning on going into production this summer. Problem is, we are going into it with a basically zero dollar budget. Not exactly, but pretty darn close. Relying on a LOT of favors from people, but everyone seems really excited about getting this thing off the ground. Right now we are looking at 3 problems. Any and all ideas are welcome and appriciated.

Problem 1:
Casting. Not really an issue for the supporting cast, but four of the Main Characters have to really know what they are doing. It's a drama and emotion is important, so it's really hard to just cast friends and/or family. We'd like to do an open casting call, but are debating on ways to spread the word especially to a large enough crowd to get people to show up who will do it for screen credit. Also are looking for a place to host the casting session. (BTW we're in Missouri)

Problem 2:
Police Car/Officer

We need a Police Car. Not something that we're going to be driving around, it just needs to sit there on the side of the road. Lights off. I want to try to keep things legal so as that we can submit to Film Festivals and such. Also need to have a officer, but not sure what kind of uniform I can use. I'm told that we may run into legal issues with impersonation of law enforcement.

Problem 3:
Getting music rights. We could do an original soundtrack, but there are a couple of songs that would be PERFECT as background music. I don't even know where to start with getting rights to it.

That's it, for now. Seriously any and all help is sincerely appreciated.

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Phant84

Check if you have a local theater group. Most local theater groups are non-profit and passionate about acting and prolly be willing to help out with a casting call and/or talent.
If you talk to your local PD, they might also be willing to help you out

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Phant

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shoe

1) I've found that posting an ad on www.craigslist.org works quite well. In the same vein, you may want to post ads in your local newspapers. Specify that this is volunteer work if you dont want to waste time.

2) Seems rather tricky. How complex is the scene with the police car? Is it very long? Do you necessitate several different angles? My suggestion is to carefully plan in advance so that when you do shoot this particular scene so no time will be wasted. Options are to either look for a police car in the street and shoot around the area or straight up ask a local police officer if he would mind being in the film provided you are hasty in doing so.

3) I find it is always more interesting to have an original soundtrack to my short films. Even if some songs may seem perfect for the film, having one tailor made by a student or local artist is much more gratifying. Also, it may turn out to be even more fitting to the script. If you decide to use existing songs make sure you aren't using something too cliché or simply overused. I would contact the record label of the coveted artist as they are most likely the ones with the distribution rights. Depending on the label you may get the rights for free. Usually smaller labels ,and coincidentally smaller bands, allow independent filmmakers to utilize copyrighted material for non-commercial releases if permission is asked. If you plan on having a commercial release for your film, or just making money with it in any way, dont be surprised if they charge you.