• NOW CASTING

Casting Call for “The Soil” Movie by Eli Lu Entertainment

CAST ME

Log line: Four sisters, separated after the murder of their father, are reunited twenty-six years later and forced to face the secrets of their childhood.  

Eli Lu Entertainment is casting for The Soil. We are seeking talented actors of all backgrounds to bring this compelling story to life. If you are interested in being considered for a role, please  submit a 1-minute monologue showcasing your acting range to the provided casting link by the extended date: March 20th, 2025 by midnight. We encourage actors to select material that reflects the emotional depth and complexity of the film’s themes. Please include a headshot in your submission. This is Mandatory. 

If applicable, we highly encourage actors to submit a resume and acting reel along with video submissions (though not a requirement).

How To Submit:

  • Complete the audition form by selecting the “Cast Me” button above. 
  • Submit a video link to your audition (via YouTube, Vimeo, or other video hosting services).
  • Ensure the link is public or unlisted (no private or closed links). Submissions with restricted access may not be considered.
  • Allow the link permissions so that the casting team can view the video without any issues.
  • Double-check that the link is accessible and works properly before submitting. Broken or inaccessible links will result in disqualification.

REQUIREMENTS

Status: Non-Union/ Paid  & Non-Paid Roles

Talent: Must be local or able to commute to set. The production will NOT provide transportation or housing.

Filming Dates: May 18th – June 1st (Days vary depending on cast) Some scenes will be shot on weekends but ideally, actors must be available to shoot during the week days if selected. (youth actors will shoot after 3pm on school days but 1 week day may be needed)

Film Themes:

  • Family Secrets and Trauma
  • Justice and Vindication
  • Estrangement and Reconnection
  • Forgiveness & Redemption

Thank you for your interest in this powerful project!

Additional Info:

  • Food will be provided to all cast & crew
  • Red Carpet Screening Premiere Invite (Screenings in other cities)
  • Listed in the movie credits
  • IMDb credit will be available for principle and some feature roles

LEAD ROLES

NON-UNION/PAID

Character: Amoura (Calloway) Lewis, 32, Black Woman

Character Breakdown:

Amoura is a dynamic, inquisitive, and kind-hearted woman on a journey to reconnect with her past and uncover her true self. She was adopted by a family who moved to the South, and now, as an adult, she returns to her roots, seeking to rebuild relationships with her long-lost sisters. Despite her bright, talkative, and up-for-anything personality, she grapples with a profound sense of self-loss and is on a quest to understand who she is—particularly as she learns more about her past and the mysterious events surrounding her adoption. Amoura has struggled with relationships throughout her life, often feeling disconnected or misunderstood by those around her. This struggle is amplified as she attempts to navigate the complex dynamics with her sisters and other loved ones. Her emotional journey is further complicated by vague memories of a traumatic experience involving someone named Woodrow, whom she does not remember but who profoundly impacted her life. Amoura is likable, but her curiosity and inquisitive nature can sometimes come across as annoying to those around her. She’s eager to find closure and a deeper understanding of herself, making her both an empathetic and relatable character.

Venus “Vee” Calloway, 38, Black woman

Character Breakdown:

Venus “Vee” Calloway is a strong yet emotionally conflicted woman whose past and inner turmoil continue to haunt her. Having grown up in foster care and group homes, Venus’ life has been shaped by constant instability and rejection. As a child, she exhibited behavioral issues and, after a family tragedy, she was sent to a group home with her sister, Tessa, where they shared a difficult year together before Venus was sent off to a behavior facility due to her misdemeanors. She has never experienced the security of a stable family life and struggles with feelings of abandonment. Venus is deeply affected by her troubled past and has a difficult time coping with the trauma, which is compounded by her struggles with alcohol. She works as a cashier but is frequently in and out of jobs due to her emotional instability and defensive nature. Despite her tough exterior, Venus is conflicted and desires to be truthful about her past, although she is not always ready to face it.

SUPPORTING CAST

NON-UNION/PAID

  1. Dallas, Late 30’s, white male, police officer. A quiet, confident, and sometimes playful character who navigates the line between professional duty and personal connection. Despite his stoic exterior, Dallas shows moments of vulnerability, particularly when helping Jovie with her investigation. He’s dedicated, but also aware of the risks involved, balancing loyalty and his job to uphold the law.
  2. Young Venus, a 12-year-old Black girl, is spirited, headstrong, and fiercely loyal to her family, especially her younger sisters. Though she acts older than her years, feeling the need to protect and stand up for them, Venus is also vulnerable, struggling to navigate a complicated world. The actor should capture her boldness, innocence, and occasional moments of fear, portraying a young girl forced to mature quickly due to her circumstances.

  3. Young Tessa, Black girl, 14, is a bright, sensitive, and emotionally complex character who is caught in the turbulence of family conflict. At a young age, she experiences a strained home life with her mother, Olivia, and her Mother’s boyfriend. Tessa’s love for poetry is her way of processing these painful truths—words become both her release and her refuge, yet she is unable to fully articulate what’s eating away at her. Beneath her tough exterior lies a girl who is haunted by things she cannot say.

  4. Young Amoura, a 6-year-old girl, is caught in the early stages of trauma within her fractured family. Her innocence is overshadowed by the tension and fear in her home, especially with her father, Woodrow, and mother, Olivia. Despite the emotional and physical turmoil she faces, Amoura’s curiosity and resilience still shine through
  5. Aunt Cora, Black woman, able to portray both her 40s-early 50s and present-day 70s. A nurturing yet emotionally complex figure, Aunt Cora carries the weight of past decisions with quiet strength and tenderness. She is protective, but her deep regret and guilt over not keeping her family together linger, creating a subtle emotional distance. The actor must be able to embody both the younger and older versions of Aunt Cora with nuance and authenticity.

MINOR CAST

NON-UNION/PAID

    1. Anne – Age: 60s, White Woman. Anne is a warm, nurturing woman in her late 40s to early 50s, with a calm, empathetic demeanor. She’s deeply supportive and unconditional in her love for her family, always striving to create harmony, but can also show resilience and understanding in tough situations.
    2. Brad – Age: 60s, White Man.Brad is a steady, well-meaning man in his late 40s to early 50s, with a practical, down-to-earth nature. He’s supportive and protective, often trying to mediate conflicts with a calm, logical approach, while showing deep care for his family, even in emotionally charged moments.
    3. Woodrow – Age: 40’s, black man. The character is a gaunt, unsettling man with sharp features and dark, weathered clothing, exuding an eerie calmness that leaves a chilling presence wherever he goes. His actions are deliberate, manipulative, and sinister. He is a sexual predator. 
    4. Alvaro Torres, 40’s, is a determined, no-nonsense lawyer, focused on getting results. He’s direct and intense, pushing for honesty while maintaining a professional, yet somewhat intimidating demeanor.
    5. Grandma Violet, Black woman, late 60s, blind, with white hair and a gentle, calm presence; she speaks with a sense of wisdom and resilience, offering clarity despite her age and condition.
    6. Margaret Kline, 50’s, white woman, attorney for the prosecution. Margaret is a sharp, focused, and determined individual, deeply committed to her cause. She is unapologetically tough and has a no-nonsense attitude. In the courtroom, she is relentless, driven by a sense of justice.
    7. Melissa Reid, early 50s, Black woman, attorney for the defense, professional and poised, with a strong, empathetic presence. She carries herself with quiet strength, compassion, and experience, exuding a calm yet assertive energy in high-pressure situations.
    8. Tevin, a 14-year-old black teenager with a rebellious streak, often sarcastic and quick-witted, struggling with his sense of identity and the pressure of family secrets.
    9. Dr. Patel, Indian Woman, 50s. Dr. Patel is a compassionate, calm therapist who creates a safe space for emotional healing. With her empathetic and patient demeanor, she helps clients open up and navigate their struggles with care and professional insight.

SPEAKING ROLES

NON-UNION/NON-PAID

We are currently casting for various roles and encourage actors of all experience levels to apply, including novice actors. We welcome fresh talent and are excited to consider diverse and emerging performers for these roles.

  1. Commissioner Mapp, 60’s, white, stocky build is a seasoned, no-nonsense lawyer in his 60s with a commanding presence. He’s direct, professional, and committed to maintaining integrity, balancing discipline with recognition of his officers’ achievements while navigating political and departmental challenges.
  2. Craig, 35, black man, clean cut. Craig is a determined, ambitious man with a strong sense of responsibility and a clear vision for his future. He is emotionally invested in his relationship, seeking stability and commitment, and is not afraid to express his desire for exclusivity and deeper connection. In the scene he has a hard time getting his love interest to commit to a relationship. 
  3. Detective #1, male, late 30s. Detective #1 is a sharp, assertive investigator using his authority and persistence to get to the truth.
  4. Detective #2 male, late 40’s-early 50’s. Detective #2 is a calm, empathetic investigator using patience and rapport-building to coax information from witnesses and suspects.
  5. Detective #22 (Caucasian, late 40s) is a blunt, authoritative investigator who handles situations with confidence and force when necessary. He’s focused, determined, and unwavering in his sense of duty.
  6. Detective #23 (Black, late 30s) is a calm, strategic investigator who uses diplomacy and negotiation to navigate tense situations. He’s firm but approachable, willing to push boundaries when it serves his purpose.
  7. Friend #1, Black Woman, Mid 40s. Friend #1 is charismatic, confident, and the group’s natural entertainer. 
  8. Funeral Home Director, Black woman, 50s.Professional, composed, and empathetic, with a calm demeanor that ensures grieving families feel at ease during difficult times.
  9. Judge Flaherty, White male, 60s, with a stern yet composed demeanor, exuding authority and wisdom, his presence commanding respect in the courtroom.
  10. Male Police Officer, Any race, 30s-40s, tall, with a serious yet composed demeanor; professional but not overly warm, displaying authority and concern without being overly aggressive.
  11. Pastor, Black man, 50s, wise and compassionate, with a calm, commanding presence. He speaks with conviction and a deep sense of faith, offering comfort and guidance to those around him.
  12. Phil Tahn, Asian male, 40s, sharp and determined, with a professional yet empathetic presence. A seasoned reporter with a calm demeanor, Phil delivers news with clarity and poise with a balance of professionalism and compassion.
  13. Ms. Miller, Black woman, late 20s or early 30s, to portray Ms. Miller, a compassionate and concerned teacher. The actor should convey a nurturing presence with the ability to show care and understanding while maintaining authority.
  14. Prison Guard: Seeking an actor for the role of Prison Guard. This character should embody a firm, authoritative presence with one speaking line. The actor should have the ability to convey control and discipline in a high-security environment.
  15. Sergeant Banks: Black man, 50’s, a veteran officer, commanding respect with his experience and firm, steady demeanor.
  16. Timothy Sandusky, a seasoned, sharp, and determined prosecutor in his 50s, with a no-nonsense attitude, known for his strategic approach in high-stakes cases and ability to maintain a calm, composed demeanor under pressure.
  17. Lead Juror: Male or female, any race, over 25, to portray a lead juror. The actor should have a strong presence.

NON-SPEAKING ROLES

NON-UNION/NON-PAID

We are currently casting for various roles and encourage actors of all experience levels to apply, including novice actors. We welcome fresh talent and are excited to consider diverse and emerging performers for these roles.

  1. Mason Calloway, Late 60s, Black man, sharp, well-groomed, with a composed and dignified presence. 
  2. Middle Age Officer, any race 
  3. Photographer: An actor in their 30s, able to embody the role of a focused, detail-oriented photographer capturing key moments under pressure.
  4. 4 Prison Guards: for a high-security environment scene. All guards are required to have a firm, commanding presence with a strong, no-nonsense attitude. These roles are for actors aged 25+ with experience or the ability to portray authority and control:
  5. Prison Guard #1: Late 30s to 40s, firm and authoritative
  6. Prison Guard #2: 30s, disciplined and vigilant
  7. Prison Guard #3: 30s, focused and methodical
  8. Prison Guard #4: Late 30s, balanced yet commanding
  9. Casting male and female background officers for a prison setting and police station, must be over the age of 25, with a strong presence and the ability to portray authority and intensity in a high-stakes environment.
  10. Young Jovie: a vibrant, curious 2-year-old with an expressive face
  11. Casting for Aunt Cora’s Friends
    Two Black women, ages 30s-40s, to portray Aunt Cora’s close friends in 1998. They should be fun, vibrant, and full of energy, able to convey a strong sense of friendship and loyalty.