How Do They Get Babies for Movies and TV Shows: Is There an Audition?

When it comes to casting babies for movies and TV shows, the process can be as varied as the projects themselves. While some productions require authentic infants for specific scenes, others opt for realistic silicone babies or even use real cast members or filmmakers to fill the roles. Here’s a detailed look into the world of baby casting in the entertainment industry.

Real Babies: Auditions and Requirements

Advertising the Need: For productions that require real babies, the casting process often begins by placing ads in local newspapers, online job boards, or social media platforms. Producers actively seek out babies based on specific requirements, such as age, gender, and physical appearance. These requirements are crucial as they ensure that the child fits the specific needs of the project.

Assessment Periods (Auditions): Once the ads are up, auditions begin. Parents and guardians who are interested in their children becoming involved in a project can bring the child to the auditions. The assessment period is critical and may involve: Performing a short sceneResponding to on-screen directionsDisplaying comfort in front of a cameraObeying crew instructions

Faux Babies: Silicone Babies and Realistic Dolls

When Real Isn’t Necessarily Better: Not all productions need real babies. For scenes that are too dangerous or require frequent changes in appearance, silicone babies or realistic doll babies are used. These baby dolls look and behave similarly to real infants and are often found online in various stores specializing in film and television props. They come in different sizes and can be made to move with simple mechanisms, perfect for creating realistic scenes without the risk of injury to genuine infants.

Subjective Criteria: Beyond Just 'Cuteness'

Trivial Fact: "Beauty" is in the Eye of the Beholder: While "cuteness" is often a key factor in selecting a baby for a role, it is a highly subjective measure. Many times, the decision isn’t based solely on the baby’s physical appearance but also on their behavior, temperament, and ability to work well on set. Crew members and directors may observe the baby's personality and interactions during the auditionPhysical attributes like facial features and body shape might also factor in

Moreover, it’s important to note that not all babies in films end up on screen. Often, the same cast and crew can use one single baby to cover multiple roles in a film. For example, Sofia Coppola, the acclaimed filmmaker, was used as a baby in the film "The Godfather."

Ethical Considerations

In the world of baby casting, there are also ethical considerations that need to be taken into account. The welfare and safety of the babies involved are paramount. Producers must ensure that the babies are in a safe and comfortable environment while on set and that their parents or guardians are informed and consenting to the child's participation.

Conclusion

Whether through authentic infant casting or the use of silicone babies, the process of getting babies for movies and TV shows is a multifaceted one. While "cuteness" is often a factor, it is by no means the only criterion. Behind the scenes, the decision-making process is often a blend of subjective taste and objective need, with a focus on the safety and welfare of all involved.