Audition For A Powerful, Character Driven Drama About Healing, Vulnerability And The Families We Choose

Title: The Ones We Call Family

Storyline: The Ones We Call Family is a raw and intimate short film about the quiet, complex relationships that shape our lives. The story follows Oliver, a sensitive ten year old boy growing up under the shadow of his father, Brian, a man hardened by failure, addiction and regret.

When Oliver meets Bella, a young woman carrying her own emotional scars, an unexpected bond forms between them, offering both characters a glimmer of hope and connection that transcends their pain. The film unfolds through emotion rather than dialogue, focusing on unspoken moments, subtle gestures and the silences that reveal more than words ever could.

Told with restraint and emotional realism, this is a story of broken people finding ways to connect despite their damage — a meditation on loss, forgiveness and the fragile beauty of human empathy.

Why apply: this is a paid production with nuanced, emotionally layered roles that give actors the opportunity to perform with depth, vulnerability and authenticity in a festival bound short film

Where did this casting call come from?

No experience necessary, but a strong emotional presence and commitment to character are essential