Casting Call "Pilastro" Short Film
Casting Call – Pilastro (Short Film) Details: Pilastro is a short Italian-Canadian family drama set against the backdrop of Toronto’s underworld. The story follows Giovanni, the eldest son of a working-class family, who gave up his dream of becoming a professional violinist to care for his family after his father’s death. To keep them afloat, he became a mid-tier gangster — a choice his late father deeply resented. Production is seeking authentic Italian-Canadian and Chinese-Canadian performers for a short film set in early 2000s Toronto. No previous film experience required. We are looking for genuine, lived-in characters with natural performances rather than overacting. This is an unpaid passion project; however, meals and transportation costs will be provided. The film will be submitted to qualifying festivals, and all cast will receive credit. Submission Date: September 14, 2025 Location: Toronto, Ontario (Bay Street area) Casting Needs: Italian-Canadian and Chinese-Canadian performers, all ages Union Status: Non-Union Unpaid If interested, please apply.
8 roles
Italian, commanding, quick-witted, and sharp-tongued. The family’s backbone and provider. Loud when he needs to be, never a fool, and doesn’t suffer them either. Keeps his temper on a short leash.
Gio's brother. Thin, slick, and spoiled but good-natured. Plays off his charm to get by. Quick on his feet. A bit of a screw-up. Loves his brother but pushes his patience.
Chinese-Canadian, rival gang member. Giovanni’s childhood friend. Calm and measured. Carries himself with quiet authority. Respects loyalty and family but makes it clear there are limits to his patience.
Nervous and inexperienced, still figuring out the ropes of the gangster world. Fidgets, talks too fast, and tries to look tougher than he is.
Gio’s aunt. Overprotective and caring, but prone to fussing and rambling when nervous. Strong family loyalty.
Carla’s daughter, supported by Gio while she’s in university. Kind-hearted, genuine, and a bit shy.
Gio’s father. Needed for one scene watching Young Gio play the violin, and for family photos. Proud and dignified.
For 2 days we will be shooting a birthday party scenes, for this we will need background actors to play family members of Gio.
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