Episode 5: The Casting Call

Episode 5: The Casting Call

Title: Zara Iloh: The Actor Who Walked Away

Episode Overview:

After getting the green light from Mr. Banjo to make a short film, Zara and Kunle are on cloud nine. The next step is to find the right actors to bring the characters of The Shadowborn to life. Zara’s first choice for the lead role of Obinna Nwachukwu/Cyber Vortex is none other than the famous Nigerian actor, Jay Jay Okacha. However, when Jay Jay turns them down, Zara’s hopes are dashed. Determined to move forward, Zara and Kunle scout new talent for the rest of the cast, but will they be able to find actors who can bring their vision to life?

The Search for the Lead Actor

With Mr. Banjo's approval and the script ready, Zara and Kunle immediately begin to search for the right actors for their superhero short film. Zara dreams big and insists on one name for the lead role of Obinna Nwachukwu—Jay Jay Okacha, the top Nigerian actor who had starred in several popular films.

"I mean, Jay Jay would be perfect for Obinna," Zara says, pacing around his room. "He's got the right look, the attitude, everything. We can't settle for anyone else."

Kunle looks at Zara, shaking his head. "Bro, he's a big star. You sure he's gonna take the role of a tech geek turned superhero?"

"I have to try," Zara insists. "I believe in the story, and I believe he’ll see what I see."

They gather their courage and send an official message to Jay Jay’s agent. A week later, they get a call to set up a meeting with the actor.

The Big Meeting with Jay Jay Okacha

Zara and Kunle enter a lavish meeting room in a high-rise building in Lagos, where Jay Jay Okacha’s agent sits across from them. The tension in the air is palpable.

“We’re very excited to hear your pitch for the role,” the agent says, his tone professional but cautious.

Zara pitches his heart out, describing Obinna and how Jay Jay’s acting skills could bring the character to life. He emphasizes how this short film could be a game-changer for superhero storytelling in Nigeria, and how Jay Jay’s involvement could bring more attention to African cinema.

However, after a long pause, the agent delivers the bad news:

“Jay Jay appreciates the offer, but he’s currently not interested in taking on a role in a short film. He’s focusing on larger projects right now.”

Zara’s heart sinks. He tries to hide his disappointment but can’t. “Wait, what? Are you sure? This is the perfect role for him!”

The agent remains firm. “He’s simply not available for this type of project. But thank you for thinking of him.”

Rejection and a New Beginning

Zara walks out of the building feeling deflated. He can’t believe it. He thought Jay Jay was the perfect fit for Obinna, but now he has to move on. Kunle notices Zara’s downcast expression.

“You okay, bro?” Kunle asks gently.

“I don’t know,” Zara admits, staring at the ground. “I thought we had it… but I guess we were aiming too high.”

Kunle slaps him on the back. “Nah, man. This is just one bump. We’re not stopping now.”

Zara sighs. “Who else can we get? We need a serious actor, someone with the grit and the presence.”

Kunle thinks for a moment. “I know some rising stars. We can look into them.”

With that, they head back to Banjo Studios to regroup and find new actors.

Finding New Talent

Zara and Kunle start hosting casting calls for the lead role of Obinna Nwachukwu. They sift through dozens of applicants, but none seem to capture the essence of the character the way Zara envisioned. They don’t settle, despite the pressure mounting to finish the film.

Then, one day, a young actor named David Adedeji walks in. He’s relatively unknown but has an intense screen presence. His eyes light up as he reads for the part, channeling the determination and vulnerability Zara wrote into Obinna.

Zara and Kunle exchange glances. This is the one.

David nails the role, and after a brief talk, they offer him the part. He accepts, and just like that, the first major role is cast.

Casting the Other Roles

With David Adedeji as Obinna, Zara and Kunle focus on filling the other roles. For the role of Dr. Nzoka, the villain, they cast Chinonso Ijeoma, a seasoned actor known for playing complex antagonists. She nails the cold, calculating presence they wanted for Dr. Nzoka.

Next, they cast Amina Bello, a rising star, as Mina, the female lead who is a skilled fighter and Obinna’s ally. Amina’s chemistry with David in their audition is undeniable, and they feel confident that their on-screen partnership will be powerful.

For the rest of the Shadowborn gang, they cast up-and-coming actors, choosing people who bring energy and physicality to their roles, especially for the action sequences.

The Final Touch

With the cast in place, Zara feels a surge of excitement. Though Jay Jay’s refusal was a setback, it forced him to consider new talent and opened doors for up-and-coming actors who are ready to take on big roles. The team now feels complete, and they’re one step closer to bringing The Shadowborn to life.

But the real work is just beginning. Rehearsals, set design, and special effects are all on the horizon. Zara knows this film won’t be easy, but with his team in place, he feels ready to take on whatever comes next.

Cliffhanger Ending:

With the cast finalized, will Zara and the team be able to bring The Shadowborn to life on screen? Will the short film impress investors and kickstart the journey to a full movie? Find out in the next episode!

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