A fun task for pupils studying Steinbeck's novel - selecting the actors for each of the key roles for a new Hollywood movie.

1. Of Mice and men
Casting Director

2. You are the casting director
of an upcoming new movie
of Steinbeck’s classic novel
‘Of Mice and Men’

3. • It is your job to approach the
actors you think would best
perform each of the key roles
and ask them to audition for the
parts.
• You are working for the Chief
Director who must approve
your choices before you execute
your plan.

4. • Being a Hollywood big-budget production, you don’t
need to worry about the cost involved – you can just
focus on who would be best suited to each role.

5. • You need to think about
the physical
characteristics each part
demands as well as the
previous films/TV that
each performer has that
would make them a
‘good fit’.

6. • You may have more than
one actor in mind for each
part – that is fine (in case
your first pick is already
committed to a project or
doesn’t want to be in your
movie).

7. • You should jot down some key
characteristics for each character
which will help you focus your
talent search. Then compose a
short list of potential actors who
could play the part. Finally,
choose your ideal performer and
be prepared to justify why you
think they would be perfect for
your movie.

8. • The SFX department can take care of issues like Crooks’
hunched back, Candy’s hand or Lennie’s height so don’t be
limited by those kinds of considerations.

9. Crooks
• Lonely but fiercely independent
• Dignified
• Afraid
• Somewhat bitter and angry
• Age isn’t mentioned specifically but 40-
50yrs old would work well

10. Morgan Freeman
His performance in ‘Shawshank
Redemption’ makes him a
particularly good candidate.

11. George

12. Lennie

13. Candy

14. Slim

15. Curley

16. Curley’s Wife

17. Crooks

18. The Boss
Carlson
Whit
Bus driver etc.
Minor roles