Casting Call - "Disconnected" Documentary (1099)

CASTING CALL: Are You Ready to Get "Disconnected"?

The Average American Spends Over 2 Hours a Day on Social Media. What Could You Do With That Time Back?

The Good and the Beautiful is creating a short documentary film that explores what happens when real people (families, individuals, and couples) decide to reclaim their time and attention from social media.

This is more than a “digital detox.” The film will explore a fascinating paradox: the participants are making a choice to be ‘disconnected’ from media platforms in the hopes of no longer being ‘disconnected’ from real life and human connection. Over a 6-week period, a small group of participants will consciously limit or completely stop their use of social platforms, choosing instead to fill that reclaimed time with purposeful, real-world activities and connections.

We are casting for individuals and families who are willing to be honest, vulnerable, and compelling on camera as they face the genuine struggle and profound rewards of this challenge.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking individuals, couples, and families (young and old) who have a complex relationship with media and are ready for a major shift.

We are particularly interested in seeing what you choose to fill the time with once the screens are gone. What passions, relationships, and/or skills will you reconnect with?

The Audition: Your Story Starts Now

To audition, please submit a short video (3–5 minutes) of yourself (and family members, if applicable) answering the questions below. Your submission video is only for casting purposes. It is not part of the final film. We need to see your personality, your passion, and your ability to tell a compelling story.

Instructions: Please film yourself in a well-lit place, speaking clearly and authentically. Tell us your story!

Some Required Audition Questions

• What specific media (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TV, News, etc.) do you use the most, and how many hours a day do you estimate you spend on it? What are the examples of the types of videos, games, or shows you are engaging with?

• Tell us a little about your life and how media may be affecting you negatively.

• What are three concrete, time-consuming activities you plan to replace your media use with during the 6 weeks? (Be specific: "I will learn to play the guitar for 45 minutes a day," not "I will be more creative.")

• Sell us on your story: Without editing yourself, look directly into the camera and tell us why your family or your personal journey is the one the world needs to watch in this film.

NEXT STEPS

• Record: Film your 3–5 minute video telling your story and answering all the questions above.

• Upload: Upload your video to a private link (YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, etc.).

• Apply: Complete the official application form and paste your video link when prompted.

This is a contractor position and each household will be compensated with a stipend. To participate, you must agree to sign a release form for the use of your likeness, image, and full first and last name as part of the documentary, which is intended for wide distribution.

We will be reviewing applications and reaching out to selected candidates for further interviews. We look forward to hearing your story and sharing your journey of disconnection and reconnection with the world.

Thank you for your interest in "Disconnected."

It is important to note that this position can only be offered to individuals residing in the following states: AL, AK, AZ, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, KS, MA, MI, MN, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV.

Salary: TBDOriginally posted on Himalayas