A Filmmaker’s Guide to Working with Children

A Filmmaker’s Guide to Working with Children is a vital resource for ethical filmmaking with child performers. Building on their collaboration on the film Snake, the authors offer practical strategies for creating captivating performances while ensuring safe and joyful environments across all production stages, from casting to release. To foster confidence in child actors, the book guides readers through playful and respectful methods of working on set. The book also assists with navigating relevant legal and logistical challenges to safeguard young talent while crafting compelling stories. Features include age-specific techniques for infants to adolescents, inclusive casting methods, trauma-prevention protocols, and a compendium of drama games. The book incorporates professional insights from interviews with Directors Jennifer Perrot (The Midwich Cuckoos), Likarion Wainaina (Supa Modo), and Matthew Warchus (Roald Dahl’s Matilda: The Musical), as well as from Acting Coaches Miranda Harcourt (Lion), Bree Peters (Sweet Tooth), and Amanda Brennan (Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children). The chapters provide case studies of films including Room, Capernaum, and The Florida Project. Aimed at directors, producers, and aspiring filmmakers, this guide is an essential tool for anyone committed to impactful, ethical storytelling in film and television.