Casting Director Francine Maisler on Miles Caton & More

In the intricate world of filmmaking, where every face and every voice contributes to the tapestry of a story, the role of a casting director is paramount. Among the most influential figures in this specialized field is Francine Maisler, whose discerning eye and profound understanding of talent have shaped some of the most memorable cinematic performances of recent years. Maisler’s impressive roster of collaborations includes renowned directors such as Aaron Sorkin, Steven Soderbergh, Scott Cooper, and Denis Villeneuve, solidifying her reputation as a pivotal force behind the scenes.

This year, Maisler’s work has garnered particular attention, notably for her instrumental role in discovering breakout talents like Miles Caton in “Sinners” and her precise choice of Matthew Pellicano to embody the younger version of Bruce Springsteen in “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere.” Her ability to unearth raw, authentic talent that resonates deeply with a film’s narrative underscores the critical contribution casting directors make to the art form.

The Art of Casting: Francine Maisler’s Unparalleled Vision

Francine Maisler’s career is marked by a consistent ability to identify the perfect actor for a role, often venturing beyond established names to find fresh faces. Her dedication to the craft is evident in her demanding schedule, working “around the clock” on multiple high-profile projects. This relentless pursuit of the right fit highlights the rigorous process involved in bringing a director’s vision to life through casting.

The significance of her work, and that of casting directors universally, has recently received overdue recognition. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has launched a new category for casting directors, acknowledging their integral contribution to filmmaking. Maisler views this recognition as “long overdue,” emphasizing that the talent they bring to a film is a crucial component of its success. Despite the increased attention, Maisler maintains a humble perspective, noting that she performs her role “behind the scenes” and does not actively seek personal accolades.

Discovering Miles Caton: The Soulful Voice of ‘Sinners’

One of Maisler’s most impactful discoveries this year came through her collaboration with director Ryan Coogler on the film “Sinners.” Their professional relationship extends back to their work on “Creed.” Maisler recounted receiving a call from Coogler in 2023, where he described a “little, tiny movie, low budget,” seeking her expertise.

The core requirement for “Sinners” was to find a young man who possessed both vocal prowess and the ability to play the blues. Without a complete script at the outset, Maisler embarked on a far-reaching casting search. Her team explored various avenues, including reaching out to blues clubs in Atlanta and schools, and openly welcomed audition tapes from anywhere.

From thousands of submissions, a particular audition stood out. Maisler described seeing Miles Caton in a “dark room playing the guitar” when a remarkable voice emerged. This initial impression led to Caton being flown to Los Angeles to perform for Coogler and Michael B. Jordan. Maisler vividly recalled the profound impact of his performance, stating, “Man, if there’s somebody up there, he’s channeling something through this kid, because it moved all of us.” Caton’s performance has since earned him recognition, including being named one of Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch and featured in their Young Hollywood report. True to her understated nature, Maisler attributes his success to his ability to fulfill Coogler’s vision rather than her own discovery.

Finding the Young ‘Springsteen’: Matthew Pellicano’s Ethereal Portrayal

Maisler’s exceptional casting instincts were also on display in Scott Cooper’s “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere,” a film that explores Bruce Springsteen’s creation of his 1982 album “Nebraska.” While Jeremy Allen White portrays the adult Springsteen, Maisler was tasked with finding an actor to embody the younger version of the iconic musician.

For this crucial role, Matthew Anthony Pellicano, an individual with no prior acting experience, submitted an audition tape that immediately captured Maisler’s attention. His initial tape warranted a callback, but director Scott Cooper had a specific request for the subsequent audition: he wanted Pellicano to convey emotions “without words,” to show what he was “feeling inside.” This unconventional approach involved giving Pellicano prompts rather than traditional lines, pushing him to express inner turmoil and reflection purely through his presence and expressions.

It was during this silent performance that Cooper recognized Pellicano’s unique suitability for the role. Maisler observed, “When you see Springsteen, you see that boy’s face and without words, it’s just incredible.” This casting choice highlights Maisler’s skill in identifying not just acting talent, but an innate ability to embody a character’s essence, even without dialogue.

Conclusion

Francine Maisler’s work stands as a testament to the transformative power of exceptional casting. Her ability to identify nascent talent like Miles Caton and Matthew Pellicano, and to connect them with the precise requirements of a complex role, is a cornerstone of compelling storytelling. As the industry increasingly acknowledges the profound impact of casting directors, Maisler’s contributions continue to elevate the cinematic experience, ensuring that every character, no matter how large or small, feels authentic and impactful.