UK-based casting directory Spotlight and Filmmakers Europe, a similar online platform for mainland Europe, have set a new cross-platform partnership.
Under the deal, announced this afternoon, the two companies have said they will launch a new “cross-platform integration” that will allow actors who use their platforms to gain “wider visibility amongst the leading casting professionals across Europe, breaking down the barriers to casting opportunities across the continent, while promoting regional autonomy and diversity.”
Spotlight and Filmmakers Europe have said they will share details of a trial profile-sharing period for members of both platforms while working together on new initiatives, such as creating integrative access for agents and casting directors.
“This integration with Filmmakers represents a huge leap forward in our mission to create a more inclusive and extensive casting environment. We are proud to offer our members the chance to be seen by a larger audience, and we eagerly anticipate the creative connections that will result from this partnership,” said Matt Hood, Spotlight’s Managing Director.
Casting Director Cassandra Han added: “As an American casting director based in Italy and Germany and active all across Europe, I use Filmmakers and Spotlight every single day. This cooperation will drastically simplify things for actors, agents, and casting directors, especially in international productions. I expect the platforms to put users at the heart of this development and continue to be reliable partners in these vastly changing times ahead.”
Spotlight recently made headlines after Equity, the UK actors union, said it had launched legal action against the platform for charging actors exorbitant membership fees and “exploiting its monopoly position in the industry.”
