Short Film
Burdened
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Details
Union:
Union
Area of media:
Short Film
Network:
Paid?:
Yes
Rates:
ACTRA TIP
Deadline:
Dec 16, 2024
Callbacks:
January 2025
Shooting starts:
Mar 14, 2025 
Shooting finishes:
Mar 16, 2025 
Shooting locations:
GTA
Cities for response:
Toronto
Comments
We are open to seeing Non Union actors if willing to cover the cost of their own permit.
Storyline
After a tragic car crash leaves their mom in a coma, 19-year-old Dakota finds herself burdened with the care of her younger brother, Zach. Struggling with severe ADHD and enduring the torment of bullies at school, Zach relies on Dakota for support. Amidst feelings of heartbreak and guilt, Dakota grapples with the overwhelming responsibility of not only being Zach's older sister but also filling the role of a parent. When Dakota reconnects with her university friend Jessica, she is hit with the stark realisation of how much her own life seems to lag behind. Determined to rewrite their story, Dakota embarks on a journey of self-discovery, in order to find her own path and break free from the confines of her responsibilities.
Roles
Role typeRoleGender & Age range
LeadZachMale 9 - 13 Years old
Description
Character portrayed is male, 11, all ethnicities welcome. Zach is energetic, opinionated and loves to play video games. He is currently being cared for by his older sister Dakota, while their single mom is in a coma. Zach struggles with ADHD which can make school challenging for him both academically and when it comes to his classmates. He doesn’t have a lot of friends and his only support system right now is his older sister. He also has a temper at times which can sometimes get the better of him.
Role typeRoleGender & Age range
SupportingJessicaFemale 18 - 25 Years old
Description
Character portrayed is female, 19, all ethnicities welcome. Jessica is outgoing, direct, and the life of the party. Dakota is her best friend in university despite the fact that their relationship might not be the healthiest. At times Jessica can be oblivious to the impacts her words/choices have on others. She loves to have fun and doesn’t take no for an answer.
Role typeRoleGender & Age range
SupportingClaireFemale 40 - 50 Years old
Description
Character portrayed is female, 40s, all ethnicities welcome. Claire is a nurse and a single mom to both Zach and Dakota. She is doing her best to raise them but like any parent at times has friction with her children. While in a fight with her teenage daughter they end up in a car accident that leaves Claire in a coma.
Role typeRoleGender & Age range
PrincipalCalebMale 9 - 13 Years old
Description
Character portrayed is male, 11, all ethnicities welcome. Caleb is the school bully and a trouble maker. His follower/friend Ben goes along with whatever Caleb initiates. Caleb is used to being in charge, getting his way, and can be aggressive. He is Suzy’s younger brother
Role typeRoleGender & Age range
ActorMs. WilliamsFemale 20 - 40 Years old
Description
Character portrayed is female, 20s/30s, all ethnicities welcome. Ms. Williams is a teacher. She must stop fighting between the children in her class.