Starz Entertainment Searches for 'Stars'

Starz Entertainment Group is on the hunt for new talent to cast in a major motion picture, and is rolling out its search via a national casting call and documentary based on the journey.

Through Feb. 21, actors and actresses can log on to Starz.com to print out an application for a chance to be cast in a speaking role in an upcoming Revolution Studios film.

Select applicants will be called to one of four auditions before a team of industry professionals in New York, Las Vegas, Orlando and Kansas City, KN, in March and April. The effort, designed to boost awareness of the premium channel and involve viewers, marks the first time Starz has invited the public to be part of a feature film.

Starz is on the hunt to find a star for a major motion picture

Two finalists from each city will fly to Los Angeles for a final audition before industry veterans. One grand-prize winner will receive a trip to the Revolution Studios movie set and a speaking role in the film. Neither Revolution Studios, nor Starz, released the film's title.

As part of its original series Looking for Stars, Starz will document participants' quest for the speaking role—from their first auditions to the winner's appearance in the upcoming film. Casting call content will be used to create the series, which is slated to air on Starz this spring, according to Christine Flynn, executive director of channel management for Starz Entertainment Group. Looking for Stars is the network's first foray into original serialized short programming.

"This is a contest that helps us build buzz, a personal connection with our audience, and at the same time build interesting content," Flynn said. "It is intended to be developed as a serialized feature to keep viewers coming back to Starz, and to check out a movie while they are there."

Revolution Studios was formed in May 2000 to independently and produce and finance films with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Starz Entertainment Group and Fox Entertainment Group. The studio has released more than 30 films, including America's Sweethearts, Black Hawk Down, 13 Going on 30 and Rent.

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