How to cast preteen actors for a short film involving profanity?

Pretty much just like you have. Say it, say it clearly. The last thing you want is for someone to find out at the audition. Don t just mention there is profanity, mention it is spoken by the child actors. Some parents will have an issue, and they should know not to bring their child to this audition; some don t - and those are the ones you will need to find and cast from.

If the profanity is integral to the telling of the story, simply explain that.

Don't just leave it at "There is profanity in this film." Write something like, "This film's dialogue contains some profanity for the purpose of providing a contrast to the overall message of the film, which is...". Etc.

I've worked with lots of teens and their parents. Some parents are cool. Many are...a little crazy. Best to be very, very, very up front about everything. ALSO - MAKE THEM SIGN A MEDIA RELEASE that includes their giving you permission to have their children use profanity in dialogue. Just to be on the safe side.

I expect you will not be able to, for you will be trying to undo on film everything they have been doing in raising their children. Edit out all the profanity and save yourself several dozen headaches. This way you might actually film the thing.

You should add the information to the casting call to let the child actors and parents know. Something like "Warning: Profanity" up front on a separate line and not hidden in text. You can be more specific like "Mild Profanity" or "Minimal Profanity" if that's appropriate. Then people who submit have an understanding of what is expected.

You should inform the parents/guardians ahead of time either in the casting announcement or prior to the audition. Because the actors are minors, it will be the parents/guardians consent that you will need.

You should also specify the requirement in writing in your release and contract, as it is not uncommon for talent to say they are 'comfortable' with the material while auditioning only to object once they actually have won the role.

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