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Leg Appeal

Collaborated on casting for three Leg Appeal photoshoots, discovering and selecting Chicago-based models to bring the brand’s hosiery campaigns to life. Focused on sourcing diverse talent that aligned with the visual identity and tone of each shoot.

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"What a witch!"

Led casting for a BFA Thesis (Fall 2025) directed by Abigahil Loredo, centered on a young woman who uncovers a hidden coven within her theatre camp. Focused on finding actors who could blend authenticity with the film’s eerie, magical tone.

Coming Soon

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"Fell The Bruxton Beast"

Led casting for both on-screen and voice talent in Fell the Bruxton Beast, a hybrid puppet and live-action BFA Thesis (Fall 2025) directed by Deagan Stoner. As my first voice casting experience, I focused on building performances that translated seamlessly between physical and vocal storytelling.

Coming Soon

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"I Memorized Your sadness"

Cast I Memorized Your Sadness, a BFA Thesis (Fall 2025) film directed by Madison Donnelly. Selected a father–son duo and a supporting role, focusing on authentic chemistry and emotionally grounded performances.

Coming Soon

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"Nature is nocturnal"

Led casting for Nature is Nocturnal, a BFA Thesis (Spring 2026) film directed by Lucas Stall, building a pair of strong leads to anchor a narrative exploring grief and love. Prioritized chemistry and nuanced, emotionally driven performances.

Coming May 2027

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"Asch Effect"

Led casting for Asch Effect, a BFA Thesis (Spring 2026) film directed by Natalie Tadda. Cast four characters in a psychological story exploring a school therapist who takes his students’ trauma into his own hands.

Coming Soon

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"Drunk Discoveries"

Led casting for Drunk Discoveries, a Directing II short film directed by Toby Bresnahan. Cast two leads for a comedic narrative following a lonely alcoholic whose reality shifts after discovering a six-inch woman living in his walls.

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"everything that could've been"

Wrote, directed, and produced Everything That Could’ve Been, a personal film inspired by elements of my own lived experience. Cast actors to navigate complex and emotionally triggering material with grounded, thoughtful performances.

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"The reappearance of joy"

Wrote, directed, produced, and cast The Reappearance of Joy, my first short film. This project served as my introduction to filmmaking and casting, allowing me to explore storytelling, collaboration, and working with actors to bring a narrative to life.

2020 Melaina Laurent created by wix.com

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