I shot a sex scene this week. There's no other way to say it... sex scenes are weird. They're weird to audition for and even weirder to shoot, and that weirdness is far worse when you don't know what to expect.
So let's talk about what to expect.
Before the Audition
Make sure you're ok with the script as written. There's absolutely nothing wrong with declining an audition if you're uncomfortable with the content of the role. If you have questions about what's involved, ask. (However, a lot of the detail is up to the director, so depending on what you want to know, casting may not have the answers. In that case, it's up to you to decide whether you're comfortable moving forward despite the unknowns.)
The Audition
Auditioning for a scene that involves physical intimacy is a bit like auditioning for a scene that involves a fight. You probably won't do any of the physical action, unless it is absolutely integral to the story of the scene. You should definitely not touch the casting director. If you are expected to undress or engage in any kind physical contact with another person in the audition, that's something casting should tell you when they call you in, before you confirm the audition. If you are asked to do something in an audition that makes you uncomfortable, say so. At minimum, you can step out and call your reps to discuss what's happening. You can also just walk away.
The Booking
The booking process typically involves your agent or manager letting you now you're the choice and giving you details about the job before confirming with casting. This is the most important time to ask questions and express concerns, because once you're confirmed, you’re committed to the role. If you’re unclear about what will be expected of you or have any kind of question, speak up.
Before You Shoot
Often, you will receive nudity clause between the time of booking and the shoot date. This is a legally binding document, signed by you and the producer, that details the boundaries of what you can and cannot be asked to do. Read it carefully, ask questions, and be sure to sign only if you’re comfortable with what it says.
You may also have an opportunity to meet with the director to discuss his or her plan for shooting the scene. This might happen at the table read, on set, or elsewhere, anywhere from several days before you shoot to the day of. Again, do yourself a favor and be honest and forthright in this conversation. If you’re not clear on what the director is expressing, ask for clarification. If he or she says something that differs from your previous understanding, you can either ask then and there or contact your reps, depending on how comfortable you are with the director.
Each step of the way, the goal should be to ensure that you feel as comfortable and prepared as possible. You, your reps, casting, and the production team all have a role to play in doing that. Your role is to voice any concerns or questions you may have. Don’t hold back or be timid out of fear that you’ll annoy someone. On any good project, everyone involved wants to do whatever they can to make the actors comfortable. (And if that’s not the case, better to find out sooner than later!)
Next week… The Shoot.