How can you balance authenticity and star power when casting a biopic?

One thing I found helpful is to look at the resemblance of life experience with the star power and marry the two for a great casting fit and opportunity to maximize the authenticity to the audience in theatres. Well casted and hats off to casting that cast like this.

Balancing authenticity and star power in biopic casting involves selecting actors who can effectively embody the essence of the real-life figures while considering their acting talent, physical resemblance, & the guidance of experts. The essence of the life story & the kind of life led by the character being portrayed are crucial factors, as well as finding an actor whose real-life mannerisms or personality resonate at least to some extent with the main character. Prioritising authenticity means choosing performers based on their ability to deliver convincing portrayals rather than solely relying on their fame. While star power can attract audiences, it's essential to maintain the focus on the story.

Easy. All you gotta do is get your hair cut the way, Ken Burns gets his hair cut. I wish there was more to it than that but there isn't, it's literally that easy.

In my years of casting on a small scale and somewhat grand - authenticity is priority #1: The primary goal of a biopic is to accurately depict the life and experiences of the individual being portrayed. Therefore, authenticity should be the cornerstone of the casting process. Look for actors who can embody the essence of the character, capturing their mannerisms, speech patterns, and emotions. Either go for "spot on" or pivot and push the limits but keep it "the main thing.". If you have access to the talent you are representing, even better. The support of others helps. You get first-hand accounts of key moments.

The "old" filmmaking quadrant (young, old, male, female) calls for big names/recognizable actors to make a production work. But now audiences have become more savvy and can see through the BS. So, while casting a recognizable star can attract audiences and generate buzz, it's essential to prioritize talent over star power. Look for actors who have the skills and versatility to fully inhabit the role, even if they may not be as well-known. A convincing performance can elevate the film's authenticity and credibility.

Cast a wide net and conduct thorough auditions to find the best actor for the role. Encourage actors to audition with scenes that showcase the character's complexity and depth. This process allows you to assess each actor's ability to bring authenticity to the role, regardless of their level of fame.

VITAL: Work closely with historians, biographers, and individuals who knew or studied the person being depicted to ensure the portrayal remains authentic. Their insights can inform casting decisions and guide actors in capturing the nuances of the character's personality and experiences.

Regardless of the actor's fame, prioritize character development and storytelling. Ensure that the script provides depth and complexity to the character, allowing the actor to delve into their motivations, struggles, and triumphs authentically. Although Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet in the romantic Titanic, clearly there was chemistry but the two had to delve into a different world with a revolutionary road...and it worked. Mendes (dir.) couldn't assume it would work...but all of the factors above played a part..and it paid off.