Iconic Horror Movie Castings
Here at Aura Casting, we love reflecting on iconic casting choices.
With the fall season upon us, it only makes sense to take a look at some of the most iconic horror movie castings to get into the halloween spirit.
Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode, Halloween 1978.
Curtis’s portrayal of Laurie in the now iconic, Halloween, is a defining moment in horror cinema. Emoding the “final girl” archetype, Laurie Strode became a staple in the character archetype paving the way for horror movies decades to come.
Anthony Perkins as Norman Bates, Psycho 1960.
Before there was Halloween, there was Psycho. The iconic Alfred Hitchcock flick is largely due to the character of Norman Bates. Huantinly played by Anthony Perkins, Perkins brought a duality to Bates, showcasing the character’s demeanor and his sinister side.
Sissy Spacek as Carrie White, Carrie 1976.
Speaking of characters with two dynamic sides to them, Spacek’s nuanced performance as a shy young woman who gets pushed to her limit earned her an Academy Award Nomination, as well as a place in horror movie history for her work as Carrie White in Carrie.
Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice 1988.
The now iconic casting of Michael Keaton as the devilish Beetlejuice almost didn’t happen. Director Tim Burton originally wanted Sammy Davis Jr for the role. Due to a difference in opinion between director and studio executives, the role was offered to Michael Keaton. Keaton would go on to make it an iconic role of his with his famous improv and range as an actor.
Daniel Kaluuya as Chris Washington, Get Out 2017.
A more recent horror movie, Kaluuya earned his horror movie icon status (and an Academy Award nomination) for his role in Jordan Peele’s Get Out. His nuanced performance of unease and paranoia related to audiences and made a lasting commentary on racial and societal issues. Kaluuya and Chris were recently immortalized in London’s Leicester Square, joining other iconic characters in films such as Paddington Bear, Batman, and Mary Poppins.
These casting choices and actor’s performances have contributed to the legacy of their respective films. Ready to make your next project have a lasting effect, reach out to us today to hear more on how we can find your next star.
Written by Lauren Ulveling
