“LOVE, VENEZIA” is a new feature film to be directed by Steve Balderson, adapted from a chapter in his erotic memoir "Year of the Whore" (Punk Hostage Press, 2023)
Production Title: LOVE, VENEZIA (working title, synopsis below)
Production Type: Feature Film (independent, ultra-low-budget, arthouse)
Genre: Drama / Gay Romance
Director: Steve Balderson
Cinematographer: Hanuman Brown-Eagle
Actors already cast: Spike Mayer, Mink Stole, David Lami Friebe, Nia Warren, Pleasant Gehman, Fahad Alhumaid, with Brian Sonia-Wallace, Dante Colle, Danny Wilcoxx, Rocky Vallarta, and more!
Shooting Locations: Los Angeles, CA (USA) and Venice, Italy (EU)
Production Date: Fall/Winter 2023 TBD
SYNOPSIS:
“Love, Venezia” is an alluring, poignant, and deeply moving journey that follows Michael, a man searching for meaning and passion in his life. Struggling with the aftermath of a painful breakup and the dizzying world of modern romance, he embarks on a transformative journey to Venice, Italy.
In this mesmerizing city of canals and charm, Michael meets Marco, a charismatic and mysterious man who encourages him to face his insecurities and rekindle his innermost desires. Through a series of evocative and intimate encounters, Michael traverses an emotional landscape, learning to embrace vulnerability and rediscover the power of connection.
As their bond deepens, Michael is introduced to a world of sensuality and spirituality, experiencing love and desire like never before. However, with his time in Venice running out, he must confront a heart-wrenching decision—will he hold onto the newfound love and passion, or will he return to his old life, forever changed by his time in this magical city?
“Love, Venezia” is a tender exploration of love, intimacy, and self-discovery, set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Venice. This touching, mesmerizing, and unforgettable film will resonate with anyone who has ever longed for a deeper connection, both with others and within themselves. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Michael and Marco, and let their story awaken the fire of love within you.
WHY THIS FILM IS SPECIAL:
As you know, our film is a passionate and beautiful love story, but what sets it apart from many other LGBTQ+ films is the positive light in which we portray our community.
So many gay movies, although they may be honest portrayals of certain aspects of the community, tend to focus on the darker elements – violence, drug use, disease, and so on. But with “Love, Venezia,” we’re doing something different, something that’s been rarely, if ever, seen before.
Our film is all about love, connection, and self-discovery, and it’s a gay love story that showcases our community in a beautiful and positive light. It’s time to challenge the misunderstood stereotypes and show the world that there is so much more to the LGBTQ+ community than what has been traditionally portrayed on screen.
By creating this film, we’re not only telling a beautiful and heartwarming love story, but we’re also promoting a positive representation of the LGBTQ+ community and breaking down barriers. This is what makes “Love, Venezia” so special, unique, and revolutionary.
CASTING Submission Instructions:
To be considered for this role, please submit the following:
DO NOT ATTACH ANYTHING TO YOUR EMAIL. Your email should only include your message and any webpage URLs.
1. Include a link to your website, or to your online headshots
2. Include a link to your acting showreel
3. Record/Upload—to a PRIVATE or PASSWORD-PROTECTED YouTube or Vimeo link—a selfie video doing a brief introduction (1-2 minutes) explaining your interest in the role (MARCO specifically, to showcase your ability to perform in both Italian and English).
4. Please submit via the email links below ASAP
We are looking forward to seeing your talent and exploring the possibility of working together on this beautiful and poignant film. Thank you for your interest and best of luck with your submission.
Casting Call: Seeking Actors for Feature Film
“MARCO” (Italian, Male, Lead): 30s-50
Marco is a gay/bisexual/fluid, sexy, charismatic, philosophical, and enigmatic Italian man. He has a mysterious allure and carries an air of wisdom and experience about him. As a calligraphy teacher and artist, he exudes a passion for life and creativity. Marco is sensitive, nurturing, and emotionally intelligent. His natural ability to connect with others on a deeper level sets the stage for a profound and transformative relationship with the lead character, Michael. Marco is an essential character in this romantic drama that revolves around Michael's sexual and spiritual reawakening during his trip to Venice. The story explores themes of identity, desire, love, and the power of human connection. Marco speaks with an authentic Italian accent (any region, not specific to Venezia).
***PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND ONLY SUBMIT IF YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH FULL NUDITY.*** This role requires full nudity and the actor must be comfortable participating in explicit and consensual adult sexual situations as a key aspect of the character's development within the story. THERE WILL BE NO NUDITY FOR THE AUDITION. YOU WILL BE ASKED TO POSE IN UNDERWEAR OR IN SHORTS FOR THE AUDITION. Read more about this here.
Pay: USD$125/day standard scenes, $250/day which include nude scenes.
SUBMIT HERE FOR THE ROLE OF MARCO
**If you don't already live in Italy, you will need a valid passport***
“LIZA” (Female, any ethnicity, Supporting Lead): 25-30s
25 to 35 years old, all ethnicities woman. Liza is a vibrant, empathetic, stylish, and strong-willed woman. Probably in the fashion business. Or she’s just cool and stylish. She smokes cigarettes, loves Bette Davis films, and enjoys happy hour (at any hour). She is Michael's confidant and best friend. Throughout the story, Liza serves as a source of support and wisdom for Michael during his journey of self-discovery and healing in Venice. Liza's compassionate nature, wit, and humor bring a light-hearted dynamic to the film. (Zero nudity required. Travel and housing will be included for the portion of the film being shot in Venice, Italy.)
Pay: USD$125/day
SUBMIT HERE FOR THE ROLE OF LIZA
***You will need a valid passport***
“LOVERS/HOOKUPS” (Male, any ethnicity, Featured): 20s-40s
20 to 50 years old, all ethnicities man, transgender man, nonbinary. These are Michael’s various hookups and lovers that he engages with during the first act of his journey to enlightenment.
Pay: $125/day
***PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND ONLY SUBMIT IF YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH FULL NUDITY.*** This role requires full nudity and the actor must be comfortable participating in explicit and consensual adult sexual situations as a key aspect of the character's development within the story. THERE WILL BE NO NUDITY FOR THE AUDITION. YOU WILL BE ASKED TO POSE IN UNDERWEAR OR IN SHORTS FOR THE AUDITION. Read more about this here.
Pay: USD$125/day standard scenes, $250/day which include nude scenes.
SUBMIT HERE FOR THE ROLE OF VARIOUS HOOKUPS
***If you are cast as one of the Italian hookups, you will need a valid passport***