Hi, I'm new here. I'm directing 2 children ages 6 and 8, in a short horror film. The 6 year old is the main character. Neither has any dialogue, but the story rests on their shoulders and their nonverbal expression.

I've never directed children before. I thought the first step would be to cast kids with personalities similar to the characters, which I've done. Both are solemn, quiet kids.

I just wondered if anyone with experience directing children had tips on good ways to work with them. I'm going by instinct on this, but concrete advice would be much appreciated.

My biggest question is whether or not to tell them in advance what the story is or just give it to them the day of shooting to get their first reactions. Right now the kids' moms and I both are of a mind to not tell them till shooting.

Thanks for your help!

I used to have to work with kids quite often. The big thing with kids is to make sure they are directable. Some aren't. Since you've alerady have the actors, I'd suggest working with the kids in a way that they know acting isn't a game (yet you still encourage them to use their imagination and be creative). Make sure their Mom (or a representative) is there to 'handle' them, but your job is to get a performance out of them. Don't be mean to them, but make sure you separate yourself from a play buddy. You need a certain degree of authority to direct children.

As for the story, I'd give them a short, general overview. But then don't worry if they don't get it. Just tell them what they need to hear to get the performance you need. Also, I'd be careful about really scarring them for a shot--it could wash your entire day. Introduce them to the actor playing the killer, see how friendly s/he is in person. Etc.

Oh, and take breaks (while setting up) and plan on shorter days (no more than 8 hours with the kid).

I needed a little girl for my first movie, which was a suspense film with a killer. I was lucky enough to coherse my 9 year old sister into doing it, and she had lines. She's quiet and shy too, and my mom worked with her weeks before so she could learn her lines (which she did pretty well with). Just make sure they feel comfortable and don't lose your temper. Also, remind them this is a movie just like "insert name of kids movie here" and remind them to pretend the camera isn't there. Often she would say the lines while looking right at the camera, or she would instinctivaley turn around and look to me for assurance once she completed a line. It's tough, but try to make them feel comfortable. Maybe go over it with them ahead of time (if your schedule permits) by acting out the scene with them and conditioning them to what to do. Good luck.

Thanks for the good advice. This has been interesting. The kids are a trip, but the actor playing the dad is way more high maintenance.