The 20th century is when everything changed. Two world wars and countless revolutions saw old powers fall and new ones rise in their place. The future hung in the balance, and the world had its eyes set on one particular iron curtain which had descended across Europe. Something was growing, spreading, a power that was unlike anything the world had ever seen.
The events that would take place in the summer of 1950 would change the game forever.
The future of the human race was about to take a sharp turn...
SYNOPSIS
The Soviet Samurai is an anime-inspired Historical Action Adventure with fantasy elements! The story follows Stanislavski Romanov, a Ukrainian martial artist who finds his life turned upside down by the Soviet Secret Police. On the brink of death, Stanislavski realizes his true purpose: to dismantle the Soviet Empire and kill the man at the center of it all, Joseph Stalin.
It all began in Russia in the early 1900s. In this alternate version of history, a small percentage of the population began to develop strange powers, known as "Aspects". These powers could manifest as just about anything, and they were identified by strange birthmarks usually found on the back of a person's hand. Slowly, in small ways, history began to change course. Research was conducted on these "Aspects" to try and discover their true nature. All of this came to a head in the year 1950, when these powers finally began to reach their full potential. What followed was the stuff of legends for centuries to come.
The main plotline of the story follows Stanislavski, Alexander, Rasputin, and one more character who will be introduced later, as they use their powers to revolt against the corrupt leaders who have ruined their lives. The core themes of the story are about self-realization and finding purpose. Along with that is the evolution of the human race and the implications that come when a small percentage of the population is gifted with such extraordinary powers. This is a very character-focused story, and almost all the important characters have substantial arcs, including the villains. I expect each episode to be around half an hour in length.
This casting call is only for the characters in the first episode, and there will be future casting calls for new characters as they are introduced, so if you don't get cast in this episode, you will still have more chances in the future!
If you are interested in following along with the project, join the Discord server here: https://discord.gg/X8YZFNjx2F
BACKSTORY
My name is Evan Williams, better known online as "Milex" or "demigodhelix", and I'm a director, writer, and actor studying film at university. I've worked on other audio dramas in the past, including making my own Doctor Who fan project (https://youtu.be/lgZ7HKekpDA?si=LZFmEiVf8DM_Q7Oo), and helping out in making Spirit Bound the Audio Drama (https://youtu.be/xAsQAQiN3tI?si=edkl2MmUa0eel23b). I also have a YouTube channel where I post most of my work: https://youtube.com/@demigodhelix?si=DM-po92qDvDOKoKK
This project started as an idea for a webcomic and has been in its planning stages for years now. Recently, I decided to pivot the project into an audio drama for a few reasons. The main reason is that I am not a professional artist by any means and have no formal art skills or training. I am, on the other hand, very confident in my writing and editing skills, and so an audio drama seemed like the perfect avenue. I do hope to one day adapt this into a webcomic or even an animation if it were to get enough traction, but for now, I just want to get the story out to as many people as possible, and this is the best way for me to do that.
This story is just the first in what I hope to make a series of stories following the generations to come, all set in the same universe and timeline, and with recurring characters (think something like JJBA).
Role Categories
Each role is categorized as one of the following:
Focus Character - This character will be a mainstay throughout the story and play an integral role. Much of the plot is built around them.
Major Character - This character will be very important and have a lot of focus, but may not be around for the entire story or may not always have importance.
Supporting Character - This character, while important, is not a main focus of the story and mainly serves to advance the arcs of other characters.
PAYMENT
I've marked this project as "deferred" because, though I do not have a budget right now, I would ideally want to pay everyone involved. It's possible I am able to find the money to put into this at a later time, but for now, please treat this project as if it were unpaid. If this project were to pick up steam, I would do my best to pay everyone as much as possible for their work.
IMPORTANT NOTE: FOR ACCENTS
As all characters are from various areas of the Soviet Union, they all realistically would have Slavic accents. However, this is not required, and any accents will be considered, so don't be dissuaded!
Certain characters I imagine definitely having Slavic accents, while others I imagine may not necessarily have one. I will make a note of characters whom I definitely imagine as having Slavic accents and ones who I may not imagine having it.
If you naturally have a Slavic accent, feel free to do that for all the roles. If you do not naturally have a Slavic accent but feel confident you can do one, please do two takes: One with your normal accent, and one with the voice/accent you are trying to put on.
(Please use ABCABC format.)
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
Thank you again to all who applied! If you applied but didn't get cast, don't feel bad. We had a lot of great applications and there will be more casting calls for the project in the future!
If you want to keep up with the project and be alerted when we have the next casting call, join the Discord here: https://discord.gg/FBssK5QMMf
Thank you again to all who applied! If you applied but didn't get cast, don't feel bad. We had a lot of great applications and there will be more casting calls for the project in the future!
If you want to keep up with the project and be alerted when we have the next casting call, join the Discord here: https://discord.gg/FBssK5QMMf
Thank you to everyone who applied! I've gone through the auditions and will be reaching out to people within the next few days as I assign roles!
The Narrator is perhaps the largest speaking role in the project. I don't have a specific voice in mind for the narrator, so all accents and voice types are welcome. You should make sure you have clear and understandable pronunciation. Only apply for this role if you are willing to do a lot of line recording, as narration is an ever-present part of my writing.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
The sun's rays peeked through a pair of large windows illuminating a finely kept office space. Books were ordered in neat alphabetical rows, files sat inside well kept drawers, and in the center of it all, at a large desk, was a man. He was not exceptional looking in any regard, but he held a certain order about him which seemed effortless.
Every movement was perfectly calculated, there was no hesitation, no erratic motions. It was smooth, but not flashy. Before Rasputin could react he felt a sharp pain as Stanilsvaksi’s fist connected with his stomach. A simple attack, but executed to perfection.
Role - Focus Character
Stanislavski is a highly skilled martial artist and the son of Anastasia Romanov. He was trained in combat by the famous war hero Rasputin and is the current reigning champion of his local martial arts tournament. He is a quiet and cool-headed individual, and he rarely shows much emotion. At the start of the story, he feels purposeless, suffering from his own success as the reigning champion. Despite being a skilled warrior and an intelligent individual, he doesn't have any major goals besides protecting his family and living a quiet life. When he is finally faced with a real challenge, he is forced to mold himself into a sharp weapon with a singular purpose, becoming known as "The Soviet Samurai" due to his signature weapon, a crystalline katana.
I imagine Stanislavski's voice to be fairly deep and not too expressive most of the time, though he does have moments where he shows more emotion under great stress.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(Serious) Stop and think. Why would the NKVD join a martial arts tournament? They're looking for someone, or something. Most likely us. If we drop out right now what kind of message does that send them?
(Casual) Wasn't it you who said "your body is a temple and you must always treat it with care".
(Angry) If you really want change then why are you still fighting for him? What are you waiting for! You're the one person with the power and position to actually do something, but Instead you try to silence the people who actually want change. You're nothing more than an obedient dog.
Role - Focus Character
Alexander is Stanislavski's twin brother and also a son of Anastasia Romanov. He is a skilled fighter, but is still not nearly as good as his brother. He has spent a long time living in his brother's shadow, always known as second best, and he is determined to one day beat him in the martial arts tournament. He is naive and headstrong, and he cares deeply about his family. Though he is determined, he often lacks confidence and can be a bit awkward at times. When the NKVD gets involved in his family's life, he strongly believes they shouldn't hide and should try to fight back using their powers, causing a conflict with Stanislavski and Anastasia. His aspect, called "Shadow Boxer", allows him to summon a pair of powerful knuckledusters and become incorporeal in dark areas.
I imagine his voice as youthful and energetic, and he is a character who I don't imagine necessarily having a Slavic accent.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(Energetic and Determined) No shit! You underestimated me again! I hope your ready, because next time I'm not letting up!
(Self-Conscious/Nervous) I'll talk to her okay... Im just... waiting for when the time is right...
(Angry and Determined) No! I'm not just gonna bend over and let him win! I'm sick of hiding, what's the point?! They will never leave us alone... Did you ever think maybe we were given these powers for a reason? We might be the only people capable of standing up to them, and if we don't, then who will?.... I've already made up my mind... Im sorry Stan....
Role - Focus Character
Andrey Volkov, better known as "Rasputin", is a man of great renown in the Soviet Union. He was a famous war hero and got the name "Rasputin" from his larger-than-life personality and his immense strength. Rumor has it that Rasputin could level a stone building in a single punch, and in this instance, they aren't far off. Rasputin is a close family friend and a mentor to Stanislavski and Alexander. He is a joyful and boisterous man, always with a smile on his face and a sly comment at the ready. He isn't much of an ideological man, believing in fighting for his friends and doing what feels correct in the moment. Despite his age, he is still an exceptional fighter. His aspect, "Blockbuster", allows him to change the size of matter moving towards or away from him. He can throw pebbles and turn them into boulders midair, and shrink oncoming bullets to the size of dust.
I imagine his voice as very energetic and smooth (think a slightly higher-pitched Heavy from TF2). He is a character whom I most definitely imagine having a Slavic accent, but as for all the roles, it is not required.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(casual) Hah... you still impress me Stan. I remember the days when you couldnt land a single hit on me!
(a small chuckle which morphs into a hearty laugh) hahah...hahahah...hahaHAHAHAHAHA! NOW THATS MORE LIKE IT ALEX!...Now then...my turn...
(Firm and Reassuring) Anastasia, it's going to be okay. No matter what happens, I swear I will protect you and the boys. I will never let them lay a hand on any of you. I swear it with my life.
Role - Focus Character
Sergei is the leader of the NKVD, the Soviet secret police, and one of the primary antagonists recurring throughout the story. He is a very arrogant and boisterous man with a love for a challenge. He loves combat and will jump at any chance to fight a skilled warrior. He is very loyal to Stalin and idolizes him. While he is a chaotic man, he is more clever than he might appear and has exceptionally good instincts. His primary goals are to become the greatest warrior in history and to impress Stalin enough to be appointed his heir one day. His aspect, called "King of Clubs", allows him to turn his fists into massive Maces which he can extend and retract, attached to chains. His aspect also makes him extremely tough, and he is impervious to most regular attacks and even bullets.
I imagine his voice as gruff and rugged to match his personality. He is also quite energetic and emotional. He is a character whom I don't necessarily imagine having a Slavic accent.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(Commanding and Menacing) Why I'm here is NONE of your concern. My orders come directly from Stalin himself, and my word should be treated as his. Now, would you like to repeat the question, Mariya?
(Awestruck) Not at all... in fact, I feel excited all of a sudden! That man... has the eyes of a warrior... such intensity... If he shows up tomorrow, I must fight him!
(Mid-battle, overwhelmed with adrenaline) hah...(coughs in pain)..hahah...AHAHAHAHAHA! I FEEL SO ALIVE! Stanislavski Romanov, YOU DO NOT DISSAPOINT!
Role - Focus Character
Joseph Stalin, the enigmatic leader of the Soviet Union and quite possibly the most powerful man in the world. Stalin is a man obsessed with his image. He prides himself on never showing any hesitation or weakness. After being at the top for so long, he has become a ruthless leader who will do whatever it takes to secure his grip on power. He truly trusts no one, not even his closest allies. Stalin is a rather quiet man, preferring to keep his cards close to his chest. Even his aspect is a secret that is known not even by his allies.
I imagine his voice as deep and smooth. He is a character whom I definitely imagine having a Slavic accent, but as for all the roles, it is not required.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(Calm and Professional) Comrade Sergei, I have an assignment for you. Descendants of the House of Romanov are alive and present in the Soviet Union. They are currently residing in a village in Ukraine. All your accommodations have been arranged. We don't have names or descriptions, but I trust you'll have no trouble finding them.
(starting quiet and morphing into rage) After everying I gave you..... this is the thanks I get? This is how you treat the one man who gave you a chance! Despite everyone doubting you! Despite where you came from! And this is how you repay me! All I ever asked of you was your loyalty, you could have gone so far by my side. But no. You threw away your chance. I just hope you know, you have noone to blame but yourself.
(Coughing in pain) How...pathetic. Look at you. Such determination. Such drive. All for nothing. Even at your peak (coughs in pain), you're still just a little girl grasping for power.
Role - Major Character
Anastasia is the last surviving daughter of Tsar Nicholas the second, the man who was deposed by Lenin in the Bolsheviks in the 1918 communist revolution. She is a woman wrought with trauma from a young age and has been living in fear of the communist regime since she was a little girl. Her life has made her into a strong fighter and a protective mother, and she would do anything for Stanislavski and Alexander. She goes by the name Mariya to protect her identity, and she runs the local martial arts tournament, which is the main focus of the first story arc. She is very intelligent and careful, but she can often lose control of her emotions under pressure. Her aspect, "Mind's Eye", allows her to see 5 seconds into the future. She fights using a bo staff with which she is extremely skilled.
I imagine her voice as somewhat deep and mature, but I think most voices/accents could work for her.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(Concerned) You need to talk to Alex, I'm worried about him...I'm worried hes going to do something stupid...I know this tournament means a lot to him, but were playing with fire...Just...make sure he's not going to use his powers...
(trying to control her anger from boiling over) Im afraid sign ups are already closed, sir...If I might ask, why exactly would an officer of your position enter a local martial arts tournament?
(crying and scared) I-Its not okay...I-I could have gotten us caught...you were right, I only drew more attention to us...T-They might already be onto us...
Role - Supporting Character
Issak is a high-ranking NKVD officer and Sergei's right-hand man. He is a sensible officer, but he does have a bit of an ego from his position. Generally, he acts as the voice of reason, whispering in Sergei's ear, and he is one of the few officers who is willing to question Sergei. He still looks up to Sergei as an excellent fighter and leader and respects his authority. His aspect allows him to teleport short distances in his line of sight, and he is skilled at using it to make himself seem untouchable in combat.
I imagine his voice as somewhat high-pitched and confident. I do not imagine him as necessarily having a Slavic accent.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(calm and professional) Sir, with all due respect, isn't this a bit... off course? Not that I have a problem with it, It's just, you wouldn't want to dissapoint Stalin would you?
(complimenting) You really can tell that much from just a look sir? You truly are excellent!
(worn out from fighting) (coughs in pain) You're a quick one, I'll give you that...but you just got lucky. How long do you think you can keep this up for?
There will often be minor roles or extras that only appear in one or a few episodes. For these roles, I will be informally casting them to people who are interested and have a voice fitting of them. You can be chosen for a minor role and still potentially be cast as a more important role in the story, so if you are interested in this project and want to lend your voice even in a small way, this is a great way to do it! You can send any voice acting reels you have, or if you do not have a reel, I'll provide some sample lines here. All accents and voices are welcome!
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
(casual) Now try not to ruin these ones so fast alright? Oh, and almost forgot, good luck tomorrow! Though I know you won't need it.
(concerned/surprised) Stan...what...what happened?...I thought you were...I...I heard you were killed...
(arrogant) I've heard much about you, the great Stanislavski! It's all big talk, but you dont look so strong in person. And what's with that getup? You don't look like a fighter at all!
I'm looking for artists who are interested in the project to help create art of scenes and characters depicted! Each episode, I hope to get art made of scenes that occur. Please send a portfolio of your work! I don't have a strong idea of the production timeline yet, but my ideal hope is to get around 5-10 pieces of art made per episode. Since this is an unpaid project at the moment, you will be free to work at your own pace (with loose deadlines), and you are free to make as much or as little art as you feel comfortable doing. Even if your art style is much different than mine, don't feel discouraged to throw your hat into the ring, as I will be accepting all kinds of styles!
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
*Say something you think would fit*
I am looking for composers to create music for the audio drama to bring scenes to life! Right now, I don't have any composers on the project, and while I would be fine with using preexisting music for the project, my ideal goal would be to have a soundtrack made that could best fit the scenes and story. As with the artists, since this is an unpaid project, you can work as little or as much as you wish, and I will give loose deadlines to make sure the project stays on track. Please send a portfolio of your work here! All musical styles are welcome!
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR DISCORD IN YOUR AUDITION TEXT SO I HAVE A WAY TO CONTACT YOU!
*Say something you think would fit*
