Pound & Mooney Casting gets speaking role in state’s new film economy

For years, Kathy Mooney and  long-time friend Janet Pound have made it a point to find a place in any movie filmed in Michigan, making her a local expert at the extra and role-actor field. Her phone started ringing off the hook when the state passed its generous film incentives earlier this year.That turned on the CFL over her head, inspiring her to turn her passion into a full-fledged casting company this past April,  Mooney & Pound Casting.”We both had been working in this business for many years,” Mooney says. “We have known each other for a long time, too.”The Madison Heights-based firm helps major film companies find local actors. Those actors try out for small parts in the movies. They usually consist of walk-ons and small speaking roles. Pound & Mooney Casting has put local actors in major films like Clint Eastwood’s Gran Torino and made-for-TV movies like Prayers for Bobby.Right now the company only employs the founders, however, it gives work to about half a dozen independent contractors and an occasional intern. But Mooney sees a bright future for the company as the film industry continues to grow in Michigan.”We only expect it to grow,” Mooney says. “We hear there are a lot of movies coming to Michigan next year.”Source: Kathy Mooney, partner with Pound & Mooney CastingWriter: Jon Zemke