Taking Risks: How Dacre Montgomery's Self Tape Audition for Stranger Things Landed Him the Role of Billy
posted 18th February 2025
Taking risks in self tape audition can pay off in big ways. An inspiring example of this is from Australian actor Dacre Montgomery, who landed the iconic role of Billy Hargrove in Netflix's Stranger Things. His self tape showcased his talent, but also demonstrated how thinking outside the box can make all the difference. Let's break down how Montgomery's approach to his self tape secured him a massive role in a huge Netflix show and how it reveals what makes a good self tape.
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The Power of a Great Self-Tape Audition
Self tapes have become the most important tool for actors in the early stages of casting, especially for international actors like Montgomery, who would otherwise never have access to US auditions. Montgomery took this as an opportunity to play with the material and set himself apart from the competition.
Instead of simply performing the lines, Montgomery avoided a common mistake in self tapes and instead creatively created a mini performance piece from his self tape. He didn't just do this with his performance. He used dramatic lighting, different angles, and even added a soundtrack to create the right mood for his Stranger Things audition. These additions show understanding of his character and the project, but also commitment to his performance.
What Made Dacre Montgomery's Self Tape Stand Out?
Character
Montgomery fully embodied Billy's menacing yet vulnerable energy, even in a self tape format.
Technical Creativity
By adding creative lighting and sound, he elevated his self tape from a simple audition to a compelling piece that is gripping to watch.
Risk-Taking
Montgomery wasn't afraid to push boundaries, which is exactly what casting directors look for in a standout audition.
For another actor taking risks and understanding character, check out Lily-Rose Depp's Nosferatu self tape.
Dacre Montgomery's self tape audition for Stranger Things is a great toolkit in how to take risks and make an impact. By combining technical creativity with a deep understanding of the character and project, he turned what could have been a straight audition into an iconic performance. Don't be mistaken and just copy Montgomery's approach, but take away from this that divergent thinking and going the extra mile can be worth it. Just make sure to approach it with similar genuine passion.
Ready to create your own standout self tape? Check out our Self-Tape Studio Services for professional setups and expert advice to help you nail your next audition.
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