CASTING NOTICES


ABOUT THE SERIES

Manhattan 50 is a documentary series exploring the fifty distinct neighborhoods of Manhattan, each shaped by its own history, culture, economics, and lived reality. Through walking tours, historical context, and a clear eyed look at today’s housing market, the series offers viewers a grounded understanding of what living and working in each neighborhood is really like.

Each episode combines narrative context with street level observation and real world housing examples, presenting neighborhoods as they are, not as they are marketed. The tone is editorial, practical, and informed, designed for viewers who want to understand Manhattan at a micro level.

THE ROLES

SERIES NARRATOR (ONE)

We are casting one primary narrator to anchor the series across all episodes. The narrator provides continuity, historical framing, and editorial perspective, guiding viewers through each neighborhood’s past, present, and evolving identity.

This role requires authority, clarity, and restraint. The narrator is not a broker or salesperson, but an informed guide with a deep understanding of New York City.

NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES (REAL ESTATE BROKERS)

We are casting one experienced real estate broker per neighborhood to serve as the on camera walking guide for that specific area.

The broker’s role is to:

  • Walk the neighborhood

  • Explain the neighborhood vibe

  • Share interesting shops and restaurants

  • Discuss who lives there and who is moving in

  • Contextualize current pricing and inventory

Each episode will feature three listings representing a range of price points (entry level, mid range, aspirational), shown as case studies rather than promotions.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

Narrator:

  • Calm, authoritative on camera presence

  • Strong storytelling and explanatory skills

  • Deep knowledge of New York City history and culture

  • Backgrounds in journalism, writing, or documentary work preferred

Brokers:

  • Minimum of 3 years working in the featured neighborhood

  • Established reputation and local credibility

  • Comfortable on camera without performance or hype

  • Able to discuss both advantages and tradeoffs honestly

NOT A FIT IF YOU

This project is not seeking:

  • Influencer brokers or social media personalities

  • Sales driven or promotional presentations

  • Junior agents or rotating team members

  • Participants seeking brand exposure or listing promotion

No brokerage logos, slogans, or calls to action will appear on screen. Editorial control remains with the production.


Additional Submission Information:

How to Share Reels or Self-Tapes

We accept self-tapes via link to either DropBox or Google Drive.

DropBox Instructions -

  1. If you don’t already have DropBox, down load the DropBox app and install it on your desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

  2. Create a “shared file” for your submission video.

  3. Drag your video to the shared file.

  4. Select to copy a shared link.

  5. Paste that link into the casting form above in one of the link boxes

Google Drive Instructions -

  1. Select the video you want to share.

  2. Click Share

  3. Under “General access” click the Down arrow

  4. Select “Anyone with the Link”

  5. Select Viewer

  6. Click Copy link

  7. Click Done

  8. Paste that link into the casting form above into one of the link boxes

CURRENTLY CASTING - MANHATTAN 50


Project Type: Streaming Doc- Series

Format: Hosted / Narrated Episodes

Status: In Development

Location: New York–based preferred, remote considered

Compensation: Paid, commensurate with experience


SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Please submit:

  • Headshot and résumé uploaded via form below

  • Links to relevant on-camera work (legal commentary, interviews, narration, or hosting)

  • A brief statement outlining your experience with legal or investigative subject matter

  • Selected candidates may be asked to submit a short recorded reading using provided material.


Manhattan 50 - Casting Form