Documentary Researcher – Character Recruitment for Feature Documentary

Only for registered members United States

2 days ago

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$450 - $0 (USD) budget
Documentary Researcher / Character Scout for Feature Documentary · We are seeking a thoughtful, emotionally intelligent researcher to help identify and recruit compelling real-life characters for a feature-length documentary currently in development. · This is a character-driven ...
Job description
Documentary Researcher / Character Scout for Feature Documentary


We are seeking a thoughtful, emotionally intelligent researcher to help identify and recruit compelling real-life characters for a feature-length documentary currently in development.


This is a character-driven film directed by Canadian Screen Award–nominated filmmaker Matthew Campea and produced by veteran television producer Wodek Szemberg (formerly senior producer at TVO's The Agenda with Steve Paikin).

The documentary explores how intimacy, dating, and relationships are evolving in the modern world.

We are looking for someone who can help us find real people with meaningful, authentic stories, particularly individuals based in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area, although remote outreach is also valuable.


The film explores themes such as:

  • Young people opting out of dating or sex
  • Individuals who have formed emotional relationships with AI chatbots or virtual companions
  • Asexuality, celibacy, and alternative forms of intimacy
  • Dating app fatigue and disillusionment with modern relationships
  • The psychological and emotional impact of technology on intimacy
This is not traditional casting. It requires sensitivity, curiosity, discretion, and the ability to build trust with people discussing deeply personal topics.


Responsibilities include:

  • Identifying potential documentary participants through online communities, forums, social media, and local networks
  • Conducting respectful and thoughtful outreach via direct message, email, or other channels
  • Communicating clearly and honestly about the project
  • Building rapport and trust with potential participants
  • Conducting informal preliminary conversations to assess suitability
  • Providing written summaries of promising leads
  • Coordinating introductions between participants and the filmmakers
Ideal candidates will have strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and an interest in documentary storytelling, psychology, or human behavior. Experience in documentary research, casting, journalism, or qualitative research is a plus but not required.

Compensation is $150 CAD per qualified lead.

A qualified lead is defined as an individual with a compelling and relevant personal story who has expressed genuine interest in participating and has agreed to be introduced to the filmmakers.

This project is expected to last approximately 3 to 6 months, with potential for ongoing collaboration.

To apply, please briefly describe your background, why this project interests you, and any relevant experience.

Contract duration of 3 to 6 months.

Mandatory skills:
Documentary, Narrative, Creative Writing, Screenwriting, Topic Research, Online Research, Lead Generation, Research Methods, Information Literacy, Academic Research


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