This year marks a particularly meaningful milestone: Luci Lenox has been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—a recognition that coincides with the historic introduction of the first Oscar for casting. We spoke with Luci about what this honor means to her, the unique challenges behind some of her most impactful projects, and the evolving landscape for casting professionals worldwide.
MAG42: Congratulations on your invitation to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences! What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally, especially as someone whose work behind the scenes often shapes the very fabric of a film?
LUCI: Thank you! It’s an incredible honor—personally, it feels deeply meaningful to be recognized by peers I admire so much. Professionally, it’s a powerful acknowledgment of the role casting plays in shaping story, tone, and truth on screen. Casting is often invisible, yet it’s at the heart of a film’s authenticity. To be seen and included at this level affirms not just my work, but the value of casting as a creative force in cinema. I am also delighted to join the Academy this year as it’s the first year that Casting will have an award at the OSCARS so that makes it extra special.
MAG42: Both The Covenant and Victoria are powerful films with distinct casting challenges. Can you share insights into your casting process for these projects and how you approach finding the perfect actor for such emotionally demanding roles?
LUCI: Every project asks for something different—but in both cases, the emotional weight of the story was at the heart of the casting. With Victoria, my job was just to find one actor capable of carrying the emotional weight of a film shot in one take. That actor was Laia Costa who has gone on to have an amazing career. With The Covenant, I wasn’t the main casting director—that was the brilliant Dan Hubbard—and he brought me on to cast much of the supporting ensemble as they were shooting in Spain, particularly the Afghan characters. That search was both challenging and rewarding, as authenticity and nuance were essential. My approach always begins with listening—to the director, to the material, and to the deeper truth each role calls for beyond what’s written on the page.
MAG42: As a woman making an impact in the global film industry, how do you see the landscape changing for casting professionals and creatives working internationally? And what advice would you give to emerging talent hoping to follow in your footsteps?
LUCI: The landscape is shifting in exciting ways. There’s a growing awareness that casting is not just logistics—it’s an art form. Globally, we’re seeing more collaboration across borders, more nuanced storytelling, and more space for underrepresented voices. For casting professionals, that means greater responsibility and opportunity. To anyone wanting to work in the film industry and especially in casting, I’d say: stay curious. Build genuine relationships. And trust your taste—it’s your most valuable asset. There’s no single path into casting, but if you care about story, people, and detail, you’re already halfway there.
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