According to the script, Fries must find a black actor to star in. Freys told the producers to either invite Denzel Washington-style black Americans to join, or use black European actors. In the end, Freys chose the latter. Because Ocovey's role runs throughout the film, Freys deeply feels the tremendous pressure in the casting stage. Freys used to be very optimistic about Chiwetel Umeadi Ejiofor, but he underestimated Ejiofor's age and thought it was not suitable to play Ocovey, but he still asked Ejiofor to record some key scenes. At the same time, Fries is still looking for other actors, but Egarford's subtle interpretation has aroused his keen interest. Therefore, Freys selected Chiwetel Umeadi Ejiofor.
When considering a candidate to play Sina, Freys decided to emulate the non-mainstream popular at the time and choose a different actress. Before finalizing Audrey Tautou, Fries had not seen her film "Angels Love Beauty". At the first meeting, Tatto was anxious that she might not be involved in the film, but her quirky performance in the film strengthened Freys' confidence
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