Pearce walter

casting without prejudice

portrait by PIERRE-ANGE CARLOTTI
interview by OLIVIER ZAHM

OLIVIER ZAHM — When did you create Midland, your casting agency with Rachel Chandler?

WALTER PEARCE — One year ago, from September. Rachel just called me one day and was, like, “We should start a company.” We are complementary. She’s good at finding a specific type of strong, older woman. And I’m looking more for street kids.

OLIVIER ZAHM — What’s it like to set up a company in New York these days? Everyone is criticizing New York, saying it’s become expensive, commercial, neurotic, and politically correct.

WALTER PEARCE — Personally, I hardly go out in New York. You’ll rarely see me at the clubs in New York anymore. Usually, with my friends, we’ll party at a house or something. I’m not really inspired by anything outside — nightlife here. Everyone’s, like, “Look at me! Look at me! I…