For the character of Kanchi in Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s 1947 film drama Black Narcissus, a nationwide audition was conducted. The coveted role went to young actress Jean Simmons. To fulfil it, she had to wear dark make-up and a jewel in her nose to become the “exotic temptress” of Rumer Godden’s novel. By auditioning only Indian expat and first-generation British Asian women living in London, Michelle Williams Gamaker recast a Kanchi for the 21st century, who speaks. Shot on 16mm film, candidates had to introduce themselves, recite a personalized alphabet with references to the history of photography and gender politics, and read lines from a script whilst seated or standing.