child or teen for INDIE film script?

[Randall_Oelerich]

EDIT: This pertains to a feature length indie film (not a short)
So I am struggling deciding on my protagonist being a ten year old, or a teen (16, played by an 18 year old). The story goes a couple of different ways depending on the age. The script is purely for producing as an indie. So I am asking myself if I should go the route of the 18 year old just for logistical reasons. The story can work either way. Seems to me a child actor means all sorts of additional complications when doing an indie-- legal issues with having a teacher on set x hrs per day, need to have the parent around too, less acting experience, etc. Thoughts? How much would the age influence your choice of protagonist? For a minor character one thing, but this would be for the part of the protagonist.
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[Noel Evans]

Im assuming then that this is for a feature? Personally Id go the 18 year old BUT, only if the story is as good or better that way.

 

[craigbowman]

Be a production manager on a number of other peoples projects and you'll clue in real fast about budgets and writing. Plus you're being paid to learn on top of it.

 

[Randall_Oelerich]

Im assuming then that this is for a feature? Personally Id go the 18 year old BUT, only if the story is as good or better that way.

Yes, feature. Sorry I did not make that clear. I am going to structure the story both ways this weekend, see if one is way better than the other; of a marginal difference my thought is also the 18 year old for legal and logistical reasons. But yes if the ten year old makes for a significantly better story, I would grin and bear it and go that route.

 

[Kess]

I would approach this decision from another angle. Which film will give you the best shot at being successful...or should I say the most successful? Which audience will be easier to win over with this film? What are the target markets you want to deliver this to? If the film with the child would be the better film then go that route...even though it may bring additional problems to the shoot.

If you can give us an ounce of detail without giving away the story it might help us help you.

Follow-up answer - it looks like you already answered your question.