How to Be a Movie Extra
Being a movie extra certainly has its advantages. You get to meet people, find out how the industry works behind the scenes, and gather experience for your work as an actor. Therefore, if you want to achieve recognition on the silver screen, a good way to start is working as a movies extra. Be humble and keep in mind that almost all major movie stars had to work their way through. Apparently, you are no exception, so head up and feet on the ground - you're in for a ride!
Maybe you've done your fair share of theater plays or commercials, and you live under the impression that it's not a big deal to work as a movie extra. Allow me to disagree - as long as you've never been on an actual movie set before, be prepared to feel the enthusiasm of a 10 year old running through your veins (that is, if you truly love this profession, of course). Why? Because you'll get to see everything! Directors, camera operators, sets, actors - everything. And you'll get accustomed with the general atmosphere of a movie set. Also, it's a good reference and it may help you establish some contacts in the branch.
Companies and directors are always on the look-out for movie extras, because motion pictures are continuously being filmed, and every movie needs its fair share of extras. To give an example, think about a scene from your favorite movie in which the protagonist is walking down a street. All the random people surrounding him are movie extras. This example is also meant to underline the importance of this characteristic - it helps the movie gain authenticity, realism. Movie extras are a key factor of every production.
There are lots of websites who specialize in casting calls for extras. Do a quick browse and find out what offers are in your local area. Of course, you'll be advantaged if you live in a city such as New York or Los Angeles. Nevertheless, productions are taking place throughout the U.S, so always remain optimistic. It doesn't actually matter how you look like when applying for such a part. In real life, you see thousands of different faces in casual sets, with even more different features. Given the purpose of the extra, a large forehead or a slightly prominent nose may actually be an advantage. In addition, experience is not requires. Everyone can be a movie extra!
As long as you remember to be on time and act professional with professionals, all is well. And a last tip: don't get overly enthusiastic if you see your favorite actor on the sets - it might just get you fired.
Maybe you've done your fair share of theater plays or commercials, and you live under the impression that it's not a big deal to work as a movie extra. Allow me to disagree - as long as you've never been on an actual movie set before, be prepared to feel the enthusiasm of a 10 year old running through your veins (that is, if you truly love this profession, of course). Why? Because you'll get to see everything! Directors, camera operators, sets, actors - everything. And you'll get accustomed with the general atmosphere of a movie set. Also, it's a good reference and it may help you establish some contacts in the branch.
Companies and directors are always on the look-out for movie extras, because motion pictures are continuously being filmed, and every movie needs its fair share of extras. To give an example, think about a scene from your favorite movie in which the protagonist is walking down a street. All the random people surrounding him are movie extras. This example is also meant to underline the importance of this characteristic - it helps the movie gain authenticity, realism. Movie extras are a key factor of every production.
There are lots of websites who specialize in casting calls for extras. Do a quick browse and find out what offers are in your local area. Of course, you'll be advantaged if you live in a city such as New York or Los Angeles. Nevertheless, productions are taking place throughout the U.S, so always remain optimistic. It doesn't actually matter how you look like when applying for such a part. In real life, you see thousands of different faces in casual sets, with even more different features. Given the purpose of the extra, a large forehead or a slightly prominent nose may actually be an advantage. In addition, experience is not requires. Everyone can be a movie extra!
As long as you remember to be on time and act professional with professionals, all is well. And a last tip: don't get overly enthusiastic if you see your favorite actor on the sets - it might just get you fired.
