Being a movie extra can open many doors of opportunities to anyone. It doesn’t matter whether you aspire to be the next big Hollywood star, or simply want to earn extra money on the side while being in movies. Becoming a movie extra grants anyone a chance to enter the Hollywood scene, and it is one of the most effective methods to do so.
Movie extras earn as much as $400.00 per day, and can work for either union or non-union films. Though landing a job as a Movie Extra isn’t very hard, it’s also not that easy. Here are a few tips to help you out:
Look for casting calls in the internet-This is the quickest and easiest way to look for movies in need of Extras. You can actually sign up (most are for free) and subscribe to newsletters. So when a job listing is available, an e-mail will automatically be sent to you, providing you with details about the movie and casting. Recommended site: http://www.Hollywood-Opportunities.com
Look for job postings on trade journals-The Variety and Hollywood Reporter have current job postings on their Classified/Help Wanted Area. You can also check your daily newspaper under the Classified ads.
You can opt to join the union of background performers-SAG (Screen Actors Guild) offers assistance to background performers or Movie Extras.
After landing a job, here are some do’s and don’ts. These are especially useful if it is your first time becoming a Movie Extra:
DO’s:
Check your clothes-Make sure that there isn’t a certain color or style you need to wear before leaving your house. Bring extra clothes. The average workday is twelve hours. Even if you’re only in the background, you still need to look fresh.
Don’t be late-“Call Time” means the time you are needed on the set. Call times are usually one hour before the actual shooting. It’s best to give yourself at least half-an-hour before call time just to be safe.
Research-Though it’s not really required, it’s always good to plan ahead. If the particular film you’re participating in is a period-piece or if the setting is quite unique, it’s good to know how the average person looked, moved, or acted at the time.
Learn by watching-If you want to pursue a more hands on Hollywood Career, it’s best to stay attentive during on set. Watch and learn how the business is played behind the camera. You’ll be surprised how much you could learn in just a day.
DON’Ts:
No unnecessary items-Just bring the bare necessities. No need to bring cameras, or any other gadgets. If you must bring a cel-phone or a beeper, be sure to leave it on silent. Directors hate unnecessary noise, and it’s rude.
Keep it quiet-When the director yells “Action!” don’t say a word, unless you are said to make noise or talk. Just wait until the director says “Cut!”
Maintain realism-Never look straight at the camera, unless you are told to. This has the potential of ruining the scene.
Be subtle-Though the time you spend on set can be a good opportunity to make connections with people in Hollywood, try not to overly apply yourself. Finding connections while you’re on the job can seem unprofessional. Try doing it at the end of the day, and don’t let your intentions be too obvious. “Maybe some coffee, or a drink would be nice.”
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