Comments on: How to Be an Extra in a Movie

on 8/16/2008 Thanx for this! It's something I've been considering looking into, & I want to make sure I know what I'm doing, even for the small stuff--which is how many stars got started!

on 9/10/2006 1. Bring a folding camp chair with you, especially if you're going to be on location. They're more comfortable than the rented plastic folding chairs they provide. You can buy these camp chairs for $10-15 at sporting goods or Kmart-type stores.

2. In Los Angeles, one studio no longer provides lunches for the extras. Others might follow. Do you want to pay $6 for cafeteria food at the "commissary?" It's always a good idea to bring to set a piece of fruit and an energy bar to supplement the snacks they give you, in case lunch turns out to be skimpy or nonexistent. Student projects vary, but most seem to give pretty skimpy meals too.

3. In LA, there are almost always vegetarian options. But if you're on a small production (less than 30 people total), ask politely in advance, or bring something yourself.

4. Learn from the experience! You are acting, and sometimes the director really is paying attention to the extras. On a big commercial shoot (like network TV), you have the satisfaction of creating a character - you probably won't get any notice, but on a smaller project, the director may notice you and your skill at turning a cardboard role into something alive. This does not mean "ham it up" or "try to get noticed." Just stay alert in your role for opportunities to increase the realism. For example, I was booked to pay a homeless person. I imitated a person I had seen at the public hospital. To my surprise, I found myself limping when I had to walk. Directors appreciate these details.

on 8/8/2006 Remember that a set is full of opportunities and everyone there is in contact with someone else from another production who may need you. Always take their name and number and their referrals, and treat everyone with respect; that may mean a new job. Opportunity is always there, so don't let it pass you by.

Also, remember that even though you are an extra, the director may find a place for you in scenes that may demand a line or two. Always be cooperative and a team player.

on 11/22/2005 When you go to an extras casting call go at least 30-45 minutes before it starts. Some calls I've been to have only been prepared for 200-300 people and instead 4000 people show up. Also have your application, resume and pictures out and ready, because you may get to skip the lines.

on 11/22/2005 The director is getting paid thousands of dollars to direct the film, so he or she already knows what shots to get. Don't make suggestions of shots to the director. Don't think you won't be on film because you don't see the camera; they are paying you.

on 11/22/2005 You can also check out your local paper's arts and entertainment section. They may have open calls for extras for movies or TV shows being shot in your area. Internet search engines such can be helpful, too.

on 11/22/2005 Contact your local TV station. It often has connections to casting directors.

on 11/22/2005 If you live in or near LA, all you need to do is look in the paper in the classified section. There are always requests to be a movie extra.

on 11/22/2005 Consider San Francisco as another hot spot to look for movie and TV opportunities. There are lots!

on 11/22/2005 The stars don't want to be bothered by you. Don't talk to them unless they talk to you.

on 11/22/2005 1. Don't ask the director/producer to get you an audition. 2. Don't get in front of the crew in the catering line. 3. Don't get into an ego war with anyone on set. 4. Do have fun, and learn as much as you can, but don't ask too many questions.

on 11/22/2005 When you're working as an extra, don't use the craft service table as your own private smorgasboard! There's a reason why movie crews call extras "Props that eat," and it's not a term of endearment.