I have recently applied to be a movie Extra in a movie being shot in London. I don't really know anything about this,etc.Extra? Can being a movie Extra get me into acting? This is my first time to be a movie Extra,so I don't know much. If you guy's know any info at all,please let me know?
Thank You's X X X
2007-01-22 06:27:39 · 6 answers · asked by DollyFan 1 in Entertainment & Music ➔ Movies
I think for to see what the industry involves - it is not bad to be on a set in any capacity to start. BUT - I would not recommend a long career in the extra department. Meaning more than 6 months is too much. I have friends that have been sucked in that vortex for over 10 years, hoping desperately for that perfect role, commercial, etc.
I am not saying it doesn't happen. But more people who perform get there through other ways than being an extra. I
When you are an extra - or a background performer, as those that are like to call themselves, it is a faceless career. Agents themselves will say this is not the usual way to become noticed.
If you wish to act and want to be in films - you need to get a show reel going. My recommendation - is to work on uni films and get yourself out there on projects - find yourself an agent and work yourself that way. A lot of agents will request you do some training. Some recommend voice training, accents, etc, it depends on the agent and your abilities in front of a camera.
But to be an extra is important - and if you are not aspiring for that perfect role - then maybe it is not all that bad. If you desire more though - go for it.
Working on any set is pretty much the same in the sense - you normally get your call time last minute. Make sure you ask what you need to bring in terms of attire. Many extras provide their own clothing, etc. Know where to park and who the assistant is that you check into.
When you get to set - check with this person first and they will steer you toward wardrobe/makeup. Then basically the rest is pretty obvious. You want to enjoy yourself and see what is going on, but sometimes it gets stressy on set, so chatting even during times when camera isn't rolling is not a good idea unless you are in an area that enables it away from the set. Equally phones and any other noise makers - ar no nos.
I think though - going through all the dos and don't is not fair to you in many ways though b/c a set seems so stressy and I know on your first day you don't want to make any mistakes. But at the same time the best way to be on a set is relaxed and focused - worrying about stepping over the wrong cable or talking to the wrong person, well - it isn't the end of the world. I have been on sets where phones have gone off - and well - you hold your breath and say - thank **** it wasn't mine!! But even then it only cost the guy a flat of beer - all was good in the end.
2007-01-22 22:03:08 · answer #1 · answered by Athena 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A friend of mine does extra work, but that is about all he does. He's never done anything more than a few adverts and been in the background in Eastenders. I think some people can creep into acting through being an extra, but I've never met anyone. Another friend of mine went to RADA and is now doing really well in the West End. She played the lead in Evita recently, so that's pretty cool for her. I think going to a good acting school is a far better and more sure way in.
2007-01-22 14:32:22 · answer #2 · answered by Princess Paradox 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In the US being an extra would not get you other acting gigs if that was the only thing you did. You should look into getting into a talent agency.
The source is a list of talent companies. I can not say if they are all good or not. Find one you like then try to get info on it before you sign up with them.
2007-01-22 14:37:31 · answer #3 · answered by 2Negative 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
4 years as a talent scout and I can tell you, extras are extras. It's a fun thing and a handy way to make spare cash, but if you want to get into acting full time, you need auditions, a few agencies and a very thick skin when it comes to rejection. Moving beyond extra is a full time job in itself. Your days will be filled with marketing yourself everywhere and being told to get lost.
Good luck to you, but don't expect to be pulled out of the crowd of milling extras and handed a roll.
2007-01-22 14:45:46 · answer #4 · answered by Fayte 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband was an extra in a movie but has not yet had a career in acting. But hey you never know....if you catch the attention of the right person you may get your chance.
2007-01-22 14:40:27 · answer #5 · answered by ANGIE 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ITS A STEPPING STONE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.
2007-01-26 03:54:30 · answer #6 · answered by Sassy 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋