If you want to break through into the entertainment industry by becoming a background actor, then you need to know how to become a movie extra. Background actors or movie extras are quite vital in film productions. There are scenes that require a multitude of extras to make them more realistic for viewers.
The great thing about being an extra in a movie is that while it has the potential of launching your career in show business, it does not really require that much talent. Plus, it offers great opportunities for exposure on the big screen. There are a lot of actors that started as extras for movies, before they became famous. These include Brad Pitt, Sylvester Stallone, Clint Eastwood, Renee Zellweger, Jackie Chan and Megan Fox. This means that you, too, have a chance.
How to Become a Movie Extra
There is nothing wrong about aiming to start at being an extra so you can be discovered in the entertainment scene. But, if you want to do things right, you must also be armed with knowledge on becoming a movie extra. Below are some reminders on how you can become a movie extra and be successful at it:
Look for available Casting Calls for Extras.
During the pre-production stage of films, casting directors usually look for extras to fill out some scenes in the movie. Most of the time, casting calls for extras can be seen on the website of the movies being produced, on the sites of casting agencies or on talent resource sites. Complete information about the extras needed for scenes and the qualities of extras being looked for are usually included in these castings. You need to be very keen about knowing where to look for these posts so you will have a better chance of being included in these movie extra auditions.
Be Ready With Your Resume.
When casting calls are held in your area and you got wind of it, think about it as a huge possibility for you to get cast as a background actor. But, you won’t achieve much success in doing this if you don’t have your profile or resume as well as your headshots at the ready. These are required for all casting calls, even for extras. There are even times when they won’t audition you to become an extra, one look at your resume and headshot can be enough.
Show Versatility and Availability.
Make yourself available for different background roles. There are movie productions where you will be asked to act as a passerby, a vendor, a beggar or sometimes, you might even be told to do some stunts if you placed in your resume that you are capable of doing this. This is what’s interesting about being a background actor. You get to play different roles in one movie while you work alongside with famous actors.
Always Be Punctual for Call Times.
During the production stage of movies, background actors usually have their own “call time” and most of the time, it is earlier than the main cast. This is the time that refers to the schedule when you should be on the set. You need to make sure to always be punctual for your call times, as this will show professionalism and will tell the production people that you are responsible no matter how small your role is.
Bring Your Own Props and Wardrobe.
Once you get the movie extra job, there are other responsibilities you need to take care of aside from being punctual at all times. Working as a background actor is not just about acting behind the main cast, you should also be accountable for the things you need to bring. As an extra, you will need to bring your own wardrobe on the set except if you are working for a period film where costumes will be provided for you. Always bring a bag of clothes, accessories and shoes with you. This is the safest thing you can do to ensure that you have the complete set of outfit for any scene to be shot for a certain day. A change of clothes is what it is needed, most of the times, for background people to look different in front of the camera.
These are just among the most important reminders and tips you need to keep in mind when it comes to launching your acting career as a background actor. There are still others you could discover and read up on so you can truly be ready and be successful on learning about how to become a movie extra.
