How are extras chosen for movies?

How to Get the Job. Extras are hired either as individuals for a particular scene or in groups for a series of shots. There are “Extras Wrangling” companies which are those companies that specialize in finding extras of a particular age, appearance or ethnic background.

Can you be an extra in a movie with no experience?

Extras don’t get film credits or lines. But they can get union wages, meals and perks — such as getting to read novels on the job. Being an extra requires no experience, no acting talent and no talking. Although you can sometimes parlay being an extra into an acting career, that’s neither required nor expected.

Do you have to have acting class to be an extra?

The majority of background actors also do not have formal acting training. However, being a background extra does require some basic skills such as being able to follow direction. Working as an extra can also be beneficial for someone who wants to become an actor and land more prominent roles.

Can anyone be a film extra?

Anyone who legally lives in the UK can apply to be a Film and TV extra. You do not need any previous experience, though it can be useful. Extra work is usually allocated at the last minute. Therefore the opportunities for those who need a Child Performance Licence are limited.

How can I be an extra on TV?

You have to fill in a form giving details about yourself, your background, and proof that you’re eligible to work in the UK. You’ll be asked to provide your measurements and upload a photo or photographs of yourself – these can be taken on a smartphone, there’s absolutely no need to splash out on professional photos.

How much do film extras get paid?

The important question – how much can you make as an extra in the UK? Expect to earn between £80 and £120 per day. But pay varies depending on what is being filmed. Movies pay more than TV, with the BBC and ITV paying different rates.

Is there an audition for being an extra?

There’s no audition. Don’t worry, they won’t ask you to sing or dance, or even read a script. That’s because being an extra doesn’t require too much skill. What do the people in the background do?

What is an extra in a movie?

An extra (also called Background Actor, background talent, and atmosphere) is someone who performs in a production in a nonspeaking role, usually in the background. Extras help make scenes look and feel more authentic. After all, restaurants, football games, and city streets would just look like movie sets without extras to give them life.

When did they start calling extras background actors?

In 1992, when the primary extras union merged with the Screen Actors Guild, extras began to prefer the term Background Actor. Within the entertainment industry you’re more likely to hear Background Actor, though extras, background, and atmosphere may also be used on set.

How do you become an extra in a movie?

Six Steps to Become a Movie Extra Find an agency or two. Register. Wait for the phone to ring. Do the shoot. Get paid. Rinse and repeat.