Extras are required to perform, at times, demanding work that entails repeating the same movement or action over and over, for long periods of hours. No skill in particular is required, and anyone can become an extra. All it takes is a few simple steps and you're ready to embark on this career.
How can I become an extra in a movie?
- Research talent agencies. Visit casting websites to vet various talent agencies.
- Take a high-quality headshot.
- Sign with a casting agency.
- Submit your work authorization documentation.
- Begin work as a non-union extra.
- Become a SAG-AFTRA member.
Can you be an extra with no experience?
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. All that's expected of you is to show up on time — early, ideally — and to pay attention and follow directions.10 Apr 2021
Do you need qualifications to be an extra?
You don't need any experience to become background talent, but you should have a decent headshot and some persistence. It's definitely not like the old days when you would look in the want-ads of a newspaper or Variety magazine to find a casting call.27 Jan 2021
Is it worth being an extra in a movie?
Extra work doesn't necessarily get an actor noticed by casting directors or agents, but it can be a valuable way of gaining experience on set. It can sometimes result in being upgraded to a speaking role, or helping an actor get his union card.20 Jan 2021
Is it hard to get cast as an extra?
It can be challenging to get started in the film industry, but you can increase your chances of being cast as a movie extra by taking a few important steps. In this article, we explain what movie extras are, how to become one and tips for finding more movie extra jobs.23 Jul 2021
How much do extras make per movie?
How much money do you make as a movie extra? Extras can earn anywhere from minimum wage to more than $50 per hour. Typically they'll get paid for a full day even if they're needed for only a few hours.10 Apr 2021
How much do movie extras make?
The pay scale for movie extras varies widely, but the national average for background actors is $13.31 per hour. The differences in wages for movie extras is due to a few variables: The budget for the film. Whether the extra is a union or non-union worker.23 Jul 2021