Becoming a Films Extra

A Guide to TV and Film Extra Work

Oct 27, 2009 Peter Lavelle

Becoming a TV and film extra isn't the way to Hollywood stardom. But extra work can be entertaining and pays well.

Film extras are in a curious position. They are potentially seen by countless people, and yet are rarely noticed. They are immortalised on film, and yet rarely have the opportunity to say or do anything. They are almost never headhunted by film directors, because actors are considered to belong to a higher caliber. Yet there is real glamour in being a film extra, and the work can be rewarding.

What to Expect as a Films Extra

For the would-be films extra, the initial step is registering with an agency. This is not to be confused with booking a talent agent. Booking an agent involves aspiring to specific roles, developing an actor's portfolio and many additional costs. Above all, it is professional. Yet registering with a films extra agency will involve minimal outlay, and they require no real credentials.

The reason they are undemanding is that actors and extras aspire to different goals. Great film extras are unremarkable. They recreate the normal world without drawing attention to themselves, while the actors occupy the foreground. To this end the best extras are unambitious, and look ordinary. They are able to take on different roles with minimal changes to their appearance or costume.

The term "films extra" recently fell victim to political correctness, and has been replaced by "background artist." Yet this should not make those seeking TV and film extra work take their positions too seriously. The greatest quality that a films extra can have is patience. They may spend the majority of a nine hour day sitting around, and then spend eight seconds before the camera.

The Rewards of Becoming a Films Extra

For those willing to risk boredom and being treated like human furniture though, there are fine rewards for TV and film extra work. Wages alter between £70 to £130 that even low paying positions exceed the minimum wage. Moreover being a films extra is not taxing, and can be scheduled between an existing job. In this way extras work can be pursued full-time, or as a hobby.

Of course, having the opportunity to experience a film set is priceless too. For many, the true attraction of being a films extra is the chance to spot favourite stars. This might be at a distance. However, films extras have been known to become body doubles if they resemble a certain actor. Just being "around" the film set means it's possible to be involved in all kinds of positions.

This is unlikely though. The film extras that enjoy themselves most will be the ones with few illusions. Being used for something special should be thought a bonus, not the start of a films career. On the other hand, as a way of earning money becoming a films extra beats many other unskilled roles. It's undemanding, and there's the real enjoyment of trying to spot oneself on screen.

The copyright of the article Becoming a Films Extra in Career Advice is owned by Peter Lavelle. Permission to republish Becoming a Films Extra in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Becoming a Films Extra