by Brad Jones
Some performers see it as a way to supplement their income when they’re between jobs. Other actors dislike it and believe it isn’t worth their time. Some newcomers to the profession aren’t even aware that it’s a possibility. I’m referring to acting in the background or as an extra. Background work isn’t glamorous, and it’s not what most actors envision when they decide to pursue a career in acting and join the boom in entertainment, but it is a job. There are advantages and disadvantages to any employment.
Is it necessary for me to undertake work as an extra? Actors frequently ask this question. Background acting may not appear glamorous to those just starting—or those hoping for lead roles. But, while you’re waiting for that Oscar-winning job, consider why it might be helpful to your acting career.
Benefits of Extra Work
Experience – Working as an extra can be quite beneficial to actors who are just starting their careers. You’ll discover what it’s like to be in front of the camera, as well as standard set terms and rules, as well as other people’s jobs. Also, if you don’t portray these characters convincingly, it will detract from the situation. So, if you’re cast as an extra, think of it as an opportunity to practice your acting skills.
Networking – You should anticipate spending a lot of time in holding, which is the designated location where performers are required to assemble for extended intervals between shoots. Make the most of this time by creating contacts! Onset, the community of actors is a fantastic way to meet new people, establish new friends, and share resources and information. There’s also a chance you’ll have some unstructured time on site with the directors and producers.
Opportunity – The variety of film surroundings necessitates various movie extras for the set to appear natural and unique. As a result, movie extras come in multiple races, ethnicities, shapes, and sizes. Everyone has access to these opportunities. Those with remarkable potential may be recognised by agents or agencies and offered the option to sign up for representation with a reputable agency.
The downside to Extra Work
Availability – If you agree to a background gig, you will be unavailable for other work and auditions on that day. So, if your agent offers you a last-minute audition for the next day, but you’ve already secured employment as an extra, you’ll lose out. With self-tapes becoming more widespread, conflicts like these should become less frequent. It’s never a good idea to cancel a background job after it’s been booked because it will damage your background service’s reputation. You don’t want to miss an audition, but you also don’t like to cancel it. As an actor, navigating this route can be difficult.
No Guarantees – There’s always the possibility that you’ll wait a full day and not be used in any scenes. It may happen to you at some point. But, hey, even if you’re not in front of the camera, you still get paid.
Unglamorous – While there are many advantages to working as an extra, it can also be soul-sucking at times. Large calls are incredibly unpleasant. Extras holding, or the area where the background is kept until it is needed for the scene, can range from a few folding chairs put up outside beneath a tent to a massive warehouse. It’s frequently inconvenient. It’s easy to feel like a number in a swarm being herded from one location to the next. There are long periods of downtime, so many people bring a book or another activity to keep them occupied. It might be a long, dull day with little to no exertion and no aesthetic payoff.
Background work is an excellent method to develop contacts and learn about your art while getting paid if you’re trying to book additional work or are new to the field. Sure, the hours are hard, and you’re not the star, but credible extras are essential to a successful production and provide you the opportunity to be onscreen doing something you enjoy. It will also allow you to be proactive in your pursuit of a Hollywood career!
