Extra in a movie ! help :]?

Question

hi .. i just got a part to be an extra in a movie !! im soooo excited especially because it is my first one but i was just wondering a few things..

i know you are not suppose to talk to anyone really,don't be loud/rude .. all that obvious stuff on how to act in public and while working lol ..

but .. it is for 8 hrs and i was j/w what is the usual process of it all ?

what do you do when you get there?

can it be like fun or is it strict serious business?

just stuff like that

i know they can all be different ..but what are they like in general?

sorry this is so long im just really excited & kind of nervous

thanks :]

Answer 1

In general I believe you park where they tell you to, you make sure to check in with the AD, find out where the extras holding area is and whether or not you need to go to wardrobe and hair & makeup.  Take care of that then sit tight in the holding area.  If you have questions about what you can and can't do, ask other extras who have been to this set before or ask the AD.  You should bring things to do and bring water and snacks in case they are not providing craft services for you.  If you see tables of food that is craft services.  Sometimes there is one area for crew and principal actors and one area for extras.  Sometimes there is nothing for extras.  Bring books, crosswords, an ipod, just something to do but always put your stuff away or someone could take it.  

On any set, it's a lot of waiting.  They want you to get ready right away so that the second they need you, you can come running in.  Then you might wait some more :-)  

There is nothing to be nervous about.  You do ned to remember about where you were and what you were doing during key lines for continuity purposes.  The AD and 2nd AD will likely be running the extras action cues and they will tell you what to do.  If your continuity doesn't matter they will just direct you however they want.  You may just be crossing in a hallway or sitting in a classroom, etc.  Who knows.  If you are "talking" in a group of people behind or to the side of the principle actors you need to pantomime your conversation.  Make no noise, just fake it.  The boom mics pick up a lot of sound.

Yes, they don't want you making lots of conversation with the actors because they may be trying to stay in character or working on lines and they don't need the distraction of trying to please fans while they're trying to work.  You're there to work too so everyone will be very happy if you do your job and let them do theirs.  If you are under 18, a parent or guardian needs to be there with you at all times.  You also need to bring 3 hours worth of school work and a work permit.  You could also bring a book.

Have fun,

Marianne

Answer 2

In general, exciting for the first few minutes (or hour) till the novelty wears off. Be prepared. Take a book, crossword puzzles, cards - something small to while away the time. There's so much downtime on set, that IF you don't have the right mindset - i.e. able to handle doing NOTHING for hours on end - literally - you could find the experience a turn-off.

There is a saying in film "hurry up and wait". It's so true.

Be nice to everyone, keep quiet when they lock down the set and call for the cameras to roll. As a first-timer be sure to LISTEN to the A.D. (Assistant Director) who will tell you where to go and what to do during the shoot.

Have fun, and remember to switch your cell OFF when you are on set. In fact, I think some film sets don't allow you to use them until you are on your lunch-break or after you finish because of cameras.  

Answer 3

lucky you! *sigh* wish it were me... congrats!

Answer 4

I ahve only been an extra once, other times I ahve either starred or co-starred.  However, it depends on the movie and whos the director/producer.  You need to behave and act like a proffessional of course, and never look at the camera unless you are told.  Do what the director/producer say and act like a proffessional.  the process is:

1.you arrive 15-30 mins. before your call time (the time they give you to be on set)

2.go to the waiting area in which they have other extras

3. if you are a minor you will have to bring school work if it is on a weekday

4.the crew will be setting up the lights, camera, and props

5. you will be told exactly where and what to be on set and on location

6. during the rehearsal or run-through you will be acting as if the camera is rolling

7. as soon as the director says action do what you where told.

8. on set, dont act too star-struck

Hope I helped ya :-)