How to get to the film and what is an extra?

When I was younger, I always wondered how it was possible that in a movie on TV, people would walk past the lead actor and not even notice him. How is that possible, when he's famous all over the world and everyone wants a photo or an autograph from him? I found the answer in the word "extra".

A background actor or extra, is a performer in a film, TV show, stage, musical, opera or ballet production, who appears in a nonspeaking or nonsinging (silent) capacity, usually in the background.

However background actors are extremely important for the movie. Imagine if the main character was walking through an empty city and not a single person walked by. It's strange, isn't it? The extras help us to feel the atmosphere of such an ordinary human life in the movie.

With this job, you will not only find an interesting way to earn money, but you will also find new good friends. You will go beyond your limits and overcome all your complexes.

You will learn to get along better with completely different people. What you dreamed of in your childhood will become a reality for you - ladies can become fairies and princesses in some movies, men can become knights or high military officers.

You can try on a variety of costumes - from Empire dresses to stylish and expensive modern suits. 

Basicaly, it is one of the best and easiest ways to get started with film and completely change your lifestyle! Personally, I started in film industry 8 years ago and just as an extra. I could never have imagined how interesting and wonderful my life would be after a short registration with a casting company...

After a few years of working as an extra, I was approached to work as a stand-in (lighting actor), and then to double for an actor... then I became an extras coordinator, I've done some small episodic roles... and now I work in a production and I´m writing this article for you.

In this way, work of the backgroun actors opens the door to the enchanting realm of film, which can completely change your life too! The great thing is that it's never too late to start. Absolutely anyone can become an extra, with any face, body, skin colour and gender.

Even at Markusfilm we have a DATABASE where you can register for free. It takes less than 2 minutes and you´ll become a part of our big filmmaking team! 

We are looking forward to meet you! I wish you a lot of success and one day we will definitely meet on the set!  

R.B.