I have a crazy goal: to be a character in the Star Wars franchise. I have some experience in theater, but I knew I needed to gain experience in film to make my goal/dream a possibility. To work my way up, I sought out small roles as an extra.
I'm based in Ohio, and when you think of Ohio, you don't necessarily think of movies being filmed here. But to my surprise, many are, including some of my favorites like Captain America: The Winter Soldier, The Fast and The Furious, and more.
Submission Process:
In 2022, I searched for popular casting directors in the state and came across a Facebook post seeking extras for an upcoming major feature film. I submitted the requested photos and waited anxiously for a response. A few days later, I was emailed back and asked for my availability for a fitting and the shoot date. I was ecstatic. I immediately let them know that I was available on both dates and waited for further instructions.
The Fitting
When I arrived on location for the fitting, I will admit it was not what I thought it would be. I don't know why I had this grand idea of a fancy warehouse lined with clothes, but instead, it was an office building that was rented out by production to store wardrobes.
I wasn't disappointed at all, but as I learn, I see where my imagination really is just that and I'm not sure where I got the "higher expectation". The costume designer had me try on a few pieces, took a few photos of me in her choices, and then sent me home. At this point, I was still super excited to be in the production, even in the background.
Shoot Day
I learned that production doesn't send out location details for your shoot until a maximum of 24 hours beforehand. My family and I booked a hotel in the city, as this was a long way from home, so that I could be as close as possible to my destination. My call time was 7am.
Tip: Staying overnight in the city where you're filming? Find a hotel that offers free parking and breakfast, especially if you have an early start. Also, see my list of Recommended Stays.
I arrived on site 15 minutes before my call time. Once I checked in, I was given the outfit that the costume designer/specialist chose and given a small room to quickly change in. After changing, I was directed to the location for hair and makeup. Everything in the hair and makeup room moved quickly and efficiently. They got us in and out! Once finished, I was ushered into a waiting room to wait with the other actors.
Time in the waiting area moved slowly. Like watching paint dry slowly. This is where I learned the phrase "Hurry up and wait". We spent hours in this space before it was time to shoot our scene.
Tip: No matter what role you are playing, always bring a book either physically or digital on the Kindle. Word searches and coloring books also work. Something where you don't have to necessarily use your phone. Casting frowns on phone usage sometimes.
It was now time for our scene. We took a group photo with one of the PAs (Production Assistants) and walked over to the set. Because I signed an NDA regarding this production and because it has still not been released yet, I can't describe the set. But what I can say was that I was in awe of how they transformed a building to look the way it did and for a particular time period. I found it particularly amazing how the room was filled with people and equipment but how in post-production we won't be able to tell. The director was amazing and I could tell he had such vision for the film.
Sorry, I drifted away in awe. The one scene that we filmed took 8+ hours to complete. This time included breaks in between shots and lunch. This is where having a book will be your best friend. You may even gain a new skill by the time you are done for the day.
All in all, for my first time as an extra in a major feature film, I had an amazing time. Not just from playing my role in the background but from observing and meeting other members of the cast and crew. Hearing the lines. Watching the camera as it rolls on the rack. Listening to the director and more. I recommend being an Extra as a first step if you want to break into the industry. And even if not, just to one day see a film and go "Hey, that's me!".
Lesson: No role is ever too small. You take up space and it matters. YOU helped make the movie.