So You Wanna Be a Hollywood Hotshot (Extraordinaire)? A Guide to Becoming an LA Background Actor
Ah, Los Angeles. The land of dreams, fake tans, and...endless lines for auditions? Not quite, my friend! Today, we're ditching the red carpet for a folding chair in video village, because we're going undercover: becoming a background actor (aka an extra).
Why Extras? Why Not!
Let's face it, breaking into Hollywood as the next Leo DiCaprio requires talent, luck, and the ability to dodge rogue pigeons on Rodeo Drive. But being an extra? Anyone can do it (except maybe those pesky pigeons). It's a fantastic way to:
- Brush shoulders with fame (from a safe distance): You never know who you might bump into while grabbing craft services donuts (sprinkles or glazed, that is the question).
- Witness movie magic firsthand: Ever wondered how they make that fake rain look so real? You'll be there, under the not-so-convincing sprinklers, living the dream.
- Get paid (a little): Hey, every dollar counts, especially in a city where a taco costs more than your firstborn.
Becoming a Backstage Badass: Your Essential Toolkit
- The Look: No pressure to look like a supermodel, but be prepared to adapt. Think "generic office worker" or "assorted party guest." The key is versatility!
- The Headshot (Optional, But Fun): Unlike actors, extras don't always need headshots. But hey, if you've got a great one that screams "I can blend into the background seamlessly," go for it!
- Patience: This is Hollywood, baby. Be prepared to wait...a lot. Bring a book, your knitting needles, or perfect your origami skills to keep yourself entertained.
Extraordinary Extras: Agencies and Resources
- Central Casting: The granddaddy of all extra agencies in LA. Registration can be a battle royale, so be prepared with your war paint (mascara) and fastest typing fingers.
- Online Resources: Websites like Backstage and Actors Access often have listings for extra work. Keep your eyes peeled, these can disappear faster than a free sample tray at Costco.
Bonus Tip: Be a Background Buddy!
Extra work is even more fun with friends. Drag your BFF along for double the laughs (and maybe to help you snag that last folding chair).
The Not-So-Glittering Side (But It's Still Kinda Fun)
- Long Hours: Be prepared for early mornings, late nights, and possibly a healthy dose of "hurry up and wait."
- The Grind: Let's be honest, some extra gigs can be mind-numbingly dull. But hey, you might get to wear a cool costume or fake-cheer at a sporting event. Variety is the spice of life, right?
So, there you have it! Your crash course on becoming a fabulous extra in LA. Remember, it's not about winning an Oscar (although, hey, maybe you'll get discovered!), it's about the experience, the laughs, and the occasional brush with Hollywood royalty (or at least their stunt doubles). Now get out there, snag that background role, and remember: folding chairs are your throne!
