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Movie Extras & Background Acting
The easiest way actors can break into show business, where the big budget films are made, is through extra work. There are plenty of reasons to become a movie extra. The acting practice and exposure are reasons enough, but there are additional benefits. As a beginning actor, this might be your first true look at what it takes to make a feature film. You can gain much knowledge just by observing all that happens around you.

Movie Extras & Background Acting
What are Movie Extras?
Movies and television shows often use people like props to create a background which seems like a real environment. Movie extras are people who are needed to participate in such roles. Extras are used in an attempt to make movie or television scenes appear fuller, richer and natural.
Become a Movie Extra - It's Easy
Break into showbiz by becoming a movie extra. It's not as hard as you think. In fact, when you learn how easy it is to get jobs as a movie extra, you'll be upset for not doing anything sooner. Just having the opportunity to be a movie extra for a day is often the most exciting and rewarding experience avid movie-goers can obtain.
How to Be an Actor Who Memorizes No Lines and Needs No Acting Skills
The fun I'm having as a "background actor" (aka "movie extra") beats everything else I've ever done in the way of work. My eight years of background acting have challenged me to always look my best. They have supplemented my income, opened career doors, brought me new friends and allowed me to rub shoulders with some of the world's most interesting and fascinating people.
Kick Up Summertime & Semester Breaks with a Little Acting Job
You don't have to have ambitions of making it as a big-time actor, reaching star status or giving up other dreams. Taking acting classes really isn't necessary unless it just feels good and helps build your self confidence. The nice part about being a background actor (aka movie extra), whether it's for one production or several, doesn't require lifelong acting goals or formal acting classes.
Be a Star to Your Star-Struck Child - A Guide for Parents
The world of background acting (or being a "movie extra") can deliver the opportunity you've dreamed of. It can be a one-time, one-production experience or your child can make it a full-time summer career or part-time job during the school term. And what fun for you to tell your friends, "Jimmy's going to be in the background in the XYZ movie. Be sure to see it!"
I Spy... a Fun Part-time Job for Seniors and Retirees
As a retiree drawing Social Security benefits, the fun I'm having as a "background actor" (aka "movie extra") beats everything else I've experienced since quitting the real estate business 12 years ago. Since the late 1990s, I've walked across the sets of dozens of television sitcoms, commercials and movies. That's walked across while being filmed as part of the "background" of the set. And I know other retirees who do the same.

More Information on How to Become a Movie Extra from Around the Web
What is a Movie Extra?
You Can be a Movie Extra
Movie Extra – The Easiest Road to Hollywood
Acting School: Background Acting 101
Acting On Bad Advice
Extra! Extra!

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