Question by Megan: How do I become a movie extra or actor/actress?
I try to look up and see auditions for TV shows/movies, but I don’t really trust them. I have no idea where to start, and I’ve been interested in this type of career for a long time. I want to know how actors find actual TV shows/movies to audition for. (I live in Florida if that helps.)

Should I start off as an extra? What do you have to do in order to be one?

For the actor/actress part, where do I get an agent? And how do people find a ‘type’ of role they want? (For example, Jonah Hill, is best at funny characters in comedy films.)

I think I’m excellent at being ‘disturbed’ or ‘messed up’ characters. I want to find roles similar to the show “In Treatment”. Examples like an introvert, bad-mouthed, drug addict, or people with mental disorders.

Best answer:

Answer by Cogito
Extras are NOT actors – just human props. Being an extra won’t help you get in to acting in any way – it doesn’t count as experience and you can’t add it to a resume.

To get invited to any real auditions, you have to be signed with a good agent.
To get an agent, you’d have to have a fantastic resume – showing several years of training at an accredited acting school – ideally at degree level – and also several years of experience with a reputable community theatre.

No-one is ever interested in auditioning a beginner.

The other thing is that you should never try to limit yourself – versatility is vital. A good actor can play hundreds of different characters. Getting typecast is likely to really hinder your career. It works for only a few top actors.

Good luck!

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