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Name: Rachel
Hometown: Moved from Boulder, Colorado in October.
Occupation: Extras Casting Coordinator
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What attracted you to the Entertainment Industry, and what was your first job or big break in the business?
My first big break was as an intern on ALI. After a week I was promoted to Extras Casting Asstistant. I have always loved film and knew that I was not cut out for the 9-5 lifestyle. I have no interest in business, law, science, etc. My interests are more creative.
What is the biggest challenge you faced trying to break into the industry, and how did you overcome it?
Probably my biggest challenge was just getting my resume together! I guess I just got lucky. ALI was the only production that I sent it to. A few days later I had an interview.
What advice can you give those trying to break into the "industry?"
Joan Philo, a Casting Director in Chicago who gave me my first job, had a saying, "Make it happen." People who succeed are the ones who want something badly enough. Also, check to see if there is a state/local film office in the area. They are a great source of info for any new productions coming to town.
Please describe your job for those who might not know what an Extras Casting Coordinator is.
An Extras Casting Coordinator finds the background for a film. Obviously, you cannot have a movie with only the principal actors. I get the word out, via radio, ads in local papers, and through hotlines. Once I have photos or headshots, I can choose people for a particular scene. Once on set, I make sure that extras are wardrobed and have gone through hair and make-up in time for their scene; in a nutshell.
Can you share any tricks of the trade that help you work faster/cheaper/better?
Be organized! There is nothing more frustrating than trying to locate that one headshot, that one phone number. Have a system and stick with it. Also, friends will always work for free. Generally, I only overbook a scene 10%, sometimes not at all depending on the importance or extras. This is important because anyone that I book for a scene must be paid.
Please illustrate the way the performance of your position can help or hurt a movie. Name a movie that you've seen (or worked on) that we could view and understand the difference between a good job and a bad job.
There are two things that upset me in regards to extras casting. 1- having an extra in the background or a principal actor that either has such an interesting look, or is just so beautiful/handsome that your eyes are diverted away from the principal actor.
2- Not displaying enough diversity. These are things people notice; they are distracting and only hinder the power of a scene.
Are you a writer, and if so, how many screenplays have you written?
I have been attempting a screenplay for the past two years, but the characters keep changing, the story, the location, everything.
What's the best lesson you've learned in regards to working in Hollywood?
I've worked with people who act like coming to set or the office is a chore or a burden; people who just have terrible attitudes. We work such long hours together that that type of outlook is the last thing you want in a 16-hour day. Just have a positive outlook and be nice. People appreciate and remember that.
List your top 5 favorite films
- Bottlerocket
- 2001: A Space Odyssey
- Paper Moon
- Laura
- Pleasantville
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