There I was, cold, tired and bored beyond belief. While I was excited to be working on a film set, this excitement did nothing to relieve my physical and mental pain. It was the middle of winter, and while I was working on a film in the Southeastern United States, it was unseasonably cold. Not only was the weather chilly, but the boredom of sitting around for 10 hours without having a thing to do besides count the number of wires coming out of the electrical generator was getting a little old. This was the day I learned something every film extra should know: bring supplies.
Much like camping, when you’re working as a film extra you should always have several necessities to keep you comfortable and entertained throughout the long, and sometimes boring days.
Books/Reading Material
If you were to only bring one thing with you to a film set, this would be it. There are days where an extra will be placed in “holding,” which is a large room designated to “hold” the extras until their needed, for hours on end. I have worked on a film in Atlanta where there were over 50 extras, and out of a 12 hour day, guess how much of this time was spent actually on the set? 45 minutes. There are also days where you will literally spend your entire day in holding, never once stepping foot onto the actual set. No worries though, you will still be paid, but the level of boredom can sometimes outweigh whatever monetary compensation provided.
Because of this, always bring a book or a magazine – or both. While you will see some extra with iPods or portable gaming systems, I highly avoid doing so as you need to know when you’re being called to set, and being plugged into a device can drown out the calls for extras. While you can bring your computer, there is still a risk of theft on set, thus do not bring anything valuable with you unless it can fit in your pocket.
Notepad
Waiting on set is a perfect time to catch up on some writing. Whether you’re a novelist, or you just enjoy journaling, I have been happily entertained writing in a notebook while waiting to go on set. Again, you can bring your laptop, but if a notepad is stolen you won’t have nearly the amount of grief as you would if your $1,200 computer was snatched up.
Playing Cards
I remember sitting on set, being bored, when a savior was within our midst. She casually walked over to my table and asked, “Do you want to play cards?” My eyes widened and a giant sigh of relief rushed out of me. “Yes, I would LOVE to play.” For the next three hours we played numerous card games, and I can honestly say if it wasn’t for her quick-thinking when she left her home that morning I would of gone mad from boredom. So, if you want to be a hero amongst your fellow film extras, bring a deck or two of playing cards.
Weather-Related Gear
Always check the weather before heading out for a film set. Determine the high and low temperature for the day as well as the amount of cloud coverage and if it will rain. There is nothing more painful than being stuck out in the elements without proper gear. Always bring sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella and a light jacket – even if you are filming during warmer months.