Anybody living in Czech Republic can start a movie career by submitting an application to one of the casting agencies. You may not get the leading roles in the movie from the start, but being casted as an extra is totally possible. Plus, you can make some good money without any acting experience.
Czech Republic is very popular in the global film industry due to low production costs and stunning architecture with colorful landscapes that allow to reproduce many realities: historical events of different eras, fantasy stories and European modernity. The country is regularly used for commercials of famous brands, art house films, as well as full-length movies with multi-million budgets.
For all lovers of the Czech and international film industry, as well as for those who want to be on the other side of the screen with famous actors, enjoy the filming process, become famous or just work in their spare time, Czech Republic has all the possibilities and diverse film prospects.
How does it work?
- To find shooting opportunities, you can visit the official websites of agencies, join specialized Facebook groups, or subscribe to regular newsletters.
- Each advertisement typically specifies the required characteristics such as age, physique, hair color, and more. It also includes details about the shoot date, payment, and other conditions. Interested individuals are encouraged to send their applications, along with a photo and description (resume), to the agency’s official representative. It’s worth noting that there is a wide range of types sought, from energetic 1.5-year-old curly-haired babies to mature individuals with gray hair. Therefore, for those aspiring to be part of a film, there is always an opportunity; the key is to carefully review the proposals.
- When submitting your information, it is important to be honest and provide accurate details about your height, weight, and any tattoos, for example. This will help the agency representatives in their work and save everyone time.
- If pre-approved, organizers will conduct a casting process either remotely or in person, depending on the role’s significance. For crowd scenes, the process is usually relatively fast, while more serious selection is involved for secondary roles and speaking parts.
- Once an actor is approved, they will sign an agreement. It is essential to read it carefully, as the film industry has its own specificities. The contract often includes clauses about non-disclosure of shooting information and restrictions on publishing photos and videos.
- If a participant consents to having their profile included in the agency’s database, organizers for crowd roles may directly invite them for specific opportunities.
Before filming, it is important to be well-prepared. You should know the location, arrival time, required attire, what to bring, the expected duration of the workday, whether meals will be provided, and transportation arrangements (if shooting is in a suburban area), among other details. The entire process should be approached with responsibility. If certain requirements are not a good fit for you, it’s best not to agree, as this will ensure a positive shooting atmosphere for yourself and others involved.
What is the earning potential for extras and supporting actors?
Fees for extras and supporting actors are typically based on a per-day rate. The amount varies depending on the project’s budget and the specific filming circumstances. Supporting actors can expect to earn between 600 and 1,000 CZK per day, while extras may receive between 2,000 and 3,000 CZK, with some earning several tens of thousands of crowns.
It is important to note that pursuing this field as a means of achieving a regular high income may not be feasible due to several reasons. Factors such as a high likelihood of emotional burnout, an unpredictable work schedule, and challenging shooting conditions contribute to the difficulty of sustaining oneself solely through this profession. However, as a part-time job, it can be suitable for students, retirees, those seeking experimentation, or individuals with a flexible schedule.
List of Agencies and Facebook Groups
Agencies
Facebook Groups:
Komparz, castingové agentury, nejen pro začínající
