James L Brooks movie looking for film extras next two weeks: How to become one

June 18, 1:26 PMDC Film Industry ExaminerOrrin K.

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I've covered in a previous article that some films are often shot in D.C. The entirety of the filming does not take place in Washington D.C. but recent films such as State of Play, Get Smart, Wedding Crashers, Burn After Reading, National Treasure (and its sequel), The Invasion, The Kingdom, and Evan Almighty have opted to film on location here and give audiences the authenticity of a real D.C. backdrop.

The more exciting news is that it's possible for an ordinary Joe with no acting experience to get a firsthand experience of film making by being an extra in a film. To do this, there are two things you should do. First, go to www.centralcastingusa.com/extras and fill out a profile. You will need a head shot and knowledge of your basic measurements. There is no need to lie because people of all physical dimensions and ethnicities are needed. Once you do that, you can call Central Casting at 202-547-6300 and ask about what productions are in town.

Central Casting doesn't cover all productions, however. If a film is shooting in D.C., they will first go to the D.C. Film Office which handles permits, tax breaks, and other matters. The production sets up a local office and might handle casting through that office or might outsource the job to Central Casting. If they handle extra casting in-house than Central Casting might not know about it. With that in mind, it is best to periodically check with the D.C. Film Office at 202-727-6608 as well.

Currently, James L Brooks (directing/producing/writing credits include As Good as It Gets, Spanglish and TV shows The Simpsons and Taxi) is shooting a film here in D.C. that is starring Reese Whitherspoon, Paul Rudd, and Owen Wilson for two weeks and they are looking for extras. This means if you ever wanted to be a film extra, now is your chance.

For more info: www.centralcastingusa.com/extras, www.film.dc.gov, newsroom.dc.gov/show.aspx/agency/film/section/2/release/17254