The Role of Extras in Film and Television Makeup and Hair

When it comes to film and television, extras typically receive hair and makeup services to ensure a consistent and appropriate look for their scenes. This article explores the extent of these services and provides insight into the roles and expectations of extras.

Standard Services for Extras

While the extent of makeup and hair services can vary depending on the production budget and the specific role of the extra, most productions provide basic hair and makeup services. These services often include simple touch-ups or styling to fit the period or style of the production. For instance, extras participating in a period drama may receive hairstyles and makeup that match the era, whereas modern scenes might require more subtle adjustments.

Often, the level of service for extras is not as extensive as for principal actors. Principal actors may receive a full makeup and hair application, whereas extras might only get a camera-ready touch-up. This means that extras usually come to set with their own makeup and stylist, but the production team will ensure that their look is appropriate for the scene.

Role and Title of Extras

The term "extra" encompasses a wide range of roles, from large groups of people to smaller, more specific talents. While it is true that extras are not principal actors, they still play a vital role in creating a believable and cohesive setting. Extras often come to set with specific talents in mind, such as holding a magazine or making a brief walk-on appearance, but their primary task is to look like any other person in the scene.

The most common terms used for extras include "cattle" or "the blurs." These terms are used humorously to describe the background characters who blend into the background and are not noticed. While extras are expected to perform their roles admirably, they often receive less attention and respect than actors with speaking parts. However, their contribution to the production is significant and not to be underestimated.

Preparation for Set

It is crucial for extras to arrive at the set prepared. This includes having their hair and makeup done prior to arriving on set. The production team usually asks extras to focus on a specific person who may need attention, and they generally do not request makeup from time-constrained extras. Extras should come to set intending to look “camera-ready,” meaning they should have done a touch-up of their existing makeup to remove any distractions and enhance their overall appearance.

While extras are expected to arrive with their own makeup, the production team may offer limited touch-up services. This is often a courtesy to ensure that everyone looks cohesive and appropriate for the scene. Extras should come prepared with their own makeup and stylist, but they may receive a final touch-up to fit the production's aesthetic.

Professional Courtesy and Expectations

On most film and television sets, extras are treated with professional courtesy. It is polite for the production team to offer makeup services to extras who request it, provided there is enough time. However, extras should strive to arrive with a camera-ready look. This means adding to or enhancing their own makeup, ensuring that any distractions are removed, and that their appearance is cohesive with the scene.

Extras should come to set with their hair and makeup already in place, ready to be touched up if necessary. This not only saves time but also ensures that the production can run smoothly and efficiently. Extras should not rely on the production team to provide extensive makeup services, as these resources are often limited and reserved for principal actors.

In conclusion, while extras may not receive the same level of makeup and hair services as principal actors, they still play a crucial role in the production. It is essential for extras to come to set prepared, with their hair and makeup already in place, in order to contribute effectively to the overall look of the scene.