We’ve received quite a few inquiries regarding a Groupon that offers the opportunity to be an extra on a film called The Dark Tales of El Diablo for $149. and would like to underscore a few facts about the film industry:
1) You do not have to pay to be an extra. In fact, you are normally PAID to be an extra. There is a great guide here for how to become an extra in Louisiana: http://www.filmneworleans.org/for-the-local-community/becoming-an-extra/
2) You can choose to do it for free, or you can be paid as an extra. On films that will actually be distributed in theaters or DVD, you are usually paid. THE OVERWHELMING VAST MAJORITY OF ACTING AND EXTRA JOBS THAT ASK YOU TO ***PAY*** ARE SCAMS.
3) That said, if you’ve read items 1 and 2, and you still want to pay to be in this particular zombie film, that’s ok! It may fit into your schedule perfectly, and you do not want to postpone the opportunity to be a zombie. However, just know that what you are actually paying for is for the filmmakers to make their movie. And supporting independent filmmakers is a good thing. However, Groupon works by taking half of the money that it receives. So, only about $74.50 of your money will go to the filmmakers, and the other half to Groupon.
