| Q: |
What is an "extra", and how are they hired? |
| A: |
Often times referred to as "background" or "atmosphere", extras are the performers who appear behind the scene's central action, ie: diners at a restaurant, commuters on a train, etc. Most feature films and television productions hire extra talent agencies to provide for these roles. For a list of active businesses specializing in the hiring of extras, please contact the Okanagan Film Commission by phone at 250-717-0087 or by email at info@okanaganfilm.com. In the Okanagan, productions with also often hold open casting calls. These casting calls are advertised in local papers and on radio stations.
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| Q: |
Where can I watch a movie film on location? |
| A: |
As a general rule, production companies do not publish detailed information about their locations prior to filming. Crowd control can not only create problems for the production, but can also place an additional burden on the communities in which they film.
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| Q: |
I would like to become an actor, or get my child into commercials, what should I do? |
| A: |
If you would like to gain some experience in the field, you can start by being an extra (see FAQ #1). If you are looking for representation, you can contact talent agencies. Please be aware that with reputable agencies, you will not be charged a fee until you receive work. For a list of active talent agencies in the Okanagan, please contact the Okanagan Film Commission by phone at 250-717-0087 or by email at info@okanaganfilm.com.
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| Q: |
I am interested in breaking into the film industry. What should I do? |
| A: |
Get involved and gain experience! Independent and student projects are often looking for volunteers. Contact the Centre for Arts and Technology (Okanagan) at 250-860-2787 or the Okanagan Society of Independent Filmmaking at 250-769-1603.
Make contacts by attending film-related events and/or join the organizations that host such events. Classes and workshops also offer the technical training that may be necessary in film and video production. Any education and experience you acquire will assist you in what is a highly competitive field.
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| Q: |
I am an experienced crew member and would like to know where I can send my resume for upcoming job opportunities. |
| A: |
If you hear of an upcoming project or see it listed on our website, please feel free to call the Okanagan Film Commission office at 250-717-0087 or email us at info@okanaganfilm.com. We will provide you with a production office address and fax number when available.
Also, you can provide the Okanagan Film Commission office with a copy of your resume to be included in the crew member database for future projects.
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| Q: |
A production is scheduled to film on my block and I have questions, what should I do? |
| A: |
Production companies travel with a compliment of equipment, vehicles and crew personnel - the larger the production, the larger the supply. The City of Kelowna will grant permits to productions to park these vehicles and equipment along city streets and other public properties.
A company representative will distribute notices to area residents prior to filming specifying any parking restrictions or traffic control associated with the production, as well as a contact name and telephone number to address any questions or specific needs. Or you may call the Okanagan Film Commission office for additional information at 250-717-0087.
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| Q: |
I have been approached by a film company to use my home or business, how should I proceed? |
| A: |
 Location scouts are the production representatives who search for potential sites where films are shot. It is not uncommon for them to show up at your home or place of business to inquire about your potential participation.
If you are interested in having your home/business used in a film production, you may call the Okanagan Film Commission to confirm the legitimacy of the project. The location scout will request to photograph your property and perhaps schedule return visits. These visits will include key personnel (producers, designers, cameramen, director, etc) as the team collaborates on a decision. If your property is selected, a location manager will work with you on schedules, contracts, insurance and location fees.
If you are interested in listing your home/business for consideration of future film projects, please see “Registering Your Property” for full details.
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