Films and TV. Reading test.

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Do you want to be on TV or in a film? Well, if you do, then why not become an extra? Extras play a very small part in a film or TV programme. They don’t usually speak. However, they may have to walk across the set or stand with other extras as part of a crowd.

There are many agencies that are always looking for extras and some of them are online, so it’s easy to apply wherever you live. You usually just need to fill in an application form and send in some photos. TV and film directors often want extras who have a particular look. For example, they may want women with long hair for period dramas and people who look a bit scary for horror films, so try to think about the kind of programme that you’d like to be in when you’re choosing which photos to send.

So imagine you get a call to say a director wants you in their next film. You’re really excited, but what happens next? Well, don’t be anxious about how you’ll look on screen, as the company will do lots of work on you when you arrive on the set. You might have to wear your own clothes, but don’t worry about your hair and make-up as there will be staff to make you look perfect for the role.

Now, although it all sounds really exciting, be prepared to sit around for a lot of the day, waiting until you are needed for your scene. The time can go very slowly if you don’t have anything to do, so it’s a good idea to take a book with you on any job that you get. Take some food and drink, too – you’ll probably get lunch, but remember it’ll be a long day!

Most extras can earn about £90 to £110 a day. This isn’t very good for the number of hours that you need to be available, but for the actual work that you do, it’s OK. However, people usually become an extra for the chance to be on the big screen rather than for the money. Some people hope that it may lead to a real acting part. This doesn’t happen very often, but there are some stories of extras becoming famous because a director saw them on a film set. However, even if you continue to just be an extra, you might get to see one of your favourite Hollywood actors one day, and it will definitely be something to tell all your friends about!

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The writer suggests that you will get an ‘extra’ job if

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The writer says that if you get a part, you may need to

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What does the writer think is a benefit of being an extra?

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What does the writer think about the job of an extra?

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Extra is an actor in a film who does not have a main part.

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Extras should learn a big text of their part before they play.

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Working as an extra gives you an opportunity to meet famous actresses or actors.

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You need to make your hair and make-up to make you look perfect for the role.

Read the definitions of films and TV programmes and choose the correct word.

I watch this every day to find out what’s happening in the world.

Read the definitions of films and TV programmes and choose the correct word.

I like this type of programme, especially if I know the answers to the questions.

Read the definitions of films and TV programmes and choose the correct word.

In this programme, real people perform a special skill and the audience chooses the winner.