Excellent I bought this tremendous book to help ease me back into work which I hadn't done for over 20 years, and I found it a tremendous help. I did some stunts and body doubling for the TV series "Cannon" back in the 70s (actor William Conrad didn't do his own buttwork for the nude scenes) and bought this handy guide to bring me up to speed on the industry. The tips proved invaluable - don't take my word for it, look out for yours truly as "man eating hamburger" in "Independence Day" and "man chugging pizza" in "Chasing Amy".
Great Information for Someone Starting Out! This is a great book for anyone interested in background acting. The book is loaded with resources. After reading the book I had a better direction and lots of motivation to help develop my "hobby" of being a background actor. The only drawback is that many of the resources are not too useful if you don't live in California. If you DO live in CA, get this book!The book that ALL actors and background(extras) should read. Years ago I used Cullen's book to help break into the business. I've heeded his advice, studied my craft and enjoyed the benefits that SAG offers as a result of merely studying the 1993 edition of this same book. For the novice, particularly the non-union extra, it's a wonderful tool. It saves money due to it's rating system, also warning of agencies making their bucks from registering new folks at a premium. Just about every area is covered for both old and new in the business. It is attuned to Los Angeles, but this happens to be the only area in the country with a constant influx of talent, with a fluctuating volume of work. I personally have worked with Cullen a number of times over the years, most memorably on Star Trek 'Voyager' and a number of commercials. The only book on the subject I'll recommend.Simply the Best! "I recommend that all my beginning students read Cullen Chambers'book BACK TO ONE...It is a real treasure; you get all the education you need to become an extra for...A BARGAIN!"
Judy Kerr, Hollywood director and coach
Fastest way for an outsider to become an insider I don't know if you can actually make good money as a Hollywood extra (minimum wage for non-union, $86 a day union, commercials pay much higher) but this book is a must for anyone without contacts in Hollywood. Mr. Chambers gives you names, addresses, and phones numbers of just about all the extra casting agencies in town. Perfect for research, getting to know your way around and make a few extra dollars on the side. As an extra performer you will be in front of the cameras before long and with 3 SAG vouchers under your belt, you'll qualify to join the Screen Actor's union. Well worth the investment.
