Summary
Whether you’re an actor looking to secure your first background acting credit or seeking a fun way to make some money and create lasting memories of your trip to Montreal, there are numerous casting agencies in the city on the lookout for movie extras.
Notably, Hollywood veteran Noelle Hannibal, who relocated to Montreal and has worked on shows like Star Trek and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, mentions that there are at least five agencies operating throughout eastern Canada, catering to a variety of roles in both indie and mainstream films.
For those aspiring to join the movie industry, landing a role as a background character not only familiarizes you with what to expect as a full-time actor, but it also enables you to network with industry insiders and other professionals, whilst adding invaluable screentime to your acting reel.
ACTRA – Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television, and Radio Artists
ACTRA is the labor union representing English language performers in Canada, and therefore, it holds essential insights into most productions taking place in Montreal. Nevertheless, they do not possess exclusive rights to casting for all films and television series.
With a helpful “What’s Shooting” website, ACTRA provides an overview of companies filming, casting contacts, and shooting timelines. Moreover, ACTRA offers support and information to its members, ensuring a safe environment for actors. Should any confusion arise regarding requirements from an extra casting agency, reaching out to ACTRA can offer clarity.
Elite Casting
Elite Casting is one of Montreal’s prominent casting agencies, established in 1983, specializing in both principal roles and extras. Additionally, they provide audition workshops for serious actors aiming for success in the industry.
Some notable films that Elite Casting has worked on include Whole Nine Yards, The Score, The Heist, and Journey to the Center of the Earth, collaborating with significant production companies such as Warner Brothers and Paramount Pictures.
Figuration Julie Breton
Founded in 1999, Figuration Julie Breton, Inc. (FjB) is a key player in Montreal for casting extras in Canadian and international films and television series. A small registration fee allows you to join this agency dedicated to background performers.
The casting credits for FjB feature major films including Arrival, X-Men Apocalypse, and Brooklyn, showcasing their prowess in the industry.
Kenyon Wells Casting
While Kenyon Wells Casting primarily focuses on principal roles for various productions, their expertise can still guide background performers in their quest for opportunities in Montreal.
Since its establishment in 1990, the agency has been instrumental in securing major roles for talent and frequently posts casting calls for both small and feature films.
Casting Quarters
Casting Quarters offers casting services for both union and non-union actors, making it an excellent resource for finding background and extra work, regardless of language or ethnicity. This agency engages extras for both Hollywood productions and local projects.
They have provided talent for notable works such as the ABC series Quantico and the film Bad Santa 2.
Hélène Rousse Total Casting Agency
Total Casting is a comprehensive agency catering to casting needs in Canada, handling a wide range of projects from video games to feature films. They serve as a connection between producers and talent.
Their impressive film credits include The Incredible Hulk and Death Race, along with numerous television projects.
