Statisten

Statisten are background actors employed in film, television and theatre to create a believable environment on screen or stage. They perform no speaking lines and are usually positioned in scenes as crowds, passersby, or bystanders, providing realism such as movement, reactions or context for principal actors. In period pieces or urban montages, Statisten help establish setting and scale.

Recruitment and work: Statisten are typically recruited through casting agencies or directly by production teams. Call sheets specify the time and place, and performers are briefed on required actions, costumes and, if necessary, period behavior. They may work for a single day or appear in multiple episodes or scenes; long shoots can involve rehearsals and charge for days or hours. Rates vary by country, production budget and union rules; in many jurisdictions extras are paid a standard day rate and may receive travel or meal allowances.

Rights and working conditions: Statisten are recognized as performing staff under labor laws; contracts, minimum rates, and working hours differ by country. They usually sign a release and may be credited in the film's or show's end credits, though some projects do not list individual extras. Safety and confidentiality rules apply, particularly on set with stunts or sensitive scenes.

Career aspects: Working as a Statist can provide experience and networking opportunities in film and theatre, and some move on to higher-level acting roles. The role is inherently temporary and, beyond occasional exposure, does not guarantee long-term employment. The term Statisten is primarily used in German-speaking media to refer to such background performers.