FACT#98: During filming in Croatia, an extra approached us wanting to talk about his experience. "Mark" had signed a non-disclosure agreement, so we didn't want to publish particular details, but we were curious about the experience of being an extra, and he was happy to oblige.
Winter is Coming: How did you find out about Game of Thrones?
Mark: I've read the books in one breath and from that moment my mind lives in Westeros and Essos. When they started filming Season 2 in Dubrovnik I was so happy because it's a perfect place for King's Landing and great promotion for Croatia. I wanted to apply for Season 3 and 4 but I had to work during summer (no free days). When I saw that they were looking for extras for Season 5 I applied immediately.
WiC: How did you sign up to be an extra on the show? Were you paid for your role?
M: I filled out an online form on Embassy Films production page. Then they posted on their Facebook page that you can come to Šibenik for casting. A friend of mine was an extra in Season 4, and she told me that she has sent an online application and also went to Split for casting. That's why I went to Šibenik, and they called me 2 months later.
You get paid, it depends which role you get, and the length of the shooting. Some roles requires training (Unsullied...). I mentioned in my application that I don't care for money, I just want to become a small part of this great show.
WiC: When did you have to wake up, and how much time did you spend in costumes and makeup?
M: We had to be in front of production office around 5am.
Each of us got our costume and then went for makeup and hair. After you finish with makeup and hair you return to costumes so they can check you out. I was surprised by their skill and care for details. This lasted around two hours because we were large group.
WiC: Did you talk to any of the major cast or crew?
M: Everything during the day of shooting was at a very professional level (cameras, makeup, hair, costumes, production, actors). We were located in a camp next to set, and they were shooting all the time. So when you're on the set you do what you're told. We could only exchange a few words with actors and crew between scenes. I closed my eyes a few times just to listen to the actors, and it felt like watching (listening) to a show.
WiC: Was the experience something fun on its own? Would you do it again?
M: Well, it was great when dozens of modern looking extras got transformed into Middle Age residents. And there were a lot of bloopers on set which I hope they'll show us one day.
I would do it every day! It was really special working with the people who brought my favorite story to life.
WiC: Did you learn anything about the show's process?
M: This is a massive project and they deserve respect for their hard work. I can only say to all the other fans to be patient, because some scenes that last 2-3 minutes in a show are actually being shot in one or two days!
WiC: Anything else you'd like to say about the experience?
M: I don't really know what more to say! This was my biggest wish since I finished reading A Dance With Dragons. From the moment I answered my phone and they said: "Hello, we are calling about your application for Game of Thrones" I couldn't stop smiling for days. This experience was brilliant, and I'm very proud of it because there were a lot of Croatians who wanted to become extras for GoT. By being there I realized that Weiss and Benioff and the whole production deserve all the plaudits, because it's very hard work.
In conclusion, I have massive respect for the production, writers, costumes, hair and makeup, cameras, actors and all the other people who helped this show becoming No. 1. Valar dohaeris!
