Based on an actual contest that ends on April 4th. Seriously, it’s a speaking role, talking directly to the main characters in a clear voice. The scene is a video call, so they don’t require a high quality camera. That sort of part would typically require more than $100, a movie credit and access to the all-you-can-eat buffet backstage. Nowhere on the website does it mention getting anything in return.

I considered submitting a joke video that couldn’t possibly get selected. One that includes a snarky mention of my character doing this job for free and where I point out the product placement right in front of me(which I don’t get a dime from). However, I don’t think even that is worth my time. It would be tempting to throw in some CGI effects, for good measure.

UPDATE: Turns out it was a short film, but they called it a “movie”. That might justify it a little, though it also means it’s a bigger part of the plot. Either way, I wasn’t about to do it for free.

 

Transcript:

Ferret: Oh well this looks interesting. This contest wants people to record crappy video of themselves acting this 1-minute scene out and The best one gets put into the movie.Ferret: Hmm… no mention of any actual prize. Huh, there really is no prize! What kind of miserly operation are they running here? They even have a big-shot sponsor with a product placement in the scene!Ferret: It still looks like it could be fun, and I have the perfect location. Who knows? Maybe the right people would see my performance and want to hire me for other movies?
Sign: Caution: Ferret thinking

[If I actually entered the contest and won…]
Movie guy: Hey, we really enjoyed your performance! So, we understand you’re willing to work for free…