Extras Release Form

Image, likeness, audio, and reuse rights for background talent — covered in a single signable form. Reviewed by entertainment counsel and editable in Word.

Format: Word (.docx)
Pages: 1 — single page
Best for: Any production with background talent
License: Free for commercial use

Why this template

Cleared background talent or a stalled distribution deal.

Distributors will not sign a film with uncleared people on screen. Every face in the background — speaking or not — needs a signed release that grants the production the right to use their image, likeness, and audio across whatever platforms the film ends up on.

This form covers the standard cases: adults signing for themselves, minors with guardian consent, and the typical reuse rights a distributor will want to see. Print copies, take signatures at check-in, and keep the originals in the production binder.

What's inside

Image release, audio release, and a guardian provision.

Three signable provisions, plus the printable header for production title, date, and shoot location.

Image and likeness release
Standard grant of rights covering on-screen appearance across all distribution windows.
Audio release
Coverage for incidental dialogue, ad-libs, and atmospheric sound captured on set.
Reuse rights
Marketing, behind-the-scenes, trailers, and promotional clips — covered in one paragraph.
Non-compensation clause
Clarifies that the role is non-compensated background work, with explicit acknowledgment.
Minor's provision
Guardian signature line for any background performer under 18.
Production header
Title, date, location, and call-sheet position for clean record-keeping.

On-set tip

Repeat important instructions at least three times.

Background talent communications should go out three times — several weeks before, two days before, and 18 to 24 hours before the call. Plan for 50 to 70 percent of confirmed extras to actually show up; expect 10 percent early, 80 percent on time, and the rest late by up to an hour.

Be honest in the call about the conditions — weather, hours, set environment — so people are prepared. A clear pre-call email saves more headaches than any on-set workaround.

01
Customizable
Word and Google Docs format. Highlighted variable fields show you exactly what to swap in.
02
Professional
Reviewed by entertainment counsel. The exact language a distributor expects to see for cleared background talent.
03
Beautiful
Hand-laid layout so the form reads as a serious document — even at the 6am check-in table.
04
Free
Download, sign, scan. No paywall, no watermark.