Extras Casting Call

In response to my Craigslist ad for extras next weekend I received the following response:

To whom it may concern:

Why do filmmakers (both students and professionals) insist on requesting
actors to work for nothing? It doesn't matter how long the shoot is or what might be your situation.
All movies have budgets and actors have a skill that should be appreciated
(even if it IS nominally...that means "a little bit").

I have an idea: I am writing a script that I need brought to life.
To me you are "just a filmmaker" (how hard could THAT be?)
so how about doing the job for let's say...a sandwich and a "copy for your reel"
Sounds like a good deal...what do YOU think?

We BOTH have a skill and should be treated accordingly.

Mike

I responded:

In a perfect world, sure everyone would be paid. Blame the Bush administration for the failing economy. Would it be more or less insulting to give one dollar to each extra, as opposed to no money and only food.

Let me know. I assume I'll see you on set.

Here's another thing. I'm not getting paid for this film either. We do it because we love it. If you don't have the time, if you don't have the drive, you should get off of craigslist looking to harass producers.

Brett

In 5 minutes I had a response:

Dear Mr. Bonowicz

Anything can be justified with a little imagination.
Mutual respect goes a long way in this business...talk to me
after you've tried treating your colleagues as you would like to be treated
then tell me if there is a difference. Thanks.

Mike

My last words to him were:

Dear Joe,

I treat each and every person I work with, with the greatest respect and admiration. To presume that I don't, based off of speculation from a craigslist ad is not something you should be doing.

I'm sure the offers must be piling in for you.

Mr. Bonowicz