Cinematographer
Under-Five-Darsteller erfordern dieselbe visuelle Aufmerksamkeit wie andere Schauspieler. Wenn sie im Fokus sind, muss meine Beleuchtung und Kadrierung professionell sein.
SAG-AFTRA contract category for actors with five or fewer lines of scripted dialogue in a single episode or film – represents a specific pay scale between background performers and day players, with its own union rates and working conditions.
What is Under Five?
Under Five (U5) is a contract category for actors with five or fewer lines of dialogue. This category falls between Background actors and Day Players, with specific union rates and working conditions.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | 5 or fewer lines |
| Category | SAG-AFTRA Contract |
| Position | Between BG and Day Player |
| Rate | Specific rate |
Line Counting
| Counts as a Line | Does Not Count |
|---|---|
| Spoken Dialogue | Reactions |
| Questions | Sighs/Noises |
| Answers | Background murmurs |
| Any Statement | Repetitions |
Category Comparison
| Category | Dialogue | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Background | None | Lowest |
| Under Five | 1-5 Lines | Medium |
| Day Player | 6+ Lines | Higher |
| Series Regular | Lead Role | Highest |
SAG-AFTRA Rates
| Contract Type | Rate (Example) |
|---|---|
| U5 TV | Day Rate |
| U5 Film | Day Rate |
| Residuals | Limited |
| Upgrades | Possible |
Upgrade Situation
| Situation | Consequence |
|---|---|
| 6th Line | Day Player |
| More Focus | Featured |
| Additional Days | Adjustment |
| Negotiation | Possible |
Typical Roles
| Role | Example |
|---|---|
| Service | Waiter, Cashier |
| Professional | Doctor giving diagnosis |
| Reaction | Witness to a scene |
| Functionary | Bouncer, Receptionist |
Working Rights
| Right | Description |
|---|---|
| Break Times | Unionized |
| Overtime | Regulated |
| Catering | Access |
| Wardrobe | If needed |
On-Set Treatment
| Aspect | Standard |
|---|---|
| Holding | Often with Background |
| Call Time | Specific |
| Dressing Room | Not guaranteed |
| Rehearsal | Mostly yes |
Career Significance
| Aspect | Value |
|---|---|
| Credits | Count |
| Reel | Material |
| Experience | On-set learning |
| Networking | Contacts |
Booking
| Process | Flow |
|---|---|
| Casting | Audition/Self-tape |
| Avail | Availability request |
| Booking | Confirmation |
| Contract | U5 Contract |
Preparation
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Text | Memorize perfectly |
| Character | Develop backstory |
| Wardrobe | Bring options |
| Attitude | Professional |
Set Behavior
| Rule | Reason |
|---|---|
| Punctual | Respect |
| Prepared | Professional |
| Flexible | Changes possible |
| Quiet | During filming |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Overacting | Stay natural |
| Staring | Not at lead actors |
| Blocking | Camera awareness |
| Ad-libbing | Only if allowed |
Upgrade Opportunities
| Situation | Chance |
|---|---|
| Additional Lines | During filming |
| Improvisation | Director's decision |
| Callback | For another role |
| Relationship | With Casting Director |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Professionalism | Always |
| Preparation | Expected |
| Positive Attitude | Is noticed |
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Under-Five-Rollen sind oft wichtiger als ihre Zeilenzahl vermuten lässt. Eine prägnante Reaktion oder ein kurzer Dialog kann eine Szene definieren – ich caste diese Rollen sorgfältig.
Producer
Under-Five ist eine Budget-relevante Kategorie. Die Unterscheidung zwischen U5 und Day Player kann bei vielen kleinen Rollen finanzielle Auswirkungen haben.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Under Five / Unter Fünf / U5"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?