By Margaret A. McGurk
The Cincinnati Enquirer

A classified ad running in Greater Cincinnati newspapers, including The Cincinnati Enquirer, has raised questions among aspiring actors.

The ad reads "Local residents needed as extras for upcoming movies. No experience necessary."

It directs callers to an 800 number that leads to a Los Angeles office, where applicants learn it will cost $99 to post their photo and resume on the Entertainment Casting database (entertainmentcasting.com). There, the company suggests, casting directors will look for performers for movies, TV shows, commercials and videos.

However, Kristen Erwin, director of the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Film Commission, said casting directors typically come to town and hold open auditions for extras. No casting calls for any studio movies are scheduled now, she said.

Erwin, who said she received more than a dozen calls about the ads, said potential applicants should ask crucial questions before putting up money: "Is it worth $100 of my money to get listed on this Web site? Do they have any references from production companies that have used them? How many hits does the Web site get?"

She pointed out the commission keeps a file - for free - on potential extras for directors. Applicants can mail a photo and resume to the CNKFC at 602 Main St., Suite 712, Cincinnati 45202.

E-mail mmcgurk@enquirer.com