Rejected my photos over and over. I guess they want me to go to a studio to get my photos done for BACKGROUND work lol Give me a break....

My daughter has booked a lot of jobs using them . Signing up was pretty easy and love the text messaging services for jobs

Their technology is a total mess and confusing. I took the online training for the required anti harassment course, in a timely manner. My profile shows ASSIGNED, and not COMPLETED. It's impossible to get someone on the phone, after listening to unnecessary and unprompted recorded outgoing messages. Finding the access to tell them I already took the course, online, is another impossible mess. They also sent me emails requiring me to take the training, 3 weeks after I completed the training. To add insult to injury, one of the emails shows the requirement for the training to be completed on some random date in 2021. What a joke. read more

I've been working with Central Casting for two months and have been so happy thus far! The organization of the company & friendliness of the staff is so amazing. I seriously did not expect everyone to be so helpful and kind. I was nervous when I initially went in for my first appointment but the security guard was so darn friendly that it made it fun! And the lady who took my photos and information was great, as well. We talked hair curlers and I was all about it, lol! Since signing up, I've always been well informed via email AND text of availability checks and finally booked something two weeks ago. The Covid test and actual taping was very well communicated to me. And would you believe I already got paid? They are THAT good. I love that they don't just throw you in the database and be done with you. I get emails about meetings you can join with casting agents and other staff members. I've joined a couple of sessions and found them super helpful with great tips. I really think they're going above and beyond with those meetings for the actors. Their website is so well organized, really easy to update information and photos. No problems at all! I have been so happy with Central Casting that I told my bestie to sign up and he's also had an amazing experience since signing up last week. Highly recommended! read more

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.Joe Machado is now a talented SAG AFTRA union member with a diverse background in film, television, voice-over, and stand-up comedy. He has appeared in feature films like "Gangster Land" and "Promoted," as well as television commercials and episodes of "Justice For All." I love the support Central Casting offers. read more

Central Casting - SAGAFTRA Actor - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

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i completed harassment training and the site does not acknowledge and has blocked me from obtaining work. i tried signing the document but it does not give me any options after that. HELP!! read more

I enjoyed going back register, after being gone for so long. I was a few minutes late for my appointment, and glad the staff still saw me, especially since I had driven so far. My process was quick, since I was previously a member. The staff was polite and helpful....my pics came out great, and I can't wait to start receiving call backs! read more

Central Casting - This set caterer must have been inexpensive and available....cause NO! - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

Their online boarding process is absolute trash. This is an extra job. This is not a job with NASA. Their onboarding process is the most extensive, ridiculous thing I have ever been thru just for an extra job that might pay $100 a day. Give me a break. I have spent hours on this application process and have given up. Garbage process Garbage Support read more

Their website and sign up process is unbelievably complicated, confusing, and not streamlined whatsoever. I've had an inactive profile for 10 years, I went to start it back up and it's been an absolute nightmare. The phone number/hard line is just as useless. No one picks up, there's nowhere to direct you for anything besides to "talk to an agent if you're running late." I have questions about my I-9 form (which is ridiculously/needlessly complicate) and there's nowhere/no one to help. Even just to book an appointment to go into the office is apparently impossible, I've been looking and calling for an hour and I can't find any way to do it. It seems like they have purposely made the whole process as difficult as possible, because for whatever reason they don't want anyone else signing up. I can't think of any other explanation, Hugh Jackman had an easier time hacking into the mainframe in "Swordfish" than this. Guess I'll have to go with another agency. read more

Super friendly and overall a nice environment to be in! I can't wait to see what the future holds. If you are nervous and this is your first time here, don't be, keep your head up and keep going. Show them who's BOSS. read more

Central Casting - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

Central is now fully automated which presents a dilemma. Background acting is a people business. That human connection talent and casting directors had, especially in the 90's and mid 2000's, was priceless, and it was a source of brand loyalty. But now, Central is one of many online casting resources (e.g. Casting Networks and Actors Access). It is my sincere hope Central will get back to basics, reconnect with talent and productions by using less automation. Furthermore, it is OK for Central to use Listing Services (aka Calling Services), because the law allows it. Calling services are licensed by the State of California and bonded. They provide a sense of family-community for background talent which helps us feel connected to our profession. I should note that companies like Alessi-Hartigan Casting and Rich King Casting use some automation which is convenient for them and talent, but they have not lost their human touch. Happy 100th Birthday, Central Casting. Now, let's go make movie magic! read more

I signed up years ago and was told by the helpful folks via chat to that I would need to schedule and in person orientation to update the main picture used. I remembered the process being lengthy so I was ready for a long day. I was pleasantly surprised to be in and out. I was in one of the first groups so I imagine it may take more time as the day goes on but my experience was exceptional. Everyone working that day was very kind and made it a fun, joyful day! read more

Signed up just the other day and had a wonderful experience! The casting directors are super helpful and friendly and talked us through the whole process. Very well-organized and reputable place and company! read more

Central Casting - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

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If you are strikingly good looking, don't expect much work at all. They book the majority of background for nearly all productions, which is great if you are average and generic looking. Even then, they definitely have their favorites (maybe friends and family). A few Casting Directors have some integrity, but the company as a whole doesn't seem to have any. read more

Booked on Grey's Anatomy with Kristan and Kainoa 7/23/24. Had not received information by 10pm the night before so I called the emergency number and left my name and issue, with no response. Called again at 6 am the day of my booking and was told I was release from the booking with no reason or notice and ask to call back at 10am for an explanation. California State Labor will get this complaint. I have been booked on night shoots without knowing they were night shoots, the production company's get furious when the BG show up complaining when the request for the call sent to Central was for night work days in advance. I have been booked on local LA shoots that turn out to be in Santa Clarita and Simi Valley. read more

this place is... I don't even have a word for it. I have worked as a background extra since the year 2000 with Central Casting. Recently, I hit a lot of dead ends with them. Different reasons why my online account is not active. They say to go there in person, but there is no link to sign up for in person. Then they give me another excuse, saying they are currently not accepting any additional profile reviews. Then they keep giving me these ticket numbers. When I call back and give them the ticket number, they say they have no ideea what I'm talking about. I always go there on the day when they tell me to go on the silly website to sign up, and it never changes, this has been going on for years and years of me trying to deal with this new online system. Very dissapointing. This is Entertainment Partners, this is not some joke of a company, this is a legitimate big company. Their callers(tech) are usually not from America, they are rude, they talk without a break on the phone and throw their excuses and they had me going in circles for years now about my profile. This tech indian lady kept calling me mam after about every two words she was saying. She even said "shit" when she realized she made a mistake. I mean they require I give them all my private info, full social security, full address, phone number, date of birth, everything. I ask them, "How do I know you're not a person in India stealing this personal info" yet they require I give them all my private information. SCARY. I don't want to have anything to do with Central Casting or Entertainment Partners! It is scary and sad they are the legitimate companies for background work. read more

Central Casting - one of the dead ends. - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

I'm signed up as I had been for previous years but had to do it again. It says to click to make a reservation to complete my I-9 form but the complication with that is crazy. I get an email to find a "Rep" to view my documents like drivers license or Passport. Then your rep has to go online and upload a photo of themselves to prove who they are...then you can sign and upload your I-9 form. You can't use a family member...has to be a friend or co-worker. However, after going through the process, it won't allow me to upload anything. I've tried 3 different browsers, security settings everything. There is NO number to reach anyone and I've wasted 3 hours sorting this out. I uploaded everything else, photos etc which also took some time as they were never correct. Not to mention my "Rep who has nothing to do with being an extra was not happy to upload any photos of her...I had to ask 3 different ppl who did not agree with the process. I'm done at this point....Moving on. read more

5 months later since I started with CC at the end of April, let me just say it was a roller coaster ride, my main concern was commuting as I live in San Diego, and most of the works remain in LA sometimes Irvine and the further North up to Santa Clarita. Remember when gas price was sky rocket a few months ago? Yes, I was consistently booked; so consider it a blessing as a lot of folks didn't get to work much during recent years. I was told that after you reached certain ages you wouldn't get hired as much, then people were relying on other calling services instead of Central Casting. For me working as non union was hard at first because of distance between where I live, nonetheless I didn't stop, I accepted any work I was sent to, up til the point I become SAG eligible which was fast for a new actor like me. So I am very thankful for Central to provide me with bookings, although after I joined SAG-AFTRA, I did experience a slightly delay on booking for about 2 weeks, based on what I understand of this business standpoint was they only have limited amount on union vouchers to hire people on every productions. I am still in the middle of transitioning. Well, thank you Central Casting for everything you have done, I am looking forward to a great journey. read more

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Outstanding service and staff. The Veterans of the background industry. Quality never goes out of style.

I just registered a few days ago and was a bit confused about the process, so I thought I would try to leave a summary of my experience to help anyone else going through the registration process. I followed the instructions on the website and registered online, making sure to reserve a time slot for the office registration portion. New registration is every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Time slots open 3 days in advance, and since I chose the date pretty last minute, I got the last time slot at 9:10am. I wasn't sure how this would impact my registration, but I would highly recommend choosing the earliest possible time slot because everyone in the 9:10am group is the last to take their head shot. This means you'll be sitting around an extra 2-3 hours just waiting for everyone else to take their headshots. So if you get this time slot, bring a book or something to keep you occupied while you wait! There is no free parking available at the office. There's a parking lot around the corner, but I'm not sure how much it costs. Plan to find parking for 3-4 hours because registration will actually take that long, especially if you're in the later time group. I parked at the Downtown Burbank Metrolink for free and walked over. It seems like you can park at the Metrolink for up to 72 hours for free. I didn't get a ticket so I think you're safe for the day. After registering online, the website provided 220 S Flower St. as the office address, but the confirmation email said 300 E Magnolia St. 220 S Flower St. is NOT the right address. It was the old office and it seems like they just moved to Magnolia St. in late 2019. Make sure to go to the correct address and be on time! I went to the wrong address accidentally because Apple Maps still hasn't updated Central Casting's new address. So, I was a few minutes late and had to rush to get my ID and I-9 identification checked. This made me one of the last ones in the 9:10am group (there are about 15 people in each time slot, so around 80 people get registered the entire day!). Paperwork took 1 hour to fill out. Luckily, an employee leads the paperwork session and there's a tv screen that shows which portions of the paperwork you have to fill out. That being said, do NOT try to fill out the paperwork by yourself and skip ahead because you will most likely fill out sections that you don't need to, and worse, mess up and need to have a new document provided. Just listen to the employee and do exactly as they say. After, the employee went over how to book gigs and set etiquette. This took about 15 minutes. Non-Union background get paid $14.25/hour through Central Casting. They mentioned that T-mobile users might have trouble receiving texts from Central Casting about potential background gigs, but I have T-mobile and received a couple texts from Central the next day without having to change any T-mobile settings. Next, each row was lined up by their time slot. So, the earliest groups were finished around 11:30am. I was finished around 1pm, and sat around bored to death for 3 hours, which is why I've stressed the importance of getting an early time slot multiple times. Your paper work gets checked and then you take a headshot and full body photo. Then, you're signed up to be a background actor! Overall, it was a really organized and relatively quick registration. Unfortunately, you do have to go back into the office if your look changes dramatically or if it's been 6 months since you last went in. I'll update my review when I book my first gig, or if my re-registration comes up before then. So far, I've received 7 texts from Central checking my availability and it's only been 3 days. Fingers crossed I book something soon! read more

Central Casting - Outside the new office building. - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

I tried to sign up with them online. The sign up was easy enough, but the problem completing the sign up process was with the photos. I guess it's been fairly recent that they stopped taking photos at the office, and people have to upload their own photos online. No problem, other sites are like that. But in this case the problem is they reject photos, even ones that fit what their specs are. Unless you pay to get professional photos taken, you're photos are probably going to get rejected. Although I wouldn't be surprised if the pro photos get rejected too. read more

Like another guy mentioned, their onboarding process is complete whack job and trash. Spent 2 week uploading pics catering to their poor crop tools and then sending all paperwork. Then they put me through eVerify and I thought we are almost done. No they said you have to have som adult vouch for your paperwork by taking pics of them holding their paperwork. Bullcrap! Wait there's more. Then when i reached out to tech support, they gave me a hidden email to ask further. The email support said you can use eVerify+ . There we go again. I did the whole thing again. and then their anonymous poorly trained tech support said they dont work with international actors on O-1 visa. EFF THAT! These morons are poorly trained. Dont tell you everything at start. They are hiding behind 2 remote third-party vendors who handle their onboarding and tech support. And they are taking money off actors try to make some credit and basic wages while being completely living in ignorance and working in this WFH model. I had ZERO INTERACTION with the main office because they have hidden everything . No email, no phones available for Burbank office. All talk and no show. They make money off of innocent actors who are desparatly trying to get started in the business and get SAG vouchers hopefully. SAG-AFTRA and CSA should look into these pathetic greedy inefficient lifeless souls read more

Would not recommend. Complete chaos. Rude people answering the phone. All you hear in the background is loud yelling. It should be called Cattle Call Casting. I literally was transferred to India. Wish I were kidding. Now there's a movie I could write. Sucks they're the only background game in town. I use to do background work. And enjoyed it. Hard pass on CC. It's like a sitcom with no laugh track. read more

It was fine while I was working there, but if you ever need to contact or email someone, forget about it... I moved out of state and I've been trying to deactivate my profile for a month now but keep receiving requests and there is no way to opt out. I logged into my profile to de-activate it but it says" you cannot de-activate, you are in an active booking process, please contact donotreply@centralcasting . Seriously? Contact a do not reply email? Did anyone even pay any attention when they wrote this message? I contacted the one email address available online two weeks ago, I'm guessing no one read it, still receiving daily emails and texts. I just spent 25 minutes on the phone with someone trying to deactivate the profile and he finally submitted a request. So like I said, it's fine unless you run into an issue, then you can't contact anyone to help, everything feels very cold. read more

Outstanding casting company! I went online to reschedule an appointment for my expired information. The communication was clear and professional. read more

Unfortunately, Central Casting continues to demonstrate arrogant and inefficient one-way communication, and lack of responsiveness. Thus putting actors oftentimes in a tough spot. I do think they deserve 2 stars (rather than just 1 star) -- because of their upgrades to the 21st-century technology, and a challenging job - working between production companies and actors. All in all, lack of communication and responsiveness is a SERIOUS PROBLEM. Also, extremely poor responsiveness from Central. For instance, whenever an actor has a question (yes, an *important* one!), Central Casting never replies (with a rare exception). Which just further proves how arrogant, self-centered, and disrespectful the company is. Shameful!! The automated text-messaging system of Availability and Booking needs MAJOR improvement, -- again: to allow actors to submit a message and/or comment. Most times (yes, MOST times) Central would omit providing critical information prior to booking, -- including the location and/or a Classic-Car $ Rate (which is a much higher rate, usually). And sadly, there is no feature when an actor would be able to send a message - either via text-messaging, nor through the online portal. So, dear Central: How about implementing a *Two-way* communication method (as it should be!) -- and developing a "Comment" box on your "Availability" online portal, in order to allow actors sending you a message. Clear and positive communication with talent is critical. Remember, it's not a one-way street! Thank you. read more

I don't know why any extra would not give them 5 stars. Everytime I go in there, the entire staff is always so professional, kind, and informative. They've got me on many movies and tv shows that I never would have gotten myself here in LA. Thanks CC! You guys rock in my book! Note for future extras: Show up on time way before their orientation starts, bring a pen, and listen to directions they give you. Pretty simple. And don't mess with Russell either. He rocks too! : ) How cool is that guy, right? I have nothing but positive visits at Central Casting. If you haven't heard from them in awhile, its probably best to make another visit to update your documents and photos. Don't bash them because they don't get you jobs. Its not them who don't pick you, its the industry. You either have the background needed look or not. One time I didn't hear from them for a year, but then I went in to update and struck luck. And then I waited another 6 months and hit it a again. You have to check their facebook page constantly if you want an opportunity simply put. Plus since the industry is always changing and needing new looks, behind those walls, Central Casting staff is working very hard to help us get those opportunities. Some extras I know have done pretty well with them and some not. Overall Central Casting has been doing this work, since John Wayne! And there was only one John Wayne. Unfortunately extra work is like gambling, but don't quit just yet, especially if you love acting. Background acting teaches you allot about the industry and may give you a ladder to move up, as long as you follow directions. Your time will come, especially if your professional and consistent towards wanting to work. Just keep hustling for the jobs because Central Casting has always been fair to all extras in my observations. Lastly, usually you don't won't to wait more than a year to 2 yrs to revisit. Lots of changes in docs all the time in this industry. Break a leg! Cheers! \m/\m/ **Almost forgot, when you go in there to re-register, stay off your phones because you may miss something they tell you. read more

Some tips for you 1) Come no later than 5:30 am. (they let in only 70 people) 2) Bring a chair 3) Take with you some warm clothes or blanket 4) Bring coffee and food 5) Be polite 6) The closest restroom is 4 mins away on the train station (see pic) 7) They will let you in 9:10, you'll be able to change and fix your make-up in the restroom inside. 8) Approximately at 9:30 you will start filling out all the documents, which you will be given inside. (w-4 form; photo and video release; i-9 form ect) 9) After everyone is done with the paper work, you'll be photographed (1 headshot, 1 full body) You can also bring 1 additional outfit (swimsuit; dress; business outfit) Good luck read more

Central Casting - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

I am a part of this amazing company and feel so Blessed! I am excited to watch my career grow and it is starting here! They are awesome at making sure everyone who walks in has the vaccination which means that safety is vital! They give lots of information on their website and tell you what to expect on the onboarding orientation! They take a picture of you and help you set up your account on their website! I have already started my account and am live! I am hopeful to getting a work soon! I believe we all start someplace and if you can get help, then take it because sometimes we all need that extra bit of help to push us along on our journey! Forever Grateful to have thus opportunity in this stage of my life! If you want to be an actress, you may want to start someplace to work your way up so I would totally recommend them! If nothing else, you get amazing experiences, usually meals and a decent paycheck! I am hopeful to get a Principle role or two along the way as well! Can't wait for the journey to continue, it's my adventure. read more

Central Casting - Waiting for my turn to get my picture taken. It was quite the experience with lots of butterfles in my tummy. - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

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I am pretty new with Central casting. On my last gig I checked hour and a half before leaving my place and there was no update. When I arrived call time changed for one hour later and I was rushing to get there So this morning I called to check if there was an updat.. I didnt want to take the risk of traveling hour 15 in transportation and set is canceled because of the rain. Monik who picked up the phone cut me aggressively and said- "Yes, and we will let you know if its not!" And hang up the phone on me!! Thank you for being "kind" and "helpful" miss central casting read more

Hey! So this will be a very honest and insightful review so I hope it helps someone! If you are looking for background work or want a foot in the door as far as getting SAG vouchers, or just for the industry experience, central casting is a must. Show up EARLY! I arrived around 5am on a Friday and was 7th in line. Friday might be the best day to go. Bring your drivers license, social security, and/passport. I also suggest bringing different clothes for different looks since you will be taking pictures. You will receive an entrance voucher so that you have a seat inside. They will go over paperwork as a group. Once you take your pics and submit your info, you're good to go. The whole process took about 6 hours. Getting booked isn't always easy, so I recommend getting a call agency so you don't have to book yourself. Extras Management is right across the street. read more

Central Casting - Square number for each person in line - Employment Agencies Near Me - Burbank, California

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Central is non-responsive and don't communicate well with anyone. When they fail to communicate with you, it's your fault not theirs, and the manager proceeds to call you to berate and degrade you as an individual. Absolutely terrible business practices. There are many other reputable casting agencies in Los Angeles, please find them; Central Casting is NOT worth the headache. read more

I am registered with centeral casting in ATL, they are very nice and professional they always answer the phone and answer any questions I have read more

I have worked with Central Casting over 15 years as Background talent. Most of the jobs I should have been upgraded to principal performer based on the activities I've done such as waiting and serving food for principal actors and pushing props for scenes. Central works for Production Companies to help them save money. They undercut pay by hiring Non Union without concern for background talent. read more

If you take a COVID test and you are Union, save every email. I took three and they ended up cancelling the shoot, and now I am try to "prove" to SAG-AFTRA (and Central) that I took the three tests ($300). They do not give vouchers at test sites - SO KEEP PROOF! And still waiting. (12/13) I am not sure SAG-AFTRA membership has helped much. LOL. read more

I will update this review after I book a show but this preliminary review is for the 2019 updated registration process. As of 2019, central casting THANKFULLY requires you to register online for an appointment time slot. (Slots open up 72 hrs before hand on their website so book quickly) This ELIMINATES THE NEED TO ARRIVE HOURS BEFOREHAND!!! My appointment was at 9:10 and I arrived at 9am, and was about the 15th person in line! By 9:10 the line had curved around the "hopscotch" tape they use to signal the available spots, but it still wasn't very long. I had read about 100 reviews on central casting before registering, so I'll try my best to respond to those reviews with my own experience. The bouncer who let us in was really nice, I've read reviews saying he was rude, but there wasn't lines of people being turned away today so that might have been a contributing factor. Picture lady wasn't too open to answering questions and kind of rushed everyone out but whatever. Everyone gets a registration packet after they arrive. If you print out forms at home they WILL NOT ACCEPT THEM. It's not really worth it to fill out the forms beforehand. There are specific answers they are looking for, and specific formats (ex: they do not have black as an option for eye color in their online system so they ask you to write brown) which will be explained to you during orientation. Bring a clipboard! If you are in the first row you'll be done around 10:30am. Second row, 11 - 11:30am, and so on. Remember to bring at least two looks (they will take one close up shot and one full body) and it's important to have at least two of the following: casual, business, cocktail, or formal looks. I've heard advice that casting directors can "imagine you casual" very easily, so it's best to bring another look if you have limited pictures. However, CC allows you to come back on Tuesdays and Thursdays to take more pictures/submit additional looks like costumes. You will need to come back every 6 months to re-take your headshots (as they are time stamped) and you will need to re-register every two years. read more

Hey let's trick honest hard-working people into waiting around and purposely leaving them to sit around for hours on-end until the minute before we pay them overtime to shoot a 5 minute scene and let them go home. Oh, we could've shot that very same scene right after the shot 5 hours ago? Well then we wouldn't have been able to work out our passive aggression against the poor saps that are beneath us. -Central Casting read more

I just love love love Central casting .They staff is amazing staff amazing opportunity.I hear so many good things from others The directors really care about you read more

So I wanted to get some experience in anyway I could before I start auditioning. I have no training and came from being a banker in finance. I don't understand how anyone could give this place less than four stars. (Maybe technology could be a little better but overall everything is free and they give you jobs on major major sets) Basically free training with pay. You're on major major sets. My plan is to do this for a little while longer then start auditioning for speaking roles. I don't know too much about other companies but this is a simple life, show up on TIME, (super early call times sometimes waking up at 4 a.m. do suck but it's production not CC, so suck it up buttercup this is show biz) look the best you can. Eat a lot of food, listen and learn. Everyone on set is super cool. If I ever make it at all I will give CC a shoutout for what I have learned for free. Picture = I'm the guy with the shaved head behind the main character, to his left. Pretty cool to google the show and you're on the first image that pops up after only being on set twice. I am on the first episode trailer video also. FYI: I liked the old school way of getting there at 4 am, separates the people who want it from the people who don't. 6 am call times you will be getting up at 4 am, so get use to it. read more

Working with Central Casting is so much fun. Since signing up I've been onset with well known celebrities, producers and other brilliant minds of storytelling. I've been so pleased with my experience. I see how Central Casting has been the starting place for many actors. After your first gig, you may start to get addicted. It's honestly exciting every time you get booked. You may have to submit for a variety of roles, you may not get chosen for what you want but keep with it. Central Casting has some rad clients doing awesome things. You can definitely be in the right place at the right time. The last production I was apart of a producer walked up to a table and gave his personal information to background actors interested in being involved in project he was working on. I'm thinking of making a business card so the people interested in me can reach out . Having an agency like Central Casting willing to open the door for anyone interested is truly amazing. Being apart of the storytelling is worth so much. read more