I was rejected in an interview last year within seconds of the interview starting because my answer to "what would you do if you suddenly had a bunch of free time" was not relevant enough to the job.

For the record, my answer was that I'd learn basic 2D animation, because I have a deep respect for the people who do it, and I have no real clue how it's done. I also had relevant education on my CV, and the interview was for a graduate position.

That most places are looking for side projects may be a myth; there certainly are, however, at least some places that look for them.