By Gerry Beltgens
Extras, Extras, Extras.
BCF Casting held a call for extras for the Sonic the Hedgehog feature film on Saturday and Sunday at the Frank Jameson Community Centre.
There was a long line of willing extras, aspiring actors and those just wanting the opportunity to mingle with celebrities lined up for the call.
Josh Buffie and his friend Delaina Lynk were accompanied by Josh’s mother Bonnie. All three are from Ladysmith.
Delaina had been a Sonic player on her Sega Genesis and was excited about the idea of being in the film reboot. Josh has already appeared in a Disney’s “Descendents” film in the past and was looking for more experience.
“I just thought this would be a really fun opportunity to come and see what’s happening, and it’s in Ladysmith our hometown,” he said.
Bonnie had intended to just accompany her son but was now caught up in the excitement.
“I was going to come here as ‘mom’ but then I thought I’m going to sit here anyway I might as well just do it (too),” she said.
Tabitha from Nanaimo was first in line. She has a bachelor’s degree in Digital Media and a minor in technical theatre.
“I’ve always been interested in the film industry,” she said. “Watching people go through the process has always been an interesting thing and this is pretty close to home, and I’m a gamer, so I’m interested in Sonic and decided to give it a shot as an extra – why not?”
Also close to the front, Jonathan has been involved in school plays and live theatre and was hoping to break into film.
“I basically started off with live performance in schools and the Port Theatre in Nanaimo and figured there’s an opportunity for film so I thought I’d give it a shot,” he said.
Richard Gunn from Ladysmith was there hoping to get a part for him and his dog.
The film has well known talent signed on including Canadian Jim Carrey who will play Dr. Ivo Robotnik as well as James Marsden (Cyclops in X-Men) and Tika Sumpter (The Haves and the Have Nots). Filming will take place in the “Hero Town” of Ladysmith in September. Around 150 support staff will be working on location.
