WEIRTON - Hundreds of local residents came to the first official open casting call held at the Millsop Community Center on Tuesday in hopes of being selected as extras in the Paramount Pictures movie being filmed in Weirton.
The casting call was set to begin at 3:30 p.m., but according to Terry Weigel, parks and recreations director, there were people arriving as early as 1:30 p.m. hoping to be the first in line to get their opportunity.
Kevin Elias, programs director, stated there were more than 350 people by 4:30 p.m. and more piling through the doors to stand in line.
"This has been a great turnout," said Weigel, noting they weren't expecting quite as many people.
During the casting call, hopefuls were asked to fill out an information sheet while standing in line waiting to have their pictures and measurements taken.
Juanita Linn, a Wintersville resident born and raised in Weirton, said being cast as an extra in the movie would be an adventure. She stated she feels the idea of a movie being filmed in Weirton is "very exciting" and thinks it will be beneficial for the community as well.
Another hopeful, Tiffany Calandros, brought her family out to the Millsop Community Center for the casting call. She said it's a privilege for something like this to come to Weirton and brought her 7-year-old daughter, Jordan, along for the opportunity as well.
"I'm excited and happy to get to do this," said the 7-year-old, noting she would like being famous one day. "Making a lot of money is one reason I want to be in movies, but what's more important is that everyone will know me."
Paramount Pictures representatives will be present at the Weir High football game Friday providing fans and students with information. Sonya Tormoen, extras casting director, stated Hancock County Superintendent Suzan Smith has asked that students not be registered at the game.
"We will provide registration forms, information on being a good movie extra and answer any questions they might have along with encouraging them to come to the casting call on Saturday," she said.
A second open casting call is set to be hosted at the Millsop Community Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Information can also be sent to paramountpickme@gmail.com.
(Dickson can be contacted at adickson@weirtondailytimes.com)
