Filming finished last week on the set of 32 Degrees, the comedy short film that used me as an extra. I didn’t get much screen time the first day, so when I reported to the director for the second day of filming, I requested he highlight my best side. He agreed and promptly positioned me with my back to the camera. But, I did get to turn around to react appropriately when something happened in the film.
And I got to turn to the side (my one semi-good side!) to pretend to speak to someone else at the table who was off screen. We pretend-spoke about alien abductions in case you are interested.
Once the extras were done filming, we were dismissed way too early for me to stuff my pockets with snacks. I did snap this selfie for my memory scrapbook.
That’s way too much of me way too close. I really need to get longer arms. I also took this pic of a place just a few doors down from the restaurant where we filmed.
There’s yet another reason why Chicago is one of the world’s great cities. Let’s hope I have to return to the neighborhood for some retakes and a Pilsner soak.
Immediately after filming ended, I was offered a role in a full-length feature film as a … you guessed it … restaurant patron. Typecast again! But it films this afternoon into the evening, and my business does require some attention, so I passed on the role. A day or so after that, I was offered a recurring speaking role on a TV show that just started filming in Chicago. My first day on set is the 17th of August, and the job is weekly through the end of October. Oh, did I mention it’s a paying gig? No more filling my pockets with snacks for the extras. I will get paid real money. Yes, I will be a showbiz professional soon. Has the success gone to my head? Well, if you really want an answer to that, please run all your questions through my press agent.
Jim Flanigan Looks at the World 