Evan Almighty

Notice: Check the IMDB website frequently boys because the Malones are gonna be in the pictures… well hopefully.

The sequel to the Jim Carrey vehicle, Bruce Almighty, entitled, Evan Almighty, is being filmed in Richmond and Crozet, just southwest of Charlottesville. We attended an open casting call for extras in March, and we found out later were unceremoniously rejected. Pan ahead a few weeks and the big-time LA types need a few vehicles for the likes of Steve Carrell, Morgan Freeman, and director Tom Shadyac. The dealership of choice in the greater central region happens to be Brown Automotive where my father sits perched in a humble postion of some stature. He negotiates terms to include middle son and his wife in exchange for a couple of Benzs and a smooth looking Pilot.

The story involves Steve Carrell’s character, Evan, who was Carrey’s newsanchor nemesis in the first, now running for Congress with some compromised morals. God, Morgan Freeman, asks him to build ark for an impending flood (perhaps you’ve heard this story). Where we fit in as extras is as the “upper, middle class neighbors” who gather around and gawk as Evan, each day looking more and more like Noah, builds his ark. There is an actual ark constructed in Crozet right smack dab in the middle of a developing subdivision; it’s pretty impressive. So far, I have shot scenes standing behind an news van with a prop camera pointing and gesturing (read: acting my ass off) all while standing next to my older, blonde, attractive wife…movie magic.

Melissa, the real star in the family, is filming a top secret finale, which you could probably guess, along with 400 other participants. She was one of four individuals who gets prominent placement, optimal for on-screen camera time, next to a large woman who is making fun of Evan.

There are plenty of other details which are better for conversation than this forum: “extra” pay, movie sets, and the complete professionalism of the people making this movie. Too much to write about.

I will close by saying my most intimate celebrity encounter was with Lauren Graham of Gilmore Girls and Bad Santa. She is beautiful and looks all of 22; she waved hello as she walked by a group of us. Melissa got a wave from John Goodman, whom she said is as large as the ark.

So that’s my story…I love LA.