Extra! Extra! |
| Anthony Garner |
Title: Leatherheads, feature film
Cast: George Clooney, Renee Zellweger
Extra: Anthony Garner
Producers: Grant Heslov, George Clooney, Casey Silver
Director: George Clooney
Script: George Clooney, Stephen Schiff, Duncan Brantley, Rick Reilly
Children: Lauren, who just turned 13, is already inspired and awaits her first photo shoot in Jan. She also plays violin in school orchestra and is an avid equestrian. Of course she is an A/B student.
A pack of smokes: Met Renee at local pharmacy, prior to being cast in Leatherheads. I stopped at the pharmacy to get a pack of smokes and as I walked in, Renee was heading for the cashier. I was star struck but did my best not to show it. My daughter is also a big Zellweger fan, but she was away on a skiing trip in West Virginia. I asked Renee if she would sign something (a blank envelope) for my daughter, and she was more than glad to. Needless to say, Lauren has become somewhat of a celebrity at school because of that little note.
A couple of weeks later I attended the final casting call in Greenville. I took some headshots with me, but really wasn't satisfied with them. I went to the food court and entered the photo booth for some "out of this world poses". Well … they worked. Tona made a quick round, with pad in hand, and didn't say anything to me until I was nearing the casting table. She looked at my big nose and receding hairline and signed me up. I wanted to grab her and squeeze, but was so excited I should have taken a knee.
Press to Press Box: My second day on set in TR, I was asked by Mr. Ed Skews, to fill in. His daughter was having surgery and he was unable to attend that day. He and I went over to Michelle (PA) and explained the situation. That day was probably my best closeup shot and was directed by George himself. In one scene, I sit behind Renee at a small table, conversing with another gentleman. In the other scene, Ian made me stand on a small riser. This one made the trailer as I stand, looking at the game, just behind Renee. WOW! Renee noticed me from the pharmacy and it drew a small snicker from her.
Rachael’s touch: Anthony is still talking about the perfect suit that Rachael fitted him with. It took a little time but she got it right. The blue tie just set it off. Thanks Rach.
Press Conference: Finally the hat came off. I adored my fedora as Rachael found a perfect fit, but I needed some Brylcreem now. And a lot of it. I sat next to Rob Wise, just in front of Renee, on the first row of the historic middle school auditorium. Most of the stars were there and all of us press guys. Before the shoot, George was working with props to get the right poof from the ole time flash, from the photo bugs. They did a couple of test runs and they were too much. George told them to cut down the powder. They did, of course, and finally the scene was underway. What a scene it was. All of us press guys rambling for the story.
Speakeasy: Winston-Salem is still a great city, as I used to visit quite frequently. Had never been to the Millennium Center, though. My new slicked back hairdo was something special. It reminded me of Alfalfa of “Spanky and Our Gang”! The scene was absolutely 1920's. Star treatment was the best. You know when they put on makeup that it’s a closeup, or the bags under my eyes were showing. Nevertheless, the shoot was fantastic and so was Renee in that white gown. Spoke with George in the stairway and shook his hand one final time, as I thought this was my last day. By the way, our table looked the best!
Final Call Back: The entrance to the big game was really special as it was with my speakeasy patron/friend Rebecca. We were paired together again and entered the game together. This time they fitted me with a derby. I think George recognized me and kinda rolled his eyes as if to say "you again". David Webb and Ian Calip were kind enough to shake my hand and pose for a couple shots, before I headed back to Greer.
Tona Dahlquist: Without her, none of this would have happened for me or the rest of us. We all owe her a big hug. The 3 AM call times were not her fault. She was simply great.
Leatherheads: This was the most efficient and professional set I have ever been a part of. From wardrobe to the directors: everyone was approachable and kind. Can't wait to see the film! God Bless Speakeasy Productions!