Locals provide movie makers with authentic “background”

Hopeful movie extras “background players” are emerging from all over the Bay Area, and beyond, for the sweet opportunity to make an on-screen appearance in the new movie “Of Men and Mavericks” which is based on Santa Cruz surfer Jay Moriarity’s life.

The film, which in recent weeks has been shot in San Mateo, Half Moon Bay, and Santa Cruz, takes place mostly in the early 1990s – so producers are looking for wardrobe, hair, and other props that will fit the vintage aesthetic.

Potential “background players” all drove trucks or cars to the set that were more than 20 years old, hoping that they’re motor vehicle might help them get picked for the part.

“There are bit parts and lots of little productions going on in the Bay Area all the time,” said JJ Johnne, 55, of San Jose. “I went to Los Angeles and couldn’t find work. But I got old and gray and now I get more work. I got more work here in one month than three years in Los Angeles.”

The movie stars Jonny Weston as Moriarty, and Brett Butler as Moriarty’s mentor Frosty Hesson. It’s set to be released in October, 2012.