VERONA, NY -- Hundreds of Central New Yorkers were ready for their close up - or at least a spot in the background of "First Allies." The Events Center at Turning Stone Resort and Casino was packed on Monday afternoon with people who wanted to be part of a massive casting call. Sisters Veronica and Rachael Laza hoped the Hollywood crews casting the Oneida Nation make the film would like their look.
"It would be really fun. I can't wait," said Veronica.
The film will tell the story of members of the Oneida tribe who joined forces with colonists in their fight for freedom. The film crew estimates they will need 2000 extras when "First Allies" films in the area from late August until it wraps sometime in October
"It is fun, it's exciting, it's something you can watch and you won't see a movie the same way anymore. You'll look and say that's cool - they put the camera over there. So I think it's something people should experience," said Rich King who was helping cast extras.
Potential extras were warned that the pay was low and the days could be long as some scenes are shot from different angles. Amanda Sederstrandt from Syracuse said it was still an experience she couldn't pass up
"I guess it was a bucket list type of thing where I could say - yeah - I gave that a hot and it was fun," said Sederstrandt.
Extras don't need any acting experience but a few hopefuls arrived in their own costumes. Peter Sheedey was just hoping it would help him get noticed.
"Seems like it wouldn't hurt. Figured someone else might be - thought I'd see all the reenactors here," said Sheedey.
"First Allies" isn't just looking for actors. They are looking for help with everything from building sets to customs and makeup.
