Independent filmmaker Vijay M. Rajan is in need of extras for the movie “Dark Soul River,” a psychological thriller being shot in Champaign County in March.
It’s a one-day assignment in Rantoul, where the administration offices of the village’s recreation department will be transformed into a prison facility. Rajan is hoping for 12 to 20 extras to serve as death-penalty protesters in one scene, then up to eight more to take part in a grief-counseling session.
Perks include your name in the credits, grub and — if you’re a Screen Actors Guild member — a paycheck. Plus, “they’ll get to see themselves on the big screen,” Rajan said. If interested, email Rajan at darksoulriverfilm@gmail.com, and include “I’ll be an extra!” in the subject line.
It’s not the first time the village — home to Flyover Film Studios — has opened its doors for the movie industry.
“This is second nature for us,” said Recreation Director Luke Humphrey, whose staff will adjust when “Dark Soul River” uses their offices. “We’ll move to another space in the building or work remotely. If there’s anything COVID taught us, it’s that we could work remotely.”
Humphrey, a Rantoul native, said the village’s growing relationship with filmmakers “is cool to see,” adding “we haven’t met any A-listers yet in person. Maybe one of these days.”