VIP Member Tyson Francois shares his experience on the set of Denzel Washington's new movie.
By Isabelle Dungan
The first time I met Tyson, I knew he was going to make it in the entertainment business. Combine overwhelming enthusiasm, confidence, charisma, and a smile that makes you melt, and the result is Mr. Eudson Tyson Francois. And guess what? Hollywood is noticing! Tyson uses InstantCast everyday and is constantly applying for new roles. He calls me regularly to keep me updated on his projects and to give me friendly reminders of how much he appreciates InstantCast. I was very excited when Tyson called me recently to tell me how he spent all day on-set of the new Denzel Washington movie The Taking of Pelham 123!
The Taking of Pelham 123 is a new Columbia Pictures production featuring an all-star casting including John Travolta and James Gandolfini. Tony Scott is directing this remake of Walter Matthau's 1978 thriller. This version pits a transit cop (Denzel Washington) against a group of hijackers lead by John Travolta. The hijackers take over a subway train to collect a major ransom. David Koepp (War of the Worlds) is adapting the book by author John Godey.
Although he did not have the chance to meet Denzel Washington, Tyson mingled with famous casting director Billy Dowd, who was "quite fond of him." Tyson also found himself involved with a lot of the production assistants on-set and made many valuable industry connections. Tyson was sure to arrive on-set as any actor should. He was prepared with a change of clothes and was ready to work all day and all night. Tyson dressed comfortably and wore the appropriate "hoodie/jeans/sneakers" attire outlined for him in the audition information.
So what exactly did Tyson do on-set? He played an extra in an action-chase scene across the Queensborough Bridge in New York! He was in a BMW 325 for two hours driving across the bridge and through the streets of Manhattan and Queens. Helicopters soared overhead and motorcycles were weaving in and out of traffic. The shoot lasted two hours, however, Tyson was asked to be available for the full-day. This is often requested when you are playing the role of an extra.
Although Tyson didn't have a principle role in the film, he understands that this is where it all begins. He appreciates getting on-set experience and networking with people in the film industry. He is willing to work hard and put 100% enthusiasm into everything he does. What did he get out of this other than a great experience? He got a yellow receipt, which acknowledges his participation and guarantees him payment. What's more? He got a film credit for his resume!
When I asked Tyson what's next for him he said he's received three call backs from Tyler Perry's production company! They want him to come down to Atlanta so he can work with them! He's also hoping to get cast in an upcoming Barack Obama commercial. He says if it weren't for InstantCast he wouldn't be, as he says, "getting cast instantly" and having great opportunities at his fingertips. everyday!
Isabelle Dungan is the Casting Consultant & Casting Content Manager at InstantCast. Isabelle, an aspiring actress herself, works with the team at InstantCast to help provide support and content for aspiring actors and models, and hosts monthly InstantCast LIVE! events with casting directors and other industry professionals. She can be reached at castingconsultant@instantcast.com.
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Tyson & Isabelle at InstantCast LIVE!
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