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MOVIE man . . . Douglas Byrne

Unique acting auction

A FILM-maker from Oldham is offering locals the chance to bag a role in his latest project — by bidding for a part on internet auction site ebay.

The idea is the brainchild of Douglas Byrne, who grew up in Hollinwood.

Mr Byrne, who now lives in Birkenhead, says it is possibly the first time that acting roles have been offered in this way.

Comedy film “The Temp” will be shot around Greater Manchester, Liverpool and Chester from October. Roles range from minor walk-on parts to co-starring opportunities, with a number of parts up for grabs.

The story follows the adventures of a 40-something career temp who works for several companies at once.

He appears to have found the perfect system, making money with the least amount of effort, until a much younger temp starts work, making him question his view on life and his values.

Mr Byrne said: “Having started my film career in the Oldham area in 1994, with ‘Under The Cover of Darkness’, it would be great to get local people involved, as we have always had a great response from the Oldham public.”

Other projects Mr Byrne has worked on, including a 2001 film called “Fear”, have made it to DVD, with copies being sold in North-West stores.

His most recent film, “Snowbound”, was put on at the Carlton Little Theatre in Birkenhead, which was successful enough to be made into a feature film.

Mr Byrne added: “Once ‘The Temp’ has been made, we will be staging a premiere in Birkenhead to raise money for hospices all over the North-West and then we will be looking to take the film to festivals like Cannes.

“We’ll also be pushing for a DVD release or perhaps a showing on a satellite channel, so there’s definitely potential for some good coverage. We might even try for a cinema release, depending on how it all pans out.”

Anyone who is interested in applying, should visit ebay and type “bid for stardom” in the search box.

To learn more about Mr Byrne’s work, visit the website www.tvplusfilms.co.uk.