Will and Woody make time for fans

FLINT (WJRT) (WJRT) -- (05/02/07)--The stars were out Wednesday night in downtown Flint. Hollywood actors Will Ferrell and Woody Harrelson began shooting scenes Wednesday evening for the movie "Semi-Pro."

And with the celebrities came big crowds.

Earlier in the day, crews were shooting scenes from Brush Alley. Later they were outside the Capitol Theatre.

It really was an exciting day for onlookers, especially for those who not only got to see the stars, but who got to meet them, too.

It's not every day Hollywood comes to Flint.

"It was awesome. This is the best day of my life," said Forrest Draper.

People arrived in droves. The main attraction? The making of Farrell's 1970s-era basketball comedy "Semi-Pro."

It has been a memorable experience for many.

"I just thought it was a dream to see these people I look up to," said Zach Bach.

Shooting began in downtown Flint Sunday, but it wasn't until Wednesday night that the big names appeared.

The scene in Brush Alley involved Harrelson and funny guy Farrell in a dumpster.

"I know they're just regular people, but they're such artists," said Terrie Dulaney. "They are just awesome artists."

And after just a few hours of filming, the acting duo's attention was directed toward the other side of the alley, and it took many by surprise.

"I met Woody Harrelson," said Jennifer Hall. "I told him 'Kingpin' was one of my favorite movies and he said to her, 'You'll see "Kingpin" one day,' and I said, 'She already has.'"

"I got to shake his hand," said Taylor Johnson. "It was pretty awesome because I've never been able to meet a movie star before."

Dulaney arrived on scene with a homemade t-shirt of her favorite actor. She made one for Harrelson, though there was no guarantee he would get it. Her prayers were answered.

Whether it was a simple handshake or a hug, everyone at the shoot welcomed the stars shinning on Flint.

"That's the first thing I said to Will: 'Welcome to Flint. Welcome to our city,'" Hall said.

Crews were shooting most of the night. They will film again Thursday, and as they say in Hollywood, after that, it's a wrap.

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