The calls have begun going out to 1,000 or so lucky Trekkies who have been selected to appear in the forthcoming Star Trek Beyond, which is set to shoot in Dubai in October.
Casting for the new movie took place in Dubai Studio City last month when thousands of hopefuls queued up for hours over three days in the hope of landing a role in their favourite scifi saga. If you haven't received the call yet, don't give up hope. Our sources tell us that around 1,000 extras will be required, including 40 children from around 2,000 young hopefuls who applied, so it may take a while for the local casting agency, Miranda Davidson Studios, to get through everyone.
The shoot is set to take place from October 1-15, and extras are being asked to make themselves available between those dates for what is expected to be five days of shooting requiring their services. Intriguingly, at least some of those contacted have been asked if they are able to wear a full alien mask, costume and make up for the day, which sounds like your average Trekkie’s dream job.
Last month, photos were leaked of the new alien played by Sofia Boutella. We don't have a name for the new species yet, but if this is what local extras are being asked to play, let's hope the new species likes shopping, water parks and fine dining as the city prepares to welcome a new intake of, alien, expat workers.
cnewbould@thenational.ae
