Will Ferrell has tackled the sports world before with “Talladega Nights” and “Blades of Glory.” His next foray will be into the basketball world in the 2008 comedy film “Semi-Pro”
This New Line Cinema release is currently in production. The movie was written by Scot Armstrong who has written films like “Road Trip”, “School for Scoundrels”, and Ferrell’s bust out film “Old School” The movie features director Kent Alterman who has stepped down from his executive position to make his directorial debut. He couldn’t have asked for a much better cast.
The stars include, Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson, Andre 3000. Andy Richter, Rob Corddry, Kate Luyben, Maura Tierney, and Will Arnett. It is also rumored that Flint area basketball legend Mateen Cleaves has been contacted about the movie. He was the captain and leader of the “Flintstones” when MSU won their National Championship in 2000.
The movie is about Ferrell as owner, player, and coach Jackie Moon. Moon is trying to get American Basketball Association’s Flint Michigan Tropics to the NBA. Of course, this team is an underdog with less talent then their opponents. The movie should be similar to “Dodgeball” but with Will Ferrell’s comedy in it. According to The Lantern of The Ohio State University, Will Ferrell is training with former OSU basketball standout Matt Sylvester.
This will give him a little heads up as his co-star Woody Harrelson already has a load of basketball experience. He starred in “White Men Can’t Jump” with Wesley Snipes and apparently has a lot of game. Former NBA star Bob Lanier, who coached Snipes and Harrelson in the movie, commented that he was impressed with both of their games. This is a big compliment coming from such a well respected NBA player.
The movie is said to be based loosely on NBA coach/executive George Irvine who also played for the ABA’s Denver Nuggets and Virginia Squires in the 1970’s.
The film is being shot in Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Flint, Michigan. Most of the film will be shot in Michigan with the basketball being filmed at the Perani Arena and Event Center.
Casting calls for 500 extras has been called upon for the Flint area. My girlfriend and I have sent in our information and hope to be extras in the film. I have plenty of basketball experience and maybe one day you will see me dunking on Will Ferrell’s head. This movie has a lot going for it with a great, proven comedy writer, a great community to support it, and a veteran cast with some big names in it. You better believe that the music will be exceptional with Andre 3000 in the movie. Woody Harrelson has been in several sports movies and has done a great job. Will Ferrell is the best man in the business right now and everyone should be excited to see Semi-Pro come out in 2008!
