In late May, I noticed a report on "theForce.net" website saying that some of Industrial Light and Magic's most famous models were going to be on display at the Museum of Science and Industry. This was something I wanted to see if I had the chance, so when the opportunity arose, I went. The presentation was called "Action! An Adventure In Moviemaking" and featured a number of props and other items from well-known motion pictures.

First, our tour group sat down and was shown a short behind-the-scenes documentary from a movie under production. The exhibit then took us through the screenwriting process and showcased several manuscripts from recent movies, such as Seabiscuit and Shrek. After that, we were guided past an arcade of numerous film props ranging from costumes used in Raiders of the Lost Ark, to the elephant in Moulin Rouge, to the futuristic car built for Minority Report. Keira Knightley's dress from Pirates of the Caribbean was stunningly beautiful. There were also a number of Star Wars vehicles including an Imperial starship, walking troop carrier and speeder bike. On top of that, there were several movie technicians standing around to answer specific questions.

Next, the group paused for a moment and then entered one of three soundstages used in the production of a short movie trailer. We were told by the director that the audience was going to get involved and she immediately started looking for helpers. Mark and I must have looked perfect for the job because we were the first ones picked out to be a part of the crew. Mark worked the sound and I worked the lights. This was pretty much the same as when we had been in the advertising business.