Movie auction site banned

The site has upset the authorities

A trio of Hollywood film-makers who set up a website auctioning off roles for their new project have been ordered to close it down.

The site, entitled Who Wants To Be A Movie Star, was the brainchild of an independent producer, director and writer.

The plan was to unearth new talent and use the money raised to help fund the film.

But authorities in California have declared it in breach of rules forbidding job applicants to pay for positions.

Punters were invited to buy themselves into Hollywood

A spokesman for the state's labour commission said: "We felt this was in direct violation of the labour code."

He added that the film-makers' lawyer had accepted their objections and agreed to stop the auction.

But on Thursday afternoon the site was still active, showing the top bid for the fifth lead actor role in a feature film at $10,010 (£6,600).

Behind-camera positions were also up for grabs, with a production assistant attracting a top bid of $450 (£296) and a producer's assistant just $300 (£197).

The website was unveiled by independent director Tony Markes (Welcome To Hollywood), producer Dan Hassid (Gas, Food, Lodging) and writer Adam Rifkin (Mouse Hunt) at a press conference on Tuesday.

Hollywood tradition

It claims: "Anyone, anywhere in the world can now bid, and win, the lead and supporting roles in a feature-length motion picture. Wanna be a Movie Star?"

The site states acting experience is unnecessary: "Not to worry. . these people are professionals. It's the Hollywood tradition!

"As long as you're willing to commit your greatest effort to the film, you like to learn, and you're dedicated, you've got what you need to be part of this project."

The project has drawn support from a number of big organisations, including video retailer Blockbuster and internet sites MP3.com and Yahoo!

The plan was to end the bidding in mid-July, write a tailor-made script for the cast and shoot and edit a 90-minute movie.

The trio, who are working with Hassid's production company Filmstar, intended to premiere it at America's top independent film festival, Sundance, in January.

The ruling represents a setback, but the team stressed their production budget had already been funded and the movie would be made regardless of how much the auction raised.

So far no 'Movie Star' winners have been announced and no money has been taken.