Film Notes: No 'Scary' Scene for Brando

April 24 -- At first it seemed like easy money: Marlon Brando reportedly had lined up a $2 million paycheck for a few days of work in Scary Movie 2.

Unfortunately, the 77-year-old actor contracted pneumonia earlier this month and is unable to complete the filming of his cameo role. Brando was supposed to portray a priest conducting an exorcism in the movie's opening scenes.

"Due to his health issues and unavailability, we must now recast his role," said Elizabeth Clark of Dimension Films. "We wish Mr. Brando a speedy recovery."

Shooting on the sequel was postponed two weeks ago when Brando became ill. The movie, scheduled to open July 4, features Tori Spelling, Chris Elliott, Andy Richter and Marlon and Shawn Wayans.

It's been rumored that Charlton Heston was originally offered the part that Brando was to take on. However, Heston declined.

Going Porno

With writers and actors threatening to strike soon, some Hollywood film technicians are lining up work at pornography studios.

Sin City Entertainment in Los Angeles says a number of industry people have been calling for work, including film editors, one director of photography and several B-list actors looking for non-sexual roles.

Jimmy Flynt, director of public relations for Hustler (and the nephew of porn honcho Larry Flynt), says his company has received at least three dozen calls from movie technicians at its production studio, which ships out about six porn videos a month and hires 120 film freelancers.

The pay is not great. A line producer who would make $50,000 to $75,000 at a three-day shoot at his regular job would make about $2,500.

Contracts covering movie and TV writers expire May 1. The contract between actors and the studios runs out June 30.

New Bond

The next James Bond may be a lot like the first James Bond, Sean Connery. A Scotsman reportedly is interviewing for the job.

A Scottish newspaper, The Daily Record, reports 31-year-old Gerard Butler is set to meet with Bond producers to discuss the role Connery made famous.