College of Science alumnus films movie scene with Owen Wilson

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Chris Conlon ‘99 was an extra in a movie that will be in theaters Dec. 17.

By day, Chris Conlon ’99 (computational mathematics) is in front of a computer designing, implementing and installing communications networks for the federal government.

At night, Conlon might be found on a stage or in front of a camera.

“Math is all about numbers and I wanted to expand my artistic horizons,” says Conlon, about pursuing a hobby in acting.

Conlon’s latest artistic venture will be in theaters Dec. 17. He is an extra in the James L. Brooks film How Do You Know, starring Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson, Paul Rudd and Jack Nicholson.

Conlon’s scene was filmed at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. In the movie trailer, you can see him on the bench with Wilson in a Nationals uniform.

The Baltimore, Md., resident says his baseball experience at RIT helped him get the part. He was a pitcher for four years. While on set he offered advice to Wilson and the other professional actors on baseball etiquette, such as only needing to wear the jacket on one arm during that hot summer day.

“We did get to chit-chat and share a few jokes,” he says.

Baseball Coach Rob Grow ’89 isn’t surprised his former player is acting. “He doesn’t miss opportunities. That’s what I like about Chris.”

For his day job, Conlon hasn’t missed opportunities either. He has been to Afghanistan eight times and Iraq one time setting up communications networks.

Since taking acting classes five years ago, Conlon has landed several roles. He has played an inmate on the television series America’s Most Wanted, a police officer on HBO’s The Wire and was in a commercial for the Baltimore Orioles and national health care.

He was on the set of National Treasure 2 during the birthday party scene but he didn’t get any screen time. How Do You Know was filmed in June 2009.

“I have been hesitant to get too excited following my day on set because I am well aware that many scenes end up on the cutting room floor,” Conlon says. “However after viewing the trailer, I’m looking forward to the premier gathering to view with family and friends.”

To see the How Do You Know movie trailer, go to Sony Pictures website.