Jason Reitman: Failed Universal (Tram) Guy

It hasn't been all back-slapping moments with George Clooney and Oscar nominations for "Up in the Air's" Jason Reitman.

The screenwriter and director admits that he failed at Universal Studios -- of course we're talking about a tram job announcing the passing sites at Universal Hollywood's theme park.

"I tried to be the tram guy and didn't get the job," Reitman told the 2010 Oscar Screenwriting Nominee Q&A at the L.A. Film School on Monday.

The son of Hollywood director Ivan Reitman said it was his "worst job ever."

"It was one more time where nepotism really failed me in life."

Of course, Reitman went on to great things. He was eventually promoted to "line controller" at Universal which came with an all-white outfit and a matching teal belt/hat combo.

"We had the walkie-talkie and spoke all these codes for child missing or vomit," said Reitman. "The highlight of the job is that you got to do the pre-show announcement in all of their theaters."

He went into perfect deep-voiced Universal-speak for the audience. "Ladies and Gentleman, welcome to the 3:30 Water World Sea World spectacular. As you enter the theater, please use the stairs and aisle ways only. Food and beverage are always welcome in all Universal auditoriums, but smoking is strictly prohibited." Reitman would truly break into Hollywood with the indie-hit "Thank You For Smoking."

He's got a pretty cool gig now, but Reitman admits sometimes he dreams about other stuff. "I always wanted to write for Saturday Night Live," he said. "For me that just seemed like the greatest job on Earth. Even better than going to the moon."
 

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