A Myrtle Beach ETV Heads to Hollywood Screens
A distinctive vehicle owned by Myrtle Beach resident Alan Jones is set to make its big screen debut alongside John Travolta. The Extra Terrestrial Vehicle (ETV), a rare custom creation rarely seen on public roads, will appear in the new film Cash Out 3. This development shines a spotlight on both Jones and his unique automotive treasure, cementing its place in cinematic history.
The production company sought out the ETV for its unparalleled design and visual appeal, offering Jones approximately $20,000 for its role. Film crews are scheduled to pick up the vehicle later this month, marking a key step toward its highly anticipated debut. This collaboration between Hollywood and a private collector highlights modern filmmaking’s need for distinctive elements to craft specific visual and narrative atmospheres.
The ETV’s Roots: Crafted by Visionary Mike Vetter
Central to the ETV’s story is its creator, Florida-based custom car maker Mike Vetter. Renowned for pushing automotive design boundaries, Vetter transforms conventional vehicles into futuristic art pieces. Jones’ ETV is one of only eight such vehicles crafted by Vetter worldwide, elevating it from a custom car to an exclusive collector’s item.
Vetter’s creations have a history of appearing in films, making his portfolio a natural target for Cash Out 3 producers. It was Vetter himself who recommended Jones’ ETV to the film’s team, a direct endorsement that underscored the vehicle’s exceptional fit with the filmmakers’ creative vision. This connection bypassed traditional vehicle casting processes, linking the unique car to Hollywood.
Design Features: A “Giant Purple Bean” with Dynamic Flair
The ETV stands out with a striking, unconventional appearance often described as resembling “a giant purple bean.” Its sleek, rounded form comes from a radical transformation: the body of a Chevy Aveo was stripped away and replaced with a futuristic shell, resulting in a seamless, aerodynamic look unlike any other vehicle.
Technological elements enhance its allure. An LED color-changing lighting system under the car alters its visual presentation, while front and rear cameras add functionality and a futuristic touch. Its thermochromic paint shifts hues with temperature—“when it is hot, the vehicle looks purple,” Jones explained, “but when it begins to cool, the vehicle takes on a green color”—creating a dynamic spectacle that turns heads. Locals often video Jones driving it around Myrtle Beach.
Timmy the Alien: The ETV’s Playful Companion
Adding to the ETV’s charm is its constant passenger, Timmy the alien. “Timmy can often be seen as Jones drives the vehicle around the city,” making the pair a captivating sight for Myrtle Beach residents. This whimsical detail transforms the ETV from a unique car into a mobile performance art piece.
Timmy reinforces the vehicle’s “out of this world” persona, aligning with Jones’ desire for people to “enjoy it with me.” Together, the ETV and Timmy turn ordinary drives into memorable encounters, becoming a talked-about local spectacle.
Alan Jones: A Collector with Passion and Purpose
Jones is more than an ETV owner; he is a passionate collector with 22 unique vehicles in his garage. His collection spans classic sports cars, bespoke creations, and even a Batmobile that appeared in a Flash film. A sleek Lamborghini and a customized truck featuring Joker and Batman designs further reflect his love for unique automotive art.
The 56-year-old’s enthusiasm for his ETV’s movie role ties to his deep interest in film, particularly the Marvel franchise. Beyond personal enjoyment, he uses most of his collection in charitable events like Make-a-Wish. “I bought most of my collection not to impress,” he said, “but I want people to enjoy it with me”—a philosophy that drives his generous approach to his hobby.
Cash Out 3: Travolta’s Upcoming Project
Jones’ ETV will feature in Cash Out 3, the third installment in the Cash Out series. The film stars John Travolta in a central role, though details remain limited as production continues. A release date has not yet been set, keeping audiences eager for more updates.
High Rollers: Travolta’s Released Sequel
Another John Travolta film, High Rollers—a sequel to the original Cash Out—debuted on Friday, March 14. It launched via a limited theatrical run and online streaming, balancing traditional cinema experiences with at-home convenience.
Theatrical screenings were exclusive to The Grand D’Iberville in South Mississippi, with showtimes at 2 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. on weekends. Concurrently, the film became available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV starting at 7 p.m. on its release day.
Star Power in High Rollers
High Rollers boasts a notable cast alongside Travolta. Gina Gershon joins him, bringing her diverse acting experience to the narrative. Musician and actor Quavo and seasoned performer Lukas Haas round out the key roles, adding to the film’s appeal.
Behind the camera, Randall Emmett served as both director and producer, joined by co-producers Cecil Chambers and Joel Cohen. This team of established talent shaped the film’s production and artistic direction.
Filming on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
Principal photography for High Rollers took place at Scarlet Pearl Casino in D’Iberville, Mississippi, and across the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The casino shoot spanned approximately three weeks, from April 10 to April 30, 2023, capturing its unique ambiance and architecture.
Exterior scenes utilized the Gulf Coast’s diverse landscapes, with shots on roads and beaches incorporating helicopters and exotic cars. These elements enhanced the film’s visual engagement, fitting its action-thriller genre.
Economic Boost from Production
The High Rollers production delivered significant economic benefits to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Cast and crew stayed local during filming, supporting businesses through accommodations, dining, and other services.
The team also sourced catering and supplies from regional vendors, maximizing financial gains for the area. Travolta and cast members frequenting local spots generated positive publicity, encouraging broader economic activity that benefited numerous enterprises.
Exotic Vehicles in High Rollers
High Rollers features a range of exotic vehicles that enhance its action-thriller appeal. A Lotus, an Aston Martin, and other high-end cars—many owned by local residents—appeared in scenes, often near the resort entrance, adding visual flair and authenticity to the film’s world of affluence.
Notably, a sleek silver 2014 Audi R8 V10 two-seater coupe was secured for Travolta to drive. Provided by Gulf Coast Exotic Auto in Gulfport, owned by Ivan Spinner with Chris Gipson as managing partner, the car was found by the production company online. Priced between $160,000 and $170,000 during filming, it featured a gated manual shift. Travolta, familiar with such vehicles, handled it seamlessly on set. Post-production, the dealership sold the Audi to a new owner; Travolta did not purchase it.
From Jones’ ETV gearing up for Cash Out 3 to the impact of High Rollers, these productions blend unique automotive art, Hollywood star power, and local communities. They highlight the creativity, collaboration, and economic influence that shape moviemaking, ensuring distinctive vehicles and vibrant locations leave lasting marks on film history.
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