Creating wonder

Oscar Magaña Jr. knows Hollywood. He worked there for four years as a regular extra in television and film series (e.g., Bones, Iron Man 3). The Biggs native has been back in Butte County for several years, but for the past 2 1/2 has been working on the next chapter of his career: as the owner, producer and director of Wünderworks Multimedia & Hispanic Marketing. He creates and edits photo and video for businesses and special events, such as weddings, as well as for budding performers, actors and those seeking athletic scholarships. Magaña continues to act in local theater productions as well. For examples of his work or to inquire about the services he offers, find him on Facebook @WunderworksMultimedia or email wunderworkscalifornia@gmail.com.

How did you come up with your business name?

It’s an homage to Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium. I think of a giant toy factory, but instead of just making toys we make all things wonderful. Things that wouldn’t normally happen on the outside world happen inside Wünderworks Multimedia studios.

What sets you apart?

What I’m offering is $150 [per hour] packages. In the session, you get the photos—I have a white, black and green [screen]—but you’re also going to get video if you want a reel. And you get the basic directorial coaching from me. I’m teaching you what to expect, so that you’re ready and you kind of get over the fear of the camera, too.

Why do this in Butte County?

[Butte County] is home. I knew that I had this talent pool that nobody else is using [outside of theater]. I lived inside the Emerald City for years. Now I’m coming back and I’m saying, “Hey, guys, let me show you what I learned.” I felt like if I did that, then we would have this base of Chico people and we could all take control of our own careers and we make the shows, we don’t let Hollywood dictate. Like me: “You’re too tall. And you’re Mexican? Oh, no, we can’t use you.” ‘Cause in their world, Mexicans don’t look like me. That’s tough. I felt like if I was ever going to make a breakthrough that I needed to take some control. It’s like, OK, so then, I guess I gotta make my own show. We get people to invest in us, talent-wise. Those people down there are not any more talented than people here.

What’s your goal?

Someday I just hope to go and make TV shows and movies. But right now, Wünderworks is the bigger picture. I want to … collaborate with people … and maybe get a creation space. [It] would be great to have a studio or stages where not only we’re producing stuff, but they’re [also] for rent. If you’re a member, you can go in and use the green screen anytime you want, use the audio booth and the recording rooms for bands. I think that would help people do more stuff: You build a playground, someone’s going to come play.