MADISON, Wis. -- Some Wisconsin residents are finally getting a chance to look for themselves on the silver screen.

Shooting for the new Johnny Depp gangster film "Public Enemies" wrapped up in the Badger state early last spring. More than a year later, the movie has now hit theaters and for residents of Columbus, where much of the movie was shot, the opening was huge.

"It only happens once in a lifetime that you have Johnny Depp come to your town, and it's so much fun," Columbus resident Cathy Elling said.

She attended a special local premiere for Columbus residents at Eastgate Cinemas in Madison.

Four old cars flanked the entrance to the box office, providing a backdrop for photos as dozens of Columbus residents dressed in their best 1930s attire stepped off buses and got ready for the screening.

"It was fantastic. It was just the most fun I've ever had. I grew up in Columbus, so I was really excited about being in this movie," said Robert Sutton, an extra in the film. "I was in the committee scene. I was a senator."

Sutton is referring to a scene shot inside Wisconsin's state Capitol, which filmmakers want viewers to believe is shot in 1930s Washington, D.C.

Another extra also had the chance to serve as a stand-in for other actors, which meant face-to-face time with Christian Bale.

"I'll never make it on screen, but actually sort of play acting with the other actors," Tom Running said, sporting a retro fedora before the movie started.

The special premiere benefits Columbus's Main Street Organization. It included tickets to the movie, transportation and a reception back in Columbus after the credits rolled. A cheaper ticket included all but the bus transportation.

A spokesperson for the organization said they hope to raise between $1,000 to $2,000, but most importantly raise awareness about their efforts to keep Columbus's historic downtown a happening spot.

As for the reviews? Residents aren't likely to be tough critics.

"There were some people from Columbus there -- and you could hear them talking, 'That's downtown' or 'that's Poser's house,' so it was cool,' said Julie Hornbacher, who saw an early showing of the movie.