I'm with you on all counts. The only thing I can think of as to why the guy is squatting and holding on to the adjoining trolley bars would be as an effort to hold down the transmittal of vibrations or deaden the sound. As for the mic as long as any sound track is simultaneously produced it can latter be clipped and dubbed to what ever they desire. No idea what the foam board is for. Quite a few extras in the coach waving and some don't seem to be waving it the correct direction for the intended movement.