High noon near for Central Casting parent

The battle by British-based MIM Ltd. to take over IDC Servicesis heading toward a showdown that could occur this week, sources saidMonday.

IDC, a hardly known Chicago company whose principal businessesinclude such Hollywood institutions as the Central Casting "extras"service, has been locked in a boardroom battle with MIM for severalweeks.

Last week, IDC's board voted to give IDC President Lawrence J.Berkowitz a leave of absence when it became apparent he hadencouraged MIM to attempt the takeover. MIM, which already controls49.9 percent of IDC, has been seeking the ouster of three IDC boardmembers who oppose the takeover.

Berkowitz was put on leave …