Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight
- Thread starter Pujimaki
- Start date
Chapter 48
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
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- Likes received
- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 48
The audition ended after a long and exhaustive process. The production team began finalizing their choices based on performance, screen presence, and chemistry. It had been a tiring day of hard work. They had to sit through one performance after another, which left their bones aching from hours of inactivity. The audition wrapped up in the late afternoon.
After some discussion and a brief round of deliberation, they finally reached a consensus they could all agree on.
Led by Director Summerbelt with renewed purpose, they officially selected Lawrence Terrence as Jacky without any further doubt.
For the female lead, they chose Ellie Bridget as Rosey after narrowing the list down to several finalists. Ellie Bridget was a well-known name in the industry. Considered a B-list actress who had starred in a few films and made numerous TV guest appearances. However, she had never landed a leading role despite years of persistence. This would be her first time as the main actress. An opportunity that could completely change her career trajectory.
The production team had initially wanted to cast Jolyne Robs as Rosey due to her greater fame and box office pull, but the actress was currently too busy promoting her latest film and attending international premieres.
"Since we've got our male lead and female lead locked in, how about I recommend Kayla Martin as the supporting actress? She can play Rosey's younger sister. She's a model, but she can clearly act. She's also amazing at sucking coc-- never mind. Besides, her screen time is short, so there's little risk involved," said Producer Harper, not forgetting his earlier arrangement with Kayla Martin.
Although he failed to secure the female lead for Kayla, she still walked away with a meaningful role and a stepping stone. With the cast heading to a tropical island, Harper saw future "transactions" with Kayla under the warm sheets as not just possible, but likely.
"I'm alright with that, as long as she doesn't disrupt the flow," Director Summerbelt replied with a slight nod. He decided to allow the producer to push through one name as a compromise. As long as it didn't affect the integrity of the story, Thomas was willing to yield in small areas.
"Then let's contact them immediately and have them sign the contracts as soon as possible, preferably this week, so we can begin without delays. As for the actors who didn't make it, don't bother calling them. It's a waste of time and resources," Harper declared coldly and without hesitation.
The production team wrapped up their final tasks for the day, sorting files and contacting agents.
---------
------
---
"It's nice to meet you, Mr. East. I'm Balthazar Harper, producer of Passionate Island and longtime partner of Sonya-Collapse Studio."
"Nice to meet you as well."
The producer of Passionate Island and Lawrence's representative shook hands firmly, a standard gesture in high-stakes business negotiations.
Collin sat down on a leather seat across the desk. The meeting took place inside the headquarters of Sonya-Collapse Studio, in one of their glass-walled negotiation rooms. As the project overseer, Balthazar was in charge of finalizing the contracts for the two lead roles.
As expected, the actor didn't attend these types of meetings, it was always the agent who showed up. That was the industry norm. However, Harper was slightly surprised to discover that Lawrence was represented by someone from ANT, one of the top agencies in Hollywood.
"Let's not drag this out longer than it needs to be. Name your price, and let's move on."
Balthazar Harper had no interest in spending more than fifteen minutes on this negotiation. He considered it a waste of time. Lawrence Terrence was just a rising actor with only one successful film to his name. He didn't yet have the box office appeal to demand a high salary.
Collin understood that clearly. If he misplayed his hand, Lawrence could easily be dropped in favor of another actor with a more flexible salary rate.
Prior to this meeting, Collin had asked Lawrence how much he expected to earn from the movie. They discussed it thoroughly.
In fact, Lawrence was currently sitting in a restaurant near the Sonya-Collapse Studio headquarters, nervously waiting by his phone for a call from Collin, sipping his nth cup of coffee.
Lawrence had said he'd be happy to earn $1 million from this movie. That alone would change his life.
Naturally, Collin aimed to secure that amount or more. Not only to improve his client's standing but also because his own income depended on it. He earns a 15% commission on the deal. With confidence, he raised three fingers.
"Three million dollars."
Balthazar laughed out loud like someone who had just heard the punchline of a great joke. It was the funniest thing he had heard in a while.
"Collin, it seems like you don't understand your situation at all. Lawrence wasn't our first or second pick. If we're going to spend that much, we might as well hire Tommy Yatch, a proven box office name. I'll offer Lawrence $500,000. That's already generous for a new actor."
"$2.5 million would be more appropriate. Mr. Harper, I'm confident in my client's acting skills and the value he brings. I believe the reason you chose him is because Lawrence is the perfect fit for the role."
In truth, Lawrence wasn't just perfect, he transcended the role. He didn't just play Jacky, he became something more.
"Collin, you clearly understand your client's strengths, and I respect that, even if I think you're dreaming. One million. That's my final offer."
"Lawrence will elevate the film in ways no one else can. His casting makes the movie stronger from script to screen. $1.7 million, fair compensation, considering the value he brings."
"…Tch. $1.5 million. Don't be greedy. You're just a parasite in a suit leeching off your clients' blood. Agents like you deserve a place in hell, the deepest one."
Balthazar had been through this kind of negotiation countless times. He could probably write a book about it. He knew that talent agents didn't know their place in this industry.
Sure, Lawrence was talented. But he was still new. Asking for $3 million was overkill. That money could be better spent on post-production.
And yet… despite his irritation, Balthazar didn't want to lose Lawrence. His instincts as a seasoned producer were warning him, he would regret letting this actor go.
It was those instincts that had kept him successful over the years. He had a sixth sense for potential.
'If not for Lawrence's recent success in The Accidental Wedding Crashers, this conversation probably wouldn't even be happening,' Balthazar silently admitted with a grudging sigh.
Collin paused, appearing to consider his options. Then he smiled and extended his hand with calm confidence.
"It's nice doing business with you, Mr. Harper. $1.5 million it is. I'll call Lawrence right now so he can come in and sign. As for specific clauses, my client is allergic to corn, so please avoid food-related accidents."
"We'll add that to the terms and handle it on set."
"He must have his own trailer for privacy and proper preparation."
"Of course. We'll also rent an apartment near the shooting location."
With the salary agreement finalized, they shifted focus to other key contractual terms: accommodations, transportation, and dietary requirements.
Overall, Balthazar was content with the $1.5 million figure, even if he didn't get the final say.
The film's budget was $25 million, with a flexible buffer, and spending $1.5 million on the male lead wasn't a bad investment. Especially if it raised the movie's quality.
Half an hour later, after the revised contract was prepared, Lawrence arrived with a lawyer. They reviewed the paperwork carefully, ensuring all terms were legally sound. Once both parties confirmed the final version, they signed the deal. Officially securing Lawrence's first major film role.
With that, Lawrence earned a $1.5 million salary for the film, his biggest payday yet. He would receive $750,000 upfront at the signing, with the remaining $750,000 to be paid upon completion of filming. This structure was designed to encourage consistent performance throughout the filming.
Naturally, Collin would take his 15% per their agreement, reducing Lawrence's initial take-home amount.
The actor didn't mind at all. In fact, he was overwhelmed and deeply impressed. Collin had managed to negotiate a deal that was 50% higher than what he had originally hoped for.
It felt surreal.
The audition ended after a long and exhaustive process. The production team began finalizing their choices based on performance, screen presence, and chemistry. It had been a tiring day of hard work. They had to sit through one performance after another, which left their bones aching from hours of inactivity. The audition wrapped up in the late afternoon.
After some discussion and a brief round of deliberation, they finally reached a consensus they could all agree on.
Led by Director Summerbelt with renewed purpose, they officially selected Lawrence Terrence as Jacky without any further doubt.
For the female lead, they chose Ellie Bridget as Rosey after narrowing the list down to several finalists. Ellie Bridget was a well-known name in the industry. Considered a B-list actress who had starred in a few films and made numerous TV guest appearances. However, she had never landed a leading role despite years of persistence. This would be her first time as the main actress. An opportunity that could completely change her career trajectory.
The production team had initially wanted to cast Jolyne Robs as Rosey due to her greater fame and box office pull, but the actress was currently too busy promoting her latest film and attending international premieres.
"Since we've got our male lead and female lead locked in, how about I recommend Kayla Martin as the supporting actress? She can play Rosey's younger sister. She's a model, but she can clearly act. She's also amazing at sucking coc-- never mind. Besides, her screen time is short, so there's little risk involved," said Producer Harper, not forgetting his earlier arrangement with Kayla Martin.
Although he failed to secure the female lead for Kayla, she still walked away with a meaningful role and a stepping stone. With the cast heading to a tropical island, Harper saw future "transactions" with Kayla under the warm sheets as not just possible, but likely.
"I'm alright with that, as long as she doesn't disrupt the flow," Director Summerbelt replied with a slight nod. He decided to allow the producer to push through one name as a compromise. As long as it didn't affect the integrity of the story, Thomas was willing to yield in small areas.
"Then let's contact them immediately and have them sign the contracts as soon as possible, preferably this week, so we can begin without delays. As for the actors who didn't make it, don't bother calling them. It's a waste of time and resources," Harper declared coldly and without hesitation.
The production team wrapped up their final tasks for the day, sorting files and contacting agents.
---------
------
---
"It's nice to meet you, Mr. East. I'm Balthazar Harper, producer of Passionate Island and longtime partner of Sonya-Collapse Studio."
"Nice to meet you as well."
The producer of Passionate Island and Lawrence's representative shook hands firmly, a standard gesture in high-stakes business negotiations.
Collin sat down on a leather seat across the desk. The meeting took place inside the headquarters of Sonya-Collapse Studio, in one of their glass-walled negotiation rooms. As the project overseer, Balthazar was in charge of finalizing the contracts for the two lead roles.
As expected, the actor didn't attend these types of meetings, it was always the agent who showed up. That was the industry norm. However, Harper was slightly surprised to discover that Lawrence was represented by someone from ANT, one of the top agencies in Hollywood.
"Let's not drag this out longer than it needs to be. Name your price, and let's move on."
Balthazar Harper had no interest in spending more than fifteen minutes on this negotiation. He considered it a waste of time. Lawrence Terrence was just a rising actor with only one successful film to his name. He didn't yet have the box office appeal to demand a high salary.
Collin understood that clearly. If he misplayed his hand, Lawrence could easily be dropped in favor of another actor with a more flexible salary rate.
Prior to this meeting, Collin had asked Lawrence how much he expected to earn from the movie. They discussed it thoroughly.
In fact, Lawrence was currently sitting in a restaurant near the Sonya-Collapse Studio headquarters, nervously waiting by his phone for a call from Collin, sipping his nth cup of coffee.
Lawrence had said he'd be happy to earn $1 million from this movie. That alone would change his life.
Naturally, Collin aimed to secure that amount or more. Not only to improve his client's standing but also because his own income depended on it. He earns a 15% commission on the deal. With confidence, he raised three fingers.
"Three million dollars."
Balthazar laughed out loud like someone who had just heard the punchline of a great joke. It was the funniest thing he had heard in a while.
"Collin, it seems like you don't understand your situation at all. Lawrence wasn't our first or second pick. If we're going to spend that much, we might as well hire Tommy Yatch, a proven box office name. I'll offer Lawrence $500,000. That's already generous for a new actor."
"$2.5 million would be more appropriate. Mr. Harper, I'm confident in my client's acting skills and the value he brings. I believe the reason you chose him is because Lawrence is the perfect fit for the role."
In truth, Lawrence wasn't just perfect, he transcended the role. He didn't just play Jacky, he became something more.
"Collin, you clearly understand your client's strengths, and I respect that, even if I think you're dreaming. One million. That's my final offer."
"Lawrence will elevate the film in ways no one else can. His casting makes the movie stronger from script to screen. $1.7 million, fair compensation, considering the value he brings."
"…Tch. $1.5 million. Don't be greedy. You're just a parasite in a suit leeching off your clients' blood. Agents like you deserve a place in hell, the deepest one."
Balthazar had been through this kind of negotiation countless times. He could probably write a book about it. He knew that talent agents didn't know their place in this industry.
Sure, Lawrence was talented. But he was still new. Asking for $3 million was overkill. That money could be better spent on post-production.
And yet… despite his irritation, Balthazar didn't want to lose Lawrence. His instincts as a seasoned producer were warning him, he would regret letting this actor go.
It was those instincts that had kept him successful over the years. He had a sixth sense for potential.
'If not for Lawrence's recent success in The Accidental Wedding Crashers, this conversation probably wouldn't even be happening,' Balthazar silently admitted with a grudging sigh.
Collin paused, appearing to consider his options. Then he smiled and extended his hand with calm confidence.
"It's nice doing business with you, Mr. Harper. $1.5 million it is. I'll call Lawrence right now so he can come in and sign. As for specific clauses, my client is allergic to corn, so please avoid food-related accidents."
"We'll add that to the terms and handle it on set."
"He must have his own trailer for privacy and proper preparation."
"Of course. We'll also rent an apartment near the shooting location."
With the salary agreement finalized, they shifted focus to other key contractual terms: accommodations, transportation, and dietary requirements.
Overall, Balthazar was content with the $1.5 million figure, even if he didn't get the final say.
The film's budget was $25 million, with a flexible buffer, and spending $1.5 million on the male lead wasn't a bad investment. Especially if it raised the movie's quality.
Half an hour later, after the revised contract was prepared, Lawrence arrived with a lawyer. They reviewed the paperwork carefully, ensuring all terms were legally sound. Once both parties confirmed the final version, they signed the deal. Officially securing Lawrence's first major film role.
With that, Lawrence earned a $1.5 million salary for the film, his biggest payday yet. He would receive $750,000 upfront at the signing, with the remaining $750,000 to be paid upon completion of filming. This structure was designed to encourage consistent performance throughout the filming.
Naturally, Collin would take his 15% per their agreement, reducing Lawrence's initial take-home amount.
The actor didn't mind at all. In fact, he was overwhelmed and deeply impressed. Collin had managed to negotiate a deal that was 50% higher than what he had originally hoped for.
It felt surreal.
Chapter 49
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
- Joined
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- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 49
Lawrence was officially cast in the romance movie Passionate Island after a nerve-wracking audition and an emotionally charged performance.
His salary was $1.5 million, a number that still didn't feel real to him. However, he only received half of that amount upfront, as part of the standard payment structure for a new actor like him, who lacked strong industry credibility.
The remaining half would be paid upon completion of his work and after filming wrapped up. This clause was added to ensure that Lawrence wouldn't abandon the project midway or vanish during production.
Furthermore, if Lawrence seriously violated the contract, such as missing scheduled shoots without valid reasons or causing major conflicts on set, he could forfeit the remaining balance entirely. He might even be fired from the project, though that kind of action was typically reserved for extreme situations where no other choice remained.
Lawrence and Collin stepped out of the Sonya-Collapse building with light steps and lifted spirits. They were in a good mood, and for good reason. They had just secured a career-defining deal.
Just a few months ago, neither of them could land big projects or earn real money like most top-tier talents in the industry.
But everything changed when The Accidental Wedding Crashers was released and became a hit. Suddenly, they weren't nobodies anymore.
As they headed to the parking lot under the blazing sun, Lawrence glanced at Collin with admiration. At that moment, he fully realized just how good a decision it had been to sign with him. He chuckled at the memory of how he initially thought Collin only wanted to sign him to use him for shady deals. Specifically, to seduce wealthy old hags as a boy toy in superficial business arrangements.
"Collin, thank you for helping me through everything. You've changed my life more than you probably know. I mean it. If it weren't for you, I'd probably still be flipping pizzas at my old job. Thank you for believing in me when no one else did."
"You don't have to thank me so dramatically. I'm just doing my job like any decent agent would," Collin waved off the praise nonchalantly and entered the car as though compliments didn't affect him.
He was still driving the same bumpy, smoke-belching car that looked and sounded like it could explode at any second. He had been meaning to buy a better one, but his hectic schedule hadn't allowed it.
Lately, he'd been swamped with meetings and press events, especially while collaborating with Uni-Versus Pictures to promote The Accidental Wedding Crashers in multiple cities.
He would've settled for a second-hand upgrade, anything that wasn't embarrassing to drive. A car that didn't spew black smoke like an industrial chimney.
"Also, you and Axel will attend a show tomorrow to promote the movie. I already confirmed your schedule. Don't forget."
"Of course," Lawrence replied without hesitation. He'd signed a contract requiring him to promote The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and he was being paid for it too. Promotion was included in Uni-Versus' PR budget.
"You just need to trust me a little more. I recognized your talent the moment I saw you. You've got to start believing in yourself the way I believe in you. We're not small players anymore, we're climbing up. So how about we swing by the bank and settle my commission? Don't think I forgot that easily."
"Let's go," Lawrence said with a bright laugh. He had no intention of cheating his agent or withholding his dues. That was the last thing he'd do. Especially to someone who had believed in him and helped him secure such a big payday.
Fifteen percent of $1.5 million amounted to $225,000. After deducting ANT's agency fee of $67,000, Collin earned a clean $158,000 in commission.
It was a great day, perhaps the best in his career so far. Collin had just made a six-figure income from a single business deal, and without even breaking a sweat. He could clearly see the road ahead to success. He smirked in satisfaction.
Even if he wanted to, Collin couldn't hide the $1.5 million deal from ANT. He was required to report the full transaction and wire the $67,000 owed to the company immediately.
There had been instances of agents vanishing after pocketing large commissions, disappearing without a trace. But those agents were swiftly blacklisted in Hollywood permanently.
Worse still, ANT was notorious for its top-tier search team. Rumor had it they hired ex-detectives or intelligence officers. They could track down rogue agents and bring them to justice with legal force. Some agents even went to jail after being found and tried in court.
Collin also heard that ANT was trying to tighten this aspect of business even further. They wanted talent fees to go through the agency first, with agents being paid only after reports and performance evaluations. But this system hadn't been implemented yet, facing resistance from long-term agents who valued their independence.
So, under the current setup, Collin and Lawrence had to process the transaction the old-fashioned way.
They arrived at the bank under the scorching heat and completed the process with smooth paperwork. Collin received his share with a grin on his face, then immediately wired ANT's share to their official bank account. He confirmed the transfer by contacting the company's accounting office through his phone.
Afterward, Collin and Lawrence went their separate ways with casual waves. They each had their own lives and responsibilities to attend to.
Lawrence wasn't bitter that his $750,000 payout had dropped to $525,000 after deductions. He owed Collin far too much to complain. The fact that Collin had signed a nobody like him still meant the world to Lawrence and he never forgot it.
Under the shade of a nearby tree, Lawrence smiled as he stared at his passbook. Money, fame, and art. Those were the three pillars that drove him. They were the biggest reasons he pursued this career despite all its hardships. And now, he had proof that dreams were achievable through talent and perseverance.
This first $1.5 million salary would forever remain in his memory as the symbol of his turning point. His heart pounded like a drum in his chest.
He spotted a phone booth on the street corner and used it to call his parents back home. They had been hesitant about his career choice at first, but they had supported him quietly in their own way. Lawrence gently wiped his tears with his sleeve, realizing only then that he was crying. Tears fell onto his T-shirt like soft raindrops.
"Hehe, I'm getting emotional like an idiot."
.........
......
...
Elsewhere in the city, Collin was driving monotonously with one hand on the wheel. He glanced at the broken radio in his car, almost wishing it would magically start working.
It didn't.
He then looked at the rearview mirror and saw the thick black smoke trailing from his car like a moving pollution machine.
"…No wonder the guards at the apartment complex look at me like I'm some kind of criminal," he muttered under his breath.
Still, he had closed a great deal today, reason enough to celebrate. There was no excuse now to keep driving a car that looked and sounded like a dying steam engine.
'Maybe buying a brand-new car is better than getting a second-hand one. A Toyuta or Hunda will do, something cheap to maintain, but long-lasting and smoke-free.'
He decided he would reward himself as soon as his schedule cleared up a bit. He was still the producer of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and that job wasn't over yet.
"Hey, you fucking bastard! Your car's gonna cause lung cancer! Take that thing to a scrapyard!"
Collin heard a voice full of fury and looked out his window. A homeless man was shouting at him from the side of the road while his car chugged along, belching black smoke like a malfunctioning industrial engine.
"..."
Collin cringed so hard that his face twitched.
While driving, he noticed a car dealership just a block ahead. Without a second thought, he pulled over.
His decision was firm and irreversible now. This old, embarrassing car was ruining his image as a professional talent agent.
That day, Collin finally rewarded himself with a new vehicle. He bought a Toyuta Corulla for $10,000 after a brief chat with the dealer.
He cherished that car ever since.
Lawrence was officially cast in the romance movie Passionate Island after a nerve-wracking audition and an emotionally charged performance.
His salary was $1.5 million, a number that still didn't feel real to him. However, he only received half of that amount upfront, as part of the standard payment structure for a new actor like him, who lacked strong industry credibility.
The remaining half would be paid upon completion of his work and after filming wrapped up. This clause was added to ensure that Lawrence wouldn't abandon the project midway or vanish during production.
Furthermore, if Lawrence seriously violated the contract, such as missing scheduled shoots without valid reasons or causing major conflicts on set, he could forfeit the remaining balance entirely. He might even be fired from the project, though that kind of action was typically reserved for extreme situations where no other choice remained.
Lawrence and Collin stepped out of the Sonya-Collapse building with light steps and lifted spirits. They were in a good mood, and for good reason. They had just secured a career-defining deal.
Just a few months ago, neither of them could land big projects or earn real money like most top-tier talents in the industry.
But everything changed when The Accidental Wedding Crashers was released and became a hit. Suddenly, they weren't nobodies anymore.
As they headed to the parking lot under the blazing sun, Lawrence glanced at Collin with admiration. At that moment, he fully realized just how good a decision it had been to sign with him. He chuckled at the memory of how he initially thought Collin only wanted to sign him to use him for shady deals. Specifically, to seduce wealthy old hags as a boy toy in superficial business arrangements.
"Collin, thank you for helping me through everything. You've changed my life more than you probably know. I mean it. If it weren't for you, I'd probably still be flipping pizzas at my old job. Thank you for believing in me when no one else did."
"You don't have to thank me so dramatically. I'm just doing my job like any decent agent would," Collin waved off the praise nonchalantly and entered the car as though compliments didn't affect him.
He was still driving the same bumpy, smoke-belching car that looked and sounded like it could explode at any second. He had been meaning to buy a better one, but his hectic schedule hadn't allowed it.
Lately, he'd been swamped with meetings and press events, especially while collaborating with Uni-Versus Pictures to promote The Accidental Wedding Crashers in multiple cities.
He would've settled for a second-hand upgrade, anything that wasn't embarrassing to drive. A car that didn't spew black smoke like an industrial chimney.
"Also, you and Axel will attend a show tomorrow to promote the movie. I already confirmed your schedule. Don't forget."
"Of course," Lawrence replied without hesitation. He'd signed a contract requiring him to promote The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and he was being paid for it too. Promotion was included in Uni-Versus' PR budget.
"You just need to trust me a little more. I recognized your talent the moment I saw you. You've got to start believing in yourself the way I believe in you. We're not small players anymore, we're climbing up. So how about we swing by the bank and settle my commission? Don't think I forgot that easily."
"Let's go," Lawrence said with a bright laugh. He had no intention of cheating his agent or withholding his dues. That was the last thing he'd do. Especially to someone who had believed in him and helped him secure such a big payday.
Fifteen percent of $1.5 million amounted to $225,000. After deducting ANT's agency fee of $67,000, Collin earned a clean $158,000 in commission.
It was a great day, perhaps the best in his career so far. Collin had just made a six-figure income from a single business deal, and without even breaking a sweat. He could clearly see the road ahead to success. He smirked in satisfaction.
Even if he wanted to, Collin couldn't hide the $1.5 million deal from ANT. He was required to report the full transaction and wire the $67,000 owed to the company immediately.
There had been instances of agents vanishing after pocketing large commissions, disappearing without a trace. But those agents were swiftly blacklisted in Hollywood permanently.
Worse still, ANT was notorious for its top-tier search team. Rumor had it they hired ex-detectives or intelligence officers. They could track down rogue agents and bring them to justice with legal force. Some agents even went to jail after being found and tried in court.
Collin also heard that ANT was trying to tighten this aspect of business even further. They wanted talent fees to go through the agency first, with agents being paid only after reports and performance evaluations. But this system hadn't been implemented yet, facing resistance from long-term agents who valued their independence.
So, under the current setup, Collin and Lawrence had to process the transaction the old-fashioned way.
They arrived at the bank under the scorching heat and completed the process with smooth paperwork. Collin received his share with a grin on his face, then immediately wired ANT's share to their official bank account. He confirmed the transfer by contacting the company's accounting office through his phone.
Afterward, Collin and Lawrence went their separate ways with casual waves. They each had their own lives and responsibilities to attend to.
Lawrence wasn't bitter that his $750,000 payout had dropped to $525,000 after deductions. He owed Collin far too much to complain. The fact that Collin had signed a nobody like him still meant the world to Lawrence and he never forgot it.
Under the shade of a nearby tree, Lawrence smiled as he stared at his passbook. Money, fame, and art. Those were the three pillars that drove him. They were the biggest reasons he pursued this career despite all its hardships. And now, he had proof that dreams were achievable through talent and perseverance.
This first $1.5 million salary would forever remain in his memory as the symbol of his turning point. His heart pounded like a drum in his chest.
He spotted a phone booth on the street corner and used it to call his parents back home. They had been hesitant about his career choice at first, but they had supported him quietly in their own way. Lawrence gently wiped his tears with his sleeve, realizing only then that he was crying. Tears fell onto his T-shirt like soft raindrops.
"Hehe, I'm getting emotional like an idiot."
.........
......
...
Elsewhere in the city, Collin was driving monotonously with one hand on the wheel. He glanced at the broken radio in his car, almost wishing it would magically start working.
It didn't.
He then looked at the rearview mirror and saw the thick black smoke trailing from his car like a moving pollution machine.
"…No wonder the guards at the apartment complex look at me like I'm some kind of criminal," he muttered under his breath.
Still, he had closed a great deal today, reason enough to celebrate. There was no excuse now to keep driving a car that looked and sounded like a dying steam engine.
'Maybe buying a brand-new car is better than getting a second-hand one. A Toyuta or Hunda will do, something cheap to maintain, but long-lasting and smoke-free.'
He decided he would reward himself as soon as his schedule cleared up a bit. He was still the producer of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and that job wasn't over yet.
"Hey, you fucking bastard! Your car's gonna cause lung cancer! Take that thing to a scrapyard!"
Collin heard a voice full of fury and looked out his window. A homeless man was shouting at him from the side of the road while his car chugged along, belching black smoke like a malfunctioning industrial engine.
"..."
Collin cringed so hard that his face twitched.
While driving, he noticed a car dealership just a block ahead. Without a second thought, he pulled over.
His decision was firm and irreversible now. This old, embarrassing car was ruining his image as a professional talent agent.
That day, Collin finally rewarded himself with a new vehicle. He bought a Toyuta Corulla for $10,000 after a brief chat with the dealer.
He cherished that car ever since.
Chapter 50
New
Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 50
December 4, 1995.
It had been seven weeks since the premiere of The Accidental Wedding Crashers took the box office by storm. The movie grossed over $147 million at the North American box office after 45 days of screening. An undeniable achievement for such an unexpected hit.
The number of theaters screening the movie had dropped to 1,700 from its initial wide release of more than 2,100 screens. However, the situation was different in other countries, where the hype was only just beginning.
Uni-Versus Pictures had a worldwide distribution network that few could rival. This allowed them to send their movies to international markets efficiently and with greater reach.
Once domestic theater counts began declining, Uni-Versus kicked into global gear. They began shipping the 4-foot-long film reels, carefully packed and labeled, to foreign countries to continue the film's momentum abroad.
Their first targets were English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, and others where Western comedy typically performed well.
In 1995, technology was still behind the future digital age. Movies were distributed via bulky physical reels rather than lightweight digital transfers, making global distribution logistically challenging and demanding.
This was why only a select few studios had the resources and experience to distribute movies worldwide smoothly. It took at least a decade of effort and infrastructure to build a distribution chain that truly worked across borders.
At that time, only the Big Six and a few selected B-list studios with extensive international ties could manage such feats without much friction.
So, while The Accidental Wedding Crashers was winding down in North America and being overshadowed by newer releases, it was only just launching overseas. Anticipation in foreign countries was high, and international box office results would take longer to report due to slower systems abroad.
"Congratulations. I guess your decision to greenlight the movie paid off after all."
Henry Greyson raised his glass and clinked it gently against Collin's, the soft chime ringing through the festive air.
Tonight was the celebration party for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Collin had asked Henry if he knew of a good venue to rent, and naturally, he invited Henry along with many others involved in the project to join the event.
The venue was an open area illuminated by gentle garden lights. A soft hymn of violins filled the air, with musicians performing peaceful, elegant tunes to match the occasion. Long tables were adorned with drinks and delicacies carefully curated to impress the guests.
Collin ensured every detail was handled, from food service to music cues. As the producer, he wanted the celebration to be meaningful. While he was getting tired of the position, he understood the importance of this event. To make things smoother, he'd hired a professional party manager to take care of the arrangements so he could enjoy the night.
A successful movie deserved a celebration worthy of its triumph. The Accidental Wedding Crashers had become a breakout hit that surprised critics and audiences alike. Out of the thousands of movies released in 1995, only six grossed over $100 million at the North American box office.
That made this film a certified box office hit and a standout success of 1995.
It was a big W.
A major win for everyone involved.
And now, they had gathered to celebrate the size of the W with laughter, wine, and good company.
Perhaps only a few people would understand that reference.
Collin looked around and saw the cast enjoying themselves in a moment of pure joy. Some had already downed a few glasses of alcohol, their cheeks flushed and collars loosened as they talked louder than usual.
Uni-Versus also participated in the event as a sign of goodwill and a marketing opportunity. The studio even invited some celebrities to liven up the atmosphere. Each guest had their own reason for attending. Some wanted to network with the rising stars, while others were simply looking for a fun night out.
However, something obvious stood out in the mingling crowd. Wyatt was attracting attention like a magnet, surrounded by people who were drawn to the director behind the surprise box office hit.
"If you'd asked me months ago if Wyatt would make it in this industry, I'd have said no," Henry admitted, swirling the wine in his glass. "He was too inexperienced. Still looks like a kid with those chubby cheeks. But now? I don't even know what to believe anymore. His success is undeniable."
Henry's face was flushed, likely from the wine. His tone was loose, his words coming out without filters.
Collin nodded slowly. If not for his golden vision, he wouldn't have backed Wyatt's directorial debut so confidently.
"Just like I said before, Collin… you really know how to pick the right people."
Collin laughed genuinely, touched by the sincerity in Henry's voice. It was real praise, rare and meaningful, and it made him feel unexpectedly emotional.
"Thank you, Henry."
Henry Greyson was the producer who had previously overseen Director Esteban's project earlier that year. He was also the friend who helped Collin get Wyatt on that project. Collin had never forgotten that favor.
Director Esteban's film had been a drama with mature themes, released before The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Its modest $12 million budget returned a respectable $83 million in the domestic box office.
Though successful, the studio felt the film's niche subject matter didn't warrant international distribution. As a result, its profits remained limited despite its strong reception.
Collin knew that Wyatt's opportunity on Esteban's set had helped him gain the experience he needed before leading his own project.
"How's Director Esteban doing these days?" Collin asked casually, giving his wine glass a gentle swirl as they settled into chairs near the edge of the party.
Around them, the celebration was reaching a peak. Music and laughter mixed with the scent of perfume and alcohol. More guests were getting tipsy, the mood turning chaotic but joyous. Collin even caught a faint whiff of weed lingering in the air.
"He's doing great," Henry replied, hiccupping with a smile. "The movie wrapped on a high note. He's taking a break, no plans for a new project this year. He wants to relax for a bit."
"That's good to hear. Then maybe you've got some free time to take on another project, if you're interested. I'm looking for someone I can fully trust."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Henry frowned, squinting slightly. Despite his buzz, Collin's words cut through the haze.
"Wyatt's ready to start a new project. I'm looking for a producer who can help him pitch it to a studio. Interested?" Collin asked with a smile, a spark flickering in his eyes.
"..." Henry paused. His eyes sharpened, a sober glint flashing through them. He turned to look at Wyatt, who was still surrounded by admirers like the true star of the night.
"When we started The Accidental Wedding Crashers, I approached so many producers and asked if they'd manage the project or give Wyatt a chance," Collin said, a sudden laugh breaking through his voice. "Every single one of them turned me down without hesitation. Not even a second thought."
He leaned back and chuckled, almost bitterly.
"Now? They've been asking me about Wyatt's next project like nothing ever happened. Acting like they've supported him all along. They want to be his producer now, trying to ride his wave."
He grinned, his expression laced with contempt.
Those bastards were shameless. Spineless. It was laughable.
Collin turned to Henry, his green eyes glowing slightly in the soft light. He wasn't even looking directly at him, his gaze hovered just above his head, as though he was seeing something invisible, something only he could perceive.
"Collin..."
In that moment, Henry realized something. Collin had changed. He was no longer a desperate agent scrambling for work. There was a new confidence in him. An unshakable presence that only came with success.
Henry swallowed hard, trying to ease the sudden dryness in his throat. It was probably the alcohol… or maybe it was something else entirely.
December 4, 1995.
It had been seven weeks since the premiere of The Accidental Wedding Crashers took the box office by storm. The movie grossed over $147 million at the North American box office after 45 days of screening. An undeniable achievement for such an unexpected hit.
The number of theaters screening the movie had dropped to 1,700 from its initial wide release of more than 2,100 screens. However, the situation was different in other countries, where the hype was only just beginning.
Uni-Versus Pictures had a worldwide distribution network that few could rival. This allowed them to send their movies to international markets efficiently and with greater reach.
Once domestic theater counts began declining, Uni-Versus kicked into global gear. They began shipping the 4-foot-long film reels, carefully packed and labeled, to foreign countries to continue the film's momentum abroad.
Their first targets were English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, and others where Western comedy typically performed well.
In 1995, technology was still behind the future digital age. Movies were distributed via bulky physical reels rather than lightweight digital transfers, making global distribution logistically challenging and demanding.
This was why only a select few studios had the resources and experience to distribute movies worldwide smoothly. It took at least a decade of effort and infrastructure to build a distribution chain that truly worked across borders.
At that time, only the Big Six and a few selected B-list studios with extensive international ties could manage such feats without much friction.
So, while The Accidental Wedding Crashers was winding down in North America and being overshadowed by newer releases, it was only just launching overseas. Anticipation in foreign countries was high, and international box office results would take longer to report due to slower systems abroad.
"Congratulations. I guess your decision to greenlight the movie paid off after all."
Henry Greyson raised his glass and clinked it gently against Collin's, the soft chime ringing through the festive air.
Tonight was the celebration party for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Collin had asked Henry if he knew of a good venue to rent, and naturally, he invited Henry along with many others involved in the project to join the event.
The venue was an open area illuminated by gentle garden lights. A soft hymn of violins filled the air, with musicians performing peaceful, elegant tunes to match the occasion. Long tables were adorned with drinks and delicacies carefully curated to impress the guests.
Collin ensured every detail was handled, from food service to music cues. As the producer, he wanted the celebration to be meaningful. While he was getting tired of the position, he understood the importance of this event. To make things smoother, he'd hired a professional party manager to take care of the arrangements so he could enjoy the night.
A successful movie deserved a celebration worthy of its triumph. The Accidental Wedding Crashers had become a breakout hit that surprised critics and audiences alike. Out of the thousands of movies released in 1995, only six grossed over $100 million at the North American box office.
That made this film a certified box office hit and a standout success of 1995.
It was a big W.
A major win for everyone involved.
And now, they had gathered to celebrate the size of the W with laughter, wine, and good company.
Perhaps only a few people would understand that reference.
Collin looked around and saw the cast enjoying themselves in a moment of pure joy. Some had already downed a few glasses of alcohol, their cheeks flushed and collars loosened as they talked louder than usual.
Uni-Versus also participated in the event as a sign of goodwill and a marketing opportunity. The studio even invited some celebrities to liven up the atmosphere. Each guest had their own reason for attending. Some wanted to network with the rising stars, while others were simply looking for a fun night out.
However, something obvious stood out in the mingling crowd. Wyatt was attracting attention like a magnet, surrounded by people who were drawn to the director behind the surprise box office hit.
"If you'd asked me months ago if Wyatt would make it in this industry, I'd have said no," Henry admitted, swirling the wine in his glass. "He was too inexperienced. Still looks like a kid with those chubby cheeks. But now? I don't even know what to believe anymore. His success is undeniable."
Henry's face was flushed, likely from the wine. His tone was loose, his words coming out without filters.
Collin nodded slowly. If not for his golden vision, he wouldn't have backed Wyatt's directorial debut so confidently.
"Just like I said before, Collin… you really know how to pick the right people."
Collin laughed genuinely, touched by the sincerity in Henry's voice. It was real praise, rare and meaningful, and it made him feel unexpectedly emotional.
"Thank you, Henry."
Henry Greyson was the producer who had previously overseen Director Esteban's project earlier that year. He was also the friend who helped Collin get Wyatt on that project. Collin had never forgotten that favor.
Director Esteban's film had been a drama with mature themes, released before The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Its modest $12 million budget returned a respectable $83 million in the domestic box office.
Though successful, the studio felt the film's niche subject matter didn't warrant international distribution. As a result, its profits remained limited despite its strong reception.
Collin knew that Wyatt's opportunity on Esteban's set had helped him gain the experience he needed before leading his own project.
"How's Director Esteban doing these days?" Collin asked casually, giving his wine glass a gentle swirl as they settled into chairs near the edge of the party.
Around them, the celebration was reaching a peak. Music and laughter mixed with the scent of perfume and alcohol. More guests were getting tipsy, the mood turning chaotic but joyous. Collin even caught a faint whiff of weed lingering in the air.
"He's doing great," Henry replied, hiccupping with a smile. "The movie wrapped on a high note. He's taking a break, no plans for a new project this year. He wants to relax for a bit."
"That's good to hear. Then maybe you've got some free time to take on another project, if you're interested. I'm looking for someone I can fully trust."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Henry frowned, squinting slightly. Despite his buzz, Collin's words cut through the haze.
"Wyatt's ready to start a new project. I'm looking for a producer who can help him pitch it to a studio. Interested?" Collin asked with a smile, a spark flickering in his eyes.
"..." Henry paused. His eyes sharpened, a sober glint flashing through them. He turned to look at Wyatt, who was still surrounded by admirers like the true star of the night.
"When we started The Accidental Wedding Crashers, I approached so many producers and asked if they'd manage the project or give Wyatt a chance," Collin said, a sudden laugh breaking through his voice. "Every single one of them turned me down without hesitation. Not even a second thought."
He leaned back and chuckled, almost bitterly.
"Now? They've been asking me about Wyatt's next project like nothing ever happened. Acting like they've supported him all along. They want to be his producer now, trying to ride his wave."
He grinned, his expression laced with contempt.
Those bastards were shameless. Spineless. It was laughable.
Collin turned to Henry, his green eyes glowing slightly in the soft light. He wasn't even looking directly at him, his gaze hovered just above his head, as though he was seeing something invisible, something only he could perceive.
"Collin..."
In that moment, Henry realized something. Collin had changed. He was no longer a desperate agent scrambling for work. There was a new confidence in him. An unshakable presence that only came with success.
Henry swallowed hard, trying to ease the sudden dryness in his throat. It was probably the alcohol… or maybe it was something else entirely.
Chapter 51
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
- Joined
- Sep 8, 2022
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- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 51
--Henry Greyson
--Crisis Management (White)
Collin had been using his superpower for more than ten months since it first mysteriously awakened. He had gradually learned how it worked and how to activate it, at least, he believed so.
If a person did something related to their talent, whether consciously or subconsciously, words would form above their head like a glowing label that only Collin could see.
Aside from that, if Collin initiated a conversation with someone and the topic involved the person's talent, words would also appear above their head, even if they weren't actively demonstrating their skill at that moment. He had only recently discovered this through trial and error and was still unsure of the exact mechanics, as the power didn't come with an instruction manual.
This explained why, when he and Wyatt discussed comedy scripts, Wyatt's two golden talents shone brightly almost as if basking in divine light.
Collin had also used this method when interviewing members of the production crew for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. These professionals didn't have the opportunity to showcase their talent in action, yet Collin still saw the glowing words hovering above them like nameplates, revealing their hidden potential. He hired the useful ones.
Now, he was using the same trick to determine Henry Greyson's talent while carefully steering their conversation.
'A white talent related to crisis management, not bad at all.' Collin quietly nodded to himself.
That explained how Henry had swiftly resolved the issue with the casting director who assaulted an actress, all without sparking a public scandal.
Collin had experienced firsthand the stress and complexity of being a producer, and he had no intention of taking on that role again. It was too mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausting. Collin had already found his own way to earn a good living through talent representation and industry deals. Producing movies, with its delayed payoffs and high stakes, just didn't appeal to him at all.
His current methods were more direct and yielded faster returns. While commissions might be smaller than profit shares, they came quicker and didn't involve the nerve-wracking uncertainty of a movie's performance. Films could take years to pay off and sometimes flopped without warning.
"I heard you helped Wyatt as a producer and that you have a share in the profits. The Accidental Wedding Crashers grossed over $140 million, your share must be worth millions. Are you sure you don't want to keep producing movies?" Henry asked, half-curious, half-amused.
"Nah. I don't want to deal with that kind of load again. The work is too much, and I like breathing freely."
"Then why me?" Henry asked, still puzzled.
"Because we're friends, and I value loyalty. I can entrust Wyatt to you without worrying about betrayal or incompetence. Unlike the other producers, who are just greedy, you're one of the few I know with a conscience and a working moral compass. Wyatt needs someone who can manage a project without stabbing him in the back. He's still new in this industry, and you're a veteran. You have better connections to investors and distribution studios, resources that can elevate his next film. If you choose to work with Wyatt, you won't regret it. I promise you that."
"Wow, you're that confident in Wyatt?" Henry chuckled and took a gulp of his drink, slightly overwhelmed by Collin's unwavering faith. Truthfully, the only reason he'd even come to the party was because Collin invited him and because he didn't have any current projects.
"Of course. He's my client, and I believe in his talent completely. I wouldn't have signed him if I didn't believe in him from the very beginning."
"Fair enough," Henry muttered, now genuinely considering the offer.
He weighed the proposal seriously. His standard pay ranged from $500,000 to $1 million per project, depending on the film's scale. On top of that, he had a profit-sharing clause tied to the box office, though it was determined by the investors, who held real control.
If a movie didn't gross at least $50 million, Henry only received his base salary. But if the box office crossed that benchmark, he earned a 3% cut of the profits as a reward for success. It wasn't much, considering he was just a B-list producer in an industry obsessed with A-listers.
Yes, even producers had tiers, just like actors, agents, and directors. Henry primarily worked on small to mid-budget films where both risks and rewards were moderate.
As for copyrights, he had no stake unless specifically outlined in a separate legal agreement with investors.
"You think Wyatt's going to be a superstar director?"
"I believe in him with everything I've got," Collin repeated firmly, his voice resolute.
"Well… let's see where this takes us. I've got no projects lined up at the moment, so I might as well take the opportunity before someone else does."
Henry extended his hand with a smile. Collin grinned as the two shook hands in mutual understanding. Tonight's party had become a success just from securing this new partnership.
Collin didn't want Wyatt to be tainted by Hollywood's dark side, at least, not yet, while he still had some innocence left. A strict and principled person like Henry was the perfect guardian for that goal.
Henry was also clearly better than the producers Collin had approached a few months ago when nobody gave Wyatt a chance. The only reason he'd even spoken to those people was because they had open schedules and the project needed someone to manage, not because they were the best choices.
'Their rejections helped me make money, though, so I guess I should thank them too.'
Collin and Henry clinked their glasses again as they soaked in the party's buzz, full of success and potential.
The celebration continued late into the night, with laughter echoing and most guests already gone, off to nurse their hangovers. Collin had successfully expanded his network after conversing with executives from multiple studios and agents who now recognized his name. He'd even handed out business cards to several attending directors, including a few notable ones who showed interest.
Axel and Wyatt had both left long before midnight. Collin had seen Wyatt sneaking away with a young actress, the two giggling as they vanished together, never to return, that suggested something.
Axel, meanwhile, had a gloomier expression and gave Collin a weak, half-hearted smile before saying his goodbyes.
Henry had also left.
Only Lawrence and Jennifer remained from the original group. Jennifer looked completely sober despite drinking all night, alcohol didn't seem to affect her. Collin already knew she had an absurdly high tolerance.
As for Lawrence… well, the actor was wobbling across the street like a baby learning to walk.
"Collin, you might want to call a taxi for Lawrence before he faceplants into a fire hydrant. He lives near this building, but he probably can't walk straight without zigzagging into traffic. He might get into an accident or worse. You don't want your promising client to get his brain matter splattered everywhere while his intestines and organs are—"
"Okay, hit the brakes, Jennifer. You might want to control your mouth before someone throws a drink at you."
"Shut your bitch ass up and let me say what I want. You, a depressed agent with a failed romantic relationship."
"Okay, fine, I give up. I'll talk to Lawrence. I know his address, and it's not far. If it weren't in the opposite direction from my place, I'd drive him home myself. Still, taking care of a drunk person is such a hassle."
Collin walked over to Lawrence, who was mumbling something nonsensical and emotionally loaded. The actor was leaning against the wall of a closed storefront.
"Hehe… what do you think, Uncle? You said I'd never succeed as an actor, well, look at me now! Say it to my face again! Instead of judging me, why don't you educate your daughter who had eight kids with different men!"
…Damn.
Collin blinked. Apparently, Lawrence's female cousin had her own chaotic drama. What a juicy drop of backstory from a drunken rant.
"Hey, Lawrence, just stay there. Please don't move. I'm calling a taxi to take you home before you try to fly."
"Hm? Apartment? Ah, yes yes! I can drive. I bought a brand new car, and I want to drive it! Broom! Broom!" he exclaimed, mimicking a steering wheel with dramatic flair.
"No, that's not safe—"
Collin's words were cut short when Jennifer suddenly appeared between them like a thundercloud. She glared coldly at Lawrence's drunken state, looking like she was about to pass judgment with zero mercy.
--Henry Greyson
--Crisis Management (White)
Collin had been using his superpower for more than ten months since it first mysteriously awakened. He had gradually learned how it worked and how to activate it, at least, he believed so.
If a person did something related to their talent, whether consciously or subconsciously, words would form above their head like a glowing label that only Collin could see.
Aside from that, if Collin initiated a conversation with someone and the topic involved the person's talent, words would also appear above their head, even if they weren't actively demonstrating their skill at that moment. He had only recently discovered this through trial and error and was still unsure of the exact mechanics, as the power didn't come with an instruction manual.
This explained why, when he and Wyatt discussed comedy scripts, Wyatt's two golden talents shone brightly almost as if basking in divine light.
Collin had also used this method when interviewing members of the production crew for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. These professionals didn't have the opportunity to showcase their talent in action, yet Collin still saw the glowing words hovering above them like nameplates, revealing their hidden potential. He hired the useful ones.
Now, he was using the same trick to determine Henry Greyson's talent while carefully steering their conversation.
'A white talent related to crisis management, not bad at all.' Collin quietly nodded to himself.
That explained how Henry had swiftly resolved the issue with the casting director who assaulted an actress, all without sparking a public scandal.
Collin had experienced firsthand the stress and complexity of being a producer, and he had no intention of taking on that role again. It was too mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausting. Collin had already found his own way to earn a good living through talent representation and industry deals. Producing movies, with its delayed payoffs and high stakes, just didn't appeal to him at all.
His current methods were more direct and yielded faster returns. While commissions might be smaller than profit shares, they came quicker and didn't involve the nerve-wracking uncertainty of a movie's performance. Films could take years to pay off and sometimes flopped without warning.
"I heard you helped Wyatt as a producer and that you have a share in the profits. The Accidental Wedding Crashers grossed over $140 million, your share must be worth millions. Are you sure you don't want to keep producing movies?" Henry asked, half-curious, half-amused.
"Nah. I don't want to deal with that kind of load again. The work is too much, and I like breathing freely."
"Then why me?" Henry asked, still puzzled.
"Because we're friends, and I value loyalty. I can entrust Wyatt to you without worrying about betrayal or incompetence. Unlike the other producers, who are just greedy, you're one of the few I know with a conscience and a working moral compass. Wyatt needs someone who can manage a project without stabbing him in the back. He's still new in this industry, and you're a veteran. You have better connections to investors and distribution studios, resources that can elevate his next film. If you choose to work with Wyatt, you won't regret it. I promise you that."
"Wow, you're that confident in Wyatt?" Henry chuckled and took a gulp of his drink, slightly overwhelmed by Collin's unwavering faith. Truthfully, the only reason he'd even come to the party was because Collin invited him and because he didn't have any current projects.
"Of course. He's my client, and I believe in his talent completely. I wouldn't have signed him if I didn't believe in him from the very beginning."
"Fair enough," Henry muttered, now genuinely considering the offer.
He weighed the proposal seriously. His standard pay ranged from $500,000 to $1 million per project, depending on the film's scale. On top of that, he had a profit-sharing clause tied to the box office, though it was determined by the investors, who held real control.
If a movie didn't gross at least $50 million, Henry only received his base salary. But if the box office crossed that benchmark, he earned a 3% cut of the profits as a reward for success. It wasn't much, considering he was just a B-list producer in an industry obsessed with A-listers.
Yes, even producers had tiers, just like actors, agents, and directors. Henry primarily worked on small to mid-budget films where both risks and rewards were moderate.
As for copyrights, he had no stake unless specifically outlined in a separate legal agreement with investors.
"You think Wyatt's going to be a superstar director?"
"I believe in him with everything I've got," Collin repeated firmly, his voice resolute.
"Well… let's see where this takes us. I've got no projects lined up at the moment, so I might as well take the opportunity before someone else does."
Henry extended his hand with a smile. Collin grinned as the two shook hands in mutual understanding. Tonight's party had become a success just from securing this new partnership.
Collin didn't want Wyatt to be tainted by Hollywood's dark side, at least, not yet, while he still had some innocence left. A strict and principled person like Henry was the perfect guardian for that goal.
Henry was also clearly better than the producers Collin had approached a few months ago when nobody gave Wyatt a chance. The only reason he'd even spoken to those people was because they had open schedules and the project needed someone to manage, not because they were the best choices.
'Their rejections helped me make money, though, so I guess I should thank them too.'
Collin and Henry clinked their glasses again as they soaked in the party's buzz, full of success and potential.
The celebration continued late into the night, with laughter echoing and most guests already gone, off to nurse their hangovers. Collin had successfully expanded his network after conversing with executives from multiple studios and agents who now recognized his name. He'd even handed out business cards to several attending directors, including a few notable ones who showed interest.
Axel and Wyatt had both left long before midnight. Collin had seen Wyatt sneaking away with a young actress, the two giggling as they vanished together, never to return, that suggested something.
Axel, meanwhile, had a gloomier expression and gave Collin a weak, half-hearted smile before saying his goodbyes.
Henry had also left.
Only Lawrence and Jennifer remained from the original group. Jennifer looked completely sober despite drinking all night, alcohol didn't seem to affect her. Collin already knew she had an absurdly high tolerance.
As for Lawrence… well, the actor was wobbling across the street like a baby learning to walk.
"Collin, you might want to call a taxi for Lawrence before he faceplants into a fire hydrant. He lives near this building, but he probably can't walk straight without zigzagging into traffic. He might get into an accident or worse. You don't want your promising client to get his brain matter splattered everywhere while his intestines and organs are—"
"Okay, hit the brakes, Jennifer. You might want to control your mouth before someone throws a drink at you."
"Shut your bitch ass up and let me say what I want. You, a depressed agent with a failed romantic relationship."
"Okay, fine, I give up. I'll talk to Lawrence. I know his address, and it's not far. If it weren't in the opposite direction from my place, I'd drive him home myself. Still, taking care of a drunk person is such a hassle."
Collin walked over to Lawrence, who was mumbling something nonsensical and emotionally loaded. The actor was leaning against the wall of a closed storefront.
"Hehe… what do you think, Uncle? You said I'd never succeed as an actor, well, look at me now! Say it to my face again! Instead of judging me, why don't you educate your daughter who had eight kids with different men!"
…Damn.
Collin blinked. Apparently, Lawrence's female cousin had her own chaotic drama. What a juicy drop of backstory from a drunken rant.
"Hey, Lawrence, just stay there. Please don't move. I'm calling a taxi to take you home before you try to fly."
"Hm? Apartment? Ah, yes yes! I can drive. I bought a brand new car, and I want to drive it! Broom! Broom!" he exclaimed, mimicking a steering wheel with dramatic flair.
"No, that's not safe—"
Collin's words were cut short when Jennifer suddenly appeared between them like a thundercloud. She glared coldly at Lawrence's drunken state, looking like she was about to pass judgment with zero mercy.
Chapter 52
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
- Joined
- Sep 8, 2022
- Messages
- 1,013
- Likes received
- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 52
Jennifer grabbed Lawrence by his collar with the strength of someone fueled by righteous fury. Lawrence was stunned by the sudden aggression, but his slow reaction time failed to counter Jennifer's quick movements.
"You sick fuck. If I ever hear that you drive while drunk, I will crush your balls and feed them to wolves! Do you hear me?" she spat with venom, her eyes blazing with unfiltered rage.
Lawrence was too shocked to respond as his brain struggled to process the sudden verbal and physical assault. He was a theater kid, never prone to real-life violence, and now stood frozen like a deer caught in headlights.
"H-Hey, Jennifer. He's just drunk. Don't take what he says seriously," Collin tried to mediate, raising his hands to diffuse the tension.
Collin stepped in before things escalated into something worse.
"…I won't do it. Sorry," Lawrence muttered, sobered by fear and embarrassment.
He snapped out of his stupor as reality hit him harder than alcohol ever could. Now he was more somber.
"Good. If I ever hear you're drunk driving…" Jennifer said darkly, leaving the threat unfinished but heavy with implication.
"Okay, okay. Stop this now," Collin gently interjected again, hoping to settle things down once and for all.
Jennifer listened to Collin and released Lawrence, her fingers twitching before she finally let go.
Lawrence fixed his collar with trembling hands and glared at Jennifer with wounded pride but decided not to speak further, wisely choosing silence over more trouble.
"I will take my leave and call a taxi. You too, Collin. You shouldn't drive while under the influence," Jennifer said, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear and straightening her posture.
"Yes, I'll call a taxi too. Take care, Jennifer," Collin nodded, grateful the storm had passed.
The situation de-escalated, and Jennifer walked away with long, purposeful strides, leaving a heavy silence.
"Let's go. Don't worry about your car, it's parked in the lot, and mine's there too. I'll call a taxi for you," Collin offered, patting Lawrence on the back.
"What is her problem, man? She's crazy. I know she has a foul mouth, but randomly choking me is so messed up," Lawrence winced as he fixed his suit, still visibly shaken.
Unfortunately, the effort didn't hide the fact that he was a mess, with wrinkled clothes and unsteady footing.
"I don't know the full story, but I heard that Jennifer's older brother was killed in a drunk driving incident. The driver was under the influence and took her brother's life," Collin said in a quieter, more serious tone.
"…I'm sorry. I didn't know that. No wonder she's mad at me," Lawrence whispered, regret slowly settling in.
He scratched his head with a guilty expression. Lately, success had gone to his head, and he'd started to feel invincible, like nothing could touch him.
Earning a $1.5 million salary had inflated his ego and shrunk his humility.
"You can apologize to her the next time you see her, once things calm down. I know Jennifer. She's got a foul mouth, but she's kind deep down, despite the way she acts. She'll probably text you tomorrow to apologize," Collin smiled faintly.
"Yeah. I'll apologize," Lawrence nodded, finally understanding the gravity of his actions.
Collin found a taxi for Lawrence after a few minutes of waiting. The actor thanked him before leaving with a tired wave.
Later, Collin received a text from Lawrence confirming that he had returned safely to his apartment.
As for Collin himself, he followed Jennifer's advice and called a taxi, choosing not to risk anything reckless.
…......
…...
…
"Good morning, sir," a young voice greeted as the door opened.
"Good morning, Secretary Han. What's our agenda today?" Greg asked as he walked briskly to his desk.
At the top floor of Wash Dismay Studio, the Chairman of the company entered his office and asked his male secretary to go over the day's schedule, as he did every morning.
Chairman Greg Marinero sat down and glanced around his office, lined with luxury and the scent of polished wood. He had served as Chairman of Wash Dismay for a decade now, ten long years of corporate climbing and ruthless business moves. His achievements were displayed across the office like a curated museum of success.
Photographs of successful movies he promoted were fixed to the walls, framed in gold and silver. Dozens of trophies from prestigious awards gleamed on display shelves, catching sunlight like a spotlight. He was proud of every accomplishment and made sure anyone who entered knew it.
"Sir, today you will meet…" Secretary Han began, flipping through a folder.
The 57-year-old Chairman listened to his secretary with a distant yet focused expression.
"Okay, you can leave now," he said with a dismissive wave.
The secretary excused himself as Greg grabbed the morning newspaper and settled into his chair. The headline was about the comedy film released in October that had unexpectedly become the talk of the industry. The movie was considered the dark horse of 1995. No one had expected such a low-budget film to strike gold at the box office.
December 10, 1995. The Accidental Wedding Crashers had grossed over $152 million at the North American box office after 50 days of screening. It had also been released in Australia, the UK, Paris, Japan, and other countries, grossing over $17 million during its first week of international screening despite minimal promotion.
Greg slightly frowned as a bitter memory resurfaced. He recalled Taylor personally calling him about this movie months ago.
Taylor had said the film had potential and could be profitable if acquired. Greg approved a $35 million offer to buy the movie and secure the rights. Judging by what had happened since, Taylor had failed spectacularly.
Picking up the phone beside him, Greg instructed his secretary to summon Taylor and Emmanuel to his office immediately, no excuses.
Within ten minutes, the two arrived, standing stiff with anxious eyes. Taylor was sweating profusely from stress, while Emmanuel looked like he had sprinted through hell itself. Both men had a sense of what was coming, but neither wanted to speak first.
Greg's expression made it abundantly clear. He was furious about what happened with The Accidental Wedding Crashers.
"Tell me why you failed to get the movie," Greg said in a low voice, sharp as a blade.
His eyes locked onto them like a hawk's gaze, unblinking and predatory. He maintained Wash Dismay's elite status by ensuring every employee was either exceptional at their job or quickly replaced. He didn't like failure and he especially didn't like failure from Taylor and Emmanuel.
He also liked power-tripping. Perhaps that was the main reason he called them in, to assert dominance in person.
Taylor had been with the company longer than Emmanuel and knew how ugly things could get. He loved his job, had a housing loan, and couldn't afford to lose his position under any circumstances.
"Sir, it's because of this stupid guy," Taylor declared without blinking.
He pointed at Emmanuel without hesitation or regret, like it was second nature. Hollywood was a concrete jungle where survival of the fittest ruled even in boardrooms.
"Huh!?" Emmanuel gasped.
He was stunned, floored that Taylor would throw him under the bus so blatantly. He had assumed Taylor would take responsibility and explain the situation, especially since Taylor was the one who had failed to acquire the movie from the beginning.
"I-It's not me!" Emmanuel stammered.
"Shut up!" Taylor raised his voice and turned to Greg with dramatic flair.
"Sir, this bastard kept pestering the director and his agent. That's why we didn't get the movie!" Taylor lied through his teeth, desperation thick in his tone.
His excuse was rushed and obviously fake, like a bad impromptu performance. But he was gambling that Greg didn't care about the truth, only the outcome.
"That didn't happen!" Emmanuel shouted, eyes wide with disbelief.
"Your name is Emmanuel, right?" Greg asked coldly, staring at him like a judge about to deliver a death sentence. He didn't care if the excuse was real, only that the result was failure.
He lived by a motto: if a worker couldn't maintain peak performance, they didn't deserve to be at Wash Dismay, no matter their resume.
"You're fired. Guards, take him out!" Greg barked like a general on the battlefield.
The security, stationed just outside the doors, entered and forcibly removed Emmanuel, who shouted in protest while struggling to break free.
Taylor stood frozen, drenched in sweat down to his undershirt, watching the whole charade with silent horror.
Greg smiled faintly now that the outburst had passed. He loved being on top of the food chain, having the power to lift or destroy someone's future at a whim. The intoxicating control was like a drug he couldn't get enough of.
"Taylor."
"Y-Yes, sir!" Taylor snapped to attention.
"I don't want this to happen again," Greg said coolly, leaning back into his chair.
"Sir, yes, sir!" Taylor responded, tense and eager to please.
"Also, try to contact the director of The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Maybe he's interested in working with us. As long as he has an interesting script, we'll invest."
"Yes, sir!" Taylor bowed slightly, mentally recording every word.
He looked like a soldier being reprimanded in a war room. He kept saying "yes" and "sir," even saluting by reflex.
Once the door closed and the tension vanished with it, Greg began laughing, clutching his stomach like he'd just watched a slapstick comedy.
To him, it was all too funny and absolutely entertaining.
Jennifer grabbed Lawrence by his collar with the strength of someone fueled by righteous fury. Lawrence was stunned by the sudden aggression, but his slow reaction time failed to counter Jennifer's quick movements.
"You sick fuck. If I ever hear that you drive while drunk, I will crush your balls and feed them to wolves! Do you hear me?" she spat with venom, her eyes blazing with unfiltered rage.
Lawrence was too shocked to respond as his brain struggled to process the sudden verbal and physical assault. He was a theater kid, never prone to real-life violence, and now stood frozen like a deer caught in headlights.
"H-Hey, Jennifer. He's just drunk. Don't take what he says seriously," Collin tried to mediate, raising his hands to diffuse the tension.
Collin stepped in before things escalated into something worse.
"…I won't do it. Sorry," Lawrence muttered, sobered by fear and embarrassment.
He snapped out of his stupor as reality hit him harder than alcohol ever could. Now he was more somber.
"Good. If I ever hear you're drunk driving…" Jennifer said darkly, leaving the threat unfinished but heavy with implication.
"Okay, okay. Stop this now," Collin gently interjected again, hoping to settle things down once and for all.
Jennifer listened to Collin and released Lawrence, her fingers twitching before she finally let go.
Lawrence fixed his collar with trembling hands and glared at Jennifer with wounded pride but decided not to speak further, wisely choosing silence over more trouble.
"I will take my leave and call a taxi. You too, Collin. You shouldn't drive while under the influence," Jennifer said, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear and straightening her posture.
"Yes, I'll call a taxi too. Take care, Jennifer," Collin nodded, grateful the storm had passed.
The situation de-escalated, and Jennifer walked away with long, purposeful strides, leaving a heavy silence.
"Let's go. Don't worry about your car, it's parked in the lot, and mine's there too. I'll call a taxi for you," Collin offered, patting Lawrence on the back.
"What is her problem, man? She's crazy. I know she has a foul mouth, but randomly choking me is so messed up," Lawrence winced as he fixed his suit, still visibly shaken.
Unfortunately, the effort didn't hide the fact that he was a mess, with wrinkled clothes and unsteady footing.
"I don't know the full story, but I heard that Jennifer's older brother was killed in a drunk driving incident. The driver was under the influence and took her brother's life," Collin said in a quieter, more serious tone.
"…I'm sorry. I didn't know that. No wonder she's mad at me," Lawrence whispered, regret slowly settling in.
He scratched his head with a guilty expression. Lately, success had gone to his head, and he'd started to feel invincible, like nothing could touch him.
Earning a $1.5 million salary had inflated his ego and shrunk his humility.
"You can apologize to her the next time you see her, once things calm down. I know Jennifer. She's got a foul mouth, but she's kind deep down, despite the way she acts. She'll probably text you tomorrow to apologize," Collin smiled faintly.
"Yeah. I'll apologize," Lawrence nodded, finally understanding the gravity of his actions.
Collin found a taxi for Lawrence after a few minutes of waiting. The actor thanked him before leaving with a tired wave.
Later, Collin received a text from Lawrence confirming that he had returned safely to his apartment.
As for Collin himself, he followed Jennifer's advice and called a taxi, choosing not to risk anything reckless.
…......
…...
…
"Good morning, sir," a young voice greeted as the door opened.
"Good morning, Secretary Han. What's our agenda today?" Greg asked as he walked briskly to his desk.
At the top floor of Wash Dismay Studio, the Chairman of the company entered his office and asked his male secretary to go over the day's schedule, as he did every morning.
Chairman Greg Marinero sat down and glanced around his office, lined with luxury and the scent of polished wood. He had served as Chairman of Wash Dismay for a decade now, ten long years of corporate climbing and ruthless business moves. His achievements were displayed across the office like a curated museum of success.
Photographs of successful movies he promoted were fixed to the walls, framed in gold and silver. Dozens of trophies from prestigious awards gleamed on display shelves, catching sunlight like a spotlight. He was proud of every accomplishment and made sure anyone who entered knew it.
"Sir, today you will meet…" Secretary Han began, flipping through a folder.
The 57-year-old Chairman listened to his secretary with a distant yet focused expression.
"Okay, you can leave now," he said with a dismissive wave.
The secretary excused himself as Greg grabbed the morning newspaper and settled into his chair. The headline was about the comedy film released in October that had unexpectedly become the talk of the industry. The movie was considered the dark horse of 1995. No one had expected such a low-budget film to strike gold at the box office.
December 10, 1995. The Accidental Wedding Crashers had grossed over $152 million at the North American box office after 50 days of screening. It had also been released in Australia, the UK, Paris, Japan, and other countries, grossing over $17 million during its first week of international screening despite minimal promotion.
Greg slightly frowned as a bitter memory resurfaced. He recalled Taylor personally calling him about this movie months ago.
Taylor had said the film had potential and could be profitable if acquired. Greg approved a $35 million offer to buy the movie and secure the rights. Judging by what had happened since, Taylor had failed spectacularly.
Picking up the phone beside him, Greg instructed his secretary to summon Taylor and Emmanuel to his office immediately, no excuses.
Within ten minutes, the two arrived, standing stiff with anxious eyes. Taylor was sweating profusely from stress, while Emmanuel looked like he had sprinted through hell itself. Both men had a sense of what was coming, but neither wanted to speak first.
Greg's expression made it abundantly clear. He was furious about what happened with The Accidental Wedding Crashers.
"Tell me why you failed to get the movie," Greg said in a low voice, sharp as a blade.
His eyes locked onto them like a hawk's gaze, unblinking and predatory. He maintained Wash Dismay's elite status by ensuring every employee was either exceptional at their job or quickly replaced. He didn't like failure and he especially didn't like failure from Taylor and Emmanuel.
He also liked power-tripping. Perhaps that was the main reason he called them in, to assert dominance in person.
Taylor had been with the company longer than Emmanuel and knew how ugly things could get. He loved his job, had a housing loan, and couldn't afford to lose his position under any circumstances.
"Sir, it's because of this stupid guy," Taylor declared without blinking.
He pointed at Emmanuel without hesitation or regret, like it was second nature. Hollywood was a concrete jungle where survival of the fittest ruled even in boardrooms.
"Huh!?" Emmanuel gasped.
He was stunned, floored that Taylor would throw him under the bus so blatantly. He had assumed Taylor would take responsibility and explain the situation, especially since Taylor was the one who had failed to acquire the movie from the beginning.
"I-It's not me!" Emmanuel stammered.
"Shut up!" Taylor raised his voice and turned to Greg with dramatic flair.
"Sir, this bastard kept pestering the director and his agent. That's why we didn't get the movie!" Taylor lied through his teeth, desperation thick in his tone.
His excuse was rushed and obviously fake, like a bad impromptu performance. But he was gambling that Greg didn't care about the truth, only the outcome.
"That didn't happen!" Emmanuel shouted, eyes wide with disbelief.
"Your name is Emmanuel, right?" Greg asked coldly, staring at him like a judge about to deliver a death sentence. He didn't care if the excuse was real, only that the result was failure.
He lived by a motto: if a worker couldn't maintain peak performance, they didn't deserve to be at Wash Dismay, no matter their resume.
"You're fired. Guards, take him out!" Greg barked like a general on the battlefield.
The security, stationed just outside the doors, entered and forcibly removed Emmanuel, who shouted in protest while struggling to break free.
Taylor stood frozen, drenched in sweat down to his undershirt, watching the whole charade with silent horror.
Greg smiled faintly now that the outburst had passed. He loved being on top of the food chain, having the power to lift or destroy someone's future at a whim. The intoxicating control was like a drug he couldn't get enough of.
"Taylor."
"Y-Yes, sir!" Taylor snapped to attention.
"I don't want this to happen again," Greg said coolly, leaning back into his chair.
"Sir, yes, sir!" Taylor responded, tense and eager to please.
"Also, try to contact the director of The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Maybe he's interested in working with us. As long as he has an interesting script, we'll invest."
"Yes, sir!" Taylor bowed slightly, mentally recording every word.
He looked like a soldier being reprimanded in a war room. He kept saying "yes" and "sir," even saluting by reflex.
Once the door closed and the tension vanished with it, Greg began laughing, clutching his stomach like he'd just watched a slapstick comedy.
To him, it was all too funny and absolutely entertaining.
Chapter 53
New
Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 53
Axel Gunner had been staring at his phone for half an hour. He sat alone at a table in a diner restaurant, barely touching the food on his plate, which had already gone cold. Eating was the last thing on his mind. Earlier that morning, he had transferred money to his ex-wife after a long internal debate and reviewing his bank account.
The Accidental Wedding Crashers had become a major success, far beyond anyone's expectations, and the cast had begun to gain recognition. The film captivated audiences with its adult humor and genuine charm.
As of the third week of December, the worldwide box office for The Accidental Wedding Crashers had reached $233 million. A staggering figure for an indie-style comedy with no initial backing.
The North American box office had grossed $158 million after 61 days of screening. Internationally, it pulled in $75 million after four weeks across Europe, Asia, and South America.
Given these statistics, it was clear the film had not only made money but had become one of the most profitable releases of the year. Especially considering that its total production cost was only $300,000. A mere fraction of its total earnings.
Naturally, the first wave of money arrived from the Cinema Alliance, known for early settlements in distribution deals. The Cinema Alliance was a coalition of North American theater chains that united to protect their interests from major studios and unfavorable contracts.
The $100 million domestic box office revenue was split among Cinema Alliance, Uni-Versus Pictures, and Collin's group. The remaining $58 million would be settled after the film completed its theatrical run.
Cinema Alliance, controlling physical venues and pricing, took 40% of the gross which was $40 million.
Uni-Versus Pictures took 30% of the total and was also reimbursed for distribution logistics and advertising.
Collin's group would receive the remainder after all deductions were applied.
From the $100 million pool, Cinema Alliance claimed its $40 million. The rest was divided between Uni-Versus and Collin's side, following their pre-agreed terms.
Uni-Versus Pictures had spent $11 million on promotion, including film prints, posters, trailers, and media appearances.
In the end, Uni-Versus Pictures secured $41 million in total. 30% from the box office and reimbursement for their expenses. It was a sizable gain, albeit not overwhelming.
That left only $19 million in profit for Collin and his group after all the calculations and paperwork.
Collin, Wyatt, and William agreed to allocate $1 million as bonuses to the cast and crew in recognition of their hard work and commitment despite low salaries. Collin was in charge of distributing the bonuses and had already started compiling a list.
With $18 million left, it was time to divide the profit among the three key players.
William received 30%, amounting to $5.4 million, wired directly to his bank account. While he sometimes felt he deserved more given the risk he took, he didn't dwell on it. He saw the experience as a valuable lesson in navigating the industry.
After all, William was still new to showbiz. Every deal, every negotiation was part of his education. Rather than being upset, he was simply grateful that the film succeeded and turned a profit.
He considered the gain a win and a stepping stone.
Collin also received 30%, totaling $5.4 million. The largest sum he had ever seen. It was, by far, the biggest payout of his life.
But Collin, having survived the harsh realities of the entertainment world, had no plans to spend recklessly. He decided to deposit the entire sum into his savings and planned to consult a financial advisor next month to learn how to invest wisely for long-term growth.
Wyatt, meanwhile, received the largest share, 40%, or $7.2 million. It was a life-altering figure for a rookie director. Just months ago, he had taken a leap of faith alongside Collin. Now, he was a millionaire before 25 years old.
For his future projects, Wyatt vowed to negotiate for box office shares again. He had seen firsthand how lucrative they could be.
However, the focus of this chapter was not the riches, but Axel Gunner and the weight slowly crushing him.
Axel received a $100,000 bonus for his performance in the film. As one of the lead actors, he had carried part of the story with dedication and charm. Lawrence received the same bonus for his contribution.
Other cast members earned between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on screen time and importance. These bonuses were substantial, especially in 1995, when film budgets were generally more conservative.
For context, the average annual American salary was $32,000. 2o even a $20,000 bonus was a huge financial boost.
It didn't take long for Axel's ex-wife to resurface once his name began trending in entertainment news. With his growing fame, it was inevitable that she would see the movie or hear about it.
As he expected, she called him, asking for money just days after the film's release.
She claimed their son needed $10,000 for a private school Axel had never heard of before. Given her track record, he was skeptical.
He hadn't spoken to his son in three years. Not one call, not one visit, not even on birthdays.
Lost in thought, Axel's phone rang again, snapping him back to reality.
He answered and heard that all-too-familiar voice, sweet and manipulative.
"Cynthia, I already sent the money. Give the phone to John. I want to talk to him," Axel said, trying to keep his voice steady.
"Yeah, I got the confirmation. You're really improving now with all this money," she said teasingly. "How about sending me another $10,000? Your son wants a remote-controlled car."
Her tone was playful, almost mocking.
Axel's grip on the phone tightened. He wasn't in the mood for games.
"Cynthia, I want to talk to my son. I've been trying to talk to him for years. He's five, what could he possibly be busy with?" Axel's voice cracked with frustration.
He raised his voice slightly, unable to contain the desperation building in his chest.
"Hey, hey. Don't shout. You'll scare your son," she snapped back, irritated.
"Look, I'm sorry. I just... I miss him. I just want to talk to John," Axel said, his throat tightening.
"Heh, okay. I'll call him. John--!! Your dad wants to talk to you--!!" she shouted casually across the house.
Then silence.
Axel waited, holding his breath, heart pounding.
"..."
No reply.
"I'm sorry, Axel. Your son says he doesn't want to talk to you," Cynthia said, devoid of sympathy.
"Cynthia, please. I'll buy him toys, tell him I'll buy him toys!" Axel pleaded, voice cracking, eyes stinging with tears. Costumers nearby glanced at him in confusion.
"You don't need to. I'll buy him toys myself, since you can't even see him. Just keep sending money like a good little earner. I know your first movie didn't pay much. Honestly, being an actor is more pathetic than a cockroach. But who knows? Maybe your next movie will bring more. Don't forget your son once you become successful~" she said, her voice dripping with venomous sweetness.
"You won't change your number, right?" Axel asked with a flicker of hope.
"Sorry. The phone I'm using isn't even mine. I asked some random guy to let me borrow his," she said with a shrug.
Axel heard a man's giggle in the background.
"T-Then at least give me your address. The one you gave me last time was fake. The neighbors said you moved out six months ago," he said, desperation mounting.
He didn't care how pathetic he sounded. He just wanted something, anything, to hold onto.
"I didn't lie. That was our address. You're just too late. Besides, the court already ruled that you're not allowed to meet us. So... goodbye~~"
"Cynthia, wait, Cynthia?" Axel called out, his voice trembling.
The call ended.
Axel stared at his phone for a moment, his face twisted in anguish.
Then he slammed his fists onto the table, causing cups to rattle and heads to turn.
Axel Gunner had been staring at his phone for half an hour. He sat alone at a table in a diner restaurant, barely touching the food on his plate, which had already gone cold. Eating was the last thing on his mind. Earlier that morning, he had transferred money to his ex-wife after a long internal debate and reviewing his bank account.
The Accidental Wedding Crashers had become a major success, far beyond anyone's expectations, and the cast had begun to gain recognition. The film captivated audiences with its adult humor and genuine charm.
As of the third week of December, the worldwide box office for The Accidental Wedding Crashers had reached $233 million. A staggering figure for an indie-style comedy with no initial backing.
The North American box office had grossed $158 million after 61 days of screening. Internationally, it pulled in $75 million after four weeks across Europe, Asia, and South America.
Given these statistics, it was clear the film had not only made money but had become one of the most profitable releases of the year. Especially considering that its total production cost was only $300,000. A mere fraction of its total earnings.
Naturally, the first wave of money arrived from the Cinema Alliance, known for early settlements in distribution deals. The Cinema Alliance was a coalition of North American theater chains that united to protect their interests from major studios and unfavorable contracts.
The $100 million domestic box office revenue was split among Cinema Alliance, Uni-Versus Pictures, and Collin's group. The remaining $58 million would be settled after the film completed its theatrical run.
Cinema Alliance, controlling physical venues and pricing, took 40% of the gross which was $40 million.
Uni-Versus Pictures took 30% of the total and was also reimbursed for distribution logistics and advertising.
Collin's group would receive the remainder after all deductions were applied.
From the $100 million pool, Cinema Alliance claimed its $40 million. The rest was divided between Uni-Versus and Collin's side, following their pre-agreed terms.
Uni-Versus Pictures had spent $11 million on promotion, including film prints, posters, trailers, and media appearances.
In the end, Uni-Versus Pictures secured $41 million in total. 30% from the box office and reimbursement for their expenses. It was a sizable gain, albeit not overwhelming.
That left only $19 million in profit for Collin and his group after all the calculations and paperwork.
Collin, Wyatt, and William agreed to allocate $1 million as bonuses to the cast and crew in recognition of their hard work and commitment despite low salaries. Collin was in charge of distributing the bonuses and had already started compiling a list.
With $18 million left, it was time to divide the profit among the three key players.
William received 30%, amounting to $5.4 million, wired directly to his bank account. While he sometimes felt he deserved more given the risk he took, he didn't dwell on it. He saw the experience as a valuable lesson in navigating the industry.
After all, William was still new to showbiz. Every deal, every negotiation was part of his education. Rather than being upset, he was simply grateful that the film succeeded and turned a profit.
He considered the gain a win and a stepping stone.
Collin also received 30%, totaling $5.4 million. The largest sum he had ever seen. It was, by far, the biggest payout of his life.
But Collin, having survived the harsh realities of the entertainment world, had no plans to spend recklessly. He decided to deposit the entire sum into his savings and planned to consult a financial advisor next month to learn how to invest wisely for long-term growth.
Wyatt, meanwhile, received the largest share, 40%, or $7.2 million. It was a life-altering figure for a rookie director. Just months ago, he had taken a leap of faith alongside Collin. Now, he was a millionaire before 25 years old.
For his future projects, Wyatt vowed to negotiate for box office shares again. He had seen firsthand how lucrative they could be.
However, the focus of this chapter was not the riches, but Axel Gunner and the weight slowly crushing him.
Axel received a $100,000 bonus for his performance in the film. As one of the lead actors, he had carried part of the story with dedication and charm. Lawrence received the same bonus for his contribution.
Other cast members earned between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on screen time and importance. These bonuses were substantial, especially in 1995, when film budgets were generally more conservative.
For context, the average annual American salary was $32,000. 2o even a $20,000 bonus was a huge financial boost.
It didn't take long for Axel's ex-wife to resurface once his name began trending in entertainment news. With his growing fame, it was inevitable that she would see the movie or hear about it.
As he expected, she called him, asking for money just days after the film's release.
She claimed their son needed $10,000 for a private school Axel had never heard of before. Given her track record, he was skeptical.
He hadn't spoken to his son in three years. Not one call, not one visit, not even on birthdays.
Lost in thought, Axel's phone rang again, snapping him back to reality.
He answered and heard that all-too-familiar voice, sweet and manipulative.
"Cynthia, I already sent the money. Give the phone to John. I want to talk to him," Axel said, trying to keep his voice steady.
"Yeah, I got the confirmation. You're really improving now with all this money," she said teasingly. "How about sending me another $10,000? Your son wants a remote-controlled car."
Her tone was playful, almost mocking.
Axel's grip on the phone tightened. He wasn't in the mood for games.
"Cynthia, I want to talk to my son. I've been trying to talk to him for years. He's five, what could he possibly be busy with?" Axel's voice cracked with frustration.
He raised his voice slightly, unable to contain the desperation building in his chest.
"Hey, hey. Don't shout. You'll scare your son," she snapped back, irritated.
"Look, I'm sorry. I just... I miss him. I just want to talk to John," Axel said, his throat tightening.
"Heh, okay. I'll call him. John--!! Your dad wants to talk to you--!!" she shouted casually across the house.
Then silence.
Axel waited, holding his breath, heart pounding.
"..."
No reply.
"I'm sorry, Axel. Your son says he doesn't want to talk to you," Cynthia said, devoid of sympathy.
"Cynthia, please. I'll buy him toys, tell him I'll buy him toys!" Axel pleaded, voice cracking, eyes stinging with tears. Costumers nearby glanced at him in confusion.
"You don't need to. I'll buy him toys myself, since you can't even see him. Just keep sending money like a good little earner. I know your first movie didn't pay much. Honestly, being an actor is more pathetic than a cockroach. But who knows? Maybe your next movie will bring more. Don't forget your son once you become successful~" she said, her voice dripping with venomous sweetness.
"You won't change your number, right?" Axel asked with a flicker of hope.
"Sorry. The phone I'm using isn't even mine. I asked some random guy to let me borrow his," she said with a shrug.
Axel heard a man's giggle in the background.
"T-Then at least give me your address. The one you gave me last time was fake. The neighbors said you moved out six months ago," he said, desperation mounting.
He didn't care how pathetic he sounded. He just wanted something, anything, to hold onto.
"I didn't lie. That was our address. You're just too late. Besides, the court already ruled that you're not allowed to meet us. So... goodbye~~"
"Cynthia, wait, Cynthia?" Axel called out, his voice trembling.
The call ended.
Axel stared at his phone for a moment, his face twisted in anguish.
Then he slammed his fists onto the table, causing cups to rattle and heads to turn.
Chapter 54
New
Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 54
Axel and Cynthia had divorced three years ago, leaving Axel emotionally exhausted. Unfortunately, he didn't get shared custody. The court judged that Axel was unfit to care for John because of his military background. As a retired soldier, the court viewed him with suspicion and lacked confidence in his mental health, despite the absence of any actual diagnosis. Does California have that kind of bias? No one really knows.
As for Cynthia, she had been a stay-at-home mom for most of their marriage, claiming she was best suited to raise their son. But to say Axel wasn't a good father was a delusion born out of legal assumptions and systemic bias.
In truth, Axel had been the one caring for John the entire time. Cynthia simply stayed home because she disliked working or dealing with responsibilities outside the house. Axel had loved her deeply, blindly even, and failed to see her flaws until it was too late.
Everything changed when Cynthia disappeared for a week without warning or explanation, only to return with tattoos on her shoulders and needle marks on her arms. She was clearly using drugs, her speech erratic and her behavior unstable.
During their confrontation, Cynthia admitted to using drugs to cope with her dissatisfaction. She wasn't in the right state of mind when she filed for divorce, but by then, the damage had been done, and Axel was left shattered.
The result? Axel was ordered to stay away from Cynthia and their son unless he was granted legal permission through supervised visitation. Axel filed for supervised visits almost immediately, but Cynthia refused to cooperate and constantly avoided the arrangements.
He then filed a request to modify the court's ruling, hoping that clean behavior and good intentions would persuade the judge. But even after months of paperwork and legal consultations, nothing had changed. He didn't know what else to do. He had never hurt his wife, never even argued with her, yet the court deemed him dangerous, believing a soldier trained to fight couldn't possibly be trusted to parent.
But Axel was never violent. He had always avoided conflict. He only wanted to see his son, to remind John that he still had a father who loved him.
He had no criminal record. No history of abuse. Yet the system failed him, misunderstood him, and pushed him into a corner.
Cynthia, aware of the legal blindspot, took full advantage of it. She disappeared with their son and never showed herself again, leaving Axel helpless. All he could do was send $2,300 a month in child support, not knowing if even a single dollar truly went to John. This parallel world had some difference regarding the law.
Axel knew he had technically violated the court order by asking for their address, but that effort was fruitless anyway. Cynthia and John no longer lived there, and nobody seemed to know where they had moved.
As a father, Axel just wanted to see his son, even from a distance, to assure him that life could still be good, that his dad still loved him.
In the diner restaurant, curious eyes glanced in his direction as whispers began to rise. Axel took a deep breath to calm himself. He stood up and walked out, his heart weighed down like stone.
His chest ached, even breathing felt difficult. This had been his struggle for the past three years. A relentless, festering wound that refused to close.
He suspected Cynthia only contacted him when she wanted money... But Axel always gave in when she used John as an excuse. He couldn't say no. He was John's father, and that title meant everything to him.
In early 1994, Axel met Collin at a bar while drowning his sorrows in cheap beer. What began as a casual conversation unexpectedly turned into a life-changing opportunity.
Collin had learned that Axel was a freelance actor bouncing between gigs with no steady income. At the time, two of Collin's clients had just ended their contracts and moved on, leaving vacancies in his roster.
Axel had been skeptical, unsure if it was just drunken bar talk, but out of necessity and curiosity, he agreed to work with Collin. That marked the beginning of their partnership, a bond that would pull Axel into the spotlight.
.........
......
...
"The movie is amazing. I didn't recognize the cast, but it was still hilarious. The jokes landed so well."
"You're right, haha!" the other replied, still laughing.
Landers Lopez sighed softly under his breath as he listened to the conversation next to him while the audience began to leave.
The screening of the Accidental Wedding Crashers had just ended. As the lights turned on and the credits rolled, the crowd slowly exited the theater.
Landers took his time leaving, his eyes reflecting regret and envy. Once outside, he lit a cigarette with shaky hands and stared at the passing vehicles, as if searching for answers in their headlights. The smoke curled from his lips and slowly dissolved into the air, just like the dreams he once had.
"...Fuck," he muttered, voice weak and bitter.
Last year, he had still been one of Collin's clients, under a contract that had once seemed full of promise. But Landers had chosen to walk away, led by pride and impatience.
He had signed a three-year deal with ANT, thrilled at the potential of a flourishing career. But in the first year, his agent unexpectedly died of a heart attack.
In response, ANT scrambled to reassign clients. Landers and a female actress were transferred to a new agent, Collin East. At the time, Collin was a complete rookie in the industry. He had little experience and lacked the connections or reputation to command confidence.
Both Landers and the actress were unimpressed.
The actress left first, deciding not to renew her contract with ANT. Afterward, she joined a different agency and found moderate success. Now, she was a regular cast member on a teen drama that was entering its second season with good ratings.
Landers had similar plans. When his contract ended, he didn't look back. He joined a small agency that promised better results.
The outcome? Devastating.
While his new agency did find jobs for him consistently, the work came from an industry in the San Fernando Valley that he never thought he'd be part of.
Hollywood was the film capital of the world. San Fernando Valley, however, was the undisputed porn capital. Everyone in Los Angeles knew it, even if no one talked about it.
Hollywood released thousands of films every year. So did San Fernando, just of a different kind.
Landers had no shortage of work now, thanks to high demand. But it wasn't the kind of fame he wanted.
He was never cast as a leading man. Instead, he was relegated to humiliating roles, getting cucked, jacking off in orgies or gangbangs, playing the forgettable extra in degrading scenes. The pay was average at best and barely covered his rent.
He couldn't believe how far he'd fallen. Once a hopeful actor dreaming of stardom, now reduced to background noise in the shadows of the adult film industry.
Part of the reason he left Collin in the first place was pride. He hated the fact that Collin, his agent, had more charisma and screen presence than he did. That bruised ego had guided his decisions, and now, he was paying the price.
"Should I contact Collin?" he wondered aloud. "If not him, maybe Jennifer? I heard she's still working with Collin and doing well."
He paused, then chuckled dryly.
"That woman has a foul mouth and a sharp tongue... but she's soft if you corner her. Maybe I can take advantage of that if I play my cards right."
Flicking the ash from his cigarette, Landers watched the passing cars, his thoughts swirling with desperation and delusion.
+++++
[Last night, I learned that Diddy was found not guilty on most of his cases. I think we can all agree that the justice system is nothing but a joke.]
Axel and Cynthia had divorced three years ago, leaving Axel emotionally exhausted. Unfortunately, he didn't get shared custody. The court judged that Axel was unfit to care for John because of his military background. As a retired soldier, the court viewed him with suspicion and lacked confidence in his mental health, despite the absence of any actual diagnosis. Does California have that kind of bias? No one really knows.
As for Cynthia, she had been a stay-at-home mom for most of their marriage, claiming she was best suited to raise their son. But to say Axel wasn't a good father was a delusion born out of legal assumptions and systemic bias.
In truth, Axel had been the one caring for John the entire time. Cynthia simply stayed home because she disliked working or dealing with responsibilities outside the house. Axel had loved her deeply, blindly even, and failed to see her flaws until it was too late.
Everything changed when Cynthia disappeared for a week without warning or explanation, only to return with tattoos on her shoulders and needle marks on her arms. She was clearly using drugs, her speech erratic and her behavior unstable.
During their confrontation, Cynthia admitted to using drugs to cope with her dissatisfaction. She wasn't in the right state of mind when she filed for divorce, but by then, the damage had been done, and Axel was left shattered.
The result? Axel was ordered to stay away from Cynthia and their son unless he was granted legal permission through supervised visitation. Axel filed for supervised visits almost immediately, but Cynthia refused to cooperate and constantly avoided the arrangements.
He then filed a request to modify the court's ruling, hoping that clean behavior and good intentions would persuade the judge. But even after months of paperwork and legal consultations, nothing had changed. He didn't know what else to do. He had never hurt his wife, never even argued with her, yet the court deemed him dangerous, believing a soldier trained to fight couldn't possibly be trusted to parent.
But Axel was never violent. He had always avoided conflict. He only wanted to see his son, to remind John that he still had a father who loved him.
He had no criminal record. No history of abuse. Yet the system failed him, misunderstood him, and pushed him into a corner.
Cynthia, aware of the legal blindspot, took full advantage of it. She disappeared with their son and never showed herself again, leaving Axel helpless. All he could do was send $2,300 a month in child support, not knowing if even a single dollar truly went to John. This parallel world had some difference regarding the law.
Axel knew he had technically violated the court order by asking for their address, but that effort was fruitless anyway. Cynthia and John no longer lived there, and nobody seemed to know where they had moved.
As a father, Axel just wanted to see his son, even from a distance, to assure him that life could still be good, that his dad still loved him.
In the diner restaurant, curious eyes glanced in his direction as whispers began to rise. Axel took a deep breath to calm himself. He stood up and walked out, his heart weighed down like stone.
His chest ached, even breathing felt difficult. This had been his struggle for the past three years. A relentless, festering wound that refused to close.
He suspected Cynthia only contacted him when she wanted money... But Axel always gave in when she used John as an excuse. He couldn't say no. He was John's father, and that title meant everything to him.
In early 1994, Axel met Collin at a bar while drowning his sorrows in cheap beer. What began as a casual conversation unexpectedly turned into a life-changing opportunity.
Collin had learned that Axel was a freelance actor bouncing between gigs with no steady income. At the time, two of Collin's clients had just ended their contracts and moved on, leaving vacancies in his roster.
Axel had been skeptical, unsure if it was just drunken bar talk, but out of necessity and curiosity, he agreed to work with Collin. That marked the beginning of their partnership, a bond that would pull Axel into the spotlight.
.........
......
...
"The movie is amazing. I didn't recognize the cast, but it was still hilarious. The jokes landed so well."
"You're right, haha!" the other replied, still laughing.
Landers Lopez sighed softly under his breath as he listened to the conversation next to him while the audience began to leave.
The screening of the Accidental Wedding Crashers had just ended. As the lights turned on and the credits rolled, the crowd slowly exited the theater.
Landers took his time leaving, his eyes reflecting regret and envy. Once outside, he lit a cigarette with shaky hands and stared at the passing vehicles, as if searching for answers in their headlights. The smoke curled from his lips and slowly dissolved into the air, just like the dreams he once had.
"...Fuck," he muttered, voice weak and bitter.
Last year, he had still been one of Collin's clients, under a contract that had once seemed full of promise. But Landers had chosen to walk away, led by pride and impatience.
He had signed a three-year deal with ANT, thrilled at the potential of a flourishing career. But in the first year, his agent unexpectedly died of a heart attack.
In response, ANT scrambled to reassign clients. Landers and a female actress were transferred to a new agent, Collin East. At the time, Collin was a complete rookie in the industry. He had little experience and lacked the connections or reputation to command confidence.
Both Landers and the actress were unimpressed.
The actress left first, deciding not to renew her contract with ANT. Afterward, she joined a different agency and found moderate success. Now, she was a regular cast member on a teen drama that was entering its second season with good ratings.
Landers had similar plans. When his contract ended, he didn't look back. He joined a small agency that promised better results.
The outcome? Devastating.
While his new agency did find jobs for him consistently, the work came from an industry in the San Fernando Valley that he never thought he'd be part of.
Hollywood was the film capital of the world. San Fernando Valley, however, was the undisputed porn capital. Everyone in Los Angeles knew it, even if no one talked about it.
Hollywood released thousands of films every year. So did San Fernando, just of a different kind.
Landers had no shortage of work now, thanks to high demand. But it wasn't the kind of fame he wanted.
He was never cast as a leading man. Instead, he was relegated to humiliating roles, getting cucked, jacking off in orgies or gangbangs, playing the forgettable extra in degrading scenes. The pay was average at best and barely covered his rent.
He couldn't believe how far he'd fallen. Once a hopeful actor dreaming of stardom, now reduced to background noise in the shadows of the adult film industry.
Part of the reason he left Collin in the first place was pride. He hated the fact that Collin, his agent, had more charisma and screen presence than he did. That bruised ego had guided his decisions, and now, he was paying the price.
"Should I contact Collin?" he wondered aloud. "If not him, maybe Jennifer? I heard she's still working with Collin and doing well."
He paused, then chuckled dryly.
"That woman has a foul mouth and a sharp tongue... but she's soft if you corner her. Maybe I can take advantage of that if I play my cards right."
Flicking the ash from his cigarette, Landers watched the passing cars, his thoughts swirling with desperation and delusion.
+++++
[Last night, I learned that Diddy was found not guilty on most of his cases. I think we can all agree that the justice system is nothing but a joke.]
Last edited:
Chapter 55
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Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 55
Collin and his family were watching television in the cozy living room after a nice dinner that Evelyn had prepared. Collin had spent most of his days out of the apartment and could only enjoy his mother's cooking at breakfast before heading to work.
As for lunch and dinner, Collin rarely had the chance to eat Evelyn's freshly prepared meals because his schedule barely allowed him to return home. It was even rarer for him to have dinner with his family all gathered around the table, like in the old days... If his father were still alive, everything would feel better. The family would feel complete again.
After the pleasant dinner, the three spent hours watching television, occasionally laughing and commenting during commercial breaks. Their old TV still worked despite being old, and both Aida and Evelyn had talked seriously with Collin about not buying a brand-new one, even though he had offered multiple times. They said the same thing about their other appliances, which were still functioning after years of use.
"I just remembered, my friends have been talking about this show with a high school drama that's been getting really famous lately."
Aida grabbed the remote from the small table and changed the channel, a curious expression on her face.
"What's the title?" Evelyn asked, leaning forward slightly.
"I'm not sure. I think it's called High School Love, or something like that."
"Are you talking about My Pure Innocent High School Love?" Collin asked after a moment of thought.
"Yes, that's the one! I guess you know it because you work in the same industry as the people who make these shows."
"Well..." Collin scratched his head awkwardly. That wasn't actually the reason he recognized the title.
"I know the title, but I don't know anything about the plot or characters. I don't have time to watch shows unless it's for work."
"Yeah, you're always working with no rest... Let me think, if I remember correctly, the story is about the female lead genuinely loving her boyfriend but cheating on him because of temptation, or something like that."
"Damn..." Collin muttered in disbelief.
"I think she also slept with her boyfriend's older brother, who's kind of a bully and a jerk that's been hurting her boyfriend a lot."
"Damn..." Collin repeated, more stunned this time.
"She also cheated on her boyfriend by sleeping with his dad, which is just... insane."
"Damn... That's the third time I've said that in the last three minutes and I might say it again."
"Also, she had sex with her own brother somewhere around episode six, I think."
"...Is this even allowed on TV?" Collin's voice rose in shock.
"Nah, they censored the sex scenes, so it's considered okay for network standards. But yeah, the plot is seriously messed up and people still watch it."
"Damn..." he said again, now nearly speechless.
Collin didn't know what to say as his brain tried to process the show's content.
'So, as long as explicit scenes weren't shown, this kind of story could air on television and no one would raise a fuss?'
And apparently, the lead actress came from a wealthy family with ties to the production company and pressured her parents to invest in the show, just so she could star in this? A show like that?
"Oh, it's starting!" Aida said with excitement as she turned up the volume.
Collin and Evelyn decided to watch the show just to see what all the hype was about, curious as to why it was already in its second season.
After watching the episode, they realized the show was filled with unbelievable levels of depravity but the heavy material was censored, with most of it only implied through suggestive dialogue and cutaway scenes.
Did this mean people watched the show because it offered depravity disguised as innocent teenage drama? Were viewers secretly craving illegal or taboo thrills as the characters were in high school?
The cast were clearly adults in their late 20s or 30s, playing high school students involved in inappropriate acts.
'What's next? They'll make another show like this, with even more outrageous content and call it something like Euphoria? When I was in high school, I just played dumb games and held hands with my girlfriend like an innocent fool. This is definitely written by people trying to fetishize high school to attract the worst kind of audience.'
Collin grimaced.
"The show is..." Evelyn shook her head slowly, disapproving but slightly curious. Both of her children were adults now, and she couldn't stop them from watching questionable content.
"But the female lead's best friend is gorgeous, though. She totally stole the spotlight. She's more beautiful than the female lead in every scene. And for some reason, I feel some bad tension between the female lead and her best friend," Aida said, turning off the TV and yawning as she stretched her arms. It was getting late.
"She is stunning. I wonder what her name is." Evelyn nodded thoughtfully.
"Her name is Madison Morgan. She's half Mexican, half Italian. Her features are really striking."
"Oh, you know her?" Evelyn blinked in surprise.
"Yeah, sort of." Collin didn't bother explaining their past professional relationship.
Madison had been his client during his early days as an agent. Based on her current situation and the role she landed, it looked like her decision not to renew her contract had worked out well for her career.
Honestly, Collin was happy for her, even if a small part of him felt regret. He'd been disappointed when both Madison and Landers left after their contracts ended. They hadn't given him time to grow. They didn't give him a chance to prove himself. But back then, he had been inexperienced.
Still, he held no grudge. He wished them well and silently rooted for their success from a distance. As long as they didn't disturb him or his current clients, he had no issue with them.
Now that Madison had landed a recurring role in a TV show entering its second season and gaining traction, Collin wished her all the best. Still, he hoped they wouldn't cross paths again. Though in this industry, that was unlikely.
"Okay, I'm off to bed. I've got things to do tomorrow and class starts early." Aida yawned.
"Wait, Aida. I have something to talk to you and Mom about before you go."
"What is it? Don't tell me you're giving me money or something. Haha, I'm just joking."
"..."
Collin didn't know how to respond because she was exactly right.
"Collin, don't tell me I got it right and you're actually serious."
"Let's all sit down so I can explain this properly."
Evelyn and Aida found their seats, slightly puzzled. Collin sat across from them, clearly with something on his mind.
Collin had earned $5.4 million from the movie's success and had no idea what to do with it now that it was sitting in his account. He had known The Accidental Wedding Crashers would be a hit, but he hadn't thought much about what that success would actually bring.
Now, he was faced with a dilemma, which was how to handle the money responsibly.
A portion of it would be invested under the advice of a financial advisor. The rest would remain in his bank account for emergencies and future plans. But even then, he didn't know how to spend the remainder. He didn't have any big desires or personal wants.
Collin was cheap by nature. He rarely spent money on himself and avoided luxury. He didn't buy expensive watches or flashy cars when his current ones worked just fine. As long as something served its purpose, he was satisfied. The car, the phone, and the apartment were all practical purchases, he only spent on what he needed.
However, Collin had one soft spot... pampering his loved ones. He was known for quietly saving up just to buy birthday gifts for his parents and sister, even when he barely had money himself. That trait was the same reason his ex had taken advantage of him. He had helped her finish college while he was working as a model, believing that's what love meant.
Now, that weakness was acting up again, stronger than ever. Since he didn't know how to spend money on himself, he decided to spend it on his family because they deserved it.
He placed two credit cards on the table and gently slid them forward.
"This one's for Aida, and this one's for Mom. I already activated both. Each card has a $5,000 monthly limit, so you won't accidentally overspend. If you want to buy something for yourself or for the house, just use the card."
Collin explained calmly but earnestly. Aida and Evelyn stared at the cards, stunned.
"No, I won't take it even if you're serious. Collin, you don't have to give us anything. We're doing fine. Besides, $5,000 is too much. I don't trust myself with that kind of limit." Aida shook her head, firm but grateful. She was uncomfortable with the idea of such a large allowance.
She knew herself well. She loved shopping. And she feared what she might become with too much money freely available.
"Son, I don't need money to be happy." Evelyn gave a short but heartfelt reply, her voice filled with maternal firmness.
Collin sighed. He had expected these responses.
He had an idea this would happen.
Collin and his family were watching television in the cozy living room after a nice dinner that Evelyn had prepared. Collin had spent most of his days out of the apartment and could only enjoy his mother's cooking at breakfast before heading to work.
As for lunch and dinner, Collin rarely had the chance to eat Evelyn's freshly prepared meals because his schedule barely allowed him to return home. It was even rarer for him to have dinner with his family all gathered around the table, like in the old days... If his father were still alive, everything would feel better. The family would feel complete again.
After the pleasant dinner, the three spent hours watching television, occasionally laughing and commenting during commercial breaks. Their old TV still worked despite being old, and both Aida and Evelyn had talked seriously with Collin about not buying a brand-new one, even though he had offered multiple times. They said the same thing about their other appliances, which were still functioning after years of use.
"I just remembered, my friends have been talking about this show with a high school drama that's been getting really famous lately."
Aida grabbed the remote from the small table and changed the channel, a curious expression on her face.
"What's the title?" Evelyn asked, leaning forward slightly.
"I'm not sure. I think it's called High School Love, or something like that."
"Are you talking about My Pure Innocent High School Love?" Collin asked after a moment of thought.
"Yes, that's the one! I guess you know it because you work in the same industry as the people who make these shows."
"Well..." Collin scratched his head awkwardly. That wasn't actually the reason he recognized the title.
"I know the title, but I don't know anything about the plot or characters. I don't have time to watch shows unless it's for work."
"Yeah, you're always working with no rest... Let me think, if I remember correctly, the story is about the female lead genuinely loving her boyfriend but cheating on him because of temptation, or something like that."
"Damn..." Collin muttered in disbelief.
"I think she also slept with her boyfriend's older brother, who's kind of a bully and a jerk that's been hurting her boyfriend a lot."
"Damn..." Collin repeated, more stunned this time.
"She also cheated on her boyfriend by sleeping with his dad, which is just... insane."
"Damn... That's the third time I've said that in the last three minutes and I might say it again."
"Also, she had sex with her own brother somewhere around episode six, I think."
"...Is this even allowed on TV?" Collin's voice rose in shock.
"Nah, they censored the sex scenes, so it's considered okay for network standards. But yeah, the plot is seriously messed up and people still watch it."
"Damn..." he said again, now nearly speechless.
Collin didn't know what to say as his brain tried to process the show's content.
'So, as long as explicit scenes weren't shown, this kind of story could air on television and no one would raise a fuss?'
And apparently, the lead actress came from a wealthy family with ties to the production company and pressured her parents to invest in the show, just so she could star in this? A show like that?
"Oh, it's starting!" Aida said with excitement as she turned up the volume.
Collin and Evelyn decided to watch the show just to see what all the hype was about, curious as to why it was already in its second season.
After watching the episode, they realized the show was filled with unbelievable levels of depravity but the heavy material was censored, with most of it only implied through suggestive dialogue and cutaway scenes.
Did this mean people watched the show because it offered depravity disguised as innocent teenage drama? Were viewers secretly craving illegal or taboo thrills as the characters were in high school?
The cast were clearly adults in their late 20s or 30s, playing high school students involved in inappropriate acts.
'What's next? They'll make another show like this, with even more outrageous content and call it something like Euphoria? When I was in high school, I just played dumb games and held hands with my girlfriend like an innocent fool. This is definitely written by people trying to fetishize high school to attract the worst kind of audience.'
Collin grimaced.
"The show is..." Evelyn shook her head slowly, disapproving but slightly curious. Both of her children were adults now, and she couldn't stop them from watching questionable content.
"But the female lead's best friend is gorgeous, though. She totally stole the spotlight. She's more beautiful than the female lead in every scene. And for some reason, I feel some bad tension between the female lead and her best friend," Aida said, turning off the TV and yawning as she stretched her arms. It was getting late.
"She is stunning. I wonder what her name is." Evelyn nodded thoughtfully.
"Her name is Madison Morgan. She's half Mexican, half Italian. Her features are really striking."
"Oh, you know her?" Evelyn blinked in surprise.
"Yeah, sort of." Collin didn't bother explaining their past professional relationship.
Madison had been his client during his early days as an agent. Based on her current situation and the role she landed, it looked like her decision not to renew her contract had worked out well for her career.
Honestly, Collin was happy for her, even if a small part of him felt regret. He'd been disappointed when both Madison and Landers left after their contracts ended. They hadn't given him time to grow. They didn't give him a chance to prove himself. But back then, he had been inexperienced.
Still, he held no grudge. He wished them well and silently rooted for their success from a distance. As long as they didn't disturb him or his current clients, he had no issue with them.
Now that Madison had landed a recurring role in a TV show entering its second season and gaining traction, Collin wished her all the best. Still, he hoped they wouldn't cross paths again. Though in this industry, that was unlikely.
"Okay, I'm off to bed. I've got things to do tomorrow and class starts early." Aida yawned.
"Wait, Aida. I have something to talk to you and Mom about before you go."
"What is it? Don't tell me you're giving me money or something. Haha, I'm just joking."
"..."
Collin didn't know how to respond because she was exactly right.
"Collin, don't tell me I got it right and you're actually serious."
"Let's all sit down so I can explain this properly."
Evelyn and Aida found their seats, slightly puzzled. Collin sat across from them, clearly with something on his mind.
Collin had earned $5.4 million from the movie's success and had no idea what to do with it now that it was sitting in his account. He had known The Accidental Wedding Crashers would be a hit, but he hadn't thought much about what that success would actually bring.
Now, he was faced with a dilemma, which was how to handle the money responsibly.
A portion of it would be invested under the advice of a financial advisor. The rest would remain in his bank account for emergencies and future plans. But even then, he didn't know how to spend the remainder. He didn't have any big desires or personal wants.
Collin was cheap by nature. He rarely spent money on himself and avoided luxury. He didn't buy expensive watches or flashy cars when his current ones worked just fine. As long as something served its purpose, he was satisfied. The car, the phone, and the apartment were all practical purchases, he only spent on what he needed.
However, Collin had one soft spot... pampering his loved ones. He was known for quietly saving up just to buy birthday gifts for his parents and sister, even when he barely had money himself. That trait was the same reason his ex had taken advantage of him. He had helped her finish college while he was working as a model, believing that's what love meant.
Now, that weakness was acting up again, stronger than ever. Since he didn't know how to spend money on himself, he decided to spend it on his family because they deserved it.
He placed two credit cards on the table and gently slid them forward.
"This one's for Aida, and this one's for Mom. I already activated both. Each card has a $5,000 monthly limit, so you won't accidentally overspend. If you want to buy something for yourself or for the house, just use the card."
Collin explained calmly but earnestly. Aida and Evelyn stared at the cards, stunned.
"No, I won't take it even if you're serious. Collin, you don't have to give us anything. We're doing fine. Besides, $5,000 is too much. I don't trust myself with that kind of limit." Aida shook her head, firm but grateful. She was uncomfortable with the idea of such a large allowance.
She knew herself well. She loved shopping. And she feared what she might become with too much money freely available.
"Son, I don't need money to be happy." Evelyn gave a short but heartfelt reply, her voice filled with maternal firmness.
Collin sighed. He had expected these responses.
He had an idea this would happen.
Chapter 56
New
Pujimaki
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- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 56
"I worked hard because I want to provide for you and make your life easier in every possible way."
"And it's already enough. You don't have to do this. I can find ways to earn money if I really need to buy something," Aida replied.
"No, you will not work while you're studying. If you need money, you can ask me directly, and I'll make sure you're taken care of. What's the point of my hard work if you won't depend on me when you need something as simple as that?" Collin quickly retorted.
"It doesn't matter what you say, I won't accept this credit card just because it's handed to me."
"But you'll need it sooner or later. College is expensive as hell, and having a credit card is practical, you never know when an emergency might come up."
"Still, $5,000 is too much for someone like me. What if I spend it on something useless just because I got tempted? God, I don't know how guilty I'd feel if that ever happened. I can't handle that amount of money without purchasing some useless stuff."
"How about I lower the amount to $4,000? That's still more than enough, right?"
"$1,500, final offer."
"What is this, some kind of negotiation? I didn't know that even at home I have to negotiate a contract. $2,000. You're my sister. I don't want you to lack anything, even if you say you're okay. If you want to buy something, go on and don't hesitate. I'll take care of it without complaint."
"... Collin, you're making me embarrassed with how generous you are, do you know that?"
Aida sighed in resignation. Indeed, she probably had the best brother in the world, and sometimes she didn't know what she did to deserve him.
Since their childhood, Collin was the type to give up his sweets and candies for her without thinking twice.
'You became much worse when Dad died...' Aida couldn't say that out loud because Evelyn and Collin would be sad if they heard it, and she didn't want to bring up those emotions tonight.
"... Fine, $2,000, but not a penny more. I'll talk to you if there's something I can't afford or something important comes up. Make sure you have money for that!" She raised her voice in a mix of annoyance and concern, frustrated that she agreed.
She knew Collin wouldn't stop pestering her if she didn't agree, and she didn't have the energy to argue anymore.
"Nice," Collin smiled in visible relief. Now he felt relaxed, knowing Aida had agreed even if it took a bit of arm-twisting. He had never experienced college himself, but he knew women around Aida's age often loved buying expensive clothes and bags to keep up with their peers.
Collin wanted to make sure Aida wouldn't feel envious of them just because of money. He actually thought of buying her a car to help her get around, but the young woman would probably hate it if he did that without asking.
"Then, how about Mom?" Collin asked, turning to Evelyn.
"Collin, your pestering won't work on me, so don't even try. I don't need a credit card or anything fancy. In the first place, I rarely leave the apartment unless it's really necessary. Even groceries aren't expensive enough to need a card."
"But I want you to enjoy your days more. How about going out once in a while just to treat yourself? There's a shopping mall a few blocks away with cafes and bookstores. Why don't you try going there just for a change of pace?"
"Even if I go there, I won't take your credit card because I don't want to rely on it."
"Mom, don't do this to me. Please, just do it for me."
Collin tried to act childish like he used to when he was younger, but that method wouldn't work anymore now that they were older. He rarely used this tactic because he was too old for it, and it felt a bit forced.
Unfortunately, Evelyn didn't budge, and the firm look on her face said it all.
With that, Collin's plan only worked halfway, one win, one loss.
'Was it really bad to pamper your loved ones just because you finally can? What if they get used to it and depend on me more? Even better!' Collin's train of thought would probably never change.
.........
......
...
Henry Greyson and Wyatt Bray entered the headquarters of Uni-versus Pictures dressed in formal clothes and filled with nervous excitement to pitch a project that had kept them up at night for weeks.
Wyatt had written a script over the course of several months, and when Henry personally read it, he completely lost his mind for laughing.
The script bore some resemblance to The Accidental Wedding Crashers, but it had a different setting and a new dynamic between characters.
It was about a group of friends on a weeklong cruise ship vacation. They gambled at the ship's casino, where chaotic events unfolded, including accidents and misunderstandings that eventually left the ship stranded in the middle of the ocean with no contact with the outside world.
The script's title was Week On A Cruise Ship... though that could change depending on studio feedback.
Henry had worked with Uni-versus Pictures before. Some of the movies he managed were distributed by the studio and performed modestly at the box office. He had also produced one of their mid-budget films a few years ago that became a hit.
The two men found the private room where they would present their pitch to the Head of Production. They knocked, received confirmation, and stepped inside.
"Huh?" Henry blurted under his breath.
He froze as if his shoes were nailed to the floor. He saw people in the room he didn't recognize at first glance. No, that wasn't right. He did recognize them. He just hadn't expected to see them here, especially not for this meeting.
Henry Greyson was a professional movie producer with over a decade of experience. He had calculated the budget for the movie down to the smallest line item. Around $15 to $20 million, depending on casting and location needs.
That amount was considered mid-budget in the current era.
Low-budget movies never exceeded $5 million and typically involved indie directors or limited casts.
$5 to $30 million was mid-budget, offering flexibility in production.
Anything above $30 million was high-budget. Usually action, fantasy, or major franchise projects.
Usually, a mid-budget pitch would only involve the Head of Production without higher-ups. In rare cases, top executives would attend if a pitch showed unusual promise.
But today was different, very different. Henry immediately bowed his head out of respect after realizing he had stared too long at the Chairman and CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, both seated just a few feet away.
Yes, both the Chairman and CEO were present for a project like this.
'What the fuck is happening here and why are they here?'
Henry asked himself as he swallowed hard. He'd done dozens of pitches but never had the chance to speak face-to-face with Hollywood's major decision-makers.
He glanced at Wyatt beside him, who was clutching his notes, his hand shaking slightly.
'... Shit. We might fail this pitch before it even begins.'
"You don't have to worry about us, gentlemen. We're just here to listen and observe. Treat us like we're invisible," CEO Berry Cruz said with a friendly laugh.
'Yeah, right. As if we can do that.'
The Chairman of Uni-versus Pictures, Noah Nash, also nodded with a small smile. He was a decade younger than Berry but still carried great authority. He was in his 40s but already one of the most influential names in the industry.
"Then let's begin this meeting without further delay."
The Head of Production started the meeting, prompting Henry and Wyatt to present their project. Slowly, they adjusted to the pressure, gaining confidence with every minute as they explained the overall concept with clarity and enthusiasm. They distributed the completed scripts and projected budget breakdowns to everyone present and let them read at their own pace.
Berry Cruz adjusted his reading glasses and curiously opened the script while Henry delivered his pitch with calm professionalism.
The opening scene featured the three friends waking up in a strange room with no memory of the previous night. One of them, the youngest, rushed to the toilet to release the biggest and loudest shit of all time, echoing throughout the room. While he was in the middle of doing number two, two lions appeared and surrounded him from both sides, growling in unison.
The guy screamed in horror while shitting, completely losing his mind, and the lions roared on cue, creating a symphony of shit, screams, and roars unlike anything ever seen in cinema.
Berry bit his lip, trying hard not to laugh. He clenched the pages tightly, holding back his laughter so as not to disrupt the meeting or seem unprofessional.
Suddenly, Chairman Noah Nash burst into laughter, unable to hold it any longer. Everyone in the room paused mid-read and waited while he composed himself, smiling politely.
Noah took a deep breath and waved his hand, still chuckling. His face was red, either from laughter or from embarrassment for laughing so suddenly in front of everyone.
"Continue what you're doing."
Henry resumed the pitch without skipping a beat, while Wyatt chimed in when needed. Henry was an expert, so Wyatt followed his lead and kept things steady.
An hour later, Henry and Wyatt left the room feeling drained but hopeful. The executives had asked questions ranging from budget concerns to casting ideas.
Once they were satisfied with what they heard, Henry and Wyatt were directed to a nearby waiting room while the executives privately discussed the project's potential profitability behind closed doors.
"I worked hard because I want to provide for you and make your life easier in every possible way."
"And it's already enough. You don't have to do this. I can find ways to earn money if I really need to buy something," Aida replied.
"No, you will not work while you're studying. If you need money, you can ask me directly, and I'll make sure you're taken care of. What's the point of my hard work if you won't depend on me when you need something as simple as that?" Collin quickly retorted.
"It doesn't matter what you say, I won't accept this credit card just because it's handed to me."
"But you'll need it sooner or later. College is expensive as hell, and having a credit card is practical, you never know when an emergency might come up."
"Still, $5,000 is too much for someone like me. What if I spend it on something useless just because I got tempted? God, I don't know how guilty I'd feel if that ever happened. I can't handle that amount of money without purchasing some useless stuff."
"How about I lower the amount to $4,000? That's still more than enough, right?"
"$1,500, final offer."
"What is this, some kind of negotiation? I didn't know that even at home I have to negotiate a contract. $2,000. You're my sister. I don't want you to lack anything, even if you say you're okay. If you want to buy something, go on and don't hesitate. I'll take care of it without complaint."
"... Collin, you're making me embarrassed with how generous you are, do you know that?"
Aida sighed in resignation. Indeed, she probably had the best brother in the world, and sometimes she didn't know what she did to deserve him.
Since their childhood, Collin was the type to give up his sweets and candies for her without thinking twice.
'You became much worse when Dad died...' Aida couldn't say that out loud because Evelyn and Collin would be sad if they heard it, and she didn't want to bring up those emotions tonight.
"... Fine, $2,000, but not a penny more. I'll talk to you if there's something I can't afford or something important comes up. Make sure you have money for that!" She raised her voice in a mix of annoyance and concern, frustrated that she agreed.
She knew Collin wouldn't stop pestering her if she didn't agree, and she didn't have the energy to argue anymore.
"Nice," Collin smiled in visible relief. Now he felt relaxed, knowing Aida had agreed even if it took a bit of arm-twisting. He had never experienced college himself, but he knew women around Aida's age often loved buying expensive clothes and bags to keep up with their peers.
Collin wanted to make sure Aida wouldn't feel envious of them just because of money. He actually thought of buying her a car to help her get around, but the young woman would probably hate it if he did that without asking.
"Then, how about Mom?" Collin asked, turning to Evelyn.
"Collin, your pestering won't work on me, so don't even try. I don't need a credit card or anything fancy. In the first place, I rarely leave the apartment unless it's really necessary. Even groceries aren't expensive enough to need a card."
"But I want you to enjoy your days more. How about going out once in a while just to treat yourself? There's a shopping mall a few blocks away with cafes and bookstores. Why don't you try going there just for a change of pace?"
"Even if I go there, I won't take your credit card because I don't want to rely on it."
"Mom, don't do this to me. Please, just do it for me."
Collin tried to act childish like he used to when he was younger, but that method wouldn't work anymore now that they were older. He rarely used this tactic because he was too old for it, and it felt a bit forced.
Unfortunately, Evelyn didn't budge, and the firm look on her face said it all.
With that, Collin's plan only worked halfway, one win, one loss.
'Was it really bad to pamper your loved ones just because you finally can? What if they get used to it and depend on me more? Even better!' Collin's train of thought would probably never change.
.........
......
...
Henry Greyson and Wyatt Bray entered the headquarters of Uni-versus Pictures dressed in formal clothes and filled with nervous excitement to pitch a project that had kept them up at night for weeks.
Wyatt had written a script over the course of several months, and when Henry personally read it, he completely lost his mind for laughing.
The script bore some resemblance to The Accidental Wedding Crashers, but it had a different setting and a new dynamic between characters.
It was about a group of friends on a weeklong cruise ship vacation. They gambled at the ship's casino, where chaotic events unfolded, including accidents and misunderstandings that eventually left the ship stranded in the middle of the ocean with no contact with the outside world.
The script's title was Week On A Cruise Ship... though that could change depending on studio feedback.
Henry had worked with Uni-versus Pictures before. Some of the movies he managed were distributed by the studio and performed modestly at the box office. He had also produced one of their mid-budget films a few years ago that became a hit.
The two men found the private room where they would present their pitch to the Head of Production. They knocked, received confirmation, and stepped inside.
"Huh?" Henry blurted under his breath.
He froze as if his shoes were nailed to the floor. He saw people in the room he didn't recognize at first glance. No, that wasn't right. He did recognize them. He just hadn't expected to see them here, especially not for this meeting.
Henry Greyson was a professional movie producer with over a decade of experience. He had calculated the budget for the movie down to the smallest line item. Around $15 to $20 million, depending on casting and location needs.
That amount was considered mid-budget in the current era.
Low-budget movies never exceeded $5 million and typically involved indie directors or limited casts.
$5 to $30 million was mid-budget, offering flexibility in production.
Anything above $30 million was high-budget. Usually action, fantasy, or major franchise projects.
Usually, a mid-budget pitch would only involve the Head of Production without higher-ups. In rare cases, top executives would attend if a pitch showed unusual promise.
But today was different, very different. Henry immediately bowed his head out of respect after realizing he had stared too long at the Chairman and CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, both seated just a few feet away.
Yes, both the Chairman and CEO were present for a project like this.
'What the fuck is happening here and why are they here?'
Henry asked himself as he swallowed hard. He'd done dozens of pitches but never had the chance to speak face-to-face with Hollywood's major decision-makers.
He glanced at Wyatt beside him, who was clutching his notes, his hand shaking slightly.
'... Shit. We might fail this pitch before it even begins.'
"You don't have to worry about us, gentlemen. We're just here to listen and observe. Treat us like we're invisible," CEO Berry Cruz said with a friendly laugh.
'Yeah, right. As if we can do that.'
The Chairman of Uni-versus Pictures, Noah Nash, also nodded with a small smile. He was a decade younger than Berry but still carried great authority. He was in his 40s but already one of the most influential names in the industry.
"Then let's begin this meeting without further delay."
The Head of Production started the meeting, prompting Henry and Wyatt to present their project. Slowly, they adjusted to the pressure, gaining confidence with every minute as they explained the overall concept with clarity and enthusiasm. They distributed the completed scripts and projected budget breakdowns to everyone present and let them read at their own pace.
Berry Cruz adjusted his reading glasses and curiously opened the script while Henry delivered his pitch with calm professionalism.
The opening scene featured the three friends waking up in a strange room with no memory of the previous night. One of them, the youngest, rushed to the toilet to release the biggest and loudest shit of all time, echoing throughout the room. While he was in the middle of doing number two, two lions appeared and surrounded him from both sides, growling in unison.
The guy screamed in horror while shitting, completely losing his mind, and the lions roared on cue, creating a symphony of shit, screams, and roars unlike anything ever seen in cinema.
Berry bit his lip, trying hard not to laugh. He clenched the pages tightly, holding back his laughter so as not to disrupt the meeting or seem unprofessional.
Suddenly, Chairman Noah Nash burst into laughter, unable to hold it any longer. Everyone in the room paused mid-read and waited while he composed himself, smiling politely.
Noah took a deep breath and waved his hand, still chuckling. His face was red, either from laughter or from embarrassment for laughing so suddenly in front of everyone.
"Continue what you're doing."
Henry resumed the pitch without skipping a beat, while Wyatt chimed in when needed. Henry was an expert, so Wyatt followed his lead and kept things steady.
An hour later, Henry and Wyatt left the room feeling drained but hopeful. The executives had asked questions ranging from budget concerns to casting ideas.
Once they were satisfied with what they heard, Henry and Wyatt were directed to a nearby waiting room while the executives privately discussed the project's potential profitability behind closed doors.
HellFire28
Getting sticky.
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I would pay to see that movie.
VD01
Know what you're doing yet?
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Dude, it's an obvious "The Hangover," only on a cruise ship and with lions instead of a tiger.
HellFire28
Getting sticky.
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- Mar 4, 2021
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Yeah, but I like ships.
Chapter 57
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 57
Wyatt and Henry entered the room, and someone brought them cookies and neatly served coffee. The Chairman had told them earlier that they needed at least an hour to fully deliberate the project proposal, and they would be called again once a decision had been made.
Wyatt sat down and wiped the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand, still tense from the high-pressure atmosphere.
Unlike the last time when he and Collin easily secured an investment from William, today's pitch felt far heavier. Wyatt could feel the pressure mounting with each passing minute. The people in the meeting room were so serious and professional, almost intimidating, that he knew a single misstep could ruin everything.
Except for the one moment when Chairman Noah burst out laughing, the entire pitch had felt suffocating.
Now Wyatt realized even more just how lucky he was to have an agent like Collin. He owed the success of his first movie to him. Collin believed in him when he was still a nobody, fresh out of college, with no real connections. That meant a lot to him, both personally and professionally.
After The Accidental Wedding Crashers was released, Wyatt received many calls and texts from his old college classmates. Almost all of them asked for jobs, hoping he could help them land a role or at least a spot on the crew, especially the women who aspired to be actresses.
But Wyatt wasn't foolish or naïve enough to let flattery cloud his judgment. He might lack experience, but he knew most of them just wanted to use him now that he had a successful film under his belt.
He consulted Collin about it, and the agent was straightforward: hiring amateur people for a professional-level project would be detrimental to the production. Wyatt agreed after thinking it through seriously.
Collin said Wyatt could hire people he trusted and who had strong work ethics. People who wouldn't jeopardize the project, especially with the team still being newly formed and in the process of hiring key members.
But when it came to actors and actresses, it was better for them to go through auditions and prove themselves fairly. Casting people just because they were college friends was too risky and could cause serious problems down the line.
Wyatt agreed… however, there was still one thing he hadn't told Collin and it weighed on his conscience.
Back at the celebration party, Wyatt had hooked up with an aspiring actress whose name he barely remembered that night. The two had done the horizontal monster smash, and Wyatt promised to include her in his next project.
They even had a second rendezvous just two days ago after a casual meetup, and they had kept in touch via text and late-night calls. Both had agreed it was nothing serious, just fun with no strings attached.
Wyatt was nervous about telling Collin because he knew it was unprofessional and unethical. He fucked up by fucking her, without thinking through the consequences.
Still, he planned to invite the woman to audition and compete fairly. If she earned a role, then great.
Unfortunately, his new project centered around three male leads, so her chances of standing out were slim. The best she could hope for was a minor supporting role with limited screen time.
Wyatt glanced at Henry, who looked far more composed than he felt. The producer picked up a cookie, dipped it into the coffee, and ate it with calm precision. He nodded approvingly at the flavor and started eating more with visible satisfaction.
"Do you think they'll agree?" Wyatt asked, hoping to ease his anxiety.
"Wyatt, you're still young, so it's natural to be nervous in situations like this. But you have to be confident in yourself and in your work. Do you know how rare it is for a director to have a box office hit as a debut film? Almost none. Most debut films only manage small profits when released in theaters. Yours broke that pattern."
"Thank you, Henry. That really helps."
Wyatt and Henry had worked together during Director Esteban's project, but their relationship had been mostly professional. They rarely spoke on a personal level and mostly discussed work.
Wyatt's first impression of Henry was that he was calm under pressure and knew what he was doing.
"You don't have to worry, I'm nervous too. But nerves won't help you survive in this industry. If you're serious about being a director, you'll get used to moments like this. As the creative head, you'll always be in rooms like that, defending your vision."
Henry sipped his coffee.
"Look, the situation is in our favor. It's more obvious than you think. Instead of letting us leave and making us wait for days, they decided to give us an answer within the hour. That shows urgency and interest. If they weren't interested, they'd take their time. But this? This is a very good sign. Believe me, we'll get the confirmation today. No doubt."
Henry had experienced countless business pitches in his long career as a producer, and he knew this situation was more optimistic than most. He admitted he was initially caught off guard by the presence of both the CEO and Chairman, but perhaps that meant they saw true potential in Wyatt's new project.
.........
......
...
Henry's prediction turned out to be accurate. Both the CEO and Chairman were impressed with Wyatt and his script.
When Uni-versus received word that Wyatt Bray was planning a new project and wanted to pitch it to them, CEO Berry Cruz personally took interest and decided to attend the meeting. He also invited Chairman Noah Nash, who agreed to come along.
Now the deal was the center of everyone's attention.
"It's promising, very promising. If this script performs even half as well as The Accidental Wedding Crashers, it'll be a big win," Berry said.
After 70 days in theaters, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had grossed $252 million worldwide and was still generating revenue. It was a success far beyond expectations.
Noah glanced over the script for a second time with a trace of amusement. The first page alone had made him laugh out loud, it was undeniably promising.
"They're asking for a $20 million investment to fully fund the project. In exchange, we'll own the complete copyright of Week on a Cruise Ship as the sole production studio."
That was standard practice in the industry. Since Uni-versus would be the sole investor, they naturally owned full rights to the film. The director and producer, however, would typically receive a small share of the revenue depending on contract negotiations, usually around 1.5% to 2.5% after expenses were deducted.
"I met Wyatt's agent at the screening for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. His name is Collin East. Judging by Collin's confidence, he'll probably ask for at least a $3 million salary for Wyatt, possibly even a box office share," Berry added as he flipped through the financial proposal.
"$3 million isn't outrageous, considering Wyatt already has a box office hit to his name, which is rare for a new director. The only problem is the box office share, it cuts into our profit. Are we okay with that risk if the film turns out to be another hit?"
"I'll handle the negotiations with Wyatt's agent personally," Noah said without hesitation.
Everyone in the room nodded in agreement. It was rare for the Chairman to negotiate directly, but not unheard of. He had once personally courted a famous actor to star in one of their flagship projects.
Still, the fact that Noah was showing this level of interest in a new director was telling and it said a lot about Wyatt's rising star.
+++++
[Author's Note: If you want to read more, this novel currently has 32 advanced chapters on my Patreon.]
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Wyatt and Henry entered the room, and someone brought them cookies and neatly served coffee. The Chairman had told them earlier that they needed at least an hour to fully deliberate the project proposal, and they would be called again once a decision had been made.
Wyatt sat down and wiped the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand, still tense from the high-pressure atmosphere.
Unlike the last time when he and Collin easily secured an investment from William, today's pitch felt far heavier. Wyatt could feel the pressure mounting with each passing minute. The people in the meeting room were so serious and professional, almost intimidating, that he knew a single misstep could ruin everything.
Except for the one moment when Chairman Noah burst out laughing, the entire pitch had felt suffocating.
Now Wyatt realized even more just how lucky he was to have an agent like Collin. He owed the success of his first movie to him. Collin believed in him when he was still a nobody, fresh out of college, with no real connections. That meant a lot to him, both personally and professionally.
After The Accidental Wedding Crashers was released, Wyatt received many calls and texts from his old college classmates. Almost all of them asked for jobs, hoping he could help them land a role or at least a spot on the crew, especially the women who aspired to be actresses.
But Wyatt wasn't foolish or naïve enough to let flattery cloud his judgment. He might lack experience, but he knew most of them just wanted to use him now that he had a successful film under his belt.
He consulted Collin about it, and the agent was straightforward: hiring amateur people for a professional-level project would be detrimental to the production. Wyatt agreed after thinking it through seriously.
Collin said Wyatt could hire people he trusted and who had strong work ethics. People who wouldn't jeopardize the project, especially with the team still being newly formed and in the process of hiring key members.
But when it came to actors and actresses, it was better for them to go through auditions and prove themselves fairly. Casting people just because they were college friends was too risky and could cause serious problems down the line.
Wyatt agreed… however, there was still one thing he hadn't told Collin and it weighed on his conscience.
Back at the celebration party, Wyatt had hooked up with an aspiring actress whose name he barely remembered that night. The two had done the horizontal monster smash, and Wyatt promised to include her in his next project.
They even had a second rendezvous just two days ago after a casual meetup, and they had kept in touch via text and late-night calls. Both had agreed it was nothing serious, just fun with no strings attached.
Wyatt was nervous about telling Collin because he knew it was unprofessional and unethical. He fucked up by fucking her, without thinking through the consequences.
Still, he planned to invite the woman to audition and compete fairly. If she earned a role, then great.
Unfortunately, his new project centered around three male leads, so her chances of standing out were slim. The best she could hope for was a minor supporting role with limited screen time.
Wyatt glanced at Henry, who looked far more composed than he felt. The producer picked up a cookie, dipped it into the coffee, and ate it with calm precision. He nodded approvingly at the flavor and started eating more with visible satisfaction.
"Do you think they'll agree?" Wyatt asked, hoping to ease his anxiety.
"Wyatt, you're still young, so it's natural to be nervous in situations like this. But you have to be confident in yourself and in your work. Do you know how rare it is for a director to have a box office hit as a debut film? Almost none. Most debut films only manage small profits when released in theaters. Yours broke that pattern."
"Thank you, Henry. That really helps."
Wyatt and Henry had worked together during Director Esteban's project, but their relationship had been mostly professional. They rarely spoke on a personal level and mostly discussed work.
Wyatt's first impression of Henry was that he was calm under pressure and knew what he was doing.
"You don't have to worry, I'm nervous too. But nerves won't help you survive in this industry. If you're serious about being a director, you'll get used to moments like this. As the creative head, you'll always be in rooms like that, defending your vision."
Henry sipped his coffee.
"Look, the situation is in our favor. It's more obvious than you think. Instead of letting us leave and making us wait for days, they decided to give us an answer within the hour. That shows urgency and interest. If they weren't interested, they'd take their time. But this? This is a very good sign. Believe me, we'll get the confirmation today. No doubt."
Henry had experienced countless business pitches in his long career as a producer, and he knew this situation was more optimistic than most. He admitted he was initially caught off guard by the presence of both the CEO and Chairman, but perhaps that meant they saw true potential in Wyatt's new project.
.........
......
...
Henry's prediction turned out to be accurate. Both the CEO and Chairman were impressed with Wyatt and his script.
When Uni-versus received word that Wyatt Bray was planning a new project and wanted to pitch it to them, CEO Berry Cruz personally took interest and decided to attend the meeting. He also invited Chairman Noah Nash, who agreed to come along.
Now the deal was the center of everyone's attention.
"It's promising, very promising. If this script performs even half as well as The Accidental Wedding Crashers, it'll be a big win," Berry said.
After 70 days in theaters, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had grossed $252 million worldwide and was still generating revenue. It was a success far beyond expectations.
Noah glanced over the script for a second time with a trace of amusement. The first page alone had made him laugh out loud, it was undeniably promising.
"They're asking for a $20 million investment to fully fund the project. In exchange, we'll own the complete copyright of Week on a Cruise Ship as the sole production studio."
That was standard practice in the industry. Since Uni-versus would be the sole investor, they naturally owned full rights to the film. The director and producer, however, would typically receive a small share of the revenue depending on contract negotiations, usually around 1.5% to 2.5% after expenses were deducted.
"I met Wyatt's agent at the screening for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. His name is Collin East. Judging by Collin's confidence, he'll probably ask for at least a $3 million salary for Wyatt, possibly even a box office share," Berry added as he flipped through the financial proposal.
"$3 million isn't outrageous, considering Wyatt already has a box office hit to his name, which is rare for a new director. The only problem is the box office share, it cuts into our profit. Are we okay with that risk if the film turns out to be another hit?"
"I'll handle the negotiations with Wyatt's agent personally," Noah said without hesitation.
Everyone in the room nodded in agreement. It was rare for the Chairman to negotiate directly, but not unheard of. He had once personally courted a famous actor to star in one of their flagship projects.
Still, the fact that Noah was showing this level of interest in a new director was telling and it said a lot about Wyatt's rising star.
+++++
[Author's Note: If you want to read more, this novel currently has 32 advanced chapters on my Patreon.]
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
wetwipefatass
Making the rounds.
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very interesting read, please dont stop writing this story.
Chapter 58
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 58
"We can discuss the finer details once we finalize the initial agreement. For now, I want this project under our control before other studios hear about it. They probably won't sign with us if we don't meet their conditions but that doesn't matter. This movie will be released under our company, no matter what it takes."
Everyone in the room nodded in agreement. The fact that they had kept Wyatt and Henry in a separate room instead of sending them away spoke volumes. It was a clear sign of interest and a desire not to let them walk.
More importantly, there was a fear that if Wyatt and Henry left the premises, they might pitch the script to another studio, potentially triggering a bidding war. That was something Uni-versus Pictures wanted to avoid at all costs.
Henry and Wyatt had chosen Uni-versus Pictures as their first stop because Wyatt already had a successful collaboration with them on his debut film. The studio was already familiar with his capabilities, making the partnership smoother and more efficient.
Noah had no intention of letting this project slip through their fingers. If they had to make the first move to secure it, then so be it.
"Call them back. Start negotiations as soon as possible before they have a chance to change their minds. I don't want any other company interfering or getting ahead of us."
Noah saw the potential of this movie clearly. Like The Accidental Wedding Crashers, Week On A Cruise Ship was filled with adult humor and sharp comedic timing. It would likely receive an R rating, but that wouldn't hurt its profitability or appeal.
After all, The Accidental Wedding Crashers, despite its R rating, had grossed over $251 million worldwide. In 1995, that kind of box office performance was phenomenal.
.........
......
...
"Henry, the holidays are still four days away, and now you're saying I might not get a single day of rest?" Collin said with a wry smile, phone pressed to his ear.
Henry had just called to inform him that Uni-versus Pictures was ready to begin negotiations much sooner than expected. Collin would represent Wyatt, while Henry would negotiate on his own behalf.
Some producers had agents, while others preferred not to. Especially for large projects where agents would take a cut of their earnings. It was all a matter of preference and capability.
But for directors and actors, agents were a necessity. Their careers were opportunity-driven, and they needed someone to protect and promote their interests.
To avoid souring the relationship between studios and their clients over financial matters, agents stepped in as negotiators, acting as a buffer. That way, if things got heated, the resentment would fall on the agent, not the talent.
Just remember what happened when Collin negotiated Lawrence's salary with producer Balthazar Harper. The man had said some brutal things. If Lawrence had negotiated personally, he wouldn't have lasted five minutes. He might not have walked away with even $100,000 despite his talent.
Collin's job was to pursue the best possible outcome for his client, even if it meant playing the villain in the room.
"Alright. I'll go to Uni-versus headquarters tomorrow and start the talks with the executives. I'll hang up now, I need to call Wyatt next. Drive safe."
The next call went to Wyatt, who was still with Henry when his phone rang. Henry waved goodbye and left the room, giving Wyatt space for the conversation.
"How much do you realistically want to earn from this project?" Collin asked. "Keep in mind, you're not just the screenwriter. You're the director and the creative visionary behind this story."
"Is it possible to earn $4 million plus a box office share?"
"Completely possible and even reasonable," Collin answered. "Honestly, if I'm right, Uni-versus wouldn't even flinch at a $7 million salary if they believe in your value. But the box office share? That's a different story. That eats into their profit, so it's a tougher negotiation. Would you rather prioritize a larger direct salary or the share? Keep in mind, the share will take a while to arrive."
They had already experienced this with The Accidental Wedding Crashers. It had taken two months for the first box office payout to come through.
"Well, I'm confident this movie will be a success. You said it yourself, I should always believe in the success of my films, especially comedies."
"Exactly, and that mindset will serve you well." Collin smiled, proud of how much Wyatt had grown.
"Then let's prioritize the box office share. Let's meet today and finalize our contract before the meeting with the studio."
Collin, under their agency agreement, could earn a 10% commission from Wyatt's salary.
However, box office bonuses were separate and had to be negotiated independently. Both parties needed transparency to preserve trust.
Later that afternoon, Wyatt arrived at the ANT headquarters and found Collin standing in a small but newly claimed office on the 6th floor, looking pleased.
"I finally got my own office," Collin laughed, gesturing proudly at the modest space.
It wasn't large, but it was his, and that meant something. Thanks to The Accidental Wedding Crashers and representing a director with rising clout, Collin's status at the agency had improved. His base salary had jumped from $30,000 to $50,000 a year, a huge leap.
It was proof that he was no longer just a small-time agent. He had earned respect in the industry, especially now that his client was a promising young director.
"That's great," Wyatt said, eyeing the new space. He had seen Collin's old cubicle, it was clear this was an upgrade worth celebrating.
"Next year, I'll build a team to prioritize your career and help manage everything around you."
Collin didn't elaborate. He also didn't mention that having a team would likely reduce his personal commission, but that could be discussed another time.
The two sat down and quickly drafted a simple but legally binding agreement.
The terms were straightforward and fair.
For every 1% of box office share that Collin successfully negotiated, Wyatt would pay him a $100,000 bonus. With one of the company's lawyers present to witness and confirm the terms, they signed the contract and left ANT headquarters to grab a meal and talk more about the project.
.........
......
...
The next morning, Collin adjusted his tie with care before walking into the office of Uni-versus Pictures' Chairman. He carried himself with the calm composure of a man ready for a tough negotiation. The secretary opened the door, and Collin thanked her with a polite nod.
Inside, he saw a man seated at a polished wooden desk, gold trim, and everything about it screamed authority. Chairman Noah Nash rose to his feet and approached Collin with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
The moment Collin stepped in, his instincts flared. He immediately sensed that this man was dangerous, someone accustomed to power and control. There was an unmistakable aura around him, as if years of hidden dealings and shady power plays had left an imprint on his very presence.
Thankfully, this was just a negotiation, not a partnership. Collin wouldn't have to deal with Noah on a daily basis, which was a relief.
'Balthazar had a bad vibe and a short temper, but Chairman Noah is on another level entirely.'
Collin kept a pleasant smile on his face and reminded himself to stay sharp.
"It's nice to meet you, Chairman. Thank you for the opportunity."
"Just call me Noah, no need for formalities. You're Collin, right? Come, sit. Let's talk about your client's project. Do you prefer coffee or tea?"
"Coffee, please, if it's not too much trouble."
They took their seats across from each other. Between them was a small table adorned with an antique ceramic tea set. The secretary brought over the coffee and a plate of nicely arranged pastries.
"We can discuss the finer details once we finalize the initial agreement. For now, I want this project under our control before other studios hear about it. They probably won't sign with us if we don't meet their conditions but that doesn't matter. This movie will be released under our company, no matter what it takes."
Everyone in the room nodded in agreement. The fact that they had kept Wyatt and Henry in a separate room instead of sending them away spoke volumes. It was a clear sign of interest and a desire not to let them walk.
More importantly, there was a fear that if Wyatt and Henry left the premises, they might pitch the script to another studio, potentially triggering a bidding war. That was something Uni-versus Pictures wanted to avoid at all costs.
Henry and Wyatt had chosen Uni-versus Pictures as their first stop because Wyatt already had a successful collaboration with them on his debut film. The studio was already familiar with his capabilities, making the partnership smoother and more efficient.
Noah had no intention of letting this project slip through their fingers. If they had to make the first move to secure it, then so be it.
"Call them back. Start negotiations as soon as possible before they have a chance to change their minds. I don't want any other company interfering or getting ahead of us."
Noah saw the potential of this movie clearly. Like The Accidental Wedding Crashers, Week On A Cruise Ship was filled with adult humor and sharp comedic timing. It would likely receive an R rating, but that wouldn't hurt its profitability or appeal.
After all, The Accidental Wedding Crashers, despite its R rating, had grossed over $251 million worldwide. In 1995, that kind of box office performance was phenomenal.
.........
......
...
"Henry, the holidays are still four days away, and now you're saying I might not get a single day of rest?" Collin said with a wry smile, phone pressed to his ear.
Henry had just called to inform him that Uni-versus Pictures was ready to begin negotiations much sooner than expected. Collin would represent Wyatt, while Henry would negotiate on his own behalf.
Some producers had agents, while others preferred not to. Especially for large projects where agents would take a cut of their earnings. It was all a matter of preference and capability.
But for directors and actors, agents were a necessity. Their careers were opportunity-driven, and they needed someone to protect and promote their interests.
To avoid souring the relationship between studios and their clients over financial matters, agents stepped in as negotiators, acting as a buffer. That way, if things got heated, the resentment would fall on the agent, not the talent.
Just remember what happened when Collin negotiated Lawrence's salary with producer Balthazar Harper. The man had said some brutal things. If Lawrence had negotiated personally, he wouldn't have lasted five minutes. He might not have walked away with even $100,000 despite his talent.
Collin's job was to pursue the best possible outcome for his client, even if it meant playing the villain in the room.
"Alright. I'll go to Uni-versus headquarters tomorrow and start the talks with the executives. I'll hang up now, I need to call Wyatt next. Drive safe."
The next call went to Wyatt, who was still with Henry when his phone rang. Henry waved goodbye and left the room, giving Wyatt space for the conversation.
"How much do you realistically want to earn from this project?" Collin asked. "Keep in mind, you're not just the screenwriter. You're the director and the creative visionary behind this story."
"Is it possible to earn $4 million plus a box office share?"
"Completely possible and even reasonable," Collin answered. "Honestly, if I'm right, Uni-versus wouldn't even flinch at a $7 million salary if they believe in your value. But the box office share? That's a different story. That eats into their profit, so it's a tougher negotiation. Would you rather prioritize a larger direct salary or the share? Keep in mind, the share will take a while to arrive."
They had already experienced this with The Accidental Wedding Crashers. It had taken two months for the first box office payout to come through.
"Well, I'm confident this movie will be a success. You said it yourself, I should always believe in the success of my films, especially comedies."
"Exactly, and that mindset will serve you well." Collin smiled, proud of how much Wyatt had grown.
"Then let's prioritize the box office share. Let's meet today and finalize our contract before the meeting with the studio."
Collin, under their agency agreement, could earn a 10% commission from Wyatt's salary.
However, box office bonuses were separate and had to be negotiated independently. Both parties needed transparency to preserve trust.
Later that afternoon, Wyatt arrived at the ANT headquarters and found Collin standing in a small but newly claimed office on the 6th floor, looking pleased.
"I finally got my own office," Collin laughed, gesturing proudly at the modest space.
It wasn't large, but it was his, and that meant something. Thanks to The Accidental Wedding Crashers and representing a director with rising clout, Collin's status at the agency had improved. His base salary had jumped from $30,000 to $50,000 a year, a huge leap.
It was proof that he was no longer just a small-time agent. He had earned respect in the industry, especially now that his client was a promising young director.
"That's great," Wyatt said, eyeing the new space. He had seen Collin's old cubicle, it was clear this was an upgrade worth celebrating.
"Next year, I'll build a team to prioritize your career and help manage everything around you."
Collin didn't elaborate. He also didn't mention that having a team would likely reduce his personal commission, but that could be discussed another time.
The two sat down and quickly drafted a simple but legally binding agreement.
The terms were straightforward and fair.
For every 1% of box office share that Collin successfully negotiated, Wyatt would pay him a $100,000 bonus. With one of the company's lawyers present to witness and confirm the terms, they signed the contract and left ANT headquarters to grab a meal and talk more about the project.
.........
......
...
The next morning, Collin adjusted his tie with care before walking into the office of Uni-versus Pictures' Chairman. He carried himself with the calm composure of a man ready for a tough negotiation. The secretary opened the door, and Collin thanked her with a polite nod.
Inside, he saw a man seated at a polished wooden desk, gold trim, and everything about it screamed authority. Chairman Noah Nash rose to his feet and approached Collin with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
The moment Collin stepped in, his instincts flared. He immediately sensed that this man was dangerous, someone accustomed to power and control. There was an unmistakable aura around him, as if years of hidden dealings and shady power plays had left an imprint on his very presence.
Thankfully, this was just a negotiation, not a partnership. Collin wouldn't have to deal with Noah on a daily basis, which was a relief.
'Balthazar had a bad vibe and a short temper, but Chairman Noah is on another level entirely.'
Collin kept a pleasant smile on his face and reminded himself to stay sharp.
"It's nice to meet you, Chairman. Thank you for the opportunity."
"Just call me Noah, no need for formalities. You're Collin, right? Come, sit. Let's talk about your client's project. Do you prefer coffee or tea?"
"Coffee, please, if it's not too much trouble."
They took their seats across from each other. Between them was a small table adorned with an antique ceramic tea set. The secretary brought over the coffee and a plate of nicely arranged pastries.
Chapter 59
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 59
Once the two were seated and settled across the small tea table, Noah regarded the agent with a quiet, assessing gaze. Though he didn't show it on his face, he was impressed.
He had expected Collin to be nervous. After all, this was the young agent's first time negotiating face-to-face with a studio chairman under such high stakes.
But Collin had changed significantly in the past year, not just in demeanor, but in how he handled pressure. The biggest reason was his golden vision, an uncanny ability to spot talent with remarkable precision. Because of that gift, he had developed confidence in both himself and the career path he had chosen. He no longer felt dread or anxiety in moments like this. In fact, he felt excited.
Even if he screwed up the negotiation, he had other studios interested in Wyatt. He believed in his client more than anything else, and that belief gave him the upper hand.
Now that Collin had paid off his crippling debt, he was finally free, financially and emotionally, for the first time in years. He could retire right now if he wanted to. His bank account already held millions, accumulated faster than he'd ever expected.
But retirement was a last resort. This was the career he chose, and he was determined to excel in it and make a name for himself.
While Collin didn't outwardly appear nervous, that didn't mean he wasn't fully aware of the gravity of this meeting. His heart was still pounding beneath his tailored suit.
"Let's not waste time, Collin," Noah began, his tone blunt and firm. "We both know we're not close, nor do we need to pretend otherwise. There's no reason to drag this out. I know why you're here, so state your offer. I'll counter. No need for the usual dance."
Noah was surprised by Collin's composure, it wasn't what he had expected from such a young agent. Still, he didn't think this negotiation would end favorably for Collin, regardless of his poise.
"My client wants $7 million and 10% of the box office share," Collin said calmly. "Wyatt has exceptional talent, especially in the comedy genre. He's already proven that. His talent deserves compensation to match."
Noah smirked condescendingly. As expected, these damn talent agents were always greedy, always reaching for the impossible.
He didn't respond immediately. Instead, he simply stared at Collin, waiting for him to continue.
"His next movie will be profitable," Collin added, his tone steady and assured.
"Is that all?" Noah asked dryly. "Anything else you'd like to add?"
"Not for now. But the fact that you invited me to the Chairman's office to negotiate personally tells me everything I need to know, you also believe this project is worth pursuing."
Collin was right, though Noah showed no sign of acknowledgment, maintaining the stoic mask of a seasoned executive.
"Collin, your client is still young and relatively new to the industry. What if he cracks under pressure? We can't risk the entire investment. I'm concerned he might not be able to finish the job to our standards."
"Then let's address that in the contract with a clause that protects your interests."
"I see. Then here's my counteroffer. I'll offer Wyatt $7 million in salary. That's a huge amount for a new director, rare in this industry. He'll receive $3.5 million upfront, and the remaining $3.5 million after production concludes, assuming everything goes well. However, if the final cut doesn't meet our standards, we'll create our own edited version, and the remaining $3.5 million will be forfeited."
"Nope. That won't happen under any circumstance." Collin shook his head firmly. He wasn't about to fall into that kind of trap.
"Wyatt will edit his version, and the studio can prepare its own cut for comparison. A third party can be brought in, if necessary, to determine which is better. But Wyatt's remaining $3.5 million stays untouched regardless of the outcome..."
Then, in that moment, Collin realized something important. The Chairman was trying to distract him from the real prize: the box office share.
Wyatt had made it clear he valued long-term profits over upfront salary. He believed in his project and was confident in its success. Collin understood now that Noah was trying to shift focus to the salary, downplaying the backend deal.
Yes, Noah was dangerous. Clever. Calculating.
"Chairman, let's not forget the box office share, that's our top priority. We prefer at least 10%, ideally of the worldwide box office."
"Pfft—haha!" Noah burst into laughter, clearly amused. To him, it sounded like a joke.
"And what makes you think we'd agree to those terms so easily?"
"If you don't, we have other options," Collin replied evenly. "Other studios are already reaching out. In fact, Wash Dismay Studio contacted us just yesterday after hearing that Wyatt had a new project in development. Maybe someone in your company is leaking information."
"Bullshit," Noah snapped. "If there's a spy, it's on your side, not mine. You know that."
Despite his denial, Noah made a mental note to double-check. It was possible someone on his team had leaked something without his knowledge.
"Here's what I'll offer," Noah said after a pause. "No condition of forfeiting the half of salary. In fact, I'll increase it to $8 million as a show of good faith. How about that?"
The name-drop had shaken Noah more than he wanted to admit. Wash Dismay was hungry for live-action content to diversify their catalog. Though best known for their animated, family-friendly films, they had a separate branch, Touchpebbles Pictures, for R-rated and live-action projects.
If they believed in the profitability of Week on a Cruise Ship, they'd jump on it, especially considering its franchise and merchandising potential.
The room fell quiet as Noah weighed the options.
'Should I let this project go?'
He already had a solid lineup of blockbusters scheduled over the next two years, but there was a glaring gap in June 1997. Week on a Cruise Ship had been scheduled for that slot. Losing it would leave a hole in their summer schedule.
'Maybe we can find something else in time… But this one fits perfectly.'
"The box office share is what we're prioritizing, plain and simple," Collin reiterated.
Noah gritted his teeth. Wyatt had clearly found himself a damn good agent.
'We showed too much of our hand early on. We shouldn't have been so eager during the pitch.'
"$5 million in salary," Noah finally said, "plus 5% of the North American box office as a performance incentive. Wyatt will receive 2% if the movie grosses over $100 million in North America. If it grosses over $200 million, then he'll get the full 5% as promised. It's performance-driven, a motivation for him to do his best. His salary as scriptwriter is already included in the $5 million."
Noah had structured the deal to be performance-based while lowering the flat salary. It was a calculated compromise that maintained studio control while offering significant upside for Wyatt.
"Deal accepted."
Collin extended his hand with a firm grip. Noah chuckled and shook it, sealing the agreement.
With the initial terms settled, they now had to iron out the contract's finer details and legal clauses to officially finalize the deal.
+++++
Author's Note: I just completed Hollywood What If yesterday and decided to offer a 50% discount on my highest Patreon tier as a celebration. Do you realize how rare it is for a novel to actually be finished? The discount will be available until the end of tomorrow. Check it out if you're interested!
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Once the two were seated and settled across the small tea table, Noah regarded the agent with a quiet, assessing gaze. Though he didn't show it on his face, he was impressed.
He had expected Collin to be nervous. After all, this was the young agent's first time negotiating face-to-face with a studio chairman under such high stakes.
But Collin had changed significantly in the past year, not just in demeanor, but in how he handled pressure. The biggest reason was his golden vision, an uncanny ability to spot talent with remarkable precision. Because of that gift, he had developed confidence in both himself and the career path he had chosen. He no longer felt dread or anxiety in moments like this. In fact, he felt excited.
Even if he screwed up the negotiation, he had other studios interested in Wyatt. He believed in his client more than anything else, and that belief gave him the upper hand.
Now that Collin had paid off his crippling debt, he was finally free, financially and emotionally, for the first time in years. He could retire right now if he wanted to. His bank account already held millions, accumulated faster than he'd ever expected.
But retirement was a last resort. This was the career he chose, and he was determined to excel in it and make a name for himself.
While Collin didn't outwardly appear nervous, that didn't mean he wasn't fully aware of the gravity of this meeting. His heart was still pounding beneath his tailored suit.
"Let's not waste time, Collin," Noah began, his tone blunt and firm. "We both know we're not close, nor do we need to pretend otherwise. There's no reason to drag this out. I know why you're here, so state your offer. I'll counter. No need for the usual dance."
Noah was surprised by Collin's composure, it wasn't what he had expected from such a young agent. Still, he didn't think this negotiation would end favorably for Collin, regardless of his poise.
"My client wants $7 million and 10% of the box office share," Collin said calmly. "Wyatt has exceptional talent, especially in the comedy genre. He's already proven that. His talent deserves compensation to match."
Noah smirked condescendingly. As expected, these damn talent agents were always greedy, always reaching for the impossible.
He didn't respond immediately. Instead, he simply stared at Collin, waiting for him to continue.
"His next movie will be profitable," Collin added, his tone steady and assured.
"Is that all?" Noah asked dryly. "Anything else you'd like to add?"
"Not for now. But the fact that you invited me to the Chairman's office to negotiate personally tells me everything I need to know, you also believe this project is worth pursuing."
Collin was right, though Noah showed no sign of acknowledgment, maintaining the stoic mask of a seasoned executive.
"Collin, your client is still young and relatively new to the industry. What if he cracks under pressure? We can't risk the entire investment. I'm concerned he might not be able to finish the job to our standards."
"Then let's address that in the contract with a clause that protects your interests."
"I see. Then here's my counteroffer. I'll offer Wyatt $7 million in salary. That's a huge amount for a new director, rare in this industry. He'll receive $3.5 million upfront, and the remaining $3.5 million after production concludes, assuming everything goes well. However, if the final cut doesn't meet our standards, we'll create our own edited version, and the remaining $3.5 million will be forfeited."
"Nope. That won't happen under any circumstance." Collin shook his head firmly. He wasn't about to fall into that kind of trap.
"Wyatt will edit his version, and the studio can prepare its own cut for comparison. A third party can be brought in, if necessary, to determine which is better. But Wyatt's remaining $3.5 million stays untouched regardless of the outcome..."
Then, in that moment, Collin realized something important. The Chairman was trying to distract him from the real prize: the box office share.
Wyatt had made it clear he valued long-term profits over upfront salary. He believed in his project and was confident in its success. Collin understood now that Noah was trying to shift focus to the salary, downplaying the backend deal.
Yes, Noah was dangerous. Clever. Calculating.
"Chairman, let's not forget the box office share, that's our top priority. We prefer at least 10%, ideally of the worldwide box office."
"Pfft—haha!" Noah burst into laughter, clearly amused. To him, it sounded like a joke.
"And what makes you think we'd agree to those terms so easily?"
"If you don't, we have other options," Collin replied evenly. "Other studios are already reaching out. In fact, Wash Dismay Studio contacted us just yesterday after hearing that Wyatt had a new project in development. Maybe someone in your company is leaking information."
"Bullshit," Noah snapped. "If there's a spy, it's on your side, not mine. You know that."
Despite his denial, Noah made a mental note to double-check. It was possible someone on his team had leaked something without his knowledge.
"Here's what I'll offer," Noah said after a pause. "No condition of forfeiting the half of salary. In fact, I'll increase it to $8 million as a show of good faith. How about that?"
The name-drop had shaken Noah more than he wanted to admit. Wash Dismay was hungry for live-action content to diversify their catalog. Though best known for their animated, family-friendly films, they had a separate branch, Touchpebbles Pictures, for R-rated and live-action projects.
If they believed in the profitability of Week on a Cruise Ship, they'd jump on it, especially considering its franchise and merchandising potential.
The room fell quiet as Noah weighed the options.
'Should I let this project go?'
He already had a solid lineup of blockbusters scheduled over the next two years, but there was a glaring gap in June 1997. Week on a Cruise Ship had been scheduled for that slot. Losing it would leave a hole in their summer schedule.
'Maybe we can find something else in time… But this one fits perfectly.'
"The box office share is what we're prioritizing, plain and simple," Collin reiterated.
Noah gritted his teeth. Wyatt had clearly found himself a damn good agent.
'We showed too much of our hand early on. We shouldn't have been so eager during the pitch.'
"$5 million in salary," Noah finally said, "plus 5% of the North American box office as a performance incentive. Wyatt will receive 2% if the movie grosses over $100 million in North America. If it grosses over $200 million, then he'll get the full 5% as promised. It's performance-driven, a motivation for him to do his best. His salary as scriptwriter is already included in the $5 million."
Noah had structured the deal to be performance-based while lowering the flat salary. It was a calculated compromise that maintained studio control while offering significant upside for Wyatt.
"Deal accepted."
Collin extended his hand with a firm grip. Noah chuckled and shook it, sealing the agreement.
With the initial terms settled, they now had to iron out the contract's finer details and legal clauses to officially finalize the deal.
+++++
Author's Note: I just completed Hollywood What If yesterday and decided to offer a 50% discount on my highest Patreon tier as a celebration. Do you realize how rare it is for a novel to actually be finished? The discount will be available until the end of tomorrow. Check it out if you're interested!
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Last edited:
Chapter 60
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
- Joined
- Sep 8, 2022
- Messages
- 1,013
- Likes received
- 15,709
Author's Note: I just completed Hollywood What If yesterday and decided to offer a 50% discount on my highest Patreon tier as a celebration. Do you realize how rare it is for a novel to actually be finished? The discount will be available until the end of tomorrow. Check it out if you're interested!
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 60
The terms and conditions between both parties didn't differ much from the usual, which made the contract process smoother than expected. Wyatt didn't have any specific demands, he only requested a decent trailer and a nice mocha to relax in during filming breaks so he could recharge on long production days.
As for Uni-versus Pictures, they insisted on having the right to create their own version of the final cut if Wyatt's edit didn't meet their standards for quality and marketability. They acknowledged Wyatt's proven skills in editing The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and while they trusted his ability, they wanted a safety net in case post-production adjustments became necessary.
Of course, they couldn't reduce Wyatt's salary if his final cut didn't pass their criteria. That clause had already been negotiated out of the contract, something Collin ensured before Wyatt signed anything.
While most people were busy preparing for the holidays, decorating homes, shopping for gifts, and booking hotels for vacation, Collin, Wyatt, and Henry spent the four days working nonstop to finalize the deal.
On December 24, 1995, just one day before Christmas, the contract was officially signed by both parties after several hours of discussion and legal review.
Henry secured his own deal, earning $4 million as the movie's producer, which he considered more than fair. With his credentials and experience, no reason to doubt his value.
As for Wyatt, Collin successfully negotiated a $5 million base salary and a 5% North American box office share, a significant win for a director of his age and background. Naturally, Collin received a 10% commission from the $5 million and an additional $500,000 from the box office share agreement, as per their prior arrangement.
With that, Week On A Cruise Ship officially began its pre-production journey.
.........
......
...
"Excuse me, this is Collin, right? I'm Taylor, the executive from Wash Dismay Studios. We met a few months ago at the screening of The Accidental Wedding Crashers. I was wondering if your client is interested in working with us? I heard Wyatt has a new project–wait, what? You already made a deal with Uni-versus Pictures? But I thought your client only pitched the project three days ago? You finalized a deal that fast without waiting for other offers?"
Taylor was speechless. He knew that negotiating a movie deal with a studio typically took weeks or even months, filled with revisions, meetings, and budget approvals, depending on executive schedules and market trends.
A studio would only move quickly if they saw serious profit potential and trusted the creative team.
In this case, Uni-versus Pictures saw the value in Wyatt's new project almost immediately and didn't hesitate to secure the deal before other studios could act.
Like Collin, they recognized Wyatt's talent and trusted that he could replicate his previous success.
Since they were already interested from the first pitch, there was no reason to delay or give competitors a chance to interfere. The best move was to act while the momentum was hot.
Taylor ended the call, his jaw clenched and sweat beading on his forehead as panic crept in. He vividly remembered the time Chairman Greg Marinero fired someone right in front of him.
If Wyatt's next movie turned out to be a success, Taylor knew there was a strong chance Greg would kick him out without a second thought. The Chairman had personally expressed interest in working with Wyatt Bray and Taylor failed to make that happen despite having insider information. In Greg's eyes, that made him incompetent.
'Please, please flop at the box office,' Taylor begged in silence.
'That movie has to fail so I can keep my job. I have a mortgage to pay. I might hold a high position in Acquisitions, but I'm still just an employee, completely replaceable!'
'Why the hell did the deal close so fast? Like a goddamn rat!'
Taylor had learned about Wyatt's new project three days ago, thanks to a corporate spy planted inside Uni-versus Pictures who regularly fed him information. He assumed the negotiation wouldn't move fast, especially during the holidays. He was waiting for the right moment to step in.
He miscalculated and it cost him. He never even had a chance to read the script, so he didn't understand why Uni-versus jumped at the deal with such urgency.
.........
......
...
Collin and the others had a much better holiday this year, both emotionally and financially. His clients in particular earned well and found themselves in better places than before.
Jennifer returned to her hometown and spent the holidays reconnecting with her parents and relatives, whom she hadn't seen in a while.
Lawrence and Wyatt did the same, their hearts full and their pockets fuller. Their families were proud, while some relatives expressed a mix of joy and envy as success often drew both. Some cousins even asked if they could be introduced to the entertainment industry, hoping for a shortcut to fame.
Wyatt, now affectionately referred to as "the director" in the family, found himself in an awkward position. His relatives believed he could cast anyone in his next film if he chose to. But Wyatt refused their requests. He wanted to keep everything strictly professional. They weren't trained actors, and he couldn't afford to take unnecessary risks on set.
As for Axel... he spent his days alone in his small apartment.
He tried calling his ex-wife, hoping to wish his son a Merry Christmas, but his calls and messages went unanswered. Estranged from his divorced parents as well, Axel spent the holiday in solitude, reflecting on the life he once had.
The private detectives he'd hired over the years still hadn't found any leads. Was it really this hard to find someone in 1996? Could they have changed their identities? Axel was not allowed to know their address because of the court decision.
Collin occasionally called Axel to check in and offer emotional support. It wasn't much, but it was something.
Collin's own holiday was quiet, but fulfilling. His family didn't travel abroad like others with newfound success might. Instead, they visited his father's hometown and spent time with extended family. Collin had always been close to his cousins, and the reunion was warm.
Some relatives asked about his love life. Collin answered honestly, he was single and had no immediate plans to date. His focus was on building his career while his momentum was strong. It was a shame, some cousins joked, as they had friends they'd been meaning to introduce to him.
Still, for Collin and the rest, the holidays eventually came to an end, as all good things do, and they returned to the fast-paced world of showbiz.
The new year was about to begin, and the industry was revving back to full speed.
.........
......
...
January 4, 1996
Lawrence waved as he boarded the plane, glancing back at his family with a bright smile. His parents waved back, a mix of pride and longing in their expressions. Standing next to them was Collin, sharply dressed in his usual business attire.
It had been a month since Lawrence was cast in Passionate Island, a mid-budget film. Over the past few weeks, he'd attended daily rehearsals and script readings without missing a single session. By now, he had memorized all his lines and could deliver them with confidence.
Lawrence finally saw himself as a real actor, not just a newcomer anymore.
As the plane lifted off, his parents continued waving until it vanished from sight.
Mr. and Mrs. Terrence turned to Collin and offered him their sincerest thanks.
"Mr. East, we truly appreciate everything you've done for our son. We heard you're the reason he landed his first role, and it changed his life. Thank you so much. We brought you some home-baked cookies as a small token of gratitude."
Mrs. Terrence handed him a Tufferware container, and Collin accepted it with a soft smile. He appreciated the gesture, it came from the heart.
"Please take care of our son."
"Don't worry, Ma'am," Collin replied warmly. "I'll make sure Lawrence becomes a successful actor. I'll support him every step of the way."
He couldn't be sure how Lawrence would behave once fame truly hit, but one thing was certain, Collin believed that Lawrence had what it took to become a superstar.
The couple felt reassured. Seeing how genuine Lawrence's agent was, they believed their son was in good hands.
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 60
The terms and conditions between both parties didn't differ much from the usual, which made the contract process smoother than expected. Wyatt didn't have any specific demands, he only requested a decent trailer and a nice mocha to relax in during filming breaks so he could recharge on long production days.
As for Uni-versus Pictures, they insisted on having the right to create their own version of the final cut if Wyatt's edit didn't meet their standards for quality and marketability. They acknowledged Wyatt's proven skills in editing The Accidental Wedding Crashers, and while they trusted his ability, they wanted a safety net in case post-production adjustments became necessary.
Of course, they couldn't reduce Wyatt's salary if his final cut didn't pass their criteria. That clause had already been negotiated out of the contract, something Collin ensured before Wyatt signed anything.
While most people were busy preparing for the holidays, decorating homes, shopping for gifts, and booking hotels for vacation, Collin, Wyatt, and Henry spent the four days working nonstop to finalize the deal.
On December 24, 1995, just one day before Christmas, the contract was officially signed by both parties after several hours of discussion and legal review.
Henry secured his own deal, earning $4 million as the movie's producer, which he considered more than fair. With his credentials and experience, no reason to doubt his value.
As for Wyatt, Collin successfully negotiated a $5 million base salary and a 5% North American box office share, a significant win for a director of his age and background. Naturally, Collin received a 10% commission from the $5 million and an additional $500,000 from the box office share agreement, as per their prior arrangement.
With that, Week On A Cruise Ship officially began its pre-production journey.
.........
......
...
"Excuse me, this is Collin, right? I'm Taylor, the executive from Wash Dismay Studios. We met a few months ago at the screening of The Accidental Wedding Crashers. I was wondering if your client is interested in working with us? I heard Wyatt has a new project–wait, what? You already made a deal with Uni-versus Pictures? But I thought your client only pitched the project three days ago? You finalized a deal that fast without waiting for other offers?"
Taylor was speechless. He knew that negotiating a movie deal with a studio typically took weeks or even months, filled with revisions, meetings, and budget approvals, depending on executive schedules and market trends.
A studio would only move quickly if they saw serious profit potential and trusted the creative team.
In this case, Uni-versus Pictures saw the value in Wyatt's new project almost immediately and didn't hesitate to secure the deal before other studios could act.
Like Collin, they recognized Wyatt's talent and trusted that he could replicate his previous success.
Since they were already interested from the first pitch, there was no reason to delay or give competitors a chance to interfere. The best move was to act while the momentum was hot.
Taylor ended the call, his jaw clenched and sweat beading on his forehead as panic crept in. He vividly remembered the time Chairman Greg Marinero fired someone right in front of him.
If Wyatt's next movie turned out to be a success, Taylor knew there was a strong chance Greg would kick him out without a second thought. The Chairman had personally expressed interest in working with Wyatt Bray and Taylor failed to make that happen despite having insider information. In Greg's eyes, that made him incompetent.
'Please, please flop at the box office,' Taylor begged in silence.
'That movie has to fail so I can keep my job. I have a mortgage to pay. I might hold a high position in Acquisitions, but I'm still just an employee, completely replaceable!'
'Why the hell did the deal close so fast? Like a goddamn rat!'
Taylor had learned about Wyatt's new project three days ago, thanks to a corporate spy planted inside Uni-versus Pictures who regularly fed him information. He assumed the negotiation wouldn't move fast, especially during the holidays. He was waiting for the right moment to step in.
He miscalculated and it cost him. He never even had a chance to read the script, so he didn't understand why Uni-versus jumped at the deal with such urgency.
.........
......
...
Collin and the others had a much better holiday this year, both emotionally and financially. His clients in particular earned well and found themselves in better places than before.
Jennifer returned to her hometown and spent the holidays reconnecting with her parents and relatives, whom she hadn't seen in a while.
Lawrence and Wyatt did the same, their hearts full and their pockets fuller. Their families were proud, while some relatives expressed a mix of joy and envy as success often drew both. Some cousins even asked if they could be introduced to the entertainment industry, hoping for a shortcut to fame.
Wyatt, now affectionately referred to as "the director" in the family, found himself in an awkward position. His relatives believed he could cast anyone in his next film if he chose to. But Wyatt refused their requests. He wanted to keep everything strictly professional. They weren't trained actors, and he couldn't afford to take unnecessary risks on set.
As for Axel... he spent his days alone in his small apartment.
He tried calling his ex-wife, hoping to wish his son a Merry Christmas, but his calls and messages went unanswered. Estranged from his divorced parents as well, Axel spent the holiday in solitude, reflecting on the life he once had.
The private detectives he'd hired over the years still hadn't found any leads. Was it really this hard to find someone in 1996? Could they have changed their identities? Axel was not allowed to know their address because of the court decision.
Collin occasionally called Axel to check in and offer emotional support. It wasn't much, but it was something.
Collin's own holiday was quiet, but fulfilling. His family didn't travel abroad like others with newfound success might. Instead, they visited his father's hometown and spent time with extended family. Collin had always been close to his cousins, and the reunion was warm.
Some relatives asked about his love life. Collin answered honestly, he was single and had no immediate plans to date. His focus was on building his career while his momentum was strong. It was a shame, some cousins joked, as they had friends they'd been meaning to introduce to him.
Still, for Collin and the rest, the holidays eventually came to an end, as all good things do, and they returned to the fast-paced world of showbiz.
The new year was about to begin, and the industry was revving back to full speed.
.........
......
...
January 4, 1996
Lawrence waved as he boarded the plane, glancing back at his family with a bright smile. His parents waved back, a mix of pride and longing in their expressions. Standing next to them was Collin, sharply dressed in his usual business attire.
It had been a month since Lawrence was cast in Passionate Island, a mid-budget film. Over the past few weeks, he'd attended daily rehearsals and script readings without missing a single session. By now, he had memorized all his lines and could deliver them with confidence.
Lawrence finally saw himself as a real actor, not just a newcomer anymore.
As the plane lifted off, his parents continued waving until it vanished from sight.
Mr. and Mrs. Terrence turned to Collin and offered him their sincerest thanks.
"Mr. East, we truly appreciate everything you've done for our son. We heard you're the reason he landed his first role, and it changed his life. Thank you so much. We brought you some home-baked cookies as a small token of gratitude."
Mrs. Terrence handed him a Tufferware container, and Collin accepted it with a soft smile. He appreciated the gesture, it came from the heart.
"Please take care of our son."
"Don't worry, Ma'am," Collin replied warmly. "I'll make sure Lawrence becomes a successful actor. I'll support him every step of the way."
He couldn't be sure how Lawrence would behave once fame truly hit, but one thing was certain, Collin believed that Lawrence had what it took to become a superstar.
The couple felt reassured. Seeing how genuine Lawrence's agent was, they believed their son was in good hands.
Chapter 61
New
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 61
Lawrence gazed out the airplane window and saw nothing but clouds and the endless stretch of blue ocean beneath the sky. He had purchased a business class ticket to Bora Bora, not for a vacation, but for work. Still, considering the paradise-worthy location, he hoped to find a little time to enjoy the island between filming days.
Most of the production crew for Passionate Island had already arrived in Bora Bora days earlier to scout locations and set up filming equipment.
Originally, Director Thomas Summerbelt intended to shoot the movie in Hawaii, specifically in Maui, which perfectly matched the scenery he envisioned. However, due to tax complications and local regulations regarding content approval, the production was forced to relocate. They needed a location that could capture the same cinematic essence, and among the few international islands that met the criteria, Bora Bora stood out with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches.
Municipal officials in Maui were uncomfortable with the plot of Passionate Island, concerned about its themes and tone. They feared the movie might bring controversy or bad press to their island. Even though the production promised to highlight Maui's beauty, the authorities ultimately refused permission to film there.
Lawrence had already wrapped up most of his business in the U.S. and flew to Bora Bora with all his luggage, script, and dedication.
Wyatt had initially wanted Lawrence to join Week On A Cruise Ship, believing he possessed a natural charm and impeccable comedic timing perfect for the film.
Unfortunately, the schedules for Passionate Island and Week On A Cruise Ship overlapped. Even if Lawrence wanted to work on both, he wouldn't have the time for at least six months.
Lawrence knew that if he hadn't passed the audition for Passionate Island, he'd likely be working with Wyatt and the others again, they always welcomed him back. That thought brought him relief. It made him realize he had a professional "home" to return to if other opportunities didn't work out.
With that comforting thought, Lawrence closed his eyes, letting the hum of the plane lull him to sleep.
A few hours later, he stepped off the plane into the warm breeze of Bora Bora and was greeted at a private arrival area where a few familiar faces were already waiting.
Having worked on Passionate Island for a month now, Lawrence had built a connection with the cast, who now felt more like colleagues and friends.
Standing under the shade in casual beachwear was the film's female lead, Ellie Bridget. With shoulder-length blonde hair and brown eyes that sparkled under the tropical sun, she was breathtaking.
The two greeted each other with a warm hug. Their roles in the movie had blurred the line between acting and reality, and they couldn't quite explain the strange connection forming between them. Perhaps they were falling for each other because of their roles or maybe something deeper was beginning to take root.
"Ellie, where's my hug at?" Balthazar's loud voice interrupted the moment. He flashed his usual obnoxious grin and opened his arms expectantly.
Balthazar Harper, the film's producer, had been on the same flight as Lawrence, though they barely interacted onboard. They were seated in the same business class cabin but on opposite aisles.
Ellie smiled professionally but didn't hug Balthazar. Instead, she greeted him with a polite nod, keeping her boundaries firm.
"Well, I'm happy we're in Bora Bora. I heard there are a lot of gorgeous ladies in bikinis here, no shame, just vibes."
Balthazar, unfazed by Ellie's cold treatment, grinned and moved on, licking his lips as he imagined his vacation filled with sun, sea, and women.
"Oh, Kayla! You got here before me, huh? Where's my hug at?"
His face lit up at the sight of Kayla Martin, who was wearing a bikini that left little to the imagination. His thoughts immediately turned vulgar.
The model smiled and hugged him without hesitation. Balthazar laughed and slid his hands down her back until they rested on her ass, squeezing shamelessly. Kayla giggled, treating it like an inside joke between them.
The production crew acted as if nothing happened, it was business as usual. They'd long suspected something going on between Balthazar and Kayla, and this only confirmed it.
.........
......
...
Meanwhile, halfway across the world in the cold office of Uni-versus Pictures, Lawrence's friend was hard at work with a very different kind of script.
Wyatt, as both director and screenwriter of Week On A Cruise Ship, was working with a team of writers to polish the script.
Even though the project had already been approved, the script still had to undergo several rounds of revisions, budgeting, and timeline assessments. Executives needed clarity on investment size, production duration, and post-production details before giving the green light.
Wyatt and Henry were frequently called into meetings to address executive concerns and were slowly building relationships with Uni-versus Pictures staff, especially those in the production department who oversaw every development step.
"Okay, so… the names…"
One of the five writers on the team flipped through the draft with a raised brow.
It was true that Wyatt had undeniable comedic talent and a knack for chaotic brilliance, but he was still new to the game. His dialogue, while funny, sometimes lacked polish by industry standards.
Still, the team agreed that the script was hilarious and needed minimal revisions. Of course, they had to justify their presence, after all, they were paid professionals expected to report progress.
Wyatt wanted to preserve his original voice, so the writers' room had a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere. Most of the time, they simply exchanged opinions on small tweaks and cosmetic improvements.
Like now…
"Wyatt, are we sure we can actually use these names? Teto Pear, Miku Beam, and… Skibidi Toilet? These sound like brainrot meme from the 2020s."
One of the writers shook his head while another chuckled.
"Seriously, aren't we asking for a copyright infringement? If this were a novel, the author who used those names would be crucified for having no taste."
"Shh, don't break the fourth wall. Readers hate that."
"I mean, who thought this script was a good idea anyway? It's a walking parody of The Hangover."
"I say we swap 'Skibidi' for Akita Neru. For the Vocaloid fans, you know? Gotta complete that Triple Baka lineup."
"Who the hell is Akita Neru? You mean the yellow-haired Miku with a phone addiction?"
"God, we're so deep in Vocaloid lore, it's dangerous. No one will get the reference unless they've actually listened to the songs."
Wyatt listened to the exchange with a blank, patient expression. He glanced at the names in question. Honestly, they were so ridiculous that if this were a novel, readers expecting serious storytelling would've rage-quit.
"Let's call the legal team before this turns into a disaster."
The in-house lawyer arrived, listened to the conversation, and raised an eyebrow in mild disbelief.
"These names are based on internet memes," the lawyer said. "You're protected under fair use if you're using them for parody or satire. So yes, legally, you can keep them."
"Well, that's… dumb but helpful."
"Stupidest thing I've heard all week, but fine. So whatever."
And with that, the three male leads of Week On A Cruise Ship were officially named Teto Pear, Miku Beam, and Skibidi Toilet.
The team spent the next three weeks "polishing" the script, making minor line edits here and there. In truth, Wyatt's draft was already amazing, and the biggest improvements came in the form of actor-specific dialogue tweaks.
Still, the writers needed to show they were doing something. Studio payroll had to be justified.
Eventually, they resorted to begging Wyatt to pretend he needed them.
"Please," one of them said, "just act like we're helping. We need to make it look like we're worth our checks."
Wyatt didn't mind. He knew the real work had already been done.
Lawrence gazed out the airplane window and saw nothing but clouds and the endless stretch of blue ocean beneath the sky. He had purchased a business class ticket to Bora Bora, not for a vacation, but for work. Still, considering the paradise-worthy location, he hoped to find a little time to enjoy the island between filming days.
Most of the production crew for Passionate Island had already arrived in Bora Bora days earlier to scout locations and set up filming equipment.
Originally, Director Thomas Summerbelt intended to shoot the movie in Hawaii, specifically in Maui, which perfectly matched the scenery he envisioned. However, due to tax complications and local regulations regarding content approval, the production was forced to relocate. They needed a location that could capture the same cinematic essence, and among the few international islands that met the criteria, Bora Bora stood out with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches.
Municipal officials in Maui were uncomfortable with the plot of Passionate Island, concerned about its themes and tone. They feared the movie might bring controversy or bad press to their island. Even though the production promised to highlight Maui's beauty, the authorities ultimately refused permission to film there.
Lawrence had already wrapped up most of his business in the U.S. and flew to Bora Bora with all his luggage, script, and dedication.
Wyatt had initially wanted Lawrence to join Week On A Cruise Ship, believing he possessed a natural charm and impeccable comedic timing perfect for the film.
Unfortunately, the schedules for Passionate Island and Week On A Cruise Ship overlapped. Even if Lawrence wanted to work on both, he wouldn't have the time for at least six months.
Lawrence knew that if he hadn't passed the audition for Passionate Island, he'd likely be working with Wyatt and the others again, they always welcomed him back. That thought brought him relief. It made him realize he had a professional "home" to return to if other opportunities didn't work out.
With that comforting thought, Lawrence closed his eyes, letting the hum of the plane lull him to sleep.
A few hours later, he stepped off the plane into the warm breeze of Bora Bora and was greeted at a private arrival area where a few familiar faces were already waiting.
Having worked on Passionate Island for a month now, Lawrence had built a connection with the cast, who now felt more like colleagues and friends.
Standing under the shade in casual beachwear was the film's female lead, Ellie Bridget. With shoulder-length blonde hair and brown eyes that sparkled under the tropical sun, she was breathtaking.
The two greeted each other with a warm hug. Their roles in the movie had blurred the line between acting and reality, and they couldn't quite explain the strange connection forming between them. Perhaps they were falling for each other because of their roles or maybe something deeper was beginning to take root.
"Ellie, where's my hug at?" Balthazar's loud voice interrupted the moment. He flashed his usual obnoxious grin and opened his arms expectantly.
Balthazar Harper, the film's producer, had been on the same flight as Lawrence, though they barely interacted onboard. They were seated in the same business class cabin but on opposite aisles.
Ellie smiled professionally but didn't hug Balthazar. Instead, she greeted him with a polite nod, keeping her boundaries firm.
"Well, I'm happy we're in Bora Bora. I heard there are a lot of gorgeous ladies in bikinis here, no shame, just vibes."
Balthazar, unfazed by Ellie's cold treatment, grinned and moved on, licking his lips as he imagined his vacation filled with sun, sea, and women.
"Oh, Kayla! You got here before me, huh? Where's my hug at?"
His face lit up at the sight of Kayla Martin, who was wearing a bikini that left little to the imagination. His thoughts immediately turned vulgar.
The model smiled and hugged him without hesitation. Balthazar laughed and slid his hands down her back until they rested on her ass, squeezing shamelessly. Kayla giggled, treating it like an inside joke between them.
The production crew acted as if nothing happened, it was business as usual. They'd long suspected something going on between Balthazar and Kayla, and this only confirmed it.
.........
......
...
Meanwhile, halfway across the world in the cold office of Uni-versus Pictures, Lawrence's friend was hard at work with a very different kind of script.
Wyatt, as both director and screenwriter of Week On A Cruise Ship, was working with a team of writers to polish the script.
Even though the project had already been approved, the script still had to undergo several rounds of revisions, budgeting, and timeline assessments. Executives needed clarity on investment size, production duration, and post-production details before giving the green light.
Wyatt and Henry were frequently called into meetings to address executive concerns and were slowly building relationships with Uni-versus Pictures staff, especially those in the production department who oversaw every development step.
"Okay, so… the names…"
One of the five writers on the team flipped through the draft with a raised brow.
It was true that Wyatt had undeniable comedic talent and a knack for chaotic brilliance, but he was still new to the game. His dialogue, while funny, sometimes lacked polish by industry standards.
Still, the team agreed that the script was hilarious and needed minimal revisions. Of course, they had to justify their presence, after all, they were paid professionals expected to report progress.
Wyatt wanted to preserve his original voice, so the writers' room had a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere. Most of the time, they simply exchanged opinions on small tweaks and cosmetic improvements.
Like now…
"Wyatt, are we sure we can actually use these names? Teto Pear, Miku Beam, and… Skibidi Toilet? These sound like brainrot meme from the 2020s."
One of the writers shook his head while another chuckled.
"Seriously, aren't we asking for a copyright infringement? If this were a novel, the author who used those names would be crucified for having no taste."
"Shh, don't break the fourth wall. Readers hate that."
"I mean, who thought this script was a good idea anyway? It's a walking parody of The Hangover."
"I say we swap 'Skibidi' for Akita Neru. For the Vocaloid fans, you know? Gotta complete that Triple Baka lineup."
"Who the hell is Akita Neru? You mean the yellow-haired Miku with a phone addiction?"
"God, we're so deep in Vocaloid lore, it's dangerous. No one will get the reference unless they've actually listened to the songs."
Wyatt listened to the exchange with a blank, patient expression. He glanced at the names in question. Honestly, they were so ridiculous that if this were a novel, readers expecting serious storytelling would've rage-quit.
"Let's call the legal team before this turns into a disaster."
The in-house lawyer arrived, listened to the conversation, and raised an eyebrow in mild disbelief.
"These names are based on internet memes," the lawyer said. "You're protected under fair use if you're using them for parody or satire. So yes, legally, you can keep them."
"Well, that's… dumb but helpful."
"Stupidest thing I've heard all week, but fine. So whatever."
And with that, the three male leads of Week On A Cruise Ship were officially named Teto Pear, Miku Beam, and Skibidi Toilet.
The team spent the next three weeks "polishing" the script, making minor line edits here and there. In truth, Wyatt's draft was already amazing, and the biggest improvements came in the form of actor-specific dialogue tweaks.
Still, the writers needed to show they were doing something. Studio payroll had to be justified.
Eventually, they resorted to begging Wyatt to pretend he needed them.
"Please," one of them said, "just act like we're helping. We need to make it look like we're worth our checks."
Wyatt didn't mind. He knew the real work had already been done.
Chapter 62
New
Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 62
"It's nice to meet you, Collin. You didn't make a mistake in choosing me as your financial advisor."
Stan Gavin shook Collin's hand, and the agent gave a slight nod, his eyes instinctively glancing above Stan's head as he always did.
Collin had been referred to this investment firm by his friend Arnold, who spoke highly of the company based on his own experience. Naturally, Collin did his due diligence and thoroughly researched the firm. It had an excellent reputation in Los Angeles, especially among wealthy professionals.
As he reviewed the firm's roster of brokers and financial advisors, one person stood out, Stan Gavin, with a yellow talent glow hovering above him. That was all the confirmation Collin needed.
—Stan Gavin
—Analytical Thinking
Stan matched everything Collin was looking for. Fortunately, he also offered financial advising services, not just stockbroking, making him the ideal choice.
When Stan learned that his new client had millions in liquid assets, he could hardly contain his excitement. The more money a client had, the higher the potential commissions and the greater the prestige for his own track record.
Collin currently had around $7 million in his bank account and was planning to invest $4 million in stocks to diversify his wealth rather than let it sit idly.
"Let's see... The most promising stocks in 1996 are Macrosoft, Cisko, Intelligence, and Database Giant. All of them are showing strong growth trends."
Stan confidently listed companies he had been studying closely through financial forecasts, trend analyses, and quarterly reports. These four, he believed, were poised for significant growth, and he recommended them without hesitation.
"Is it possible to invest $1 million in each company?" Collin asked. He had done his own surface-level research beforehand and, coincidentally, these four were among his top ten picks.
"$1 million in each company?!"
Stan nearly leapt out of his seat in disbelief, barely managing to suppress his excitement. Collin wasn't just wealthy, he was seriously loaded. Stan quickly composed himself, pulling out a notepad and adopting a laser-focused expression. Clients like Collin were rare, and Stan wasn't going to mess this up.
"Absolutely. Within a year, you'll see returns from this strategy. You won't regret trusting me."
"I believe in you, Stan. So don't disappoint me."
Collin smiled, reassured by Stan's confidence and professionalism. Stan possessed the highest stock-related talent in the firm, so Collin trusted his instincts. He didn't want to micromanage and preferred to let his money work for him. With his current schedule as a talent agent, he had no time to run a business himself.
Thanks to his ability, Collin didn't have to waste time hunting for the right advisor. He knew Stan wasn't just skilled, he was also a decent person, based on his trusted instinct. That made all the difference.
Unfortunately, Collin's entire $7 million would be taxed in April, as it was considered taxable income from commissions, bonuses, and profit shares.
Still, his financial situation had improved dramatically, and the looming taxes didn't stress him out as much.
'At least ANT has a 401(k) plan... That should help reduce my tax burden a little. I really need to learn the details soon.'
Collin made a mental note to talk to Stan more about taxes and possibly find a dedicated tax accountant as he glanced at the stack of financial documents in front of him. Though he was now 25 years old, he still had a lot to learn about taxes and wealth management.
.........
......
...
Pre-production typically takes 2 to 6 months, depending on several factors like budget, genre, and staff availability.
For indie films with limited budgets, pre-production can stretch to 6 months just to gather resources and permits.
Mid-budget films might take 8 months, especially if set construction or casting is complex.
Blockbusters, with their massive budgets and international shoots, can require a year or more for pre-production.
Animated films usually take the longest, with pre-production lasting up to 3 years due to storyboarding, casting voice actors, and the complexity of the animation process.
For Week On A Cruise Ship, the estimate was around 3 to 4 months of pre-production, assuming everything stayed on track.
Key aspects of pre-production included:
Script Polishing: Wyatt and his team of writers spent three weeks fine-tuning the script, ensuring the jokes and pacing worked perfectly.
Crew Hiring: Wyatt had a small team from his previous film, but they were incomplete. Henry needed to recruit more professionals, a process that could take months depending on the roles and applicant qualifications.
Scheduling: Wyatt's assistant director, Anthony, also handled the shooting schedule. Anthony had worked with them on The Accidental Wedding Crashers and was known for being brutally honest, which had cost him a job before.
Set, Costume, and Prop Design: Essential to the film's visual identity, these elements required close coordination with production designers.
Legal Permits: As with any major U.S. production, legal permits were a necessity and required careful handling.
But perhaps the most vital part of pre-production was Casting, the heart of any great film.
.........
......
...
March 4, 1996
Today was a crucial day for aspiring actors vying for a lead role.
Collin walked into the Uni-versus Pictures building and headed to the third floor, where auditions were being held for the three male leads of Week On A Cruise Ship.
Today was reserved for male roles. Auditions for female leads were scheduled for the following day by the casting department.
As Wyatt's agent, Collin had access to the full script and had given copies to both Axel and Jennifer in advance so they could prepare thoroughly.
Wyatt and the production team had personally invited Axel to audition after recognizing his potential. A direct invitation like that was significant, it meant he had a strong chance of being cast if he didn't mess it up.
Axel bypassed the usual first and second audition rounds and was fast-tracked to the third and final round, typically reserved for top-tier prospects.
This was it, the moment of truth. Out of thousands who auditioned, only 56 actors had made it to this stage. These finalists had to prove themselves today.
The responsibility of narrowing down those thousands fell on a sharp-eyed casting team led by experienced casting directors, who selected actors based on both appearance and performance.
Collin spotted Axel seated in the waiting area, tapping his fingers nervously. He sat among other actors in spaced-out chairs, allowing each to mentally prepare without feeling crowded.
Most of them had scripts, some full, others partial. Clearly, they had their own connections strong enough to obtain copies, giving them a small edge in preparation.
Collin stood off to the side, watching quietly. He knew this could be a major turning point for Axel and he hoped his friend would rise to the occasion.
"It's nice to meet you, Collin. You didn't make a mistake in choosing me as your financial advisor."
Stan Gavin shook Collin's hand, and the agent gave a slight nod, his eyes instinctively glancing above Stan's head as he always did.
Collin had been referred to this investment firm by his friend Arnold, who spoke highly of the company based on his own experience. Naturally, Collin did his due diligence and thoroughly researched the firm. It had an excellent reputation in Los Angeles, especially among wealthy professionals.
As he reviewed the firm's roster of brokers and financial advisors, one person stood out, Stan Gavin, with a yellow talent glow hovering above him. That was all the confirmation Collin needed.
—Stan Gavin
—Analytical Thinking
Stan matched everything Collin was looking for. Fortunately, he also offered financial advising services, not just stockbroking, making him the ideal choice.
When Stan learned that his new client had millions in liquid assets, he could hardly contain his excitement. The more money a client had, the higher the potential commissions and the greater the prestige for his own track record.
Collin currently had around $7 million in his bank account and was planning to invest $4 million in stocks to diversify his wealth rather than let it sit idly.
"Let's see... The most promising stocks in 1996 are Macrosoft, Cisko, Intelligence, and Database Giant. All of them are showing strong growth trends."
Stan confidently listed companies he had been studying closely through financial forecasts, trend analyses, and quarterly reports. These four, he believed, were poised for significant growth, and he recommended them without hesitation.
"Is it possible to invest $1 million in each company?" Collin asked. He had done his own surface-level research beforehand and, coincidentally, these four were among his top ten picks.
"$1 million in each company?!"
Stan nearly leapt out of his seat in disbelief, barely managing to suppress his excitement. Collin wasn't just wealthy, he was seriously loaded. Stan quickly composed himself, pulling out a notepad and adopting a laser-focused expression. Clients like Collin were rare, and Stan wasn't going to mess this up.
"Absolutely. Within a year, you'll see returns from this strategy. You won't regret trusting me."
"I believe in you, Stan. So don't disappoint me."
Collin smiled, reassured by Stan's confidence and professionalism. Stan possessed the highest stock-related talent in the firm, so Collin trusted his instincts. He didn't want to micromanage and preferred to let his money work for him. With his current schedule as a talent agent, he had no time to run a business himself.
Thanks to his ability, Collin didn't have to waste time hunting for the right advisor. He knew Stan wasn't just skilled, he was also a decent person, based on his trusted instinct. That made all the difference.
Unfortunately, Collin's entire $7 million would be taxed in April, as it was considered taxable income from commissions, bonuses, and profit shares.
Still, his financial situation had improved dramatically, and the looming taxes didn't stress him out as much.
'At least ANT has a 401(k) plan... That should help reduce my tax burden a little. I really need to learn the details soon.'
Collin made a mental note to talk to Stan more about taxes and possibly find a dedicated tax accountant as he glanced at the stack of financial documents in front of him. Though he was now 25 years old, he still had a lot to learn about taxes and wealth management.
.........
......
...
Pre-production typically takes 2 to 6 months, depending on several factors like budget, genre, and staff availability.
For indie films with limited budgets, pre-production can stretch to 6 months just to gather resources and permits.
Mid-budget films might take 8 months, especially if set construction or casting is complex.
Blockbusters, with their massive budgets and international shoots, can require a year or more for pre-production.
Animated films usually take the longest, with pre-production lasting up to 3 years due to storyboarding, casting voice actors, and the complexity of the animation process.
For Week On A Cruise Ship, the estimate was around 3 to 4 months of pre-production, assuming everything stayed on track.
Key aspects of pre-production included:
Script Polishing: Wyatt and his team of writers spent three weeks fine-tuning the script, ensuring the jokes and pacing worked perfectly.
Crew Hiring: Wyatt had a small team from his previous film, but they were incomplete. Henry needed to recruit more professionals, a process that could take months depending on the roles and applicant qualifications.
Scheduling: Wyatt's assistant director, Anthony, also handled the shooting schedule. Anthony had worked with them on The Accidental Wedding Crashers and was known for being brutally honest, which had cost him a job before.
Set, Costume, and Prop Design: Essential to the film's visual identity, these elements required close coordination with production designers.
Legal Permits: As with any major U.S. production, legal permits were a necessity and required careful handling.
But perhaps the most vital part of pre-production was Casting, the heart of any great film.
.........
......
...
March 4, 1996
Today was a crucial day for aspiring actors vying for a lead role.
Collin walked into the Uni-versus Pictures building and headed to the third floor, where auditions were being held for the three male leads of Week On A Cruise Ship.
Today was reserved for male roles. Auditions for female leads were scheduled for the following day by the casting department.
As Wyatt's agent, Collin had access to the full script and had given copies to both Axel and Jennifer in advance so they could prepare thoroughly.
Wyatt and the production team had personally invited Axel to audition after recognizing his potential. A direct invitation like that was significant, it meant he had a strong chance of being cast if he didn't mess it up.
Axel bypassed the usual first and second audition rounds and was fast-tracked to the third and final round, typically reserved for top-tier prospects.
This was it, the moment of truth. Out of thousands who auditioned, only 56 actors had made it to this stage. These finalists had to prove themselves today.
The responsibility of narrowing down those thousands fell on a sharp-eyed casting team led by experienced casting directors, who selected actors based on both appearance and performance.
Collin spotted Axel seated in the waiting area, tapping his fingers nervously. He sat among other actors in spaced-out chairs, allowing each to mentally prepare without feeling crowded.
Most of them had scripts, some full, others partial. Clearly, they had their own connections strong enough to obtain copies, giving them a small edge in preparation.
Collin stood off to the side, watching quietly. He knew this could be a major turning point for Axel and he hoped his friend would rise to the occasion.
Chapter 63
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 63
For this movie, not only was ANT interested in getting their talents cast, other agencies also participated, each trying to secure roles for their own actors.
Even though Wyatt was the director and a client of ANT, it didn't mean the project wouldn't include actors from different agencies, especially those with strong credentials and representation.
The actors who passed the third round of auditions clearly had deep industry connections and were backed by agents who knew how to work the system. They didn't pass based on looks or raw talent alone, their agents likely pulled strings and made deals behind the scenes to help push them forward, just like how they managed to get copies of the script, despite NDAs.
Sharing scripts was technically prohibited by most studios, especially when an NDA was involved that strictly forbade the disclosure of sensitive material. But loopholes existed. Indirect sharing happened all the time. After all, actors needed something to prepare with, even outdated or partial versions, before auditioning.
In fact, Collin did the same thing for his clients.
He scanned the waiting area and noticed nearly everyone had a copy of the script in their hands, bags, or tucked under their arms. He wasn't sure who originally leaked it or how it slipped past production controls, but the spread was obvious.
Many production crew members had access to scripts due to their clearance levels, especially older, unpolished drafts that had circulated early on.
Obviously, none of the actors in the final round were freelancers or self-represented. All had agencies and legal teams backing them. Studios avoided casting unknowns without representation due to legal, insurance, and accountability concerns.
"They said there will be a break in two hours so the casting panel can rest and regroup. If you want to talk to Wyatt, you can go inside the room or wait here," Axel said quietly, trying not to draw attention.
"I'll just wait until they're free," Collin replied, checking his watch as he leaned back in his chair. He preferred not to interrupt the production team while they were focused. It would be awkward to enter the room while auditions were still ongoing.
Axel nodded and tried to calm his nerves by breathing steadily and reviewing his lines. He had auditioned for big films before but had never passed the final round. Today didn't feel any different, even though he had received an official invitation.
Just like Lawrence, Axel and Jennifer had also started auditioning for various roles after the success of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, hoping to ride the wave of momentum. But they hadn't landed anything substantial. Sometimes they got through the first or second round with promising feedback, only to be rejected in the final round for various reasons.
Collin always ensured his clients had chances to audition for big roles, even if that meant bending a few rules. He secured scripts for them through discreet industry contacts and actively looked for audition opportunities or last-minute casting calls by networking with colleagues.
He treated all his clients with professionalism and fairness. It was true that he had been focusing more on Wyatt and Lawrence lately because of their success. They were his biggest earners, providing consistent commissions.
Still, he had no intention of dropping Axel or Jennifer, no matter how slowly their careers were progressing. As long as they wanted to work with him, Collin would keep fighting for opportunities in Hollywood.
Honestly, he felt a bit guilty. He was blindly trying to find jobs for them without a clear sense of what roles suited them best, mainly because he couldn't rely on his ability when it came to Axel and Jennifer.
Unlike with Wyatt and Lawrence, Collin had never seen any talent words appear above Axel or Jennifer's heads. He couldn't assess their potential clearly.
'Perhaps they were working in the wrong industry?' Collin wasn't sure but he didn't want to give up on them either.
He'd promised to be their agent, and that meant something.
Fortunately, having Wyatt as a successful director gave Collin a valuable lifeline. He could present Axel and Jennifer for auditions in Wyatt's movies. While they'd still need to compete fairly, Collin believed Wyatt would support them if they proved themselves on set.
He trusted his comedy director.
Back in the cold white hallway, actors nervously rehearsed their lines, flipping through scripts and whispering to one another.
Suddenly, the audition room opened. The Chairman and CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, followed by their entourage, stepped out with an air of command. They didn't glance at the actors or agents trying to greet them, they walked forward with unreadable expressions.
One agent even tried to hand over his business card, only to be shoved aside by a bodyguard without hesitation.
Noah and Berry caught sight of Collin sitting quietly beside Axel. Collin nodded politely. The two executives returned the gesture with small nods of acknowledgment. At least this Collin guy didn't look like some desperate fanatic begging for favors like the other agents. His calm professionalism left a good impression.
Unlike others, Collin knew he didn't need to grovel for attention, he had results to show. His clients were sought after because of their talent and performance.
As Noah Nash passed by, Collin recalled his earlier impression of the man during their contract negotiation.
The Chairman had a dangerous aura, the kind that hinted at a past steeped in shady dealings, typical of corporate Hollywood elites. There were likely skeletons in his closet the press had never uncovered. Still, none of it had impacted their business, so Collin didn't concern himself with it. He had no interest in relying on someone like Noah or seeking favors.
The outcome of their negotiation had been solid, a win for both him and Wyatt.
Initially, Collin pushed for a $7 million base salary and 10% worldwide box office share for Wyatt's directing role. It was a bold opening offer meant to set the bar high. As expected, Noah countered with a lower but still reasonable offer.
In the end, they agreed on a $5 million salary and 5% share of the North American box office, a deal both sides were satisfied with. Collin and Wyatt knew that it would be impossible to get $7 million salary plus 10% worldwide box office share from a studio since Wyatt was still a new director.
By the way, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had already completed its North American theatrical run with strong numbers. The film grossed over $171 million after five months in theaters.
Its international run was still ongoing and had already brought in $116 million, with more countries yet to screen it.
That brought the global total to $287 million, exceeding all expectations.
The early forecast had deemed it at around $250 million worldwide, but the film surpassed that, officially becoming a sleeper hit.
It was 1995's dark horse, surprising both critics and audiences. Currently, The Accidental Wedding Crashers ranked #9 among the highest-grossing films of 1995, sandwiched between 101 Dogs and Kasper the Ghost in box office rankings.
That success was a major reason why Wyatt landed a deal with Uni-versus Pictures so easily. His last film had delivered results, and the studio trusted his ability to connect with audiences.
But if Week On A Cruise Ship flopped, Wyatt could lose that trust and possibly his future with the studio. At the very least, getting their support again would become much harder.
That possibility lingered in the back of everyone's minds.
For this movie, not only was ANT interested in getting their talents cast, other agencies also participated, each trying to secure roles for their own actors.
Even though Wyatt was the director and a client of ANT, it didn't mean the project wouldn't include actors from different agencies, especially those with strong credentials and representation.
The actors who passed the third round of auditions clearly had deep industry connections and were backed by agents who knew how to work the system. They didn't pass based on looks or raw talent alone, their agents likely pulled strings and made deals behind the scenes to help push them forward, just like how they managed to get copies of the script, despite NDAs.
Sharing scripts was technically prohibited by most studios, especially when an NDA was involved that strictly forbade the disclosure of sensitive material. But loopholes existed. Indirect sharing happened all the time. After all, actors needed something to prepare with, even outdated or partial versions, before auditioning.
In fact, Collin did the same thing for his clients.
He scanned the waiting area and noticed nearly everyone had a copy of the script in their hands, bags, or tucked under their arms. He wasn't sure who originally leaked it or how it slipped past production controls, but the spread was obvious.
Many production crew members had access to scripts due to their clearance levels, especially older, unpolished drafts that had circulated early on.
Obviously, none of the actors in the final round were freelancers or self-represented. All had agencies and legal teams backing them. Studios avoided casting unknowns without representation due to legal, insurance, and accountability concerns.
"They said there will be a break in two hours so the casting panel can rest and regroup. If you want to talk to Wyatt, you can go inside the room or wait here," Axel said quietly, trying not to draw attention.
"I'll just wait until they're free," Collin replied, checking his watch as he leaned back in his chair. He preferred not to interrupt the production team while they were focused. It would be awkward to enter the room while auditions were still ongoing.
Axel nodded and tried to calm his nerves by breathing steadily and reviewing his lines. He had auditioned for big films before but had never passed the final round. Today didn't feel any different, even though he had received an official invitation.
Just like Lawrence, Axel and Jennifer had also started auditioning for various roles after the success of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, hoping to ride the wave of momentum. But they hadn't landed anything substantial. Sometimes they got through the first or second round with promising feedback, only to be rejected in the final round for various reasons.
Collin always ensured his clients had chances to audition for big roles, even if that meant bending a few rules. He secured scripts for them through discreet industry contacts and actively looked for audition opportunities or last-minute casting calls by networking with colleagues.
He treated all his clients with professionalism and fairness. It was true that he had been focusing more on Wyatt and Lawrence lately because of their success. They were his biggest earners, providing consistent commissions.
Still, he had no intention of dropping Axel or Jennifer, no matter how slowly their careers were progressing. As long as they wanted to work with him, Collin would keep fighting for opportunities in Hollywood.
Honestly, he felt a bit guilty. He was blindly trying to find jobs for them without a clear sense of what roles suited them best, mainly because he couldn't rely on his ability when it came to Axel and Jennifer.
Unlike with Wyatt and Lawrence, Collin had never seen any talent words appear above Axel or Jennifer's heads. He couldn't assess their potential clearly.
'Perhaps they were working in the wrong industry?' Collin wasn't sure but he didn't want to give up on them either.
He'd promised to be their agent, and that meant something.
Fortunately, having Wyatt as a successful director gave Collin a valuable lifeline. He could present Axel and Jennifer for auditions in Wyatt's movies. While they'd still need to compete fairly, Collin believed Wyatt would support them if they proved themselves on set.
He trusted his comedy director.
Back in the cold white hallway, actors nervously rehearsed their lines, flipping through scripts and whispering to one another.
Suddenly, the audition room opened. The Chairman and CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, followed by their entourage, stepped out with an air of command. They didn't glance at the actors or agents trying to greet them, they walked forward with unreadable expressions.
One agent even tried to hand over his business card, only to be shoved aside by a bodyguard without hesitation.
Noah and Berry caught sight of Collin sitting quietly beside Axel. Collin nodded politely. The two executives returned the gesture with small nods of acknowledgment. At least this Collin guy didn't look like some desperate fanatic begging for favors like the other agents. His calm professionalism left a good impression.
Unlike others, Collin knew he didn't need to grovel for attention, he had results to show. His clients were sought after because of their talent and performance.
As Noah Nash passed by, Collin recalled his earlier impression of the man during their contract negotiation.
The Chairman had a dangerous aura, the kind that hinted at a past steeped in shady dealings, typical of corporate Hollywood elites. There were likely skeletons in his closet the press had never uncovered. Still, none of it had impacted their business, so Collin didn't concern himself with it. He had no interest in relying on someone like Noah or seeking favors.
The outcome of their negotiation had been solid, a win for both him and Wyatt.
Initially, Collin pushed for a $7 million base salary and 10% worldwide box office share for Wyatt's directing role. It was a bold opening offer meant to set the bar high. As expected, Noah countered with a lower but still reasonable offer.
In the end, they agreed on a $5 million salary and 5% share of the North American box office, a deal both sides were satisfied with. Collin and Wyatt knew that it would be impossible to get $7 million salary plus 10% worldwide box office share from a studio since Wyatt was still a new director.
By the way, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had already completed its North American theatrical run with strong numbers. The film grossed over $171 million after five months in theaters.
Its international run was still ongoing and had already brought in $116 million, with more countries yet to screen it.
That brought the global total to $287 million, exceeding all expectations.
The early forecast had deemed it at around $250 million worldwide, but the film surpassed that, officially becoming a sleeper hit.
It was 1995's dark horse, surprising both critics and audiences. Currently, The Accidental Wedding Crashers ranked #9 among the highest-grossing films of 1995, sandwiched between 101 Dogs and Kasper the Ghost in box office rankings.
That success was a major reason why Wyatt landed a deal with Uni-versus Pictures so easily. His last film had delivered results, and the studio trusted his ability to connect with audiences.
But if Week On A Cruise Ship flopped, Wyatt could lose that trust and possibly his future with the studio. At the very least, getting their support again would become much harder.
That possibility lingered in the back of everyone's minds.
Chapter 64
New
Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 64
"Hey Collin, you're here at the audition too, huh."
"Earnest. I guess we both have excuses for leaving the office without filing a full-day leave."
The two agents laughed after greeting each other, the familiarity in their eyes hinting a friendship. Earnest's client, Cross Pinger, had also passed the second round of auditions and was now waiting for his final chance.
Cross was fourth to the last in line among the hopeful actors in the hallway. They had greeted each other earlier, having worked together on a project last year. However, this time there was tension between them, obvious tension, because they were now competing for limited roles.
"Man, you really hit the jackpot with Wyatt as your client. I wonder if I should start looking for promising directors before they become successful." The Black agent chuckled, clearly recognizing the benefits of having a successful director on the roster.
Wyatt's success had elevated Collin's entire client list.
"There are some graduates applying to our agency this year. You could check out their short films, maybe you'll find someone worth signing."
"I'll keep that in mind."
Earnest nodded, then walked back to Cross Pinger, who stood a few meters away, quietly reviewing his lines.
They were friends and coworkers, often sharing industry tips and office gossip. But today, they were competitors. With only three major roles up for grabs, and a sea of actors chasing them, there simply wasn't enough space for everyone to succeed.
"Did Collin agree? Will he talk to Wyatt and try to get me a role or at least seriously consider me?" Cross asked in a low voice, making sure no one else could hear. He glanced around anxiously.
Cross was an average actor in almost every sense. He wasn't handsome, but not unattractive. Not tall, not short. At 5'8", he was right on the line. He understood his limits and never overestimated his ability. That's why he knew how unlikely it was for him to land a major studio-funded comedy role.
He also knew that the only reason he landed the groom's role in The Accidental Wedding Crashers was due to a lucky mix of timing and preparation. He had gotten a copy of the script early and made the most of it, outperforming many who came unprepared.
But Week On A Cruise Ship was on a different level entirely. It wasn't an indie movie with a flexible casting process. It was backed by a major studio with high expectations. They wouldn't cast someone average, not unless something truly special happened.
Honestly, he suspected the only reason he passed the first and second rounds was because Wyatt knew him.
Cross felt the only path to success was through that connection. Otherwise, he'd be forgotten.
Earnest placed a firm hand on his client's shoulder. "You can do this. I believe in you."
He didn't say much else, words wouldn't change the odds. He also knew Collin didn't have direct authority over casting. Wyatt might be able to push for Axel, but asking to cast Cross in one of the lead roles was a bigger task.
Earnest was already grateful that Collin helped secure the opportunity in the last movie which was The Accidental Wedding Crashers.
He decided to place his hopes on Cross's performance. "Don't let your anxiety take over. Believe in yourself. If your performance meets their expectations and resonates with the script, they'll call you back."
Cross nodded reluctantly. He understood that if he wanted to survive in this industry, he needed to earn his place. Relying on others would only lead to disappointment.
The production team soon announced an hour-long lunch break to eat and review preliminary impressions before resuming auditions.
Collin took the chance to speak with Wyatt and Henry. He wanted to make sure Axel's chances were solid.
"I'll do my best to cast Axel. So far, we're still finalizing the cast, but he has a strong chance. The Accidental Wedding Crashers gave him recognition in the comedy genre. I'll also try for Jennifer tomorrow, though her role might not be as big as the male leads."
"That's great to hear. A huge relief too. Thanks, Wyatt."
"I should be the one thanking you."
In Hollywood, connections always mattered.
Collin then turned to Henry.
"Don't ask me for biased favors," Henry said bluntly. "You know I always base casting on performance, not friendship. If Axel and Jennifer meet our criteria and prove themselves on set, I'm fine with it. Just remind them not to cause trouble. I won't tolerate that."
Henry had past traumas from dealing with difficult people on set.
"Thanks, Henry. That's reassuring enough."
With that, the auditions continued and wrapped up as scheduled by the end of the day. Every actor had the chance to show what they were made of.
That evening, the casting team gathered for a final review: Wyatt, Henry, Anthony (Wyatt's assistant director), Gerald (the casting director who didn't like freelance actors due to reliability issues), along with other production staff and Uni-versus representatives.
Photos were posted on the whiteboard beside written names. They played back several taped auditions on the mounted TV.
"Let's review Cross Pinger's audition one more time and evaluate his delivery."
Anthony inserted the tape of Cross's performance earlier that day.
After a few minutes of watching, they began reviewing their top choices.
"We've already secured the role of Skibidi Toilet. Axel Gunner got that one without question. That leaves us with two more roles to fill."
Wyatt had written the role of Skibidi Toilet with Axel in mind. It wasn't surprising he nailed it immediately. Similarly, the character of Teto Pear was inspired by Lawrence Terrence and his comedic timing.
Unfortunately, Lawrence was busy filming in Bora Bora and unavailable for this movie, which Wyatt deeply regretted. He believed Lawrence had a natural comedic instinct perfect for the role.
"He's the best choice. Let's cast Cross Pinger as Miku Beam. If he asks for a salary we can't meet, we'll consider someone from our backup list," Henry declared.
No one objected. Cross had done well.
Cross Pinger was cast as Miku Beam, the "average guy" in the trio.
For the role of the handsome Teto Pear, they selected a well-known actor with mainstream appeal to draw audiences. They needed a proven box office name.
Enter Brody Paige, a famous actor with a history of successful films. Among the three, he commanded the highest salary due to his fame and track record. He had starred in Interview with the Bloodsucker and Seven Deadly Sins, both of which performed well.
The production team understood that quality alone couldn't guarantee box office success. A recognizable star helped assure profits, and Brody Paige was that anchor for them.
Coincidentally, Collin also knew Brody Paige's agent.
Overall, the final cast was considered strong. All selected actors had film experience and had proven they could handle major roles.
"I'll contact their agents and start negotiating the contracts before we announce anything," Henry said, standing with paperwork in hand.
It was late, and he wanted to finish the day's tasks before exhaustion caught up with him. He knew the real chaos would begin once production officially started and rest would be a luxury.
That night, Cross Pinger and Axel Gunner received phone calls from their agents.
After years of rejection and failed auditions, they had finally secured roles in a major studio production.
That night, they were beyond happy, more than words could express.
"Hey Collin, you're here at the audition too, huh."
"Earnest. I guess we both have excuses for leaving the office without filing a full-day leave."
The two agents laughed after greeting each other, the familiarity in their eyes hinting a friendship. Earnest's client, Cross Pinger, had also passed the second round of auditions and was now waiting for his final chance.
Cross was fourth to the last in line among the hopeful actors in the hallway. They had greeted each other earlier, having worked together on a project last year. However, this time there was tension between them, obvious tension, because they were now competing for limited roles.
"Man, you really hit the jackpot with Wyatt as your client. I wonder if I should start looking for promising directors before they become successful." The Black agent chuckled, clearly recognizing the benefits of having a successful director on the roster.
Wyatt's success had elevated Collin's entire client list.
"There are some graduates applying to our agency this year. You could check out their short films, maybe you'll find someone worth signing."
"I'll keep that in mind."
Earnest nodded, then walked back to Cross Pinger, who stood a few meters away, quietly reviewing his lines.
They were friends and coworkers, often sharing industry tips and office gossip. But today, they were competitors. With only three major roles up for grabs, and a sea of actors chasing them, there simply wasn't enough space for everyone to succeed.
"Did Collin agree? Will he talk to Wyatt and try to get me a role or at least seriously consider me?" Cross asked in a low voice, making sure no one else could hear. He glanced around anxiously.
Cross was an average actor in almost every sense. He wasn't handsome, but not unattractive. Not tall, not short. At 5'8", he was right on the line. He understood his limits and never overestimated his ability. That's why he knew how unlikely it was for him to land a major studio-funded comedy role.
He also knew that the only reason he landed the groom's role in The Accidental Wedding Crashers was due to a lucky mix of timing and preparation. He had gotten a copy of the script early and made the most of it, outperforming many who came unprepared.
But Week On A Cruise Ship was on a different level entirely. It wasn't an indie movie with a flexible casting process. It was backed by a major studio with high expectations. They wouldn't cast someone average, not unless something truly special happened.
Honestly, he suspected the only reason he passed the first and second rounds was because Wyatt knew him.
Cross felt the only path to success was through that connection. Otherwise, he'd be forgotten.
Earnest placed a firm hand on his client's shoulder. "You can do this. I believe in you."
He didn't say much else, words wouldn't change the odds. He also knew Collin didn't have direct authority over casting. Wyatt might be able to push for Axel, but asking to cast Cross in one of the lead roles was a bigger task.
Earnest was already grateful that Collin helped secure the opportunity in the last movie which was The Accidental Wedding Crashers.
He decided to place his hopes on Cross's performance. "Don't let your anxiety take over. Believe in yourself. If your performance meets their expectations and resonates with the script, they'll call you back."
Cross nodded reluctantly. He understood that if he wanted to survive in this industry, he needed to earn his place. Relying on others would only lead to disappointment.
The production team soon announced an hour-long lunch break to eat and review preliminary impressions before resuming auditions.
Collin took the chance to speak with Wyatt and Henry. He wanted to make sure Axel's chances were solid.
"I'll do my best to cast Axel. So far, we're still finalizing the cast, but he has a strong chance. The Accidental Wedding Crashers gave him recognition in the comedy genre. I'll also try for Jennifer tomorrow, though her role might not be as big as the male leads."
"That's great to hear. A huge relief too. Thanks, Wyatt."
"I should be the one thanking you."
In Hollywood, connections always mattered.
Collin then turned to Henry.
"Don't ask me for biased favors," Henry said bluntly. "You know I always base casting on performance, not friendship. If Axel and Jennifer meet our criteria and prove themselves on set, I'm fine with it. Just remind them not to cause trouble. I won't tolerate that."
Henry had past traumas from dealing with difficult people on set.
"Thanks, Henry. That's reassuring enough."
With that, the auditions continued and wrapped up as scheduled by the end of the day. Every actor had the chance to show what they were made of.
That evening, the casting team gathered for a final review: Wyatt, Henry, Anthony (Wyatt's assistant director), Gerald (the casting director who didn't like freelance actors due to reliability issues), along with other production staff and Uni-versus representatives.
Photos were posted on the whiteboard beside written names. They played back several taped auditions on the mounted TV.
"Let's review Cross Pinger's audition one more time and evaluate his delivery."
Anthony inserted the tape of Cross's performance earlier that day.
After a few minutes of watching, they began reviewing their top choices.
"We've already secured the role of Skibidi Toilet. Axel Gunner got that one without question. That leaves us with two more roles to fill."
Wyatt had written the role of Skibidi Toilet with Axel in mind. It wasn't surprising he nailed it immediately. Similarly, the character of Teto Pear was inspired by Lawrence Terrence and his comedic timing.
Unfortunately, Lawrence was busy filming in Bora Bora and unavailable for this movie, which Wyatt deeply regretted. He believed Lawrence had a natural comedic instinct perfect for the role.
"He's the best choice. Let's cast Cross Pinger as Miku Beam. If he asks for a salary we can't meet, we'll consider someone from our backup list," Henry declared.
No one objected. Cross had done well.
Cross Pinger was cast as Miku Beam, the "average guy" in the trio.
For the role of the handsome Teto Pear, they selected a well-known actor with mainstream appeal to draw audiences. They needed a proven box office name.
Enter Brody Paige, a famous actor with a history of successful films. Among the three, he commanded the highest salary due to his fame and track record. He had starred in Interview with the Bloodsucker and Seven Deadly Sins, both of which performed well.
The production team understood that quality alone couldn't guarantee box office success. A recognizable star helped assure profits, and Brody Paige was that anchor for them.
Coincidentally, Collin also knew Brody Paige's agent.
Overall, the final cast was considered strong. All selected actors had film experience and had proven they could handle major roles.
"I'll contact their agents and start negotiating the contracts before we announce anything," Henry said, standing with paperwork in hand.
It was late, and he wanted to finish the day's tasks before exhaustion caught up with him. He knew the real chaos would begin once production officially started and rest would be a luxury.
That night, Cross Pinger and Axel Gunner received phone calls from their agents.
After years of rejection and failed auditions, they had finally secured roles in a major studio production.
That night, they were beyond happy, more than words could express.
Chapter 65
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Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 65
Two weeks before the production approval announcement of Week On A Cruise Ship, Madison Morgan was on the set of My Pure Innocent High School Love.
She glanced around the bustling set filled with noisy crew members and distracted assistants, then quietly sat in a corner to avoid drawing attention. Using a folded tissue, she wiped the sweat from her forehead. Despite the tension rising in her chest, she kept her smile intact as she waited for her chance to fix her makeup before the next scene was shot.
The makeup artist looked at her for a moment, then sighed with visible reluctance... and pretended not to see her. The artist didn't want to risk her job by helping someone the lead actress disliked.
Seeing that cold reaction and the indifference in the makeup artist's eyes, Madison's perfect smile cracked ever so slightly at the edges. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes to regain composure.
"M–Madison, I'm back. I finally got through the checkpoint. Phew. They wouldn't let me in, even though I showed my ID three times to different people. I had to explain that I'm your assistant before they finally allowed me inside."
A middle-aged woman arrived, slightly exasperated.
"Thank you, Delilah. Can you help me fix my makeup? I just need a bit of foundation before they call us back in." Madison gave her a grateful smile.
"They didn't fix your makeup at all?"
"They didn't even acknowledge me."
"God, this production is too much. The way they're treating you is just—"
"Delilah, please lower your voice. Someone might hear you. That'll just make things worse."
"I–I'm sorry, Madison."
Delilah was Madison's personal assistant, assigned to her a year ago by her previous agent. Fortunately, she knew enough makeup to help in a pinch, especially helpful now that Madison couldn't count on the official makeup team.
Everyone on set seemed to act like Madison didn't belong in the place.
Madison Morgan was a stage name, carefully crafted to be catchy and memorable. Her real name was Madison Morgana Gomez, but it sounded too long and too much like a telenovela character. Her first agent, who passed away from a heart attack three years ago, shortened it to Madison Morgan to help her blend in.
She was half-Mexican, half-Italian, but her features leaned more toward her Mexican heritage, olive skin, wavy dark hair, and almond-shaped eyes. A proud Latina with deep cultural roots, she spoke three languages fluently: English, Spanish, and Italian.
When she first stepped into Hollywood, she believed her career would soar. She was discovered by an agent and signed to ANT, a top-tier agency representing major stars. She thought her dreams were finally within reach. But her agent, who was already quite old, died of a heart attack.
After that, she was passed on to a rookie agent who had no experience and barely understood the casting process. That shift was a devastating blow to Madison's career.
She admitted that Collin, her new agent at the time, did his best to support her. But no matter how hard he tried, it wasn't enough to match her dreams of red carpets and lead roles.
Though she had to admit, Collin was handsome and charming in a way. She even considered dating him just for fun, until she realized he was broke as hell and couldn't even afford a proper dinner date.
When her contract with ANT ended, she moved to another agency that promised better connections. This new agency was B-tier, representing a few rising names, but still below ANT in terms of influence.
Still, she had no complaints. They treated her with more respect and helped her land a steady job on a TV show.
My Pure Innocent High School Love was already on its second season, with a loyal audience made up of teen girls and drama fans. It wasn't a record-breaking hit, but it performed well enough to earn another season. Whether or not it would get a third season depended on ratings and feedback.
In Season 1, Madison earned $5,000 per episode. In Season 2, her rate jumped to $15,000, a significant improvement.
But despite the success, it looked like she wouldn't be returning for Season 3, even if the show got renewed.
All because she made the mistake of simply existing.
She hadn't done anything offensive or wrong.
As Delilah carefully applied makeup, Madison sighed, reflecting on her situation.
The show's lead actress was jealous of Madison. She saw her as a threat, more beautiful, better mannered, and beloved by the crew. Madison carried herself with quiet grace and elegance, earning admiration without seeking it. Men often said she had "wife material" energy because of her demeanor. She avoided drama, stayed professional, and tried her best to hold on to the opportunity she had worked so hard to get.
Unfortunately, that wasn't enough.
The lead actress didn't like her and made it known. Her father, a powerful investor, had funded the show as a vanity project. With that kind of power, he could influence casting decisions easily.
Madison didn't stand a chance.
"Madison, we changed the plot for the next episode. Here's the script with the revisions marked in red."
The scriptwriter handed her the new pages with an apologetic look. Madison scanned them, and her heart dropped. She bit her lip so hard it bled, blinking rapidly to hold back the tears.
Her character was going to die.
She was going to be hit by a bus and be gone in the show. Just like that.
A cliché death meant for expendable characters.
.........
......
...
"It's not your fault. Don't blame yourself. You didn't do anything to deserve this."
Her agent sat beside her in the dressing room, voice full of sincere empathy. He was gay and flamboyant, and had fought hard to get Madison that role despite the heavy politics. It hurt him too, seeing her thrown away like this after only two seasons.
"Thanks, Dia. You're the best for being here when it counts." Madison wiped her tears with trembling fingers. She was beginning to realize how her beauty could also be a curse. It attracted the wrong kind of attention, even when she tried to stay out of the spotlight.
"I don't have time to cry or mope. I need to find another job as soon as possible."
"Well, about that… You've heard of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, right?"
Madison weakly nodded. She had watched it last month and saw Jennifer in the film playing a comedic supporting role as a bride. She was stunned. Jennifer? In a movie? Madison couldn't help but feel jealous and confused.
She, Jennifer, and Landers were among Collin's first clients when he started out. But she didn't know about Axel, Lawrence, or Wyatt.
"I heard that movie was directed by someone Collin represents."
"You mean Collin signed a director… and he directed The Accidental Wedding Crashers?"
"That's right. And it's already made nearly $300 million worldwide."
"..."
Madison was speechless.
She had known Collin for years. Handsome, sure. But she'd never thought of him as particularly talented when it came to managing clients. Maybe she was wrong. Maybe he'd finally hit his stride… or just got really lucky.
"I heard they're making another movie soon. If you act quickly, you might land a role. Use your past connection with Collin, even if it's awkward. Convince him to cast you in his client's next film while the door is still open."
"I'll definitely try." Determination returned to Madison's eyes, her resolve burning bright.
She knew how tough the industry was. She knew second chances didn't come easy. But she wasn't going to let herself be tossed aside like trash, not without a fight.
She had worked too hard to get to this place, and she wasn't about to let it all end here.
Two weeks before the production approval announcement of Week On A Cruise Ship, Madison Morgan was on the set of My Pure Innocent High School Love.
She glanced around the bustling set filled with noisy crew members and distracted assistants, then quietly sat in a corner to avoid drawing attention. Using a folded tissue, she wiped the sweat from her forehead. Despite the tension rising in her chest, she kept her smile intact as she waited for her chance to fix her makeup before the next scene was shot.
The makeup artist looked at her for a moment, then sighed with visible reluctance... and pretended not to see her. The artist didn't want to risk her job by helping someone the lead actress disliked.
Seeing that cold reaction and the indifference in the makeup artist's eyes, Madison's perfect smile cracked ever so slightly at the edges. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes to regain composure.
"M–Madison, I'm back. I finally got through the checkpoint. Phew. They wouldn't let me in, even though I showed my ID three times to different people. I had to explain that I'm your assistant before they finally allowed me inside."
A middle-aged woman arrived, slightly exasperated.
"Thank you, Delilah. Can you help me fix my makeup? I just need a bit of foundation before they call us back in." Madison gave her a grateful smile.
"They didn't fix your makeup at all?"
"They didn't even acknowledge me."
"God, this production is too much. The way they're treating you is just—"
"Delilah, please lower your voice. Someone might hear you. That'll just make things worse."
"I–I'm sorry, Madison."
Delilah was Madison's personal assistant, assigned to her a year ago by her previous agent. Fortunately, she knew enough makeup to help in a pinch, especially helpful now that Madison couldn't count on the official makeup team.
Everyone on set seemed to act like Madison didn't belong in the place.
Madison Morgan was a stage name, carefully crafted to be catchy and memorable. Her real name was Madison Morgana Gomez, but it sounded too long and too much like a telenovela character. Her first agent, who passed away from a heart attack three years ago, shortened it to Madison Morgan to help her blend in.
She was half-Mexican, half-Italian, but her features leaned more toward her Mexican heritage, olive skin, wavy dark hair, and almond-shaped eyes. A proud Latina with deep cultural roots, she spoke three languages fluently: English, Spanish, and Italian.
When she first stepped into Hollywood, she believed her career would soar. She was discovered by an agent and signed to ANT, a top-tier agency representing major stars. She thought her dreams were finally within reach. But her agent, who was already quite old, died of a heart attack.
After that, she was passed on to a rookie agent who had no experience and barely understood the casting process. That shift was a devastating blow to Madison's career.
She admitted that Collin, her new agent at the time, did his best to support her. But no matter how hard he tried, it wasn't enough to match her dreams of red carpets and lead roles.
Though she had to admit, Collin was handsome and charming in a way. She even considered dating him just for fun, until she realized he was broke as hell and couldn't even afford a proper dinner date.
When her contract with ANT ended, she moved to another agency that promised better connections. This new agency was B-tier, representing a few rising names, but still below ANT in terms of influence.
Still, she had no complaints. They treated her with more respect and helped her land a steady job on a TV show.
My Pure Innocent High School Love was already on its second season, with a loyal audience made up of teen girls and drama fans. It wasn't a record-breaking hit, but it performed well enough to earn another season. Whether or not it would get a third season depended on ratings and feedback.
In Season 1, Madison earned $5,000 per episode. In Season 2, her rate jumped to $15,000, a significant improvement.
But despite the success, it looked like she wouldn't be returning for Season 3, even if the show got renewed.
All because she made the mistake of simply existing.
She hadn't done anything offensive or wrong.
As Delilah carefully applied makeup, Madison sighed, reflecting on her situation.
The show's lead actress was jealous of Madison. She saw her as a threat, more beautiful, better mannered, and beloved by the crew. Madison carried herself with quiet grace and elegance, earning admiration without seeking it. Men often said she had "wife material" energy because of her demeanor. She avoided drama, stayed professional, and tried her best to hold on to the opportunity she had worked so hard to get.
Unfortunately, that wasn't enough.
The lead actress didn't like her and made it known. Her father, a powerful investor, had funded the show as a vanity project. With that kind of power, he could influence casting decisions easily.
Madison didn't stand a chance.
"Madison, we changed the plot for the next episode. Here's the script with the revisions marked in red."
The scriptwriter handed her the new pages with an apologetic look. Madison scanned them, and her heart dropped. She bit her lip so hard it bled, blinking rapidly to hold back the tears.
Her character was going to die.
She was going to be hit by a bus and be gone in the show. Just like that.
A cliché death meant for expendable characters.
.........
......
...
"It's not your fault. Don't blame yourself. You didn't do anything to deserve this."
Her agent sat beside her in the dressing room, voice full of sincere empathy. He was gay and flamboyant, and had fought hard to get Madison that role despite the heavy politics. It hurt him too, seeing her thrown away like this after only two seasons.
"Thanks, Dia. You're the best for being here when it counts." Madison wiped her tears with trembling fingers. She was beginning to realize how her beauty could also be a curse. It attracted the wrong kind of attention, even when she tried to stay out of the spotlight.
"I don't have time to cry or mope. I need to find another job as soon as possible."
"Well, about that… You've heard of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, right?"
Madison weakly nodded. She had watched it last month and saw Jennifer in the film playing a comedic supporting role as a bride. She was stunned. Jennifer? In a movie? Madison couldn't help but feel jealous and confused.
She, Jennifer, and Landers were among Collin's first clients when he started out. But she didn't know about Axel, Lawrence, or Wyatt.
"I heard that movie was directed by someone Collin represents."
"You mean Collin signed a director… and he directed The Accidental Wedding Crashers?"
"That's right. And it's already made nearly $300 million worldwide."
"..."
Madison was speechless.
She had known Collin for years. Handsome, sure. But she'd never thought of him as particularly talented when it came to managing clients. Maybe she was wrong. Maybe he'd finally hit his stride… or just got really lucky.
"I heard they're making another movie soon. If you act quickly, you might land a role. Use your past connection with Collin, even if it's awkward. Convince him to cast you in his client's next film while the door is still open."
"I'll definitely try." Determination returned to Madison's eyes, her resolve burning bright.
She knew how tough the industry was. She knew second chances didn't come easy. But she wasn't going to let herself be tossed aside like trash, not without a fight.
She had worked too hard to get to this place, and she wasn't about to let it all end here.
HellFire28
Getting sticky.
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What's the reason for this reaction?
Collin and Madison parted on good terms.
mauveine
Making the rounds.
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Given that the story has already stated that ANT is the big fish in the agency field, this is a perfectly valid hope and dream. Even somewhat achievable, too.
And, yeah, that sharp turn would really suck for any actor
Well, that sucks, but life's like that, I guess
So, they parted on decent-ish terms...good!
'Not help her'...that seems spiteful
'Not treat her as if he was still her agent'...that's sensible.
'Treat her with courtesy based on their relatively amicable history, and not having reasons for hostility'...good idea
Chapter 66
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
- Joined
- Sep 8, 2022
- Messages
- 1,013
- Likes received
- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 66
Back to the current situation in the buzzing heart of Uni-versus Pictures' casting department.
Now that the production of Week On A Cruise Ship had finalized its three lead roles, the next task was to find supporting actors who would complete the cast and bring the entire script to life.
On the second day of auditions, which began bright and early, the production was searching for two actresses to portray key supporting characters.
The first role was that of Cross Pinger's nagging wife, who cheated on him multiple times while on the cruise ship.
The second was the stripper with a heart of gold, who would eventually become Cross Pinger's new wife after a chaotic string of events.
The two characters didn't have official names. For convenience, they were simply referred to as Cheating Wife and Stripper Wife.
Collin had two reasons for returning to Uni-versus Pictures' headquarters on the second day of auditions despite his busy schedule:
First, to negotiate Axel's contract and finalize the terms.
Second, to check on Jennifer, who was set to audition for both supporting roles with everything she had.
To cover all her bases, Jennifer prepared for both roles, even though she didn't know which one the casting team would consider her for. She was aware that she wasn't popular with major studios, so her chances of getting cast were slim at best.
Over the past four months, Axel, Jennifer, and Lawrence had all auditioned for several movies as their names slowly gained traction in the industry. But rejection followed rejection, except for Lawrence, who landed a lead role after only two rejections.
Jennifer couldn't help but feel jealous that Lawrence scored a leading role as if it were handed to him. It infuriated her and made her grind her teeth in frustration.
Still, she had to admit Lawrence deserved it. After working with him on multiple scenes, she realized that Lawrence could act with natural charisma and a grounded presence. No wonder he got cast while she was still waiting.
But that didn't erase her jealousy. Not one bit.
Because that's how emotions work. People get jealous. It's part of being human.
Collin spotted Jennifer sitting on a chair by the wall, quietly rehearsing her lines. Based on the queue, her turn would come within the next hour or two.
She had arrived early to avoid missing anything. The hallway was even more crowded than it was on the first day of auditions. Every bench and corner was occupied by hopeful actresses, perhaps because it was still early morning, and the eager ones were always the first to arrive.
Collin approached Jennifer casually. She looked up, saw him, and waved with a small smile.
But before he could reach her, a voice called out from the opposite end of the hallway.
"Collin! Long time no see!"
"Hm?"
Collin turned to his left and saw Madison smiling at him with a confident, slightly flirtatious look. Her expression paused for a moment as she took in Collin's appearance, he looked more polished than before.
There was something different about him. It wasn't just the clothes or his posture. Collin had always carried himself with confidence despite being underpaid and struggling. But now, that confidence was real, backed by results. His entire presence had changed, like someone who had finally figured himself out.
Madison's cheeks flushed as unexpected memories surfaced. She remembered that night when she touched herself thinking about this man… Ahem, definitely not the time to remember that.
"C–Collin, how's your day?" she stammered, making a clumsy mistake. What she meant to ask was, "How's your life these days?"
"My day? I'm doing fine, I guess," Collin replied, slightly widening his eyes at her sudden appearance. He hadn't expected to see Madison here, of all places.
He remembered that she had a regular role on a TV show. Then again, it wasn't unusual for TV actors to audition for film roles if their schedules allowed it.
What he didn't know was that Madison's character had just been killed off in the most dramatic fashion, she got hit by a bus in the latest episode, broadcast just yesterday.
Madison smiled and leaned in a little too close for comfort, her fitted top revealing just enough cleavage to make the move seem intentional.
"We should talk later, maybe grab a coffee or lunch. You know, to catch up like old times."
"I'm sorry, but I'm not free today. I have things to do and people to handle."
"That's great, my treat—wait, what?"
"I'm busy with real responsibilities now. If you'll excuse me, I need to talk to Jennifer about her audition."
Collin's steady gaze made Madison's knees feel weak, as though her legs were about to give out.
"W–wait…"
She stood there, frozen, extending her hand slightly, trying to stop him, but Collin had already turned and walked away without a second glance.
It was now crystal clear to her, the rookie agent she once dismissed was long gone. This Collin was more mature, more capable, and somehow far more attractive… yet far more distant.
Collin, meanwhile, knew exactly why Madison wanted to talk to him now. He saw through it immediately. He had no intention of entertaining the idea. Their professional relationship had ended the moment she left his roster.
He had genuinely been happy for her when she landed that TV role. He wished her well. But that was the end of it. To him, Madison was just a name from the past. A stranger now.
'It's disappointing… Madison used to have the most potential among my early clients. She was younger and had an exotic beauty that casting directors loved. She could've made it big… Jennifer would probably kill me if I said Madison was better than her out loud.'
"Heh, that bitch acts like she didn't ditch you for another agency the moment she saw a chance."
Jennifer said it loud on purpose, making sure Madison could hear her. The two had never gotten along. Jennifer was foul-mouthed and blunt, while Madison, demure and passive-aggressive. It was oil and water from day one.
'But between the two… I'll still pick Jennifer. At least she doesn't hide who she is. With her, you always know where you stand.'
Collin sighed, wondering if he was ready for a full day of drama. It felt like this was going to be a long one.
"Jennifer, lower your voice, will you?"
"I don't want to and I won't. That bitch deserves it. Just because her role in My Pure Innocent High School Love ended doesn't mean she gets to cling to you like a lifeline. Pathetic. She didn't even know you were sad when she left. She didn't give you a chance to prove yourself."
"Her role ended?" Collin blinked in surprise, finally understanding Madison's sudden reappearance. That explained a lot, including her overly friendly attitude.
Madison overheard every word and bit her lip in frustration, her cheeks burning with both shame and anger.
"Okay, Jennifer, hit the brakes before this turns into a spectacle. Let's talk about you, not her. How are you holding up emotionally and mentally?" Collin asked, redirecting the conversation. The crowd of actresses nearby had started paying attention, and the last thing they needed was a public scene.
"I'm nervous as hell."
"…Alright. That's natural."
"That's it?"
"If you're nervous, it means you care about the outcome. It means you're taking this seriously."
"Of course I am. Lawrence got a lead role. Axel got a lead role. How the hell am I supposed to stay calm when I'm the only one not improving? Fuck, I hate this feeling. I hate falling behind."
"You don't have to worry. You've got me in your corner. As long as I'm your agent, I'll make sure you find your place in Hollywood even if it takes time," Collin said firmly, with conviction in his voice.
"Wow, Collin… I didn't think you'd say something so inspiring. Sounding like the main character now, huh? Guess you're falling in love with me. Too bad, I don't like your rough looks. And when you look at me seriously like that… my legs go weak, and I hate it."
"As if. I'm not into old hags who cuss like sailors. I'm not into Hagmaxxing."
"What the fuck did you just say, you little shit? Say that again and I'll beat your ass."
Back to the current situation in the buzzing heart of Uni-versus Pictures' casting department.
Now that the production of Week On A Cruise Ship had finalized its three lead roles, the next task was to find supporting actors who would complete the cast and bring the entire script to life.
On the second day of auditions, which began bright and early, the production was searching for two actresses to portray key supporting characters.
The first role was that of Cross Pinger's nagging wife, who cheated on him multiple times while on the cruise ship.
The second was the stripper with a heart of gold, who would eventually become Cross Pinger's new wife after a chaotic string of events.
The two characters didn't have official names. For convenience, they were simply referred to as Cheating Wife and Stripper Wife.
Collin had two reasons for returning to Uni-versus Pictures' headquarters on the second day of auditions despite his busy schedule:
First, to negotiate Axel's contract and finalize the terms.
Second, to check on Jennifer, who was set to audition for both supporting roles with everything she had.
To cover all her bases, Jennifer prepared for both roles, even though she didn't know which one the casting team would consider her for. She was aware that she wasn't popular with major studios, so her chances of getting cast were slim at best.
Over the past four months, Axel, Jennifer, and Lawrence had all auditioned for several movies as their names slowly gained traction in the industry. But rejection followed rejection, except for Lawrence, who landed a lead role after only two rejections.
Jennifer couldn't help but feel jealous that Lawrence scored a leading role as if it were handed to him. It infuriated her and made her grind her teeth in frustration.
Still, she had to admit Lawrence deserved it. After working with him on multiple scenes, she realized that Lawrence could act with natural charisma and a grounded presence. No wonder he got cast while she was still waiting.
But that didn't erase her jealousy. Not one bit.
Because that's how emotions work. People get jealous. It's part of being human.
Collin spotted Jennifer sitting on a chair by the wall, quietly rehearsing her lines. Based on the queue, her turn would come within the next hour or two.
She had arrived early to avoid missing anything. The hallway was even more crowded than it was on the first day of auditions. Every bench and corner was occupied by hopeful actresses, perhaps because it was still early morning, and the eager ones were always the first to arrive.
Collin approached Jennifer casually. She looked up, saw him, and waved with a small smile.
But before he could reach her, a voice called out from the opposite end of the hallway.
"Collin! Long time no see!"
"Hm?"
Collin turned to his left and saw Madison smiling at him with a confident, slightly flirtatious look. Her expression paused for a moment as she took in Collin's appearance, he looked more polished than before.
There was something different about him. It wasn't just the clothes or his posture. Collin had always carried himself with confidence despite being underpaid and struggling. But now, that confidence was real, backed by results. His entire presence had changed, like someone who had finally figured himself out.
Madison's cheeks flushed as unexpected memories surfaced. She remembered that night when she touched herself thinking about this man… Ahem, definitely not the time to remember that.
"C–Collin, how's your day?" she stammered, making a clumsy mistake. What she meant to ask was, "How's your life these days?"
"My day? I'm doing fine, I guess," Collin replied, slightly widening his eyes at her sudden appearance. He hadn't expected to see Madison here, of all places.
He remembered that she had a regular role on a TV show. Then again, it wasn't unusual for TV actors to audition for film roles if their schedules allowed it.
What he didn't know was that Madison's character had just been killed off in the most dramatic fashion, she got hit by a bus in the latest episode, broadcast just yesterday.
Madison smiled and leaned in a little too close for comfort, her fitted top revealing just enough cleavage to make the move seem intentional.
"We should talk later, maybe grab a coffee or lunch. You know, to catch up like old times."
"I'm sorry, but I'm not free today. I have things to do and people to handle."
"That's great, my treat—wait, what?"
"I'm busy with real responsibilities now. If you'll excuse me, I need to talk to Jennifer about her audition."
Collin's steady gaze made Madison's knees feel weak, as though her legs were about to give out.
"W–wait…"
She stood there, frozen, extending her hand slightly, trying to stop him, but Collin had already turned and walked away without a second glance.
It was now crystal clear to her, the rookie agent she once dismissed was long gone. This Collin was more mature, more capable, and somehow far more attractive… yet far more distant.
Collin, meanwhile, knew exactly why Madison wanted to talk to him now. He saw through it immediately. He had no intention of entertaining the idea. Their professional relationship had ended the moment she left his roster.
He had genuinely been happy for her when she landed that TV role. He wished her well. But that was the end of it. To him, Madison was just a name from the past. A stranger now.
'It's disappointing… Madison used to have the most potential among my early clients. She was younger and had an exotic beauty that casting directors loved. She could've made it big… Jennifer would probably kill me if I said Madison was better than her out loud.'
"Heh, that bitch acts like she didn't ditch you for another agency the moment she saw a chance."
Jennifer said it loud on purpose, making sure Madison could hear her. The two had never gotten along. Jennifer was foul-mouthed and blunt, while Madison, demure and passive-aggressive. It was oil and water from day one.
'But between the two… I'll still pick Jennifer. At least she doesn't hide who she is. With her, you always know where you stand.'
Collin sighed, wondering if he was ready for a full day of drama. It felt like this was going to be a long one.
"Jennifer, lower your voice, will you?"
"I don't want to and I won't. That bitch deserves it. Just because her role in My Pure Innocent High School Love ended doesn't mean she gets to cling to you like a lifeline. Pathetic. She didn't even know you were sad when she left. She didn't give you a chance to prove yourself."
"Her role ended?" Collin blinked in surprise, finally understanding Madison's sudden reappearance. That explained a lot, including her overly friendly attitude.
Madison overheard every word and bit her lip in frustration, her cheeks burning with both shame and anger.
"Okay, Jennifer, hit the brakes before this turns into a spectacle. Let's talk about you, not her. How are you holding up emotionally and mentally?" Collin asked, redirecting the conversation. The crowd of actresses nearby had started paying attention, and the last thing they needed was a public scene.
"I'm nervous as hell."
"…Alright. That's natural."
"That's it?"
"If you're nervous, it means you care about the outcome. It means you're taking this seriously."
"Of course I am. Lawrence got a lead role. Axel got a lead role. How the hell am I supposed to stay calm when I'm the only one not improving? Fuck, I hate this feeling. I hate falling behind."
"You don't have to worry. You've got me in your corner. As long as I'm your agent, I'll make sure you find your place in Hollywood even if it takes time," Collin said firmly, with conviction in his voice.
"Wow, Collin… I didn't think you'd say something so inspiring. Sounding like the main character now, huh? Guess you're falling in love with me. Too bad, I don't like your rough looks. And when you look at me seriously like that… my legs go weak, and I hate it."
"As if. I'm not into old hags who cuss like sailors. I'm not into Hagmaxxing."
"What the fuck did you just say, you little shit? Say that again and I'll beat your ass."
Chapter 67
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 67
"I said you are the most gorgeous woman I've ever seen in my entire life, without exaggeration. You're better than any woman I've ever known or even imagined, except for my mom and sister, of course."
"That could be taken out of context real fast, do you know that?"
Jennifer snorted and returned to reading the script, one she had read so many times she could probably recite it backward.
'To be fair, Jennifer is indeed better than any woman I've ever known in terms of loyalty and honesty. At least she's someone I can trust and who doesn't hide her feelings, even when she's being rude. She won't betray me like others might. Unfortunately, I have no intention of getting into a relationship with her... I can't handle her strong attitude and chaotic personality.'
Collin stared at the actress a few seconds too long. He had to admit, Jennifer was gorgeous in a fiery, mature way. She was only four years older than him, not exactly a big gap, honestly.
"Please don't stare at me like that with your intense eyes. I can't concentrate, and you're messing up my focus."
Jennifer blushed slightly and raised her script like a shield to block his gaze.
"My fault for admiring the scenery. Ah, I just remembered, I finally found a personal assistant for you. I also found assistants for Lawrence, Wyatt, and Axel to help lighten their loads."
It was something he should've done last year when their careers started gaining momentum, but Collin had been too busy. More importantly, he needed people he could truly trust with sensitive matters.
Being a personal assistant to a celebrity wasn't a light job. It required complete discretion. Assistants acted as their clients' hands and feet, navigating unpredictable situations, helping in every possible way.
In some cases, an assistant would be the first to witness questionable or even illegal actions, and that meant the person hired had to be trustworthy beyond doubt. So Collin didn't rush. He performed thorough background checks, relied on his instincts, and filtered applicants through multiple rounds of interviews and character assessments.
After months of searching, he found four solid candidates with professional experience, three males and one female.
Naturally, the female would be assigned to Jennifer to avoid any awkwardness or baseless rumors.
"Really? I'll have an assistant from now on? You're not joking, right? This isn't some sick prank? Stop lying or I'll stab your eye with a high heel, you fucking cunt."
"Do I look like I'm joking with this straight face?"
"...Wow. I can't believe I finally reached the moment where I have my own assistant. Like a real celebrity."
"Don't celebrate just yet. Her salary will be covered by you, not the agency. That means you need to work hard consistently, because someone else now depends on your income."
"T-That's kinda scary. Like a huge responsibility dumped in my lap. What if I go broke?"
"You don't need to worry too much. Like I said before, you've got me watching your back."
"Collin... If not for your failed past relationship, I might've dragged you to bed and made you my personal toy."
"Why do you keep bringing that up? I regret ever telling you about that story when I was trying to convince you to sign with me."
They bickered like squabbling siblings.
"Anyway, you'll have to pay her an annual salary of $25,000 at the very least. If you can afford to give a bonus, that's even better, it keeps her loyal."
"So... my assistant is a female, just to be clear. Do I pay her directly, or does it go through the agency?"
"That's up to you and how you want to handle it."
Jennifer frowned. $25,000 felt like a lot, especially for someone who once lived off cup noodles for a week while struggling to pay rent. She knew hardship too well.
Luckily, she received a $50,000 bonus from The Accidental Wedding Crashers, her biggest check to date. That was already a life-changing amount for her.
Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. Collin might dress like a nobody, but deep down, he was probably rich. As producer of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, he likely made at least a million dollars from that movie.
"Honestly, I should've found assistants for you all a month ago before the schedule got packed. But I needed time to be absolutely sure they could be trusted."
"What about Lawrence? Isn't he off in some tropical paradise?"
"I gave his assistant a first-class flight to Bora Bora. The production team is handling accommodations and meals. It was part of the contract I negotiated."
To avoid rumors or misinterpretations, Collin made sure the male clients had male assistants, and the sole female client, Jennifer, had a female assistant.
Wyatt, as a director, already had an Assistant Director helping him on set, but that was different from a personal assistant managing off-camera life.
"I'll introduce her to you in a few days, once she's fully briefed."
"Shit. You're not helping my anxiety, you're making it worse. Now I really have to take this audition seriously because I've got another mouth to feed."
"This is just the start of your journey to stardom. Once you become famous, I'll build a full team for you, one that rivals A-listers."
"Eh, that sounds expensive. Can I just share Wyatt's team or something?"
"...That could work, but you'd still need to pay your share."
"...Damn. Stardom is brutal."
In fact, Collin was already putting together a team for Wyatt to support him as a rising director. It would take at least half a year to complete.
Directors couldn't operate solo if they wanted to succeed. They needed reliable people to organize and manage the chaos. As an agent, Collin had to ensure his clients lived manageable lives so they could focus on delivering results without burning out.
Collin glanced around and saw Madison still watching him with unreadable eyes.
'Sigh. She's not showing any hostility, but I know she just wants to use me.'
He shook his head and dismissed the thought, walking away without a word.
"Where are you going?" Jennifer asked suspiciously as she saw Collin heading for the audition room door with quiet confidence.
"Henry and Wyatt gave me permission to watch the auditions from inside."
"...Tch. What a lucky bastard getting VIP access." Jennifer clicked her tongue and pouted.
"Oh, by the way, did you eat anything heavy today? You might need to wear a swimsuit for the stripper scene."
"I didn't eat a damn thing. Not even a bite of bread. You said I should go for the stripper role since I've got the curvy, mature body that fits the character. So I skipped breakfast to keep my stomach flat. I even took a shit... I'm hungry and miserable." She looked like she wanted to cry and scream at the same time.
The nearby actresses who overheard the conversation nodded silently in agreement. It seemed everyone had resorted to drinking only water to keep their stomachs flat.
'I can relate. I used to be a model surviving on crackers and cucumber slices.'
Collin knew the pain well. Back in his modeling days, appearance was everything. There were days he'd force down a salad or fruit and pretend it was satisfying. He was never allowed to eat until full, or risk losing a gig.
'God, I hated that part with every fiber of my being.'
"I said you are the most gorgeous woman I've ever seen in my entire life, without exaggeration. You're better than any woman I've ever known or even imagined, except for my mom and sister, of course."
"That could be taken out of context real fast, do you know that?"
Jennifer snorted and returned to reading the script, one she had read so many times she could probably recite it backward.
'To be fair, Jennifer is indeed better than any woman I've ever known in terms of loyalty and honesty. At least she's someone I can trust and who doesn't hide her feelings, even when she's being rude. She won't betray me like others might. Unfortunately, I have no intention of getting into a relationship with her... I can't handle her strong attitude and chaotic personality.'
Collin stared at the actress a few seconds too long. He had to admit, Jennifer was gorgeous in a fiery, mature way. She was only four years older than him, not exactly a big gap, honestly.
"Please don't stare at me like that with your intense eyes. I can't concentrate, and you're messing up my focus."
Jennifer blushed slightly and raised her script like a shield to block his gaze.
"My fault for admiring the scenery. Ah, I just remembered, I finally found a personal assistant for you. I also found assistants for Lawrence, Wyatt, and Axel to help lighten their loads."
It was something he should've done last year when their careers started gaining momentum, but Collin had been too busy. More importantly, he needed people he could truly trust with sensitive matters.
Being a personal assistant to a celebrity wasn't a light job. It required complete discretion. Assistants acted as their clients' hands and feet, navigating unpredictable situations, helping in every possible way.
In some cases, an assistant would be the first to witness questionable or even illegal actions, and that meant the person hired had to be trustworthy beyond doubt. So Collin didn't rush. He performed thorough background checks, relied on his instincts, and filtered applicants through multiple rounds of interviews and character assessments.
After months of searching, he found four solid candidates with professional experience, three males and one female.
Naturally, the female would be assigned to Jennifer to avoid any awkwardness or baseless rumors.
"Really? I'll have an assistant from now on? You're not joking, right? This isn't some sick prank? Stop lying or I'll stab your eye with a high heel, you fucking cunt."
"Do I look like I'm joking with this straight face?"
"...Wow. I can't believe I finally reached the moment where I have my own assistant. Like a real celebrity."
"Don't celebrate just yet. Her salary will be covered by you, not the agency. That means you need to work hard consistently, because someone else now depends on your income."
"T-That's kinda scary. Like a huge responsibility dumped in my lap. What if I go broke?"
"You don't need to worry too much. Like I said before, you've got me watching your back."
"Collin... If not for your failed past relationship, I might've dragged you to bed and made you my personal toy."
"Why do you keep bringing that up? I regret ever telling you about that story when I was trying to convince you to sign with me."
They bickered like squabbling siblings.
"Anyway, you'll have to pay her an annual salary of $25,000 at the very least. If you can afford to give a bonus, that's even better, it keeps her loyal."
"So... my assistant is a female, just to be clear. Do I pay her directly, or does it go through the agency?"
"That's up to you and how you want to handle it."
Jennifer frowned. $25,000 felt like a lot, especially for someone who once lived off cup noodles for a week while struggling to pay rent. She knew hardship too well.
Luckily, she received a $50,000 bonus from The Accidental Wedding Crashers, her biggest check to date. That was already a life-changing amount for her.
Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. Collin might dress like a nobody, but deep down, he was probably rich. As producer of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, he likely made at least a million dollars from that movie.
"Honestly, I should've found assistants for you all a month ago before the schedule got packed. But I needed time to be absolutely sure they could be trusted."
"What about Lawrence? Isn't he off in some tropical paradise?"
"I gave his assistant a first-class flight to Bora Bora. The production team is handling accommodations and meals. It was part of the contract I negotiated."
To avoid rumors or misinterpretations, Collin made sure the male clients had male assistants, and the sole female client, Jennifer, had a female assistant.
Wyatt, as a director, already had an Assistant Director helping him on set, but that was different from a personal assistant managing off-camera life.
"I'll introduce her to you in a few days, once she's fully briefed."
"Shit. You're not helping my anxiety, you're making it worse. Now I really have to take this audition seriously because I've got another mouth to feed."
"This is just the start of your journey to stardom. Once you become famous, I'll build a full team for you, one that rivals A-listers."
"Eh, that sounds expensive. Can I just share Wyatt's team or something?"
"...That could work, but you'd still need to pay your share."
"...Damn. Stardom is brutal."
In fact, Collin was already putting together a team for Wyatt to support him as a rising director. It would take at least half a year to complete.
Directors couldn't operate solo if they wanted to succeed. They needed reliable people to organize and manage the chaos. As an agent, Collin had to ensure his clients lived manageable lives so they could focus on delivering results without burning out.
Collin glanced around and saw Madison still watching him with unreadable eyes.
'Sigh. She's not showing any hostility, but I know she just wants to use me.'
He shook his head and dismissed the thought, walking away without a word.
"Where are you going?" Jennifer asked suspiciously as she saw Collin heading for the audition room door with quiet confidence.
"Henry and Wyatt gave me permission to watch the auditions from inside."
"...Tch. What a lucky bastard getting VIP access." Jennifer clicked her tongue and pouted.
"Oh, by the way, did you eat anything heavy today? You might need to wear a swimsuit for the stripper scene."
"I didn't eat a damn thing. Not even a bite of bread. You said I should go for the stripper role since I've got the curvy, mature body that fits the character. So I skipped breakfast to keep my stomach flat. I even took a shit... I'm hungry and miserable." She looked like she wanted to cry and scream at the same time.
The nearby actresses who overheard the conversation nodded silently in agreement. It seemed everyone had resorted to drinking only water to keep their stomachs flat.
'I can relate. I used to be a model surviving on crackers and cucumber slices.'
Collin knew the pain well. Back in his modeling days, appearance was everything. There were days he'd force down a salad or fruit and pretend it was satisfying. He was never allowed to eat until full, or risk losing a gig.
'God, I hated that part with every fiber of my being.'
Chapter 68
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Pujimaki
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Behind The Spotlight Chapter 68
Well, appearance was an important part of the modeling and film industry, a superficial but undeniable truth that shaped casting decisions. It was understandable why actresses had to maintain their figure. Ugly people had no place in this industry, unless you're looking for ugly roles.
When an actress came out of the audition room, Collin took the chance to enter quietly, blending into the background as much as possible.
He saw Wyatt and Henry deep in conversation, reviewing the last actress's performance and notes.
"She doesn't have an ass at all, so she can't be the stripper. But her acting as an irritating wife is spot on. It's borderline annoying in the best way possible. We can put her on the list for now."
"I agree completely."
When Wyatt and Henry saw Collin, they gave a nod of acknowledgment but didn't get up. They remained focused on their discussion, not skipping a beat.
Collin had his reasons for coming to Uni-versus Pictures that day. The most important was to negotiate with Henry about Axel's contract, a matter that needed to be handled in person.
He found a seat in the corner and kept his presence low so he wouldn't disrupt the audition flow. Still, several female crew members kept glancing his way as if he were a celebrity himself. Some were part of the old team that worked on The Accidental Wedding Crashers and recognized him, while others were new and simply curious about the guy sitting quietly at the back.
The audition continued, and just as Collin expected, the ten actresses auditioning for the stripper role had to wear skimpy outfits, usually bikinis or lingerie.
For clarification, the production wasn't forcing anyone to wear anything against their will. It was up to each actress to decide based on their comfort level. However, if they chose not to wear the outfit, they were essentially disqualifying themselves from the role, since visual appeal was a required element.
The stripper character in this movie served as eye candy, the visual treat meant to attract viewers and spice up the scenes. That was the point of the wardrobe requirement: to determine if an actress could be seductive on screen.
Fan service had always been part of many films, regardless of genre. Some people criticized it for objectifying women, while others embraced it as part of the entertainment. As long as there was an audience for sex appeal, it wasn't going anywhere.
Let's be honest, there are millions of horny bastards in the world, regardless of gender, who'll happily watch fan service in a movie no matter what the plot is.
The production team behind Week On A Cruise Ship understood this well and planned to use it. They needed to draw attention and fill seats. Of course, no one was naked or doing anything indecent. The actress had a private changing room to preserve professionalism.
The next actress walked in and Collin recognized her.
'If I'm not mistaken, that's the woman Wyatt met at the celebration party...'
It clicked instantly. This woman and Wyatt had some sort of relationship. How deep it went, Collin didn't know.
Wyatt noticed Collin's stare and likely picked up on the disappointment in it, but he kept his composure like a pro. He didn't react to the actress, even though she kept throwing flirty glances his way from the moment she entered.
'I might be in trouble...' Wyatt thought, keeping his expression neutral.
The actress performed both roles: first, the nagging wife with exaggerated frustration, then the sexy stripper with practiced sensuality.
Wyatt avoided eye contact as much as possible. He was still new to the industry and hadn't yet mastered how to separate personal matters from professional ones. The actress left the room disappointed, her attempts at seduction had clearly failed.
After a few more auditions, it was Jennifer's turn.
Collin watched his client without lust or inappropriate thoughts. Jennifer was too savage to turn him on, no matter how stunning she looked.
Jennifer entered confidently, wearing lingerie as if it were her regular outfit. She walked with a hypnotic sway that was hard to ignore... Unfortunately, her mouth was the kind of red flag that could clear a room in seconds.
She danced with provocative precision, nailing the sensuality written into the audition script.
Some men who didn't know Jennifer's true personality couldn't help but squirm in their seats. Even Henry had to swallow hard while trying to maintain his professionalism.
The production team admitted she exceeded expectations. Wearing two tiny pieces of fabric, she delivered a performance with unapologetic confidence. She danced like she owned the scene and easily passed the sensuality test.
At last, they had found an actress who could serve as the movie's eye candy and potentially steal the scene.
When Jennifer exited the room, she saw Collin and Wyatt give her subtle grins and a thumbs-up. She smirked. That meant her performance stood out. She figured they were probably talking about her nagging wife act, right? After all, she was a natural nagger...
More actresses followed Jennifer until Madison's name was called.
The 20-year-old Latina entered with radiant confidence. She had to. This was her only shot at joining the cast, and she knew it.
Madison smiled sweetly at Wyatt and Henry, then gave Collin a hopeful look from across the room.
Just like everyone else, she performed both roles with as much passion as she could manage. But unfortunately, she lacked the sex appeal to pull off the stripper role even with perfect makeup. And she didn't have the bitterness or venom needed to portray a convincing nagging wife.
Madison gave it her all... but it wasn't enough to stand out. She simply didn't have the experience to be seductive on command, and her frustrated-wife persona didn't feel real.
'In my opinion, Madison should look for younger roles that suit her natural image. High school students or fresh-faced characters. Her part in My Pure Innocent High School Love worked because it matched her age, look, and aura of innocence.'
The only reason she auditioned for this movie, despite the roles not matching her at all, was because of Collin. She hoped he might help her or convince his client to give her a shot.
But based on their earlier conversation, that hope was already dead.
Madison left the room with no idea that her chance was zero and her performance left no impression.
The auditions continued as the hours passed. Wyatt and Henry crossed off names to narrow down the shortlist.
Collin thought the day was winding down. No more surprises. But he was wrong, badly wrong.
He didn't expect the final actress to be someone he knew all too well.
"Hello, I'm Dee Ceitful, and I'm here to audition for the role of the female stripper."
"...What the fuck?" Collin muttered weakly under his breath, thankfully from the farthest corner of the room where no one could hear him.
Dee spotted him and blew a dramatic flying kiss in his direction. Collin didn't react visibly, but Wyatt and Henry noticed the interaction and exchanged curious glances.
+++++
[Author's Note: If you want to read more, this novel currently has 33 advanced chapters on my Patreon.]
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Well, appearance was an important part of the modeling and film industry, a superficial but undeniable truth that shaped casting decisions. It was understandable why actresses had to maintain their figure. Ugly people had no place in this industry, unless you're looking for ugly roles.
When an actress came out of the audition room, Collin took the chance to enter quietly, blending into the background as much as possible.
He saw Wyatt and Henry deep in conversation, reviewing the last actress's performance and notes.
"She doesn't have an ass at all, so she can't be the stripper. But her acting as an irritating wife is spot on. It's borderline annoying in the best way possible. We can put her on the list for now."
"I agree completely."
When Wyatt and Henry saw Collin, they gave a nod of acknowledgment but didn't get up. They remained focused on their discussion, not skipping a beat.
Collin had his reasons for coming to Uni-versus Pictures that day. The most important was to negotiate with Henry about Axel's contract, a matter that needed to be handled in person.
He found a seat in the corner and kept his presence low so he wouldn't disrupt the audition flow. Still, several female crew members kept glancing his way as if he were a celebrity himself. Some were part of the old team that worked on The Accidental Wedding Crashers and recognized him, while others were new and simply curious about the guy sitting quietly at the back.
The audition continued, and just as Collin expected, the ten actresses auditioning for the stripper role had to wear skimpy outfits, usually bikinis or lingerie.
For clarification, the production wasn't forcing anyone to wear anything against their will. It was up to each actress to decide based on their comfort level. However, if they chose not to wear the outfit, they were essentially disqualifying themselves from the role, since visual appeal was a required element.
The stripper character in this movie served as eye candy, the visual treat meant to attract viewers and spice up the scenes. That was the point of the wardrobe requirement: to determine if an actress could be seductive on screen.
Fan service had always been part of many films, regardless of genre. Some people criticized it for objectifying women, while others embraced it as part of the entertainment. As long as there was an audience for sex appeal, it wasn't going anywhere.
Let's be honest, there are millions of horny bastards in the world, regardless of gender, who'll happily watch fan service in a movie no matter what the plot is.
The production team behind Week On A Cruise Ship understood this well and planned to use it. They needed to draw attention and fill seats. Of course, no one was naked or doing anything indecent. The actress had a private changing room to preserve professionalism.
The next actress walked in and Collin recognized her.
'If I'm not mistaken, that's the woman Wyatt met at the celebration party...'
It clicked instantly. This woman and Wyatt had some sort of relationship. How deep it went, Collin didn't know.
Wyatt noticed Collin's stare and likely picked up on the disappointment in it, but he kept his composure like a pro. He didn't react to the actress, even though she kept throwing flirty glances his way from the moment she entered.
'I might be in trouble...' Wyatt thought, keeping his expression neutral.
The actress performed both roles: first, the nagging wife with exaggerated frustration, then the sexy stripper with practiced sensuality.
Wyatt avoided eye contact as much as possible. He was still new to the industry and hadn't yet mastered how to separate personal matters from professional ones. The actress left the room disappointed, her attempts at seduction had clearly failed.
After a few more auditions, it was Jennifer's turn.
Collin watched his client without lust or inappropriate thoughts. Jennifer was too savage to turn him on, no matter how stunning she looked.
Jennifer entered confidently, wearing lingerie as if it were her regular outfit. She walked with a hypnotic sway that was hard to ignore... Unfortunately, her mouth was the kind of red flag that could clear a room in seconds.
She danced with provocative precision, nailing the sensuality written into the audition script.
Some men who didn't know Jennifer's true personality couldn't help but squirm in their seats. Even Henry had to swallow hard while trying to maintain his professionalism.
The production team admitted she exceeded expectations. Wearing two tiny pieces of fabric, she delivered a performance with unapologetic confidence. She danced like she owned the scene and easily passed the sensuality test.
At last, they had found an actress who could serve as the movie's eye candy and potentially steal the scene.
When Jennifer exited the room, she saw Collin and Wyatt give her subtle grins and a thumbs-up. She smirked. That meant her performance stood out. She figured they were probably talking about her nagging wife act, right? After all, she was a natural nagger...
More actresses followed Jennifer until Madison's name was called.
The 20-year-old Latina entered with radiant confidence. She had to. This was her only shot at joining the cast, and she knew it.
Madison smiled sweetly at Wyatt and Henry, then gave Collin a hopeful look from across the room.
Just like everyone else, she performed both roles with as much passion as she could manage. But unfortunately, she lacked the sex appeal to pull off the stripper role even with perfect makeup. And she didn't have the bitterness or venom needed to portray a convincing nagging wife.
Madison gave it her all... but it wasn't enough to stand out. She simply didn't have the experience to be seductive on command, and her frustrated-wife persona didn't feel real.
'In my opinion, Madison should look for younger roles that suit her natural image. High school students or fresh-faced characters. Her part in My Pure Innocent High School Love worked because it matched her age, look, and aura of innocence.'
The only reason she auditioned for this movie, despite the roles not matching her at all, was because of Collin. She hoped he might help her or convince his client to give her a shot.
But based on their earlier conversation, that hope was already dead.
Madison left the room with no idea that her chance was zero and her performance left no impression.
The auditions continued as the hours passed. Wyatt and Henry crossed off names to narrow down the shortlist.
Collin thought the day was winding down. No more surprises. But he was wrong, badly wrong.
He didn't expect the final actress to be someone he knew all too well.
"Hello, I'm Dee Ceitful, and I'm here to audition for the role of the female stripper."
"...What the fuck?" Collin muttered weakly under his breath, thankfully from the farthest corner of the room where no one could hear him.
Dee spotted him and blew a dramatic flying kiss in his direction. Collin didn't react visibly, but Wyatt and Henry noticed the interaction and exchanged curious glances.
+++++
[Author's Note: If you want to read more, this novel currently has 33 advanced chapters on my Patreon.]
Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki
Chapter 69
New
Pujimaki
Padoru padoru
- Joined
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- Likes received
- 15,709
Behind The Spotlight Chapter 69
The fact that Dee's intention was to audition for the role of the stripper meant she was confident in her sex appeal, not just confident, but bold enough to flaunt it. And she had every right to.
Her bright red lips, the ample size of her cleavage, and her fat ass… They all worked together like a deadly combination of temptation. Fuck, she was a living sex bomb.
Even Wyatt was momentarily stunned into silence. He didn't expect someone could actually rival Jennifer in terms of sex appeal and stage presence. At the very least, Wyatt knew that tapping Dee's ass would be unforgettable, like a memory etched in pure physical pleasure. Just imagine how her ass would bounce on him-- Ahem.
Never mind.
Wyatt gritted his teeth and crossed Dee's name off the list. Even though he was tempted to get to know the actress, in bed, particularly, he had already promised two women that they would get the roles, and he intended to honor that promise.
Besides, judging from Collin's serious expression from across the room, this Dee Ceitful was not someone he should get involved with without risking complications.
Wyatt knew Hollywood wasn't simple or forgiving. The only person he truly trusted here was Collin, who had believed in him from the very beginning. That's why he felt guilty for keeping his past encounter with the actress in the party a secret, it felt like betraying a friend. Honestly, he couldn't even remember her name right, was it Cassandra or Clare?
"Well then, since the audition is over and we've seen everyone, let's take a 30-minute break to clear our heads and discuss the actresses we want to cast."
The production team nodded in agreement, chatting quietly as they stood up. At last, they had time to eat and recharge after sitting through hours of performances. One by one, they exited the audition room, heading toward the cafeteria.
"Collin, about the…" Wyatt began, unsure how to explain himself without sounding like a total idiot.
"Wyatt, you don't have to worry too much. I'm not mad or holding it against you," Collin said as he gave his client a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
He had known this kind of situation would eventually happen now that Wyatt was a bona fide director with authority and influence. But he didn't expect it to happen so fast or so carelessly.
"However, you still need to tell me about these things so I can prepare for any fallout. Some actresses might try to blackmail you, so you have to stay alert and understand the risks involved. I'm not blaming you, but next time, at least let me know before things get complicated."
Yes, talking about your private sex life with someone else is uncomfortable, especially if that person is your agent. But in Collin's case, his top priority was Wyatt's career. Casting an actress as part of a sex transaction could easily lead to a scandal, or worse, legal issues. Normally, Collin wouldn't meddle in his clients' romantic lives, but this situation was different because it had professional implications tied to it.
"So, what's your plan? Are you going to cast her despite everything?"
"Well… I promised her, and I don't want to break my word."
"Then you better come up with a convincing reason. Make sure Henry and the others agree to cast her based on her performance, not personal reasons. Also, protect yourself with a solid contract and airtight clauses. Even if you have to pay her more, make sure she signs something that confirms she won't leak anything about you or the deal."
If that still wasn't enough to ensure silence and security, Collin would have to step in and negotiate personally, using every bit of experience he had.
Wyatt realized he had to handle this carefully before it spiraled out of control. Now that he'd tasted the deliciousness of money and stardom, he couldn't afford to lose it all over a careless mistake.
The two men exited the room with a shared sense of urgency.
However, a young woman was waiting for Collin just outside the hallway.
"Collin, I've been waiting for you. Can we talk privately for a few minutes?"
"Madison… sigh…" Collin felt like the day was just piling up with more complications. It seemed like he wouldn't get to eat or even rest his feet. He signaled Wyatt to go ahead without him to avoid delay. The director nodded and walked away, though he glanced curiously at the two. He didn't know the full context of their relationship, but he sensed something awkward.
"Madison, I think we need to clear this up once and for all. I'm just an agent doing my job. I'm not in the position to help you get cast."
"But your client is. And you know that. Don't you remember what you promised me three years ago?"
"…"
Collin didn't answer right away.
He remembered the moment vividly when he promised Madison and Landers that he would make them the most famous celebrities in Hollywood. Maybe he was out of touch with reality at the time, or maybe he just wanted to motivate his promising new clients to stick with him.
'In my defense, I didn't want them to leave. They had the most potential… Jennifer would probably kill me if she heard this monologue right now.'
Jennifer, Madison, and Landers were his first clients when he started out. Then came Axel, Wyatt, and Lawrence, after Madison and Landers ended their contracts and sought out other agencies.
"You promised you'd make me a superstar no matter what. This is your chance to prove that to both of us… If you do, I'll sign with you again once my current contract ends. I'll come back to your management."
Madison could see that the boat she abandoned was sailing smoothly without her, and now she wanted to climb back on board as if nothing had happened. She felt a little guilty about her current agent, who had worked hard for her, but she believed her gay agent would understand and wish her well.
And honestly, she still had a crush on Collin. She had no problem rekindling those feelings now that he looked better and more capable, especially now that Collin had clearly improved in wealth, appearance, and presence.
Collin had a complex opinion about her motives, but it didn't change his stance. It was too late.
He wasn't a toy she could drop when she got bored and pick up again later. That didn't sit well with him, either emotionally or professionally.
"Madison, it's too late to undo what's already been done. I did promise you a long time ago, but you're the one who broke it first without hesitation. I can't help you anymore. What you need to do is believe in yourself and your ability. If your performance meets the criteria, the production team will cast you on their own judgment."
"But—"
Before Madison could finish, a sharp and assertive voice cut her off.
"Excuse me, but I think you're done talking to Collin. May I have my moment? I also have something to discuss with him, and I'd appreciate some privacy."
Madison turned around and saw a red-haired woman with red lips and an aura that screamed confidence.
"Aren't you the waitress from that run-down café next to the ANT building?"
Madison squinted, finally recognizing the woman from memory.
"For your information, our café is famous in L.A. It's one of the best cafés in Hollywood. Hmph, I'll talk to my boss and tell him to blacklist you from being served."
"… I actually don't care what your boss thinks," Madison muttered awkwardly.
Dee scoffed and strutted toward Collin like she owned the floor.
"Anyway, Collin. We need to talk seriously. I think this bitch is done clinging to you like a leech. It's obvious she's just acting to get your favor. She's a hypocrite through and through."
"What!?"
Madison blushed, fists clenched in frustration. But Dee just shrugged and walked past her like she was nothing.
The fact that Dee's intention was to audition for the role of the stripper meant she was confident in her sex appeal, not just confident, but bold enough to flaunt it. And she had every right to.
Her bright red lips, the ample size of her cleavage, and her fat ass… They all worked together like a deadly combination of temptation. Fuck, she was a living sex bomb.
Even Wyatt was momentarily stunned into silence. He didn't expect someone could actually rival Jennifer in terms of sex appeal and stage presence. At the very least, Wyatt knew that tapping Dee's ass would be unforgettable, like a memory etched in pure physical pleasure. Just imagine how her ass would bounce on him-- Ahem.
Never mind.
Wyatt gritted his teeth and crossed Dee's name off the list. Even though he was tempted to get to know the actress, in bed, particularly, he had already promised two women that they would get the roles, and he intended to honor that promise.
Besides, judging from Collin's serious expression from across the room, this Dee Ceitful was not someone he should get involved with without risking complications.
Wyatt knew Hollywood wasn't simple or forgiving. The only person he truly trusted here was Collin, who had believed in him from the very beginning. That's why he felt guilty for keeping his past encounter with the actress in the party a secret, it felt like betraying a friend. Honestly, he couldn't even remember her name right, was it Cassandra or Clare?
"Well then, since the audition is over and we've seen everyone, let's take a 30-minute break to clear our heads and discuss the actresses we want to cast."
The production team nodded in agreement, chatting quietly as they stood up. At last, they had time to eat and recharge after sitting through hours of performances. One by one, they exited the audition room, heading toward the cafeteria.
"Collin, about the…" Wyatt began, unsure how to explain himself without sounding like a total idiot.
"Wyatt, you don't have to worry too much. I'm not mad or holding it against you," Collin said as he gave his client a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
He had known this kind of situation would eventually happen now that Wyatt was a bona fide director with authority and influence. But he didn't expect it to happen so fast or so carelessly.
"However, you still need to tell me about these things so I can prepare for any fallout. Some actresses might try to blackmail you, so you have to stay alert and understand the risks involved. I'm not blaming you, but next time, at least let me know before things get complicated."
Yes, talking about your private sex life with someone else is uncomfortable, especially if that person is your agent. But in Collin's case, his top priority was Wyatt's career. Casting an actress as part of a sex transaction could easily lead to a scandal, or worse, legal issues. Normally, Collin wouldn't meddle in his clients' romantic lives, but this situation was different because it had professional implications tied to it.
"So, what's your plan? Are you going to cast her despite everything?"
"Well… I promised her, and I don't want to break my word."
"Then you better come up with a convincing reason. Make sure Henry and the others agree to cast her based on her performance, not personal reasons. Also, protect yourself with a solid contract and airtight clauses. Even if you have to pay her more, make sure she signs something that confirms she won't leak anything about you or the deal."
If that still wasn't enough to ensure silence and security, Collin would have to step in and negotiate personally, using every bit of experience he had.
Wyatt realized he had to handle this carefully before it spiraled out of control. Now that he'd tasted the deliciousness of money and stardom, he couldn't afford to lose it all over a careless mistake.
The two men exited the room with a shared sense of urgency.
However, a young woman was waiting for Collin just outside the hallway.
"Collin, I've been waiting for you. Can we talk privately for a few minutes?"
"Madison… sigh…" Collin felt like the day was just piling up with more complications. It seemed like he wouldn't get to eat or even rest his feet. He signaled Wyatt to go ahead without him to avoid delay. The director nodded and walked away, though he glanced curiously at the two. He didn't know the full context of their relationship, but he sensed something awkward.
"Madison, I think we need to clear this up once and for all. I'm just an agent doing my job. I'm not in the position to help you get cast."
"But your client is. And you know that. Don't you remember what you promised me three years ago?"
"…"
Collin didn't answer right away.
He remembered the moment vividly when he promised Madison and Landers that he would make them the most famous celebrities in Hollywood. Maybe he was out of touch with reality at the time, or maybe he just wanted to motivate his promising new clients to stick with him.
'In my defense, I didn't want them to leave. They had the most potential… Jennifer would probably kill me if she heard this monologue right now.'
Jennifer, Madison, and Landers were his first clients when he started out. Then came Axel, Wyatt, and Lawrence, after Madison and Landers ended their contracts and sought out other agencies.
"You promised you'd make me a superstar no matter what. This is your chance to prove that to both of us… If you do, I'll sign with you again once my current contract ends. I'll come back to your management."
Madison could see that the boat she abandoned was sailing smoothly without her, and now she wanted to climb back on board as if nothing had happened. She felt a little guilty about her current agent, who had worked hard for her, but she believed her gay agent would understand and wish her well.
And honestly, she still had a crush on Collin. She had no problem rekindling those feelings now that he looked better and more capable, especially now that Collin had clearly improved in wealth, appearance, and presence.
Collin had a complex opinion about her motives, but it didn't change his stance. It was too late.
He wasn't a toy she could drop when she got bored and pick up again later. That didn't sit well with him, either emotionally or professionally.
"Madison, it's too late to undo what's already been done. I did promise you a long time ago, but you're the one who broke it first without hesitation. I can't help you anymore. What you need to do is believe in yourself and your ability. If your performance meets the criteria, the production team will cast you on their own judgment."
"But—"
Before Madison could finish, a sharp and assertive voice cut her off.
"Excuse me, but I think you're done talking to Collin. May I have my moment? I also have something to discuss with him, and I'd appreciate some privacy."
Madison turned around and saw a red-haired woman with red lips and an aura that screamed confidence.
"Aren't you the waitress from that run-down café next to the ANT building?"
Madison squinted, finally recognizing the woman from memory.
"For your information, our café is famous in L.A. It's one of the best cafés in Hollywood. Hmph, I'll talk to my boss and tell him to blacklist you from being served."
"… I actually don't care what your boss thinks," Madison muttered awkwardly.
Dee scoffed and strutted toward Collin like she owned the floor.
"Anyway, Collin. We need to talk seriously. I think this bitch is done clinging to you like a leech. It's obvious she's just acting to get your favor. She's a hypocrite through and through."
"What!?"
Madison blushed, fists clenched in frustration. But Dee just shrugged and walked past her like she was nothing.