Chapter 569: Chapter 569: Enjoy it!
On a warm and bustling afternoon, the studio expedited the finalization of Mia's contract and secured the necessary copyright for the script. The atmosphere in the studio was charged with excitement as everyone eagerly awaited the birth of a new project. Martin, the studio head, had a confident smile on his face as he looked at the freshly signed contract.
Mia, though not yet a seasoned screenwriter, displayed an unwavering determination to learn and grow. The entire story revolved around her relationship with Sebastian, adding a personal touch that intrigued everyone involved.
As for any future revisions and refinements, patience was the order of the day. Thomas, a trusted colleague, had a specific recommendation for Martin. With enthusiasm, he exclaimed, "Carrie Fisher from WMA is Hollywood's script wizard, perfect for this job."
Martin, his curiosity piqued, mused aloud, "Carrie Fisher? The name rings a bell. She's quite famous, isn't she?"
Thomas couldn't help but chuckle inwardly, thinking of Martin's affinity for all things Hollywood. "Princess Leia!" he added, hoping to jog Martin's memory. "Leia - Skywalker - Solo."
The mention of the Skywalker name clicked with Martin, who nodded in understanding. "She's the one for this job?"
Thomas provided more context, saying, "Carrie Fisher's acting career has slowed in recent years, and she's faced personal struggles. However, she's sustained by the post-production profits from Star Wars and her script revisions."
Expanding on his point, he added, "While she might not be a scriptwriter per se, her talent lies in revision and polishing."
Martin placed his trust in Thomas's recommendation. "You're in charge of reaching out to her."
Recognizing that this project was a long-term endeavor, especially considering Mia's condition, Martin knew the script would take at least six months to complete, with additional time required for post-production adjustments.
After Thomas departed, Bruce entered Martin's office, bearing a file bag. "Daniel sent this over," he informed Martin.
Martin opened the bag and perused a list of films from Warner's vast library. As one of Hollywood's giants, Warner boasted an impressive catalog, including classics like "Casablanca," "The Wizard of Oz," "King Kong," and "The Shining."
Even "The Shawshank Redemption" remained under Warner Bros.'s control.
Martin's nostalgia welled up as he scanned the list, searching for meaningful memories. Just before closing time, he randomly circled three old films and instructed Bruce to have Jessica and Emily discuss the rights for potential remakes with Warner. The shifting dynamics at Warner Bros. could impact everyone in the industry, even their trusted collaborators.
Martin knew he needed to remain vigilant, even with Daniel, whom he had worked closely with for years. In the ever-changing landscape of the film industry, allegiances could shift like sand.
Bruce soon returned with a personal request. "Before I head to Atlanta, I have some personal matters to attend to," he explained.
Martin's initial response was straightforward. "Sure, take a well-deserved break." Then, a mischievous smile crossed his face. "Planning a date with Sophia? Don't forget to have the hospital's phone number on speed dial..."
Bruce raised his hands, gesturing playfully with two extended fingers. "I'm off to accompany Kim and Khloe on vacation!" he declared with a grin.
Martin chuckled and playfully teased, "Brother, can you be a bit more discreet? Are you really going to let your sisters play matchmaker for you?" The camaraderie and laughter filled the room, a brief respite from the pressures of Hollywood's ever-turning wheels.
In the heart of the bustling city, Bruce remained unfazed by Martin's verbal jabs, locking eyes with him in a cold, calculated stare.
Martin, however, couldn't resist a condescending remark. "Please, spare me that expression. My moral compass points much higher than yours."
Before he could revel in his retort, Martin's cellphone chimed to life. He retrieved it from his pocket, revealing Georgina Chapman's caller ID. With a warm smile, he answered, "Hello, dear."
On the other end, Georgina inquired, "Are you finished with work? I'm waiting in your suite at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel."
Martin nodded and replied, "I'll be there shortly."
"Come sooner, darling. I have a surprise in store for you," Georgina teased before ending the call.
Slipping his phone back into his pocket, Martin noticed that Old Bu still had his gaze fixed on him. He gestured toward the door. "It's time to call it a day."
As Bruce followed Martin out, he couldn't help but inquire, "I recall that Georgina Chapman and Harvey are still married, correct?"
Martin, wearing a sly grin, feigned innocence. "We're in the midst of legal proceedings; it should be finalized soon."
Bruce chuckled and remarked, "Leonardo's intuition is quite sharp."
Martin shook his head knowingly. "She'll be officially single again before long."
Bruce smiled, remaining silent, firmly convinced that his moral standing was leagues above Martin's.
The two hopped into the car, and Bruce took the wheel, heading toward Beverly Hills. Martin picked up a newspaper, flipping to the entertainment section, where a small headline caught his eye. It read: "Ben Affleck Temporarily Released from State Prison for Medical Evaluation."
"Seems like Ben's in some hot water," Martin remarked.
"No trouble, really. Certain aspects of prison life are rather normal. People in there don't enjoy the usual rights," Bruce added casually. "I heard from Mene that Ben visited the hospital's anorectal department."
Martin nodded, amused. "Keep him entertained, then."
Bruce offered an honest assessment, saying, "I'm sure Ben will adjust and find a way to enjoy his time."
Arriving at Beverly Villa, their car descended into the hotel's underground parking facility. Martin took the special elevator up to the suite. As he swung the door open, he was greeted by a tantalizing sight.
Georgina, a former model, struck a pose that accentuated her captivating figure, exuding irresistible allure.
Martin couldn't help but approach her swiftly.
With a coquettish grin, Georgina quipped, "I'm footing today's room bill, and I'm using Harvey's money for it."
Martin played along, a twinkle in his eye. "Your call."
Georgina playfully pressed closer, and Martin certainly didn't resist.
In the midst of their intimate moment, Georgina slipped in a request. "Help me brainstorm ways to make Harvey's punishment even more severe. I'd love a larger slice of his assets."
Martin, eager to please, responded, "Consider it done."
She sweetened the deal, saying, "I'll reward you generously."
Martin, inquired with a grin, "Where's this reward?"
Georgina grew bolder, reminiscent of Joan of Arc with a banner in one hand and a sword in the other, riding forth valiantly. "Is this reward to your liking? There's more to come."
She took the initiative, saying, "I've met some new supermodels and introduced them to the fashion supermodel group. I plan to recruit them. When will you be available to assess them?"
Martin marveled at her proactive approach and promptly agreed, "After the New Year."
With a knowing nod, Georgina added, "I'm well-versed in the protocol. I'll have them bring their latest medical reports."
As their evening unfolded, it was clear that the night held much more in store than they had initially anticipated.
Amidst the elegant ambiance of the suite, Martin couldn't help but commend, "You're becoming increasingly astute."
Georgina revisited their earlier conversation with a twinkle in her eye. "Can you eliminate Harvey? Then, I'll become the primary beneficiary."
Martin offered a cautionary reminder, "Consider such matters carefully. Acting recklessly would jeopardize your future."
Georgina ventured tentatively, her determination unwavering. "What if Harvey subjects me to prolonged domestic violence?"
Martin assured her, "I guarantee Harvey will spend a decade behind bars."
Georgina erupted in jubilation, her excitement resembling a body fitted with a turbocharged engine.
As Martin found himself deeply engaged in this conversation with Georgina, plotting how to make Harvey's situation even worse, he couldn't help but ponder his role in this whole scenario.
After a refreshing shower, they proceeded to have dinner, fortifying themselves for the impending battle.
In the restaurant, Georgina eagerly inquired, "Can't we expedite this process during the Christmas holiday?"
Martin wondered why taking a break seemed so challenging. He replied, "Not during Christmas. I need to return to Atlanta for a while but will be back around the New Year."
Georgina shrugged in acquiescence. "Fine, we'll wait until after the New Year, then I'll discuss it with them."
Martin offered a reminder, "Keep your focus on the divorce proceedings. The assets in your possession are the ones truly at stake."
Georgina nodded emphatically. "I understand; no one can take what's rightfully mine."
The Harvey Weinstein case had grown into a global phenomenon, with over 100 victims and the attention of MiTu and the media. The federal Ministry of Justice had even dispatched a team to investigate. Lawyers across the United States clamored to be involved, not to defend Harvey, but to advocate for the victims. Beyond criminal proceedings, civil lawsuits involving substantial compensation loomed on the horizon.
Even "Avatar," currently reigning in theaters, couldn't compete with the public interest generated by the Harvey Weinstein case. New victims continued to emerge, some harkening back to the late 1970s, including individuals close to powerful figures like Jennifer Siebel.
Martin no longer needed to take action; he could merely observe and enjoy the unfolding spectacle.
Georgina added with a hint of pride, "I've hired Nicole Kidman's attorney from her divorce with Tom Cruise. He's renowned for handling divorce cases for celebrities and the wealthy. During Nicole Kidman's divorce in Germany, he secured at least $70 million in assets from Tom Cruise while shifting all blame onto him."
Impressed, Martin commented, "This attorney sounds highly capable."
Georgina offered, "I'll introduce you to him sometime."
Martin promptly declined, shaking his head. "I don't require such legal counsel."
Georgina understood his stance. "Very well, anti-marriage crusader."
After their meal, they returned to the expansive suite, equipped with an array of entertainment options.
Over the following days, Martin attended daily screenings and campaigned for himself, with a potential Oscar nomination for Best Actor in sight. "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" maintained its solid reputation and stable box office performance, crossing the $100 million mark in North America before the weekend. Predictions both within and outside the industry anticipated the North American box office to reach around $200 million.
Meanwhile, "Avatar" continued to dominate the North American film market, with its second-weekend box office nearly matching its first. James Cameron was on the brink of recreating his box office miracle from years past.
Before Christmas arrived, Martin and Lily bid farewell to Los Angeles, returning to Atlanta. The ever-evolving entertainment industry awaited their next move.
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