Chapter 374: Chapter 374: New Movie "Roman Holiday"
**"**
Hardy's plane touched down in Los Angeles, where Henry was waiting to pick him up. Instead of heading home, Hardy went straight to HD Security Headquarters.
"Before I arrived, you were investigating 'Senator McKinsey.' What did you find out?" Hardy inquired.
Henry handed over a stack of documents.
"McKinsey hails from Wisconsin and is of Irish descent. He entered politics as a judge in 1939 and served in World War II. By 1946, he was elected Wisconsin Senator. McKinsey is far from a Puritan; he drinks, gambles, and has a poor reputation. He lost a significant amount of money last year through futures speculation. Despite his questionable reputation, he's an articulate speaker and adept at deceit."
"Many view him as a rogue politician—a political troublemaker."
"Currently, his situation is dire. He's financially ruined and facing political jeopardy. To retain his position, he's taken drastic measures. He claimed to have a list of 205 individuals suspected of being general workers, creating a significant uproar."
"McKinsey has found this tactic to be highly effective. If anyone criticizes him, he counters by accusing others of working against him. This strategy has silenced many critics."
"McKinsey has even initiated an investigation committee to scrutinize all general labor conditions with the FBI's assistance."
Henry continued, "The investigation now includes unions, publishing companies, universities, former Soviet Chinese workers, Russians, and Chinese. Hollywood is heavily impacted due to its representation of American culture. McKinsey has explicitly named the three major television networks and radio stations to be censored, including ABC."
"His recent speech targeted Hollywood directors and actors, like Chaplin, accusing them of having anti-capitalist sentiments in films such as 'Modern Times,' 'The Great Dictator,' and 'Mr. Van Dour.'"
"Under the McKinsey Doctrine, college teachers must criticize the Soviet Union and the old horse, and even the Cincinnati Red Baseball Team was forced to change its name. Actors are required to sign loyalty oaths."
Hardy understood the implications. McKinsey was using political correctness as a shield to gain leverage, manipulating public opinion to his advantage. Though it seemed to be a political ploy, it posed a direct threat to Hardy's interests, compelling him to act.
"Henry, send our most capable team to investigate McKinsey thoroughly. I want every detail on his background, his dealings—financial, political, anything deemed unsavory."
"Also, investigate his political enemies. Their grievances might prove useful."
"Boss, why not just eliminate him?" Henry suggested.
Hardy responded with a cold sneer, "A politician like McKinsey must be thoroughly discredited to neutralize his influence. We need him to be ruined beyond repair, leaving others to wonder what went wrong."
Henry understood the strategic depth of Hardy's plan.
After delegating the investigation to Henry, Hardy spent just one day in Los Angeles before heading to Washington to meet President Johnson.
Despite his busy schedule, President Johnson made time to meet Hardy in his office.
"Hadi, what brings you here on such short notice?" Johnson asked.
"I've heard Congress is considering a material blockade on Hong Kong," Hardy stated directly.
"Indeed, there are discussions about it. Congress views the Peninsular War as a strategic game involving the US and the Soviets. With Rabbit Country involved in the conflict, we need to tighten sanctions to prevent them from getting supplies through Hong Kong," Johnson explained.
Hardy sighed. "I don't want to interfere with government decisions, but Hardy Group has substantial business interests in Hong Kong. Sanctions could severely impact our operations."
Johnson pondered Hardy's concerns, recognizing his substantial investments in Hong Kong. While he valued Hardy's alliance, he couldn't single-handedly alter national policy.
After a thoughtful pause, Johnson proposed, "I can't change the sanctions, but I can offer Hardy Group a franchise to be the sole importer and exporter in Hong Kong. You must guarantee not to trade with the Soviets. How does that sound?"
Hardy's eyes lit up at the suggestion. The franchise would benefit Hardy Group significantly. While other companies faced restrictions, Hardy's business could thrive and expand, given the market vacuum.
"I accept. As long as our business remains unaffected and we avoid dealing with the Soviets, I'm satisfied."
With the matter settled, Hardy bid farewell to Johnson and returned to Los Angeles, awaiting the results of Henry's investigation.
Back in Los Angeles, Hardy contacted Monroe, who quickly arrived at his villa.
In the bedroom, Hardy indulged in an intimate encounter with Monroe. Afterward, he inquired about her movie, "Passionate."
"The editing is complete, and the film company is planning a screening. Everyone is optimistic about its success," Monroe replied.
"Once 'Passionate' is released, we'll begin preparations for your next film," Hardy announced.
Monroe was thrilled. "You mean 'Seven Year Itch'?"
"Yes, we'll start preparations for it in December after the screening of 'Passionate.' It's a summer movie, so we'll use the interim period for pre-production."
The next day, Hardy visited the film company to meet Edward.
"How are other film companies faring with the McKinsey investigation?" Hardy asked.
Edward replied with concern, "The impact is severe. Film companies are reducing their output drastically. Major studios are struggling, and many are losing money. Hollywood's production chain is disrupted, affecting countless professionals."
Hardy acknowledged the gravity of the situation. "We need to keep our production running smoothly. Ensure Monroe's 'Passionate' is on track and start gathering scripts for Ava and Taylor. They need roles this year."
"Understood, boss," Edward confirmed.
"Also, prepare for 'Roman Holiday.' Start arranging everything but keep it under wraps. Audrey Hepburn should go to Rome without knowing the details of the film or the script. I'll guide her through the Roman holiday experience personally."
Edward agreed, noting the production increase at Hardy Pictures. Despite the challenges, Hardy was set on maintaining momentum.
As Hepburn learned of her upcoming role and the chance to travel to Rome, she was excited and eager to begin her preparations.
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