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72.66% Echoes of Hollywood / Chapter 310: Chapter 310: Fans Turn Against Her

Kapitel 310: Chapter 310: Fans Turn Against Her

In a rest room behind the press hall of the Beverly Hills Four Seasons Hotel, Murphy was discussing public relations strategies with Grace when the door leading to the corridor was pushed open. Bill Rossis walked in.

"Natalie Portman's agent, Martin Miller, just called me," Bill approached Murphy, "He and Natalie Portman want you to cancel this press conference and talk privately."

They had already tried to contact him through William Morris the previous night, but Murphy had refused. Given the extent to which Natalie Portman had stirred things up, Murphy was not interested in a private settlement. Still, he asked, "What terms are they offering?"

Although unaware of the evidence he possessed, the two must have guessed that the situation was not in their favor.

"Natalie Portman will apologize to you in person..." Bill glanced at Gal Gadot, who was sitting quietly next to Murphy, and continued, "She can do it in a very formal way, privately."

Murphy scoffed, "Not a public apology?"

Bill shook his head, "No."

He coughed slightly before adding, "They don't know what we have."

This incident had hurt not just him but also Gal Gadot, who had initially considered Natalie Portman a close friend. Murphy turned to her and asked, "Dear, what do you think?"

Gal Gadot smiled, "You decide."

Murphy stood up, straightened his clothes, and asked Bill, "How are we set?"

"Everything's ready." Understanding Murphy's intention and no longer trying to persuade him, Bill confirmed, knowing that the opponent was an important client of competitor William Morris and that CAA internally supported Murphy, "Reporters, well-known bloggers, and Fox TV are all set, just waiting to start."

"Then let's begin," Murphy stated decisively.

The large press hall was packed with over a hundred journalists, and two cameras set up for live broadcasting were ready. Many were buzzing with anticipation, eager to see Murphy Stanton's response.

Many well-known bloggers had their laptops ready, watching the projector screen at the front of the hall, continuously updating their blogs.

"The press conference is about to begin, Murphy Stanton is entering the press hall..."

Murphy entered on schedule, and Fox TV's entertainment channel had just ended a commercial break, immediately switching to the press conference.

In the suite at the Hilton, Martin Miller watched the live broadcast with a grim expression.

"He actually refused?" Natalie Portman's voice was sharp, like metal scraping against harder metal. "Why would he refuse? Weren't our terms generous enough?"

"Calm down, Nat," Martin sighed, "They might just be bluffing."

"Am I panicking? I've been very calm."

Despite her words, Natalie's incessant pacing and agitated demeanor betrayed her state of mind.

The media frenzy over the past few days had attracted many, particularly Natalie Portman's fans.

Jurgen Minster and his cousin Lisa Adrianna, both fans of Natalie, had been following the press conference online and were seated early in front of the TV, eager to see how the man who insulted Natalie would justify himself, and to continue attacking him on the internet based on his statements.

"A lot of talk has been circulating about me and my new movie 'G'," Murphy said calmly in the packed press hall, appearing as if he was not the focal point of the controversy, "Some have falsely accused me of being a racist. I don't want to make too many excuses. The more I say, the more you think I'm just making excuses, right?"

He snapped his fingers at Bill Rossis, who was controlling the projector, "Start it."

After speaking, Murphy stepped off the podium to avoid blocking the view of the reporters and cameras.

The journalists and cameras all turned toward the projector screen, where a grainy but recognizable video began to play, featuring Natalie Portman as the main subject.

Due to the recording limitations and visual quality, Fox TV's entertainment channel switched to a clearer video provided by Kara Faith.

"Is that Natalie?"

Although the TV image was blurry and filled with noise, Jurgen immediately recognized his idol by the two distinctive moles on her face.

Lisa pointed out another figure in the video, shouting at the TV, "That's Murphy Stanton."

They both realized this might be a video of the conflict between Murphy Stanton and Natalie Portman.

Jurgen and Lisa were stunned, desperate to know what had actually happened.

Back in the Hilton suite, Natalie saw herself in the video at Murphy's office and instinctively backed away, collapsing onto the sofa.

"How could there be a video?" She was bewildered, "I checked carefully; there were no cameras in the office. How could this happen?"

Natalie was completely stunned.

In the press hall, many journalists and bloggers were also shocked, not expecting Murphy to present such compelling video evidence.

In the video, Natalie repeatedly made suggestive remarks to Murphy, eventually making explicit sexual suggestions...

Was this the same Natalie Portman portrayed as virtuous in the media?

As the video showed Natalie kneeling down and reaching for Murphy's belt despite his repeated rejections, Jurgen and Lisa were utterly dumbfounded. How could their idol behave like this? How could she shamelessly pursue a role in such a manner after being rejected?

"FU#$K!"

Overwhelmed, Natalie picked up an ashtray from the coffee table and hurled it at the TV...

"This..." Lisa looked at Jurgen, her world seemingly collapsing, "This can't be true."

She covered her face with her hand, unable to watch the devastating scene on the TV.

Jurgen, older and a male, was more resilient. He muttered, "I don't want to admit it, but... it looks real."

Lisa suddenly stood up, shouting, "Are you saying Natalie lied?"

"Yes, she lied."

Admitting their idol was a fraud was not easy. Jurgen closed his eyes, "If the video is unedited, she's not just lying; she's a complete hypocrite!"

Lisa was stunned, speechless.

Tears rolled down her cheeks as she processed the betrayal of her idol.

But after sadness and disappointment came anger, the fury of being deceived by someone she loved.

"How could she do this!" Lisa suddenly snapped, "Is this what it means to be virtuous? To offer a blowjob after being continuously rejected for a role? Does she have no shame? She has deceived everyone in the world!"

The video ended, and the broadcast switched back to the press conference.

"This video was accidentally recorded by a friend, unedited and unaltered," Murphy announced, ready to counterattack with CAA and 20th Century Fox, "My team has prepared a copy of the video for every media friend here, and we welcome everyone to verify it themselves."

This move would likely kill any subsequent skepticism.

Copies were already being distributed in the hall, and as the media's attention focused on them, Murphy took the opportunity to leave.

Like Natalie Portman's earlier antics, Murphy didn't need to do much more; the media and internet would carry things forward.

And the ensuing storm would certainly have a significant impact on Natalie.

"He's so confident, it must be true," Jurgen analyzed, "Daring to give the video to so many media outlets means it's real."

Listening to Jurgen's murmurs, Lisa, shattered by the disillusionment, slowly recovered and sneered, "Could it be fake? Natalie Portman..."

She spat angrily into a trash can, "Disgusting!"

Lisa watched as the live broadcast of the press conference ended and walked toward her computer. "I'm going online now. I'm going to Natalie Portman's IMDb page, her blog, and any website related to her to expose her. I want everyone to see the true face of this hypocritical, utterly disgusting person!"

The feeling of being utterly deceived by an idol was not easy to bear. While some might continue to blindly follow their idol, others would inevitably turn from fans to detractors. Jurgen was of the latter type.

He jumped up, loudly declaring, "I'm joining you!"

As they prepared to spread their newfound disdain for Natalie Portman across various platforms, the impact of the video continued to ripple through the audience at the press conference and viewers at home.

Back in the press hall, after ensuring the distribution of the video copies, Murphy's calm demeanor had set a resolute tone. He didn't linger in the room but left swiftly, allowing the media and the online community to digest the bombshell he had just dropped.

The strategy was clear: let the facts speak for themselves and allow the public and press to draw their conclusions, which could very likely end in a drastic shift in public perception about Natalie Portman.

At the Beverly Hills Four Seasons Hotel, as journalists began to realize the gravity of the evidence presented, a murmur ran through the crowd. Many were typing furiously on their laptops, updating their articles and blogs with the new information. The press conference had not only served as a venue for Murphy to clear his name but had also turned into a crucible for Natalie Portman's public image.

Meanwhile, in Natalie Portman's suite, the reality of the situation began to sink in. The shock of seeing herself on video, acting in ways that contradicted her public persona, left her rattled and unsure of her next move. The room was heavy with a mix of anger, betrayal, and panic as her team scrambled to formulate a response.

As the fallout continued to unfold, Murphy Stanton had effectively shifted the narrative from being a target of accusations to presenting undeniable evidence of his innocence and Natalie Portman's culpability. The broader implications for her career and reputation were just beginning to surface, and the public, as well as her fans, were now armed with information that could significantly alter their perception of the Hollywood star.

___________________

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Kapitel 311: Chapter 311: The Best Choice

"Starting with the revelations from Natalie Portman, we've gradually come to understand the truths about the world over these years!"

Whether it was through traditional media or the internet, Natalie Portman briefly became the focal point of media attention, with similar news emerging constantly. Not only the mainstream media with actual evidence but even the previously divided tabloids unified their front, planning to drown Natalie Portman in a deluge of criticism.

Indeed, Natalie Portman is Jewish, and her mother's family holds some influence, but with the push from 20th Century Fox and CAA, and the concrete video evidence in Murphy's hands, she had no chance to clear her name.

Ultimately, she is just an ordinary Jewish person, and the media neither has the obligation nor the inclination to help her clear her name.

"Natalie Portman, in order to secure the lead female role in Murphy Stanton's new film, did not hesitate to seduce the director..."

There were many similar stories, and Murphy's aim was not just to counterattack but also to promote. With clever guidance from interested parties, his new film "G" became a media focal point just like Natalie Portman.

The public was also curious about what kind of film "G" actually was, that it could attract the esteemed Queen Padmé Amidala, and even make her set aside all decency to proactively offer a blow job to Murphy Stanton...

Of course, there were also influential Jews in the industry who subtly expressed their dissatisfaction through CAA.

After getting his revenge and clearing the air with Gal Gadot, Murphy communicated with Bill Rossis and Kara Faith, and the media hype did not linger on Natalie Portman for long, instead linking the scandal with the new film to pique curiosity.

Even so, Natalie Portman's reputation was significantly affected.

"What should I do?"

Still in the same suite, Natalie Portman was at her wit's end, "Martin, what should I do?"

"Do not show up, do not speak, do not respond," Martin Miller said indifferently, "Let this matter quietly pass."

Natalie Portman anxiously said, "Doesn't that mean I can't take on any work for a long time?"

Martin Miller nodded, "At least not within the next six months, do not appear in public."

"And my career..." she frowned deeply, "Our Oscar plans..."

"Have to be delayed!" Martin Miller said without hesitation, "A temporary disappearance is the best choice."

Natalie Portman fell silent, her mind was clear once she calmed down. Now, not only the media but even her fans had started to turn away en masse, and the blog was filled with vile comments, which she did not even want to look at, let alone respond to.

Using time to dilute this matter was the best choice. Natalie Portman knew this, stood up, and took a deep breath, "Martin, contact the school in Jerusalem for me, I want to go back to Israel for further studies."

"A very smart choice," Martin Miller praised.

Natalie Portman forced a grim smile; this would not only help her avoid Los Angeles and Hollywood, the center of controversy but also subtly reaffirm her commitment to her Jewish identity, thereby regaining favor from some industry magnates...

She walked to the window, looking towards Century City, where the Death Star building was faintly visible.

"Murphy Stanton!" she muttered the name with a dark undertone.

After the press conference, Murphy no longer dealt with the matter directly, leaving it entirely to his agents Bill Rossis and Grace to handle, while he returned to his primary work.

As the narrative shifted, Charlize Theron's team responded immediately, her agent called to expedite signing the contract so that Charlize could join the production early and prepare for the role of Amy.

Without a press conference, promotional hype, or signing ceremony, the parties quietly signed an acting contract in Murphy's office.

"Welcome to the cast."

In the presence of representatives from the actors' union and attorneys, they signed the official contract, Murphy stood up and extended his hand, "I've finally waited for my ideal leading actress."

"It's an honor to work with you, Murphy," Charlize Theron gripped his hand firmly, "I'm thrilled to be part of an outstanding team."

With the contract signing complete, all that remained was the lawyers' and agents' work. Charlize Theron flashed a bright smile, "Could you show me around? I'd like to get to know the people in the production team a bit sooner."

She knew her previous hesitation might have left a somewhat unfavorable impression on Murphy, who, unlike most Hollywood directors, wasn't just a puppet in charge of filming but a director with real power. It was crucial to foster a good relationship with him.

Even though she was an Oscar-winning actress, Charlize Theron was not delusional. With the full support of 20th Century Fox, he couldn't be treated like just any young director.

In a Hollywood production team, unless you can truly overpower the director, it's wise to maintain a good relationship.

"Let's go," Murphy led the way out of the office, and once Charlize Theron caught up, he said, "I'll introduce you to the other leads and members of my filming team."

After Charlize Theron signed the acting contract, all the main actors for "Gone Girl" were confirmed.

Taking Charlize Theron around the set, they eventually reached the actors' rehearsal area, where they met James Franco and Amanda Seyfried, who was playing Nick Dunne's mistress. After a brief introduction, he watched the rehearsal with Charlize Theron.

Murphy pointed to the short hair Charlize Theron had been maintaining since their last meeting, "You'll need to wear a wig during filming."

"No problem," Charlize Theron nodded and then expressed a slight concern, "Will close-up shots be a problem?"

"In post-production, the special effects team will refine all your wig lines," Murphy was not worried, "Digital technology will make it flawless."

Due to the plot and specific editing needs, the female protagonist Amy had to be likable to the audience. Now, with Charlize Theron's more rugged short hair, Murphy had arranged for a long wig to be prepared for her. Almost all her scenes would require post-production effects to refine the wig lines. Since the Shakespearean era, wig technology had hardly advanced, and Murphy hadn't thought of a better solution for this film, but fortunately, digital post-production technology was available.

After James Franco and Amanda Seyfried's rehearsal ended, Murphy handed Charlize Theron off to James Franco and continued with his own work.

The external disturbances were put aside by Murphy, even the collaboration on "Saw III" was entirely handed over to Bill Rossis to handle, and the first episode's script outline for "Game of Thrones" written by two screenwriters hired by George Martin and Stanton Studios was temporarily set aside, all to focus on preparing for "Gone Girl."

Murphy wouldn't leave the production team to an assistant director or producer, as no successful director would do that. From props to set design to location selection, he needed to oversee it all. Although he didn't need to handle the specifics, he would be responsible for the final approval.

Additionally, some scenes in the script needed further refinement. This was not a pure romance film, and since it had a strong element

 of mystery, the fewer bugs, the better.

For instance, in the scene where Amy is imprisoned by a wealthy ex-boyfriend, Murphy added a bit of dialogue where the ex-boyfriend tells her upon entering the mansion that the surveillance system was just activated and that there were no cameras in private areas like bathrooms and bedrooms.

Some things can be explained through dialogue, thus reducing audience confusion or questions.

Murphy meticulously considered many dialogues in the film, even bringing in Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill to find loopholes and areas for improvement, while also listening to suggestions from the main actors who had begun rehearsals.

The dialogue in this film was extremely important.

Murphy knew that dialogue is one of the most conspicuous elements in a film because when dialogue unfolds, the audience's attention is completely focused on it. The fundamental purpose of dialogue is to advance the plot and explain the characters' actions and motivations.

Creating explanatory dialogue also has a major problem: it's difficult to write lines that the audience finds believable and convincing—the core issue is that in the real world, two people who know each other well do not explain things they both understand.

Thus, it's often more effective to convey information to someone outside the film than to have characters reiterate information they already know.

A carefully crafted character's every word can reflect their personality, but Murphy also knew that movie dialogue isn't the same as real-life conversation: real-life conversations are meandering. So what he needed wasn't a real-life chat but concise yet genuine dialogue.

Ultimately, the quality of the dialogue is determined by the characters, which is why it's so important to reveal characters through their lines. If these characters are well-crafted, their words will naturally be appropriate and reasonable.

With his rich preparatory experience, even after the controversy stirred by Natalie Portman, the preparation for the production team progressed very smoothly, even exceeding the original schedule. By mid-December 2004, Murphy was ready to begin shooting.

___________________

(Support with power stones, comments or reviews)

If you guys enjoy this story, In support me on Patreon and get access to +200 advance Chapters

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