Bab 47: Chapter 47 – Color Version of Roman Holiday
Two screenwriters arrived.
One was named David Shaw, and the other was Newton.
"What's the matter, Assistant Hardy?" they asked.
"I've come up with a story, and I need your help to develop a script," Hardy said, pushing the manuscript toward them.
Both screenwriters were skeptical. They wondered if Hardy, as an assistant, could truly understand the complexities of screenwriting.
As they read the manuscript, their initial doubts faded. The story was intriguing—a departure from the typical Western tropes of gold, frontier expansion, and Native Americans. Instead, it focused on a solitary hero.
The brief 3,000-word story outline was compelling. They envisioned a gripping narrative set in the Wild West.
"I'd like to see the first draft of the script by tomorrow," Hardy said. "Can either of you help with this?"
The screenwriters were taken aback.
"Tomorrow? That's not possible, Mr. Hardy. A script of this nature usually takes at least a week," Newton replied.
Hardy was accustomed to the slow pace of artistic work. He knew that creating a full script could be time-consuming, often taking several months. In contrast, in Hong Kong, films could be completed in as little as two weeks from project inception to finished product—not necessarily due to superior skill, but due to greater efficiency.
Hardy fixed his gaze on them. "I plan to invest in making this movie myself. I believe it has great potential for awards and recognition. Even if you're just the second screenwriter, an award-winning script will significantly enhance your value."
The screenwriters' eyes brightened. They were excited about the story's potential and the chance to gain recognition, even as secondary contributors. An award-winning script could open doors in Hollywood and elevate their careers.
"Mr. Hardy, we'll take on the task. You'll have the first draft by tomorrow afternoon," David promised.
After the screenwriters left, Hardy visited the screening room at Noah Film Company. The facilities were well-equipped, including a film library and screening room.
He asked the staff to review the films directed by the company's two directors to find a suitable candidate. The first director specialized in urban, light comedies, which did not align with Hardy's Western theme. The second director, Jonathan Nolan, excelled in Westerns and was initially intended for the company's earlier Western project, "Golden Outlaw."
Nolan had been absent from the company since the cancellation of "Golden Outlaw." It was already late afternoon, so Hardy decided not to call him to the office. Instead, he found Nolan's home number in the company's address book and called him.
"Hello?"
"Is this Director Nolan?"
"Yes, this is he. Who's calling?"
"This is Jon Hardy."
Nolan recognized the name. "Assistant Hardy, what can I do for you?"
"I'd like to discuss a new film project. Do you have time this evening to meet at a bar?" Hardy suggested.
"I thought the movie had been handed over to Warner?" Nolan asked.
"This is a different project—a Western film."
"I heard the company doesn't have a budget this year."
"Not a problem; I've secured the investment," Hardy said.
...
Hardy entered the bar and chose a quiet booth. Shortly after, Nolan arrived and greeted Hardy.
"Hello, Assistant Hardy."
"Hello, Director Nolan."
They shook hands, exchanged pleasantries, and settled in. As they drank, Nolan expressed surprise. "Assistant Hardy, you're planning to produce a film?"
"Yes, I already have a script and some funds," Hardy said, handing the story summary to Nolan.
Nolan read the summary under the bar's dim light. The story intrigued him, and he began to visualize it.
"Is the script ready yet?" Nolan asked.
"The screenwriters are working on it. The first draft should be ready by tomorrow evening," Hardy replied.
"How much are you investing?" Nolan was primarily concerned with the budget.
"How much do you think it will cost to make this movie?"
Nolan took a sip from his glass. "There's a significant difference depending on the actors. Big names like Clark Gable command over $500,000, while second- or third-tier actors cost much less."
"This film is about the story, not star power. Second- and third-tier actors will work fine for us," Hardy said.
Nolan nodded.
"Then there are the sets and props. The story is simple, set in a small town. We can rent shooting locations in New Mexico, and costumes, props, and carriages won't be too expensive."
"What about the film itself? Are you planning to use black and white or color?" Nolan inquired.
"Does it make a big difference?" Hardy asked.
"Yes, it does. Color film is significantly more expensive. If a movie costs $50,000 to shoot in black and white, it would cost about $150,000 in color," Nolan explained.
"Then it'll be black and white," Hardy decided.
He recalled how "Roman Holiday" was shot in black and white due to budget constraints, despite its status as a classic. If given the opportunity in the future, Hardy intended to invest in making a color version of "Roman Holiday."
Hardy and Nolan discussed the project late into the night. They shared ideas, and Nolan's vision complemented Hardy's well.
"Director Nolan, I officially invite you to direct this film," Hardy said, extending his hand.
Nolan hesitated, "Can I ask how much investment there is?"
Although the details were discussed, Nolan was concerned about the overall budget.
"150,000. That's the total investment," Hardy clarified.
Nolan frowned, considering the amount. After a moment, he shook Hardy's hand.
"I'll take the job."
...
The next morning, Hardy contacted an agency and purchased a shell film company. These companies, often devoid of assets, were commonly used in Hollywood. Buying one saved the time and hassle of starting a new company from scratch.
For a few hundred dollars more, Hardy now owned "HD Film Company," adding to his growing list of enterprises:
- HD Brokerage Company
- HD Commercial Security Company
- HD Film Company
After registering the film company, Hardy called Sean again. "Come with me to the bank."
"Why are we going to the bank, boss?" Sean asked.
"To secure a loan."
Movies require substantial funds, and Hardy planned to mortgage the toy factory to obtain additional capital.
At the bank, Kevin Madion received a call from Jon Hardy. Kevin's heart raced with apprehension.
Here we go again...
Bab 48: Chapter 48 – Heroine
In the reception room of the bank, Kevin Madion greeted Hardy with a cautious smile. He was wary, unsure if Hardy's visit would result in another unexpected situation.
"What can I assist you with today, Mr. Hardy?" Kevin asked.
"I'm here to apply for a loan," Hardy replied.
"How much do you need, and what will the funds be used for?" Kevin inquired.
"I'm planning to produce a film. I have some funds, but I need to borrow additional money from the bank," Hardy explained.
Kevin nodded. "Do you have any collateral or guarantees?"
"What kind of collateral do you require?" Hardy asked.
Kevin elaborated, "Typically, physical collateral includes valuable items like gold, art, real estate, or shares. In Hollywood, there are also unique options, such as using a film like *Gone with the Wind* as collateral. Though it's older, it continues to generate income for MGM, making it a viable asset."
"Alternatively, you can have a guarantee from a reputable company. If you default, the guarantor will cover the amount."
Hardy inquired about using his toy factory as collateral.
Kevin was taken aback. Hardy had purchased the toy factory just the day before and was already looking to use it for a loan. It seemed highly strategic.
"What amount are you considering for the mortgage?" Kevin asked carefully.
"I've had it assessed. With the land, factory, and equipment, it should be valued at around $60,000. I'd like to borrow that amount," Hardy said.
Kevin was surprised. Hardy had bought the factory for less than $40,000, and now he was looking to mortgage it for $60,000. If the bank's senior management knew, they might suspect manipulation for personal gain.
Kevin, still shaken by past experiences, was reluctant to refuse Hardy's request. "I'll do my best to get this approved," he said.
"Thank you, Director Madion," Hardy replied.
Kevin returned to his office. As the head of the credit department, he had the authority to approve loans up to $50,000 without higher-level approval. It was easier to lend $50,000 and avoid complications.
After processing the loan procedures, Kevin returned to the reception room. "Mr. Hardy, my limit is $50,000. Any amount higher would require approval from a senior committee, which could take at least two weeks."
"If you need the funds quickly, I can approve $50,000 immediately. What do you think?" Kevin asked cautiously.
Hardy considered the offer. The $50,000 would be nearly enough. With the $150,000 for the film and the remaining funds, he could manage initial expenses and hire staff.
"Okay, $50,000 it is," Hardy agreed.
Kevin was relieved. "I'll handle the paperwork, and the funds should be available in three days."
After leaving the bank, Hardy checked the time and decided to visit Noah's Ark Film Company. He had arranged to review the first draft of the script with the two screenwriters in the evening.
Arriving at the company, Hardy found Director Nolan already waiting. It was nearly six o'clock when the two screenwriters, David and Newton, finally arrived, looking exhausted but excited.
"Assistant Hardy, Director Nolan is here. We stayed up all night to finish the first draft. We believe it's very promising," David said eagerly.
Hardy took the script, and Nolan joined him in reviewing it. The draft was brief, around 3,000 to 4,000 words, and it took only a few minutes to read.
The draft captured the essence of Hardy's outline. Hardy was pleased, but Nolan appeared deep in thought.
"Director Nolan, what's your impression of the script?" Hardy asked.
Nolan, coming out of his reverie, responded, "I've visualized the scenes and plot. It's even better than we discussed yesterday. I'm quite optimistic about this film."
"This story isn't just about heroic, solitary figures; it has elements that Hollywood often lacks. The protagonist isn't a pure symbol of justice but a bounty hunter, ranger, and prodigal son, making him more complex and realistic."
"To set the tone, I plan to use panoramic and close-up shots, depicting sparse stubble, a dusty cloak, and a lone figure walking in the setting sun..."
Hardy noticed Nolan was deeply immersed in his vision for the film.
"Let's discuss with Cohen tomorrow about using Noah's Ark's equipment and staff for the production," Hardy suggested.
Nolan waved it off. "That's your concern. I'll focus on the film itself."
Nolan turned to the screenwriters. "We need to refine some details. Let's discuss them."
The three creative minds continued discussing the script in Hardy's office.
Hardy checked the time. It was around nine o'clock in the evening. Deciding to take a break from the creative whirlwind, he drove to Ava Gardner's house.
Ava opened the door in casual home attire, surprised to see Hardy.
"I haven't seen you in days," she said, hugging him.
"I've been swamped. Can I have dinner? I haven't eaten yet," Hardy replied.
Ava took his coat and hung it up. "What would you like to eat?"
"Anything you make is fine," Hardy said.
"How about spaghetti and steak?" Ava suggested.
"Sounds great," Hardy agreed.
While Ava cooked, Hardy poured a glass of wine. She glanced back at him. "What have you been up to lately?"
"Quite a bit, mostly business. But there's something I think you'll be interested in," Hardy said, taking a sip of his wine.
Ava's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"
"I found a role for you in a film I'm producing," Hardy said.
Ava's eyes widened with excitement. "Really? What kind of role? Does it have lines? Even a single shot would be fine."
"The heroine," Hardy said with a smile.
Ava was momentarily stunned, disbelief on her face.
"The heroine? How is that possible?"
Hardy smiled reassuringly. "I'm investing in this film. It's a Western with a heroine, though her role is smaller. The film focuses more on the male characters. Do you want to take the part?"
Ava's reaction was immediate. "I want it, I want it!!!"
She let out an excited scream, dropped her barbecue fork, and rushed to Hardy. "Really, Hardy? A heroine? Thank you so much!"
...
"Ava, the steak is almost burning."
"Ignore it, Hardy~~~~~"
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