Bab 403: Chapter 403: Monroe and Hepburn's Duel of Beauty
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Hollywood.
At HD Pictures' internal theater, many major figures in the film industry gathered, including Hardy, for the screening of Monroe's new film, *Seven Year Itch*.
Monroe, now at the peak of her fame, sat beside Hardy, visibly nervous. Hardy, sensing her anxiety, gently placed his hand on her thigh and stroked it reassuringly.
"This is the first time I've seen it as a film," Monroe admitted. "I'm not sure what to expect."
"You have to believe in yourself—and in me," Hardy replied with a reassuring smile.
The film began. A comedy, *Seven Year Itch* follows a middle-aged man who becomes infatuated with a new female tenant, leading to a series of humorous situations. Among its notable scenes is Monroe standing over a subway vent, her white skirt billowing upwards—a shot that has become iconic and synonymous with Monroe herself.
As the video ended, applause erupted in the projection room.
Several prominent figures praised Monroe's performance. "Miss Monroe's allure is unparalleled in this film," one executive remarked. "I'm confident the audience will respond positively."
Another added, "Indeed, for any mature man, Miss Monroe's charm is irresistible. She is a surefire box office draw."
The discussion turned to the film's release, which Hardy planned to roll out simultaneously in over a dozen countries, including the United States, Britain, France, Italy, Japan, Denmark, and Switzerland.
Everyone agreed with the plan.
After leaving the film company, Hardy took Monroe to the marina. Monroe was captivated by a magnificent yacht.
"This yacht is stunning," she exclaimed.
"I thought we'd take it out today to celebrate your film's completion," Hardy said.
As the yacht sailed into the open sea, Monroe, wearing a pink bikini, appeared a bit shy but graceful. Holding a glass of chilled wine, she joined Hardy on the deck.
Monroe settled next to Hardy, taking a sip from her glass and offering it to him. Their fingers brushed as she handed it over.
Recalling their first yacht experience, Monroe said, "I remember that day clearly. Will we have another night like that one?"
"Of course," Hardy assured her.
Days later, a colossal statue of Monroe was unveiled on Hollywood Street. Eight meters tall, the statue depicted Monroe in her iconic white dress, her skirt billowing as if caught by the wind. It drew crowds and generated significant media buzz.
"Hollywood has erected a monumental statue of Monroe," one headline read. "The statue alone is a testament to the movie's allure. I can't wait to see the film."
The statue's presence was a powerful promotional tool, further boosting interest in Monroe's film and establishing it as a new Hollywood attraction.
In October, Monroe's film was released globally, with over a thousand theaters in the U.S. alone. Her fame had reached unprecedented heights, and the film drew significant attention, especially from mature audiences. The movie's blend of humor and Monroe's captivating performance struck a chord with viewers.
By the end of the first week, the North American box office had exceeded five million dollars, signaling a promising future for the film. The international results were also impressive, far surpassing local films in various countries.
During this time, Monroe continued to promote the film across various cities, enhancing its box office performance.
Hardy then returned to HD Pictures for the screening of *Roman Holiday*, a fashion drama starring Audrey Hepburn. The film was complete and had undergone minimal post-production work.
In the theater, Hollywood's distribution giants gathered again, confident in the films produced by Hardy Pictures. Hardy walked in holding Hepburn's hand, drawing curious glances from the audience. While Monroe's allure was bold and glamorous, Hepburn's appearance was pure and elegant, evoking a different kind of admiration.
As the film played, Hepburn, more nervous than Monroe had been, clung to Hardy's hand, her eyes fixed on the screen.
When the screening ended, applause filled the room.
"This is a remarkable love story," someone commented. "Miss Hepburn and Monroe represent two distinct styles—Hepburn's purity and grace, and Monroe's sensuality. The film captures both beautifully."
However, not everyone was entirely positive. "Miss Hepburn's elegance is undeniable," one critic noted, "but the current audience seems to lean towards Monroe's more sensual appeal. It remains to be seen how this will fare in the market."
Hepburn's anxiety was palpable, but Hardy remained optimistic. "I believe the audience will embrace this film. It's visually stunning and offers a unique experience."
He added, "Taste can be shaped. If necessary, I'm prepared to handle the distribution through Hardy Pictures."
The critics were quick to agree, acknowledging Hardy's influence and the film's high quality. "We're willing to release it," they said. "Though it may not reach the level of Monroe's film, we believe it will do well."
Hardy knew that *Roman Holiday* would eventually exceed expectations and make a significant impact.
In November, *Roman Holiday* was heavily promoted across TV, newspapers, and radio. Audrey Hepburn's debut had captured public attention, with her portrayal of innocence and beauty drawing widespread acclaim.
As December approached, Monroe's *Seven Year Itch* concluded its run, and *Roman Holiday* began its official release. While the initial performance wasn't as explosive as Monroe's film, it steadily gained traction.
The film was widely covered in newspapers, magazines, and TV reviews, with Hepburn receiving universal praise for her portrayal of a pure and refined character. Movie attendance increased, especially in Europe, where Hepburn's type of beauty resonated deeply.
The tale of *Roman Holiday*—a fairy-tale romance between a princess and an ordinary man—captivated audiences with its charm and poignancy.
Hepburn quickly became a new icon, distinct from Monroe's more sensual image. The contrast between the two actresses sparked comparisons and discussions, further energizing the film market.
In the UK, the British royal family watched *Roman Holiday* at Buckingham Palace. Princess Margaret, particularly moved by the film, felt as though it was made for her. She eagerly anticipated visiting the Cayman Islands, where Hardy had extended an invitation to British nobles, including herself.
Princess Margaret's excitement for the trip was palpable, her anticipation reflecting the film's impact and Hardy's influence.
Bab 404: Chapter 404: Others Merge into the Circle, Hardy Builds the Circle
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Hardy drove Hepburn to the cinema. Wrapped in a scarf to conceal her identity, Hepburn entered with him as the movie started.
The cinema was bustling with people, and the two settled into their seats.
As the film played, the audience reacted with chuckles and gasps, fully absorbed by the story. Hepburn's ethereal performance captivated them, providing a refreshing contrast to Monroe's more sensual allure.
When the movie ended, the audience exited, animatedly discussing the plot.
"In the end, the princess and Jon part ways—such a touching conclusion," someone remarked. "Audrey Hepburn is absolutely enchanting. I'm sure she'll become a major Hollywood star."
Hepburn, elated by the positive reception, took Hardy's arm as they left the theater. Her happiness was palpable.
Back at Hardy Manor, Hardy poured Hepburn a glass of wine. "Congratulations on your success. You're destined to be a Hollywood star," he said.
Hepburn, her excitement evident, sipped her wine and then kissed Hardy. The intimacy was familiar, but Hardy's next move surprised her. He carried her into the bedroom.
"Ha~ Hardy," Hepburn's voice trembled with anticipation.
"Don't be afraid. I'll guide you," Hardy whispered reassuringly.
As Christmas approached, the "Princess Hepburn" Barbie doll was released, mimicking the character from "Roman Holiday." The doll was a huge hit, with the crystal crown and luxurious princess dress fetching thousands of dollars.
Hepburn's endorsement deal was substantial, including a Beverly Hills mansion and a silver sports car.
On Christmas Eve, all of Hardy's women, except for Han Yejin, were in Hollywood. Hardy gifted each of them a set of jewelry worth at least $100,000, crafted by the world's top jewelers.
That night, Hardy hosted a grand party at Hardy Manor, inviting Hollywood's elite along with his own women. Despite being aware of each other, there was no tension among the women. Hardy's adept management of his relationships ensured harmony.
The party was lively with drinks, dancing, and fireworks. Hardy, having overindulged, only remembered mingling with the women and woke up to find Elizabeth Taylor beside him.
As the new year arrived, Hardy and Andy traveled to the Cayman Islands, where preparations were complete. The island boasted two battleships, dozens of ships, and a thousand Marines for security—employed by HD Security, not the Cayman military.
Hardy inspected various establishments—casinos, hotels, banks, duty-free shopping streets, and tourist attractions. The island's infrastructure was fully operational, with luxury brands and services in place.
Cayman would now operate on a membership system, catering exclusively to the wealthy. Hardy believed this approach would ease service pressure, enhance exclusivity, and create a high-end network. Membership levels ranged from one-star to five-star, based on social status and assets.
On January 5, the first guests arrived on a luxury cruise ship. They were greeted by reception managers who explained the membership system and provided cards based on their status.
On January 6, Hardy's women—Ava Gardner, Elena, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Heidi Lama—arrived, each receiving a Samsung card. In contrast, stars like Clark Gable and Greta Garbo were only one-star members.
The island buzzed with activity. Facilities were open, offering duty-free luxury shopping, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife. The pleasant climate made it an ideal escape from the winter chill elsewhere.
January 7 brought the arrival of Princess Margaret and her entourage. Hardy personally greeted them at the airport, extending a warm welcome and a kiss to the princess's hand. The media captured this moment, which would likely make headlines.
The reporters were from Global Times and ABC TV, under strict control to ensure positive coverage. They reported that Princess Margaret's visit was a successful and joyous event, highlighting her interaction with Governor Hardy and the promising future of Cayman.
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