บท 141: Chapter 141: High Concept Films
[Chapter 141: High Concept Films]
After a month and a half of intense and demanding shooting, particularly the outdoor filming in the last month, the cast was hanging in there, but the dozens of crew members were completely worn out. Therefore, the celebration after wrapping up turned into a wild affair, as everyone suddenly let loose after the long periods of pressure. The party hall was loud, and occasionally someone would let out a high-pitched scream.
Eric merely smiled at the chaos; after all, everyone had been cooped up for a month, so it was understandable that they were a bit out of control. Most of the cast received party invitations, and several lead actors showed up.
However, after witnessing the disorderly scene, Tom Cruise, maintaining his status, could only stand it for about twenty minutes before making his exit. Although he came from humble beginnings, he had already self-identified with the top tier of the pyramid and certainly could not frolic with the crew members. Some of the older crew members and actors also gradually took their leave. At Eric's psychological age, he couldn't truly enjoy this kind of raucous party, but as the director, he had to stick around.
In the entire hall, Eric was the youngest. While he projected an oppressive air when sternly reprimanding others on set, in other situations he still came off as a harmless young man. Given that the crew members knew Eric's personality and understood he was someone who could take a joke, it was only natural that he became the target of their teasing.
After being peer-pressured into downing a few bottles of beer for various reasons, Eric finally made his escape under the guise of needing to use the bathroom, heading down the corridor. As he exited, whether by coincidence or not, he happened to see Brooke Shields emerging from the restroom across the way, drying her hands with a paper towel.
"Hey, Brooke," Eric called out with a smile, "Having fun?"
Brooke Shields returned a sweet smile, saying, "It's okay, a bit noisy though." As the prettiest woman at the party, it was only natural for Brooke Shields to draw everyone's attention, and she reveled in the affection, though Eric maintained a somewhat indifferent attitude toward her.
Seeing Eric greet her and then turn to leave, Brooke quickly tossed the paper towel into the trash and hurried over, grabbing his arm.
"Brooke, is there something you need?" he asked as he turned back.
Brooke Shields hesitated for a moment before saying, "I just wanted to thank you, Eric. Thank you for giving me the role of Yoyo."
Her gratitude held no trace of politeness; ever since she was announced as the leading lady, despite various media outlets hinting at scandals and dismissing her chances as merely a beautiful face, her popularity surged. The media interest in her skyrocketed, and it had been years since she'd had paparazzi trailing her, the last time being when her closeness with Michael Jackson had caused quite the stir. More importantly, this buzz was generating real economic benefits for her, as she received several endorsement offers during this time.
"It was nothing, Brooke," Eric replied. "You did a great job in the role. I'm sure once the film hits theaters, you'll leave a lasting impression on the audience."
"Well then," Brooke Shields said, her face lighting up with expectation, "Eric, will we have the chance to work together again?"
"Um..." Eric hesitated, surprised by her frankness. The truth would likely be a no, but he knew better than to hurt her feelings directly: "Brooke, you have to understand, it depends on finding the right opportunity."
Brooke Shields' expression dimmed instantly, her disheartened look could easily tug at any man's heartstrings; she was practically enchanting.
Eric noticed her expression and felt a faint sense of guilt. After giving it some thought, he tentatively suggested, "Brooke, I think you should focus on independent films right now. Select a few excellent scripts to hone your acting skills."
Since starting her film career at the age of twelve, Brooke Shields had spent over a decade navigating the indie scene. She understood that if she wanted to stand out, outstanding acting was key, followed by securing significant film awards, which could then pave the way to mainstream cinema.
However, that path seemed impossible for her; her beauty overshadowed any talent she possessed. If she returned to indie films, she'd likely just land trophy roles with no real way to break through.
Brooke Shields also understood that if she was going to be a trophy, it should be in big-budget films, as even a supporting role in a major production would gain her more recognition than a lead role in a low-budget flop. Sadly, while Brooke Shields had some fame, she was still just seen as a pretty star, not noteworthy enough to catch the interest of Hollywood's mainstream film industry. Many actresses were equally beautiful and talented, and few major productions would take the risk on someone repeatedly nominated for a Razzie. Eric happened to be the first director in years willing to take a gamble like that.
"Eric, I know my abilities. If I go back to the independent scene, I'll never make it. Do you... do you have time tomorrow? Perhaps I could take you out for dinner to show my appreciation."
"No need, Brooke," Eric declined, noticing her awkward expression. He quickly added, "To be honest, I believe once the film is released, your role will surely bring you several offers. Just be careful choosing your scripts, even if you take on a few supporting roles in films that do well; if they succeed, you'll definitely rise among the A-list actresses. There's no need to place your hopes on me."
Originally, Brooke Shields felt quite dejected by Eric's refusal, but after his final words, she felt a sense of clarity wash over her. Um, while she might not be the brightest, she could understand that if she wanted to reach the top, there was no need to go back to the low-budget films.
"Then, Eric, still, thank you," Brooke Shields said, her expression finally brightening with satisfaction, as if her earlier sadness had never existed. After producing that statement, she fluttered her beautiful eyes, suddenly stepping forward to rest her hand on Eric's shoulder and gently kiss the corner of his mouth. Seeing the surprise on Eric's face from her unexpected move, Brooke Shields flashed a dazzling smile before turning and heading back to the party hall.
Eric touched his mouth in disbelief and shook his head, amused, as he walked back into the hall.
...
"Eric, you've been gone so long, did you have a fling?" As Eric re-entered, Tom Hanks approached him, handing Eric a glass of champagne and teasingly gesturing at Brooke Shields, who was chatting nearby.
Eric took a sip of champagne, giving Tom a knowing smile.
Hanks smirked back, exchanging playful glances, but then he toned down his expression, realizing that if they kept joking, it could be misinterpreted: "Eric, have you figured out anything for my next film? I've been waiting!"
As he said this, Hanks wiggled his fingers in front of Eric, seemingly reminding him of their deal about five films that made over a hundred million dollars, noting that Eric hadn't included this recent project in that count.
"I already have the script," Eric said, "Once the post-production voiceovers are complete, you can start getting ready."
Hanks was a workaholic, especially in recent years, cranking out two to three films every year. This was considered impressive in the actor circle. Upon hearing Eric's words, Hanks perked up: "Can you tell me about the plot?"
"Let's go over there," Eric suggested, pointing to a corner sofa that just became available as a couple got up and walked to the dance floor. Hanks nodded, and they moved over.
"It's a romantic comedy titled Sleepless in Seattle, a script I came up with during my trip to New York."
"A romantic comedy?" Hanks said hesitantly, touching his face. A few years back, he had some charm, but after turning thirty, he no longer fit that description.
"Eric, do you think my image suits that kind of film?"
"Don't worry, this isn't just another ordinary romantic comedy," Eric reassured him. "You'll be playing a single dad in the film."
"A single dad?"
"Hold on, don't interrupt, Tom. Let me finish the storyline, okay?"
"Okay!" Hanks raised his hand in acknowledgement.
Eric continued: "The story goes that after his wife unexpectedly passes away, heartbroken Sam struggles to let go of her memory, deciding to leave Chicago with his eight-year-old son Jonah and move to Seattle. A year later, on Christmas, Jonah calls into a show called Love Connection, hoping to find a new wife for his father who's still grieving. Coincidentally, this hotline connects Sam's family with a woman named Jenny in New York. Though Jenny is engaged, she is touched by Sam's devotion and can't help but write him a letter. This letter falls into Jonah's hands, and seeing the connection, he takes it upon himself to arrange for his father and Jenny to meet at the top of the Empire State Building on Valentine's Day."
"Wait?" After hearing Eric's recounting, Hanks blurted the question.
Eric nodded: "This film will pay homage to quite a few classics."
"Eric, based on what you told me, does the story seem a little too simplistic?"
Eric smiled, shrugging his shoulders: "Tom, I'm just giving you a rough overview of the story. This is a standard high concept film. Simplicity and straightforwardness, even a bit cliched, are core traits of high concept films. For a movie to be successful, it primarily needs a clear and simple storyline. The rest depends on the directorial and acting chops."
*****
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