Chương 253: Chapter 253: Release
As the movie reached its climax, the male protagonist commandeered a dump truck, crashing it into the textile factory, triggering a cascade of self-destructing rats and deafening explosions.
The looms within the factory were obliterated in the chaos.
Wesley, our protagonist, embarked on a relentless killing spree, leaving countless foes in his wake.
When besieged by formidable adversaries like the gunsmith and butcher, Fox, once an ally, suddenly betrayed him. However, they soon joined forces, taking down each of the code-named killers with unwavering determination.
In a scene reminiscent of Jolie's bravery, Fox faced Sloan's elite henchmen, ultimately choosing to meet her end alongside them.
The climactic showdown unfolded between Wesley and Sloan, with the expected outcome being the demise of the villain.
In the movie's final moments, Sloan, bloodied and defeated, defiantly uttered, "Do you think this is over? Our power is beyond your imagination!" But Wesley wasted no time, delivering the memorable line, "I control my own life," before dispatching Sloan.
Assistant director Chad, action director Bradt, and the screenwriter had already contemplated a sequel, leaving the story open-ended.
With full copyright control in Martin's studio, there was ample room for creative expansion.
This film, which thrived on its coolness and impeccable action sequences, surprisingly garnered an enthusiastic response from the general audience.
The film's promotional hype aligned perfectly with its actual quality, leaving the audience thoroughly satisfied. The premiere concluded with a thunderous round of applause at Chandler Hall.
Leonardo turned to Nicholson and inquired, "What are your thoughts on Martin's movie?"
Nicholson, with nearly five decades in the industry, relied on his vast experience to predict, "Commercial action films with such distinctive features tend to have a clear appeal. Martin has caused quite a stir lately, and Jolie's impeccable image will surely make this movie a blockbuster."
Leonardo acknowledged, "Martin is in excellent physical condition, and the action sequences are superb. I can't hold a candle to him in that department."
Nicholson, with a critical glance at his expanding waistline, dismissed Leonardo's comparison, stating, "You're not even close."
Leonardo retorted, "You've got quite the nerve to talk while sitting on your high horse."
Nicholson, in a nonchalant tone, said, "We're on the same team now. I can't afford to lie to you, can I? That would be unethical."
As the curtain fell and applause resounded, Jenna couldn't contain her excitement, turning to her father, Jones.
Jones retrieved a pen and notebook, ready to jot down her inspiration.
"Martin sparked an idea in me!" Jenna exclaimed eagerly. "What if we had a female protagonist who joins the League of Assassins..."
Harold and Kane exchanged knowing glances, anticipating the outcome.
Jenna elaborated, "Perhaps the male protagonist could continue Martin's legacy, but the League of Assassins could consist of women like Fox."
Jillian, a middle-aged woman, expressed her concern, "That sounds lethal!"
Jenna's excitement continued to build. "Pirates of the Caribbean already had a female-centric installment. If Martin's movie is a hit, we can explore a similar concept..."
Meanwhile, in the row in front of them, Sophia enjoyed sips of water from a pink kettle handed to her by Scott, radiating contentment.
The film appeared to be a resounding success, promising a profitable return on their investment.
With the premiere's conclusion, the audience began to disperse.
Harold and the others approached the first row to extend their congratulations to Martin.
Martin reciprocated with hugs and gratitude, saying, "Thank you for your unwavering support."
After bidding farewell to the premiere attendees, Martin and Black prepared to depart.
Jolie, leading the way, glanced back at Martin, offering a warm smile.
Martin acknowledged her with a subtle nod, a gesture of casual greeting.
Jolie hastened her pace, drawing most of the paparazzi's attention away as she left Chandler Hall.
As Martin reached the exit, he encountered his companions, Leonardo and Nicholson.
Nicholson playfully blocked their path, jesting, "Leaving so soon? We returned from New York just for your premiere. How about a drink on us?"
Leonardo added, "Remember what you said about a refreshing face wash? How about we do it with wine?"
Blake released her hold on Martin's arm, encouraging him to go along. "Go ahead."
Martin nodded, assuring, "I'll return home eventually."
Blake added with a smile, "I'll keep the door open for you when you do."
Understanding her message, Martin replied, "Sooner or later, I'll definitely come home."
With a warm smile, Blake bid farewell to the trio and left the theater alone.
Leonardo playfully remarked, "Love is definitely in the air."
Nicholson chimed in, "Let's head to that great place you mentioned during filming."
Martin requested a brief delay. He waited several minutes to ensure the paparazzi's focus was on his car before exiting and joining Nicholson's vehicle.
The trio proceeded straight to the club frequented by Martin and Craven.
Martin orchestrated the dancers backstage with finesse, and after a brief wait, the three freshly groomed dancers entered the VIP room.
Leonardo had a preference for the long, blond-haired dancer.
Nicholson, with his peculiar tastes, specifically desired a black dancer who bore a striking resemblance to Naomi Campbell.
However, it was a Latin dancer, with fair and smooth skin and an alluring figure, who joined Martin at the VIP room.
Martin raised his wine glass to the two men and proposed, "Let's begin." The scintillating lap dance commenced, and Leonardo inquired, "Is this all?"
Martin slipped a dollar bill into the Latin dancer's hand and, motioning to his waistband, said, "Jesse, take it further."
"You still remember my name!"
The energy and enthusiasm, initially drained by the premiere, returned in an instant.
Leonardo, his tone altered, remarked, "Indeed, I feel invigorated. My mind is much more active now. I've got new ideas for the water gun party." Martin probed, "Tell me more about it."
Leonardo, in a tone reminiscent of Martin's style, responded, "It wouldn't be exciting if I spilled the beans now."
Martin, recalling his own tactics in New York, agreed, "Alright, let's see what fresh tricks you have up your sleeve."
He hoped it wouldn't involve three burly men brandishing pistols on a beach, or an awkward courtyard conversation at a villa.
Suddenly, Nicholson expressed his dissatisfaction, asking, "Why am I not feeling anything?"
Martin turned slightly and spotted two massive black tires squashing Nicholson's face, quipping, "You're utterly useless."
Leonardo chimed in, "You can't handle it anymore!"
Nicholson, infuriated, leaned back and dismounted from the contraption, announcing, "I'm taking my leave."
The black dancer extended her hand, displaying five fingers.
Nicholson, unfazed, extended his middle finger to both Martin and Leonardo, quipping, "You two continue, I'm out of here!"
The disloyal old rogue departed with the black dancer in tow.
Martin and Leonardo savored their drinks and the entertainment until nearly eleven o'clock before leaving the club.
At the Marietta Entertainment Agency in Atlanta:
The lights still burned brightly in the office of the performing arts director. On the vintage wooden desk, beneath the gentle glow of the overhead light, rested a 2003 Coke bottle glistening with a coat of olive oil.
Robert stood before the Coke, facing west, and muttered, "The Wanted movie will be a success!"
Meanwhile, Jessica and Emily took turns working overtime at Davis Studio.
Their duty was to monitor online public opinion feedback.
The film crew had outsourced online word-of-mouth marketing to a company, and Jessica had secured an additional freelance gig, using her own name to post on websites frequented by movie enthusiasts.
In today's film industry, a good reputation was no longer a spontaneous occurrence among fans. It was heavily influenced by marketing and behind-the-scenes efforts.
On IMDb, numerous accounts created by outsourcing companies posted meticulously crafted positive reviews.
"I never expected such a cool action movie after The Matrix."
"Martin's action scenes are as thrilling as ever. The hero's transformation from weakness to strength is remarkable."
"In a word, Wanted is an entertaining movie that will keep you hooked."
Similar promotional articles flooded other movie forums and entertainment portals.
"As long as you don't dislike actors Martin Davis and Angelina Jolie, you'll adore them after watching Wanted!"
Media coverage held substantial sway over public perception.
On weekends, as moviegoers entered theaters to make their choices, they often saw Wanted, which had received praise online and in print. This naturally led them to purchase tickets.
Fans of Martin and Jolie had been mobilized through various fan organizations, with members of the Coca-Cola Cult across the United States not only buying tickets but also becoming advocates, helping to spread the film's appeal.
This was precisely why production companies invested heavily in stars like Martin and Jolie, as their popularity and fan base could generate continuous buzz.
Meanwhile, Jolie, juggling her children and a nanny, made frequent appearances at bustling locations like Century City and Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles.
People magazine once again featured her on its cover, showcasing a series of refugee diaries she had penned during her time in the Middle East and Africa.
Jolie had found a stylish and forward-thinking path, unburdened by the worry of refugees vanishing, as her country ensured a steady stream of them.
Accepting Ernie Lively's invitation, Martin met him in Burbank. They deliberately chose an outdoor cafe for their meeting, inviting paparazzi attention.
As a result, various rumors and scandals circulated.
"Martin Davis has reportedly gained approval from his girlfriend Blake's family!"
"Insider information suggests that during a meeting with Blake's family, Martin Davis discussed their engagement."
This insider happened to be Bruce, who enlisted a cooperating female paparazzo named Judy to provide alleged photos and insider details.
Martin skillfully crafted his own gossip, then sold it to the media to attract attention and focus it on Wanted.
On the first Thursday in November, the film Wanted was granted an early release in 3,100 North American theaters, raking in an advance box office total of $6.88 million!
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