章節 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...
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