Chapter 49 – Brain Tonic is Very Powerful

The dinner was delightful. Despite its simplicity, the service was impeccable, with waiters in maid costumes attending to every detail. The steak was perfectly cooked and served, and the red wine was exquisite.

After dinner, Ava eagerly pestered Hardy to share the plot of the movie. As she listened, it became clear that the film was indeed a male-centric story, with the heroine's role being quite minimal. However, for Ava, this was a significant opportunity. She understood that if it weren't for Hardy, she might never have had a chance to play the lead role in a film.

"Tomorrow, you and I will go to the Noah Film Company to meet the director," Hardy said.

"What if the director doesn't like me?" Ava asked with concern.

Hardy gently lifted her chin and said with confidence, "I'm investing in this movie. As the producer, I have a say in the casting. Trust me, you'll do great."

Ava was not naïve. She knew the significance of this opportunity and was determined to make the most of it.

The next day, Hardy drove Ava to the film company. Upon arrival, Susan at the front desk noticed the stunning woman accompanying Hardy and felt overshadowed.

In the assistant's office, Hardy handed Ava the draft of the script made the previous day. "Read through this while I discuss things with Mr. Cohen, and then I'll introduce you to Director Nolan."

"Go ahead, Hardy. I'll be fine here," Ava said, eagerly diving into the script.

Hardy then went to Mr. Cohen's office. Upon seeing Hardy, Cohen stood and greeted him with a smile. "Hardy, I heard you're planning a movie and want to use our director, Nolan?"

"That's right. It's a small-budget Western film with a total investment of $150,000. I'm here to discuss renting the company's personnel and equipment. Of course, if Noah wants to invest, I'm open to that as well," Hardy replied with a smile.

"Investment? What kind of share are you offering?" Cohen inquired.

"30% of the shares for covering all expenses, including the director, crew, props, and soundtrack production. The initial funding will be provided by Noah," Hardy explained.

Cohen furrowed his brow. Hardy seemed to be offering a significant share without investing any money upfront. It appeared presumptuous, and Cohen wondered if Hardy was acting on instructions from Siegel.

"Unfortunately, Noah's funds are tight this year. We've just partnered with Warner and aren't ready to invest again so soon," Cohen said.

Hardy smiled. "Then let's focus on the rental."

Renting personnel and equipment is standard practice in Hollywood. Many film companies rent from a few large firms that have comprehensive production capabilities.

"I understand. Given that Noah hasn't had any recent work, would you consider offering a discount?" Hardy asked.

Cohen's mind raced. He realized that Hardy's position as Siegel's assistant meant this could be a test. He decided to be accommodating.

"Certainly, Assistant Hardy. We can offer a 30% discount on the rental. How does that sound?" Cohen said, eager to please.

"That's a fair discount. However, I'm short on funds at the moment. Could we arrange to pay the equipment and prop rental costs in installments?" Hardy requested.

Cohen hesitated. He had already offered the best possible price, and allowing deferred payments posed a risk. Nonetheless, he agreed to the arrangement, considering Hardy's influential position.

Satisfied, Hardy left Cohen's office and headed to Director Nolan's office. Nolan was at his desk, writing furiously.

"Did you work through the night, Nolan?" Hardy asked, surprised.

Nolan looked up, a bit tired but enthusiastic. "Yes, I've been immersed in the script and brainstorming ideas. It's been exciting."

"Have you spoken with Cohen? How did it go?" Nolan asked as he prepared coffee.

"I've arranged for Noah's equipment and crew. We're set to go," Hardy said.

Nolan's face lit up with joy. "Fantastic. I'll start assembling my team immediately."

"By the way, I'd like you to meet someone. I think she might be suitable for the heroine role," Hardy said.

Nolan was intrigued. "Where is she?"

"She's in my office. I'll bring her over," Hardy said.

When they arrived in Hardy's office, Nolan saw Ava and realized that the heroine role was clearly important to Hardy. As long as Ava was suitable, Nolan was open to casting her, especially since the film's primary focus was the male characters.