opened

February 28, 1996.

The role in Gattaca had already been secured by the talented and highly regarded Ethan Hawke, who was cast as the genetically modified younger brother. Despite the intensity expected from the filming, this part was considered one of the best he could take on. It was a relatively easy job that would allow him to continue with other activities while still delivering a great performance.

The prevailing scene was one of recognition for Billy Carson, courtesy of Michael Shamberg and Danny DeVito, for his work on L.A. Confidential. Both men had sharp eyes for spotting young talent, and they saw in Billy someone who approached acting like a business—reading scripts, preparing meticulously, and making room for improvement. Perhaps, they surmised, this professionalism came from his experience as a producer, where personal investment was on the line and there was no room for playing games in the industry.

-Thanks for inviting me, - Billy said to Danny DeVito, the short but legendary actor.

-When I mentioned that you were a true professional, they said they'd keep you in mind. And when I added that you were willing to take $200,000 just for a few scenes because you loved the script so much, these guys jumped like wolves. I recently watched your movie, Jerry Maguire—what a treat! - Danny joked.

-Well, I think that's enough. The role I'm playing is only in a handful of scenes, but I'd love to see the final cut,- Billy replied.

-Good, good. You don't leave anything to chance. Best of luck, - the producer said, flashing finger guns before turning to talk to someone else. Rehearsals followed, and each rehearsal had its unique rhythm.

Gattaca didn't fare well at the box office. Out of the $36 million invested, it only grossed $13 million—a harsh blow for Columbia and Jersey Films. But that's the nature of cinema: some filmmakers pursue their vision, chasing the American dream of creating something personal and meaningful, even when it doesn't achieve commercial success.

Filming was set to take place at Frank Lloyd Wright's Marin County Civic Center and in San Rafael, California, both close enough to San Jose that Billy could visit for a few days and catch up on unfinished business like reading scripts and handling smaller matters. Gattaca stood out among other films for one reason: "It's a blend of science fiction, drama, romance, and human courage," Billy said. The script had many layers, but it was undeniably a story that needed to be told.

As Billy settled in and began to relax, the cast and crew arrived, preparing to bring Gattaca to life. Ethan Hawke, with his artist's aura, was a particularly interesting presence. Despite keeping to himself, his eyes often wandered toward Uma Thurman, who at that time was the epitome of beauty—strong and sensual, with clean, striking features.

…

The morning was reserved for films, and the afternoon belonged to fashion. For some time now, Monica had been preparing for the runway. Her physique had changed drastically—her diet and exercise regime were stricter than ever. No eating after 8:00 PM, limited carbohydrates, and meals consisting mostly of vegetables, proteins, and some fruit. The result was a body toned for admiration.

Monica's opportunity to walk the runway had been taken with relish. Her figure, while not overly thin, was perfectly sculpted, and she exuded a natural rebelliousness. With her eyes half-closed and her lips painted red, she strutted confidently down the Calvin Klein lingerie runway. Her demeanor was so different from her usual self that she seemed like another person. Dressed in white lingerie, her walk was fast, sharp, and assertive—something she had learned in her early days in the fashion industry, now perfected in Los Angeles with the help of tutors who had taught her the art of the runway. The cameras flashed incessantly, and as she turned, she caught Billy's gaze. His eyes, filled with desire, seemed like a refreshing oasis in the sea of onlookers.

Billy's moment of solitude didn't last long as his phone began to ring insistently. He answered though the loud music made it difficult to hear.

-I've spoken with the Anaconda production team. Our friends at Columbia are on board with the production, but distribution is another matter. I told them it doesn't matter as long as we have the license to distribute as part of the investors, - Jim Waiit said on the other end.

-That's exactly what we need,- Billy responded.

-By the way, great job with the press. Your comments about improving sports access for underprivileged groups helped silence some of the criticism from those still holding a grudge, - Jim added.

Because of Jerry Maguire, parts of the agency and management sector had felt attacked. Billy launched a subtle PR campaign in response, emphasizing that the movie was about a man in crisis with his career. Additionally, the press conference about Billy's purchase of several sports teams helped shift the narrative. Jerry Maguire was not to be tarnished, and its box office continued to soar, nearing the $200 million mark just a week after its global release. It was even doing well in Spain.

-It had to be done. I've got something to handle, but I'll call you later to discuss things with Columbia, - Billy said, wrapping up the call.

-We'll meet tomorrow for lunch. I've got more to tell you,- Jim concluded.

Billy hung up just in time to see Monica step back onto the runway, now in red lingerie. Out of the corner of his eye, he also noticed a young Leonardo DiCaprio with some friends. Gwyneth Paltrow wasn't with them, but Kate Moss and Eva Herzigová were on stage, dressed in lingerie, lighting up the event.

Hollywood was far more insular than Billy had initially expected. It was common for A-list events, which the public often saw as the pinnacle of fame, to be populated by the same group of celebrities. For instance, the Lakers finals were often filled with Hollywood elites.

But for Billy, Monica stole the show. Hours later, the grace and elegance of the runway models faded as Monica kicked off her heels, exhausted from standing all day in 12-centimeter stilettos that felt like walking on tiptoes. The constant shouting and energy from the crowd were part of the industry, but now she just wanted to relax.

-We've been invited to a party, - Monica said, stretching her arms.

-Right now? - Billy asked.

-No, later tonight at a club. All the models and some executives are going, - she replied.

-We'll go, but first, let's rest for a bit… this morning, someone left my arms too quickly, - Billy teased. She smiled and took his arm, resting it on the gear shift.

-Let's watch some movies, - she suggested.

...