premier.
Billy wasn't the only one involved in the premiere. Stacy Roman's secretary, from Lux Distribution—now a specialized distribution company—was responsible for sending invitations to key figures. Most of them were from the production side, with a few actors less prone to the spotlight, though they still delivered surprising performances. Monica and Winona, now seemingly inseparable, were always by each other's side—something the media couldn't quite wrap their heads around, as if it were like handling a hot potato.
Everyone was waiting to deliver their reviews, and unexpectedly, one came two days before the premiere on a Tuesday. The event had grown in significance, and over time, these kinds of premieres were becoming more valuable than people might initially think.
-This is a really beautiful event, - commented Monica, gazing at little Ray, a blonde-haired child with an innocent look that could melt anyone's heart. He was the very picture of innocence, almost too perfect, like a boy born to embrace the world.
-We'll have another one in March for the animation film 'The Musician,' where you did the voiceover for that French woman spy, - Billy said, pulling Monica close. She stumbled a little, leaning into him. Her black dress highlighted her legs, and she wore a stunning Gabbana gown that showcased her beauty and sensuality. She was radiant, like the very muse of beauty and allure. Apollo himself would descend to find his wife. Her curly hair was magnificent.
-It would be amazing to do one in Paris. I've always wanted to, but those events are usually simpler... more focused on other areas. Still, the festivals there are simply fantastic, gratifying, and tailored to perfection. They always give us a different feeling than what we get here. Here, people are just so... magnificent,- murmured Monica, watching the crowd, filled with children, women, and others sharing in the excitement of the premiere.
-I need to talk to a few people; I'll catch up with you later,- Billy whispered to her.
Among the important figures in attendance were the producers, all in alignment with their duties. They were the same people behind The Simpsons, and through them, Billy saw an opportunity to open doors in television, particularly with a series he was keen on Futurama.
-Welcome, Mr. Brooks, and Mr. Richard Sakai... It's a pleasure to see you both,- greeted Billy, knowing he needed a favor from these two giants of Gracie Films.
-Ohhhh hohoho, I had the fortune of watching the film's edit. She's a good girl—the critics will love the mix of tragedy and romance. It's like a romance that many older folks should understand—that failure, that starting point—it allows us to address the burdens we all carry,- Brooks commented, with an air of novelty. He had a hit on his hands, one that had sparked many ideas. If Cameron Crowe could talk about facing the first failure of his career, then all the better for Brooks to address the theme of a man approaching 50—a strange time in most people's lives.
-What a wonderful thing cinema is,- said Billy, expanding the conversation to cover various intricate details, while subtly praising their work as producers. His questions—how did they achieve such feats?—were woven with praise for their creative vision and secrets behind Lux Animation's growing influence.
…
-I don't think Billy will be back for a while,- Winona whispered.
Monica's sharp gaze fell upon the raven-haired actress, her expression a mix of amusement and awareness. Though she wasn't prone to childish behavior or hypocrisy, something was different this time, something harder to grasp with ease.
-He's always doing business, constantly thinking about how to nurture those ventures,- Monica replied, fully understanding Billy's language and the weight he carried for so many people. It was an issue she knew well, like a patriarch never at home, much like her own father, who always worked. She realized this once she entered university and lost the comforts she'd grown accustomed to.
-My agent talked to yours, and I think we have a chance to walk in a fashion show in New York. There's a surprise coming—I haven't quite figured it out yet. My agent loves to surprise me with opportunities. Last time, it was a role that revolutionized my career. I'm sure it's something fantastic I'll enjoy,- Winona whispered.
Winona wore a deep blue dress with a plunging neckline that drew many eyes. The stares were hungry and provocative, and she was stealing a bit of the spotlight. With their stunning figures, it was no wonder people often called them the most beautiful women of the decade. The photos flashed nonstop, with waves of attention coming and going, especially after the Australian premiere.
The two women sat down, watching Billy chatting at the door with other people. He decided to remain there, distant. The lights dimmed, and the Lux Animation logo appeared—a glowing city on a dark field, shining within a glass ball—heralding the start of the film.
-This is the world, with six billion people. When I was young, there were three billion. It's a job to keep up with it all, and that's just the way it is. This is America, and it keeps setting the standards for the world...- Billy's voice was smooth and fresh, redubbed for two simple reasons: he was a master at voiceover work, and in dubbing, he could do many things. The small cameo by Michael Jordan was a pleasant surprise, and the movie unfolded with a new tone, more experimental.
Winona beamed, watching as Billy began to make exceptional films. His knack for making successful deals across various sectors only improved. A five-minute shift in the film's pacing, and from there, it captivated the audience.
Jerry comes to realize one thing: he wants to change the company's direction but is completely fired. The rhythm of the movie carried just the right amount of tension, evoking emotions of affection, disdain, and eccentric behavior, all reflecting deep-rooted societal issues and individual madness, along with superb acting.
-Sometimes, I think we could make a film like this," -Monica mused to herself. She wanted to be a star, land significant roles, and secure her financial independence. Winona squeezed her hand and smiled sweetly, full of understanding.
Jerry's journey of redemption was satisfying—the tale of a man at his lowest point rising to triumph once more. It was a refreshing hit, a much-needed happy ending, embodying the spirit of America in a single frame—Hollywood, with its grand finales.
-That was a great movie, - Winona said, touched by the experience.
…
Billy received a flood of notifications from various points of admiration, excitement, and appreciation. He saw how everything, which had once seemed to plateau, had now soared to 3,200 views by the end of the night, in just one evening.
***
The next night, the reviews hit the mark, signaling a new chapter for Billy. The newspapers were published, all focusing on a single story: success.
The Washington Post
"With dazzling performances by Billy Carson, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Renée Zellweger, and the tender direction of Cameron Crowe, Jerry Maguire blends romance and sports with flair... the romantic comedy of the summer that's unforgettable for its simplicity."
Daily Mail
"'Help me help you'—a rich and tender film, completely fantastic, that convinces viewers not to give up despite adversity. With its family themes, it's perfect."
The New York Times
"Heartfelt, family-friendly, and complete."
Texas News
"A simple and successful film about sports agents and professional solitude."
Los Angeles Times
"An unexpected film, as thrilling and surprising in its humor as it is in its emotional depth."
Hollywood Reporter
"This clever sports story, though decidedly soft, with an old-fashioned romantic subplot, will likely find its biggest fans among Cosmopolitan readers."
Chicago Sun-Times
"A film that starts cynical but quickly turns tender. Often, it's brilliant, especially when Carson and Zellweger are together on screen—they create sparks."
…
The reviews were positive, and all pointed in one direction: the campaign was a resounding success.
...