Chapter 218: Do Not Frame and Defame

The day after the preview, "City of Sin" officially confirmed its North American release for the last weekend of April. The film would premiere in an unprecedented 2,850 theaters for a Murphy film, setting a new personal record. Miramax's latest report was buzzing with excitement!

Although this couldn't compare to the future trend of 4,000+ theaters, Murphy was well aware that in 2003, this was classified as a mega-scale release. Miramax had mobilized all available resources in the North American market.

CAA was also working hard. The company's film department actively contacted media outlets, pushing promotional materials related to "City of Sin" and constantly hyping up its actors – Robert Downey Jr., James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, and of course, Murphy.

Images and news of these five were frequently featured in print and digital media, and the intensive promotion rapidly boosted their group's fame.

"I've contacted Vanity Fair, and they're interested in an exclusive interview!" Bill Rossis announced in a meeting room atop the Death Star Building, addressing the five lounging men, including Murphy. "However, I think it's best to arrange the interview after the film's release."

Grace, responsible for PR and media publicity, added, "Bill and I discussed this. The film's preview has received great feedback. If we can maintain this momentum with market reception and opening weekend box office, launching the interview then will maximize its impact."

Murphy nodded, "I have no objections. You're the experts, so I'll leave this in your hands."

After yesterday's preview, he had mentioned the Jennifer Monáe interview to Bill Rossis, who immediately recognized the opportunity. That very night, Bill communicated with the company's top executives and contacted Vanity Fair's editor-in-chief Tina Brown to fast-track the interview.

"I have a question," Seth Rogen, scratching his head, asked in confusion, "This is Murphy's interview, why involve us?"

"Because this isn't just Murphy's interview," Bill Rossis explained, distributing documents to the group, "During 'Planet Terror' promotion, the team approach worked wonders. The public loves seeing celebrities... or rather, the brotherly bond among you."

Everyone, including Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Jonah Hill, shared a laugh at this.

"Of course," Bill continued, "Your bond is well-known, so why not continue showcasing it to the public?"

This wasn't fake propaganda but a real show of unity within their group.

Murphy exchanged glances with the others and agreed, "Of course."

It was a harmless and beneficial move.

Bill Rossis elaborated on their plan, shifting the focus from Downey and Jim to Murphy this time.

After reading the document, Robert Downey Jr. immediately agreed, "No problem."

They were not opposed to this kind of promotion.

Grace then briefed them on several key points and advised them to be high-profile in the coming days.

"During the film's promotional phase, every media appearance can draw more attention to your work," the savvy female agent advised, "Those with girlfriends, take them out to popular spots. Those without, it's best to stir up some rumors. I'll coordinate with the paparazzi."

After discussing the details, Jonah Hill, the first to rise, stretched lazily and suggested jokingly, "How about Seth and I go for a stroll?"

"That's not news, but scandal!" James Franco mocked.

Seth Rogen gave Jonah Hill an eye roll, "If you want to embarrass yourself, go ahead. Just leave me out of it."

"You're so unsupportive!" Jonah Hill glared at him. Seth shrugged indifferently. "I'm off to Rodeo Drive right now. You guys continue."

"Wait for us!" Robert Downey Jr. suddenly chimed in, while James Franco patted his stomach, "I haven't even had breakfast, aren't you going to treat us?"

"You can dine downstairs," Murphy suggested, picking up his briefcase, "Put it on Jonah's tab."

"You're so generous!" Jonah Hill shot back sarcastically, "Are you meeting that Israeli lady?"

Murphy waved them off, ignoring their banter, and left for his lunch date. He took a drive around Century City to make sure he wasn't being followed before heading to Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive for his rendezvous with Gal Gadot.

As a renowned commercial street, Rodeo Drive wasn't very spacious. Murphy parked his car in a nearby lot and walked onto the street, spotting the towering figure of Gal Gadot under a coconut tree from afar.

Gal was wearing a sun hat and large sunglasses, effectively concealing most of her face. If not for the long legs accentuated by her tight jeans, Murphy might not have recognized her instantly.

At the crossroads, Murphy stood opposite Gal. She noticed him, waved, and greeted him with a smile brighter than the sun overhead.

Murphy returned the gesture and crossed the street when the light turned green.

"Were you waiting long?"

Joining Gal under the shade, Murphy explained, "I couldn't avoid the morning commitments."

"I haven't been here long," Gal smiled, "Work is important."

"Let's go," Murphy suggested, taking her hand, "I'll show you around."

Gal hesitated but didn't resist.

They strolled down the street, peering into shops. Murphy tried gifting her a few times but was firmly declined. Gal was just there to look, not to shop. Reluctantly, she accepted a couple of not-so-expensive souvenirs. Murphy knew better than to push too far, as their relationship was still budding and he was aware of Gal's comfortable family background.

Most of the time, they walked side by side, Gal showing more interest in the stores' architectural styles than the products. Rodeo Drive boasted the most luxurious shops in Southern California, each with its unique design. The unwritten rule was: "Don't ask the price; asking means you can't afford it."

Despite the lavish storefronts, Murphy was no fashion follower and found many brands unfamiliar.

"Tired?"

Stopping outside an ice cream shop, Murphy suggested taking a break. They sat down, and he fetched two bottles of water.

"I'm not very familiar with this place," Murphy admitted, handing her a bottle, "I haven't been here much."

"I can tell," Gal said, taking a sip, "Men naturally avoid shopping."

She continued, "Your friend Niwo said you're a hard worker. Such people aren't interested in shopping."

"It's not disinterest," Murphy explained, "My friends are mostly men, and it's odd to ask them out for shopping. That'd be too bizarre."

Gal pointed to a table nearby, where two men sat close together under an umbrella.

"Remember not to discriminate against gay people," she whispered.

Murphy raised an eyebrow, leaning in, "And don't frame and defame me!"

Their faces were barely a foot apart, their breaths intermingling. Gal could see faint scars on Murphy's face, while he saw his reflection in her bright eyes. They were growing closer, step by step.

Their eyes locked for a brief moment before Gal looked away.

Murphy turned, aiming for a closer look, but then noticed a bearded man with a camera not thirty feet behind Gal. Instantly, he recognized the man as a paparazzo.

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