Chapter 86: Launch Event

Nicole Kidman was only 23 years old, and after Arthur's fiery pep talk, she was filled with determination. Arthur's resume was impressive, making even difficult things seem easy when he talked about them.

"Shoot To Die For well. After it premieres next year, a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress is almost guaranteed. Winning Best Actress in a Drama is tough, but you can definitely aim for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy.

You've read the script. It's actually a satire, mocking society and how people go to any lengths to achieve their goals.

Then, I'll arrange for you to star in a commercial film. With both awards and box office success, you'll establish yourself in Hollywood and have a shot at the Oscars. That's your future plan!"

Arthur spoke convincingly, leaving Nicole Kidman stunned. He even gently wiped the tears from her face.

Nicole quickly shook her head, "You make winning awards and creating high-grossing commercial films sound so easy. Why?"

"Do I have any low-grossing films?"

"No, but you've only produced one film so far."

"The second one is about to be released soon," Arthur said, patting her shoulder. "And the third one has finished shooting. I'll soon start the fourth and fifth."

The second film was Sleeping with the Enemy, the third was The Silence of the Lambs, and the fourth and fifth were To Die For and Scream.

"You play the supporting male role in To Die For. Our collaboration will create buzz."

Nicole Kidman wrapped her arms around Arthur's neck. "I don't care about your affairs outside, but you must take care of my matters. Now that I'm your woman, I don't want to return to Australia in disgrace. You don't want your woman to be exploited by other producers or directors, do you?"

"Don't worry," Arthur sighed, "Let's focus on preparing for To Die For. And inform Naomi Watts to come to America quickly for the Scream audition."

Nicole looked at Arthur. "You really want me to lead the Australian actors?"

Arthur leaned back on the sofa. "Now that you're my woman, it's only fair. But it also depends on the talent of Australian actors. I've given you the opportunity; it's up to you to seize it."

"I understand. Having a chance in Hollywood is already good enough," Nicole said, remembering how she had to seek out roles and auditions when she first came.

"Between Naomi Watts and me, who's prettier?"

"You are!"

"I don't mind if you sleep with her. If you have the ability, you can sleep with any Australian woman you want, but I hope you'll provide the proper opportunities in return," Nicole said, seeing things clearly.

"You now have the support of a film company and can develop projects. Roles are bargaining chips, and we actors have few choices. Also, given your looks, young actresses won't refuse you. Everyone prefers a young and handsome man over an older one."

After Ghost took the global box office by storm in the summer, another low-budget romance film, Pretty Woman, became a huge hit in the latter half of the year.

Soon, Meg Ryan from Sleepless in Seattle, Demi Moore from Ghost, and Julia Roberts from Pretty Woman created a wave of female empowerment in Hollywood.

Galaxy Films, in partnership with Village Roadshow Pictures, held a launch event for To Die For, directed by Australian director Peter Weir. The event featured Nicole Kidman, Matt Dillon, and Arthur Smith.

During the event, Arthur was interviewed by a Vanity Fair reporter, who asked if he was involved in the rumors between Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise.

Nicole, with her blonde straight hair and radiant beauty, seemed to attract more attention for Tom Cruise's news than her own.

"Actually, Nicole and I met last year at the Paramount gate while preparing to audition for Days of Thunder. At that time, we were both newcomers, just encouraging each other. Unfortunately, I didn't get the part..."

Arthur described how he and Nicole had supported each other during tough times as young, struggling actors in Hollywood.

"So, you went to Australia recently just to find Nicole?" a reporter asked, trying to trap him.

"I went to get Village Roadshow to invest in my project and coincidentally found Nicole shooting a local film there. I knew she was perfect for the role, so I recommended her to Village Roadshow. I believe that talented directors and actors will create brilliant sparks together!"

Unyielding, the Vanity Fair reporter pressed on, "What do you think of Tom Cruise?"

"He's an excellent actor and a Hollywood superstar."

Another reporter from Variety asked, "Recently, the buzz around Ghost and Pretty Woman has surpassed Sleepless in Seattle. What's your take on that?"

Arthur adjusted the microphone. "Earlier this year, many papers called Sleepless in Seattle the best romance film of the year. You even praised me as a genius screenwriter and a role model for young writers..."

Sleepless in Seattle was in the limelight until Ghost premiered. The praise went to everyone involved, and the studio made a substantial profit.

Arthur had entrusted much of the work on To Die For to Amy Pascal, whose work ethic and capabilities impressed him. The film was scheduled to start shooting in November, aiming to wrap by February, with Columbia setting an August release date.

"It's a pity, really. Do you think Tom Cruise regrets not being with you now that you look so beautiful?" Arthur joked, lying on top of Nicole in bed.

"You always come up with novel ideas," Nicole replied, scratching his back. "No wonder you're so enthusiastic tonight."

However, during the day, facing the media's flashbulbs, Nicole indeed felt an uncontrollable excitement.

With that, Nicole embraced Arthur and kissed him passionately, a fiery and fervent kiss...

*****

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