Chapter 71: Role Selection

Brad Pitt nodded and quickly started reading the material, making the most of his time.

...

The ten minutes quickly passed, and Kevin looked at Brad Pitt, who had closed his eyes and was constructing his own version of Captain Jack Sparrow.

"Let's begin. Please perform the scene where Captain Jack narrowly escapes being caught and introduces himself," Kevin said, his gaze fixed on Brad Pitt.

Although Kevin's first choice was undoubtedly Johnny Depp, if Brad Pitt could portray the desired feeling that Kevin was looking for, he could be considered as a replacement.

Kevin had some concerns about a young Johnny Depp.

...

Upon hearing Kevin's words, Brad Pitt opened his eyes.

The paper Kevin handed him described a character with somewhat effeminate mannerisms but very masculine actions. The character had a complex personality, exhibiting multiple facets—a unique portrayal of a captain that had never been seen in previous films. Brad Pitt had no reference points to draw from; he could only rely on his own understanding to perform such a role.

This was the most challenging aspect, actually.

Brad Pitt glanced at the props around him—just a table and chairs; nothing else.

With a small leap, Brad Pitt climbed onto the table, a proud smile suddenly appearing on his face. Through that smile, those familiar with the script immediately visualized the scene being portrayed.

Captain Jack Sparrow was about to escape the pursuit of his enemies. Before making his getaway, he stood atop a high point, exuding a triumphant air.

Brad Pitt showcased his entire repertoire of acting skills, combining it with his facial expression. He proudly declared, "Children, you must always remember this day. You almost caught the owner of the Black Pearl, the most powerful pirate lord among the Nine Pirate Lords—Captain Jack Sparrow!"

Brad Pitt, with his exceptional acting talent, had undergone a tremendous transformation since studying under the guidance of actor Roy London and receiving systematic professional training. The strong emotional impact of his performance impressed Reed, who had no fixed image of Captain Jack Sparrow in mind, as well as the Warner Bros. producer.

Kevin's expression remained unchanged as he nodded slightly and softly said, "You did well in your performance. If the decision is made, you will be notified."

Upon hearing this, Brad Pitt couldn't help but show a disappointed expression.

Generally speaking, this situation meant that he had become a replacement. Unless none of the subsequent actors could surpass him, it would be difficult for him to secure the role.

Brad Pitt turned around, preparing to leave, when he suddenly heard Kevin say, "Would you be willing to play the supporting male role?"

Brad Pitt's face instantly lit up with joy. Although he didn't land the lead role of Captain Jack Sparrow, securing the second male lead role was still quite good for his current status in the industry.

"I am willing."

"Good. I will contact you when the time comes. You can go back and wait for the news."

Brad Pitt nodded and suppressed his excitement before leaving the audition room.

Watching Brad Pitt's departing figure, Kevin smiled. After considering it just now, he realized that Brad Pitt was the perfect choice for Will Turner, the blacksmith.

Orlando Bloom might be handsome as the Elf Prince, but he exuded more of a pretty-boy vibe, which didn't align naturally with the blacksmith profession. Brad Pitt, on the other hand, had a robust frame. With some makeup and a touch of ruggedness, he would perfectly embody a strong blacksmith.

It was a perfect fit.

After Brad Pitt left, Jude Law also came for an audition.

However, the young Jude Law was quickly passed over by Kevin.

After another round of auditions, Johnny Depp finally made his appearance.

As they looked at Johnny Depp's appearance, both Rett and the Warner Bros. producer instantly knew that he was Kevin's favored actor. Unless something unexpected happened, there was a high chance that he would land the role.

Johnny Depp, who considered himself a rock star, usually had long hair. With the help of professionals, his messy hair, tanned skin, and the appearance of being weathered by the sea breeze made him look like a real pirate, someone who didn't have time for grooming while on a ship.

Just by his appearance alone, it was evident that he came prepared.

"Depp, perform a scene where Captain Jack Sparrow stands proudly in a high place before his escape."

"The lines are from the part that says, 'Children, you shall always remember...'"

Depp nodded and chose to step onto the table to simulate being in a high place. However, unlike Brad Pitt, Depp walked onto the table with a peculiar swaying motion, constantly shifting from left to right.

The peculiar posture, combined with Depp's flamboyant gestures, immediately brought forth the image of a flamboyant character in front of the others.

Depp stood on the table, struck his pose, and then spoke, "Children, you shall always remember today. You were this close to capturing the owner of the Black Pearl, the most powerful pirate among the Nine Pirate Kings, Captain Jack Sparrow!"

The lines were identical to Brad Pitt's, but Depp's portrayal was undoubtedly more effeminate, creating a unique impression on Rett and the Warner Bros. producer.

"Kevin, I think... Brad Pitt's portrayal of the captain seems to align more with people's expectations?" Rett tentatively asked.

Kevin pulled the corner of his eye and smiled, explaining, "This is exactly the feeling I wanted. The extreme contrast. Depp's portrayal is excellent. Trust me, Captain Jack Sparrow will undoubtedly become one of my most outstanding works."

Kevin was so confident, leaving no room for further discussion.

With the tremendous success of his previous three movies at the box office, Kevin held great influence, and they had no choice but to accept his decision.

Kevin looked at Johnny Depp and said, "Depp, this film is yours. There's still some time before the official filming begins. Use this time to get used to the rocking sensation of the ship and practice your swordplay. Make sure your posture looks good."

After giving Depp his instructions, Kevin proceeded to discuss the investment in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise with the Warner Bros. producer, inviting Robinov for the negotiations at MGM.

At the same time, Kevin instructed Zack Snyder to start selecting supporting actors near Hollywood.

Apart from a few roles that Kevin had prepared for his own team, he entrusted Zack Snyder with the casting decisions for the rest of the roles.

...