Chapter 758: The Middlemen!

After wrapping up the bank scene, the crew transitioned to the vibrant streets of Boston, ready to capture the essence of the city in their outdoor shots.

Shooting on location in a bustling metropolis presented its challenges, requiring intricate coordination with local authorities, managing the flow of traffic and pedestrians, and respecting the city's rhythm.

In Charleston, the crew secured an outdoor café for a full day of shooting, setting the stage for two pivotal scenes.

Amidst the clinks of coffee cups and murmurs of patrons, Martin, Alexandra Daddario, and Jeremy Renner seamlessly slipped into character, exchanging dialogue and gestures under Villeneuve's watchful eye.

Villeneuve's voice occasionally cut through the ambient chatter, guiding the trio with precision. "Your emotional state isn't quite there," he remarked, fixing his gaze on Alexandra. "It's not a typical hostage situation; it's a complex, nuanced connection. You're not aware Martin's the robber; you're lost in a perfect illusion of love."

Alexandra's instinctive defense was met with Villeneuve's unwavering stare.

With a flutter of her ice-blue eyes, Alexandra turned to Martin, seeking affirmation. Villeneuve's diagnosis was sharp: "Your demeanor, coupled with your appearance, mirrors that of someone with Stockholm Syndrome."

Martin's gentle advice followed, urging Alexandra to soften her gaze and maintain composure.

With resolve, Alexandra nodded. "I'll get it right this time."

As the cameras rolled once more, Martin and Jeremy Renner effortlessly slipped back into character, while Alexandra recalibrated her performance, gradually finding the elusive emotional depth.

Outside the café, a throng of fans and journalists began to assemble, eager for a glimpse behind the scenes.

Producer Graham King conferred briefly with Villeneuve and Martin, preparing for the media frenzy that would follow the day's shoot.

With lunchtime came interviews, and Martin found himself seated in the café, fielding questions from reporters representing various media outlets.

Peffer, a blonde reporter from the renowned Boston Globe, led the charge. "Martin, why set this movie in Boston?" she inquired, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Martin's smile was warm as he responded, "Having filmed 'The Departed' here, I developed a deep affection for Boston's rich history. The protagonist's origins in the novel resonated with me, reflecting my own journey from the Atlanta slums. Boston felt like the perfect backdrop for this story."

Another reporter chimed in, her voice curious yet empathetic, "Can you reflect on what led you away from that path?"

Martin's shoulders lifted in a casual shrug, but his expression turned solemn. "Many of my childhood friends ended up in gangs," he began, his tone weighted with the gravity of his memories. "Some didn't make it past their teenage years..."

"I'm sorry," the reporter interjected softly, her sympathy palpable.

Martin shook his head, as if dispelling a haunting thought, and continued, "It was a time of tough choices and constant battles, much like the protagonist in this novel. They were all struggles of survival and identity."

Nods rippled through the gathered reporters, many of whom were familiar with the novel's themes.

"We all find ourselves trapped in certain circumstances, fighting to break free and rewrite our stories," Martin elaborated, his words resonating with the audience. "It's a universal theme, especially for those trying to escape the grip of crime."

Among the reporters were individuals who knew firsthand the challenges of breaking free from such environments in the United States.

"In your case, Martin, you've succeeded," one remarked, acknowledging his journey.

A smile touched Martin's lips. "I hope more can find that same success," he replied earnestly.

As the joint interview concluded, the internet buzzed with extensive coverage of Martin's insights.

"Martin Davis: A Tale of Struggle and Redemption!"

"Boston Set for Another Martin Davis Masterpiece!"

"From Stockings to Banks: Martin Davis' Unique Vision!"

The media frenzy further fueled anticipation for the film, amplifying its reach beyond the set.

During an afternoon break, Graham approached Martin with an opportunity. "We're supporting Chuck Hogan with an award," he explained. "The Hammett Award holds sway in the literary world."

Martin nodded in agreement. "With the novel's reputation, the film adaptation stands to gain. I'll reach out to Disney Pictures for their support."

"This will give us added leverage," Graham affirmed.

Without hesitation, Martin reached for his phone, dialing Jessica to initiate discussions with Disney Pictures.

With negotiations underway, Martin returned to the set, his focus shifting back to the task at hand—bringing the protagonist's journey to life on screen.

After a morning of adjustments, Alexandra Daddario's condition improved significantly, and the afternoon filming proceeded seamlessly, with all scenes wrapped up by four o'clock, allowing the crew to wrap early.

As Martin stepped out of his trailer, ready to head home, he was interrupted by the sudden appearance of a girl beside him.

With long brown-black hair akin to Daddario's but darker eyes and a less striking figure, the girl greeted him, "Hi, Martin, do you remember me?"

Martin paused for effect, then replied with a hint of recognition, "You're... Catherine, from when I was shooting 'John Wick' in New York a few years back. How many times did we bump into each other?"

Catherine's eyes lit up with nostalgia, "That's right, it's me! We even took a photo together, and my classmates were so jealous!"

Martin inquired, "I heard from your sister that you've ventured into acting?"

Catherine's smile faded slightly, "Yes, seeing her rise to stardom, I thought it'd be a breeze. Turns out, I'm stuck with minor roles."

Martin empathized, "The industry's fiercely competitive. Your sister's success wasn't overnight."

"Why should she be the only one to succeed?" Catherine retorted. "I'm just as capable."

Martin remained diplomatic, "Your sister has exceptional talent. Not everyone's blessed with that."

Glancing at Daddario's impeccable features, Martin couldn't help but marvel at her rarity in Hollywood.

Catherine persisted, "I have talent too, you know."

Martin's response was noncommittal.

Just then, Alexandra Daddario appeared, jogging towards them, her presence commanding attention.

Catherine watched her sister, a hint of envy flickering across her face. "Always stealing the spotlight," she muttered. "But... she's not the only one who can turn heads."

As Alexandra stepped off the trailer, she spotted her sister and dashed towards Martin, latching onto his left arm. She shot a quizzical glance at Catherine across from them, asking, "When did you arrive? Why didn't you give me a call?"

Catherine, noticing Martin's arm already occupied, felt a pang of jealousy towards her sister's effortless charm. "I tried calling, but you were busy filming. Can't you even pick me up from the airport?" she retorted, her tone tinged with frustration.

Alexandra raised an eyebrow, "Is that why you came all the way from New York? To pick a fight with me?"

Catherine quickly backtracked, wrapping her arms around her sister, "No, no! I came to support you and maybe score some roles with your help."

With a subtle glance towards Martin, Alexandra reassured her sister, "I'll keep an eye out for opportunities."

Martin, sensing the tension, intervened, "Let's head back to the hotel, dinner's on me."

Catherine, playing the part of an excited fan, chimed in, "Can I get a photo with you during dinner? It'll drive those haters crazy!"

Martin grinned, "Absolutely."

The trio climbed into Bruce's Escalade, heading back to the crew's hotel.

That evening, Martin treated the Daddario sisters to a lavish French dinner.

While Martin excused himself to the restroom, Catherine leaned in to Alexandra, "Are you staying in a suite? Mind if I crash in your room tonight?"

Alexandra handed her sister a room card, "Room number's on it. Go ahead."

Catherine raised an eyebrow, "You openly share a room with Martin on set?"

Alexandra shrugged, "Why not? It's refreshing, and I wake up feeling great the next day. Plus, have you seen my skin lately? It's glowing."

Catherine, begrudgingly impressed, muttered, "Must be all those fancy skincare products."

Before she could retort, Martin returned, prompting Alexandra to change the subject.

The trio continued their lively conversation throughout dinner, the tension easing with each passing moment.

Afterward, Alexandra accompanied Martin to his suite, while Catherine retired to her sister's room, nursing her frustrations about relying on Martin's connections.

"Middlemen and their commissions," she grumbled to herself, taking a sip of water. "The bane of my existence."