A Meeting at Stardust

12 Angry Men was released a week ago. As expected, the film was a phenomenal critical success. Every critic praised it for the plot, the cinematography, and the acting. Words like masterpiece, timeless, and Oscar-worthy were being thrown around. 

However, despite the glowing reviews, the film was not looking like it was going to be a financial success. The box office numbers were underwhelming, and it seemed like the broader audience wasn't flocking to see a black-and-white courtroom drama set in the 1950s.

I was lazily lying on the long, plush leather couch in Chris's office. The room was modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that allowed sunlight to stream in, illuminating the sleek, dark wood furniture and the framed movie posters on the walls. A large mahogany desk sat at the center, cluttered with papers. Behind it was a comfortable executive chair, where Chris sat, looking as tired as I felt.

We were having a meeting. Henry, Dave, Sam, Chris, and a few other executives were present, their faces a mix of concern and contemplation. Ron Howard and Tom Hanks were on the phone, their voices crackling through the speaker. 

Chris leaned forward, elbows resting on his desk. "So, where do we stand?" he asked, looking around the room.

"Critically, we're a hit," Sam said. "But financially the projections... it's not looking good."

The room went silent.

"It's the black and white. I told you some people might be put off by it," Ron said through the phone.

"People will come, we just have to give it time," Tom said, his voice calm but firm.

"That is a nice sentiment, Mr. Hanks, but if it doesn't sell tickets, the theaters will pull it," one executive said, frustration evident in his tone.

"We are projected to make our money back," Chris said, trying to sound optimistic looking through the reports. "The important thing is the Oscars."

I stayed silent, listening to them discuss, feeling the weight of the situation but not sure how to contribute.

"Finally, one man speaks sense," Tom said, clearly exasperated.

"Well, we can afford to lose money, can't we?" Henry said in a jovial tone. "We made over a billion dollars with the last movie."

"Yes, Henry, we did, but we would have liked the first movie to be made in the new Stardust Studios to have some financial success as well," Chris replied, his voice tinged with irritation.

The room erupted into an argument, each person expressing their different opinions.

"We should have stuck to color," one executive said.

"No, the black and white is what makes it stand out," Sam countered.

"But it's not bringing in the people!" the executive shot back.

"Critics love it, and it will have a long shelf life," Dave said, trying to mediate.

"We should focus on the Oscar campaign," Chris said firmly. "If we win, it will boost DVD sales."

"But what if we don't win?" another executive asked.

"Then we still have a critically acclaimed film that will be studied for years," Ron said, his voice resolute through the speaker.

Henry tried to lighten the mood. "Look, we've got a hit on our hands, even if it's not a blockbuster. It's a marathon, not a sprint."

I zoned out from their argument and took Chris's open laptop on the table next to me and browsed the internet for some reactions to the movie, something I had been putting off.

The reactions on twitter looked positive.

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@NoirthrillAC: Just watched 12 Angry Men and wow! What a masterpiece! Everything was perfect! #12AngryMen #Oscars

@Logansmth3d: 12 Angry Men is a modern classic. The black and white cinematography adds so much depth. Bravo @RonHoward and @DanielAdler #MustWatch

@CritiqueartPro: If you haven't seen 12 Angry Men yet, you're missing out on one of the best films of the decade. Incredible performances by the entire cast. #12AngryMen

@Love69plz: This is why I love movies. 12 Angry Men is a true work of art. The tension, the drama, it's all there. #OscarContender

@Theguywhowatches: Was skeptical about the black and white, but 12 Angry Men completely blew me away. Stunning film! #FilmOfTheYear

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I then decided to check out some popular movie forums.

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12 Angry Men - A Timeless MasterpieceThis is my review of 12 Angry Men. 

This film is nothing short of a masterpiece, and I firmly believe it will be talked about and studied for decades to come.

Firstly, the acting in this movie is phenomenal. Tom Hanks, J.K. Simmons, Gary Oldman, and the rest of the cast deliver performances that are both powerful and nuanced. Each actor brings their character to life in a way that makes you forget you're watching a movie. The tension and emotion they convey are amazing, making every scene riveting.

The screenplay, written by Daniel Adler, is brilliant. It's rare to see such depth and complexity in modern cinema. The dialogue is sharp and thought-provoking, diving deep into themes of justice, prejudice, and moral integrity. Adler has managed to create a script that is both timeless and incredibly relevant to today's world.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its cinematography. The decision to shoot in black and white was a bold choice that pays off beautifully. It adds a layer of permanence and helps to focus on the characters' expressions and the claustrophobic setting of the movie.

This movie is not just a great watch; it's a film that will be studied in film schools for years to come. The way it handles character development, narrative tension, and visual storytelling is a masterclass in filmmaking. Future directors, screenwriters, and actors will look to 12 Angry Men as an example of how to create a compelling and impactful film.

In conclusion, 12 Angry Men is a movie that stands out in every aspect. It's a film that will be remembered and discussed for decades, not just for its artistic merit, but for its exploration of human nature and justice. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch it. You won't be disappointed.What are your thoughts on the film? 

Comments

MysticNebulon : This movie was incredible! The performances were so intense and believable. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Use of black and white was a brilliant choice. It added so much to the atmosphere.

Fanatic85 : I agree with MysticNebulon, the black and white really worked well. It enhanced the story. I can't imagine it in color having the same impact.

ColorMeCrazy : I liked the movie, but I honestly think it would have been better in color. Black and white felt a bit too old-fashioned for me. Still, the acting and writing were top-notch.

ClassicFilmFan : ColorMeCrazy, I have to disagree. The black and white added a level of depth and focus that color wouldn't have. It forced you to pay attention to the characters and their expressions, which is where the real story was.

VortexVoyeur : After watching 12 Angry Men, I'm even more excited to see what Daniel Adler comes up with in the future. If he can deliver something this profound at such a young age, the sky's the limit for him.

ZenithZephyr : The hype is real, folks. This film exceeded my expectations. The black and white choice was bold but perfect for the setting. Adler's writing combined with Howard's direction was a match made in heaven.

JustHereForPopcorn : I enjoyed the movie, but I still think it would have been more appealing to a wider audience in color. That being said, I'm impressed by how well it turned out and can see why it's getting Oscar buzz.

CinephileGal : I can't stop thinking about this film. It's so rare to find a movie that combines great acting, writing, and direction so seamlessly. The black and white made it feel like a classic, even though it's brand new.

AstralArtisan : The black and white really set the tone and mood. It made the jury room feel more oppressive and tense. Daniel Adler nailed it with this script. Definitely going to follow his career closely.

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'Well well people really like it' I thought with a smile 

Only a matter of time before word of mouth gets more people to watch the movie.I closed the laptop and sat up and turned to the huge argument going on in the room.

"Gentlemen," I called out, trying to bring a sense of unity back into the room. "We did it. We made a hell of a movie. We should be celebrating, not fighting."

The room quieted down as I continued. "The movie will make money. People are talking about it, and it's all been positive. It's our fault that we released it two weeks after the new Harry Potter movie."

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows came out two weeks ago and also the movie Megamind too which was very popular and in a week the new Narnia movie will come out as well.

"He's right," Dave said, nodding in agreement.

"Let's see what happens in a week or two. If word of mouth gets around, people will come," I added. "Let's not pull the movie out just yet. Instead, let's increase ads, especially on the internet. I'm sure we can gross double the budget of the movie."

"You heard the kid," Tom said through the phone. "We need to focus on the academy now. The money will come."

"So, how many do we have a chance of winning?" Henry asked, leaning forward with interest.

"J.K. has to win. We will be spearheading with him," Chris said confidently. "Original screenplay by Daniel too," he added.

"Why not Tom or Ron for Best Director?" Henry asked.

"They could win, but they already have one. Tom won back-to-back," Dave noted.

"Yes, I did," Tom said, chuckling through the phone.

"Daniel, you will be attending some parties in the coming months," Chris said, turning to me.

"For the Oscar campaign?" I asked.

"Yes," he replied.

I nodded.

"Remember what the kid suggested: more ads and have the theaters keep it for the next two weeks," Henry said, getting up and signaling the end of the meeting.

Everyone except Chris and I left the room. Chris sat down at his desk, and I walked over to him.

"So, what did you think about the manuscript for my new book I sent you?" I asked.

Chris leaned back in his chair. "It's different, very different. I did not expect a book like this from you," he said.

"I guess that will be the primary reaction when I release it" I said.

"But I have to ask, why kill Ned Stark? I mean, he's the protagonist." Chris asked.

"What made you think he was the protagonist?" I was amused.

"I don't know….. the parts until..you know… he died," Chris replied.

He then asked me a barrage of questions. I sat there listening to it with a grin slowly spreading across my face.

"And Jon Snow, who is his mother?" Chris asked, looking at me for an answer.

"Whoa, whoa, wait for the next one," I said, laughing. "I promise all your questions will be answered, but you have to be patient."

Chris was clearly hooked on the story.

"You know, maybe after three or four books are released, we could make it into a TV show," I suggested.

"That will be expensive," Chris said, a hint of concern in his voice.

"Yes, that's why I said much later," I agreed. 

Chris nodded. "I'll send your assistant the dates for the parties," he said.

"Hope they are short" I muttered while getting up.

"See ya later boss" I said walking out of the room.

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