Chapter 276: Excitement

At Warner Studio, inside the temporary filming room of the crew:

Action director Chad held the remote control, and the TV screen displayed his meticulously edited gunfight clips, primarily focused on realism. The sound of gunfire, "ping-ping-pong-pong," filled the air.

Martin, much like his character Eddie, watched intently, studying the protagonist's gun skills in the film. These clips, skillfully edited by Chad, would serve as Eddie's source of inspiration and learning in the final film "Limitless."

First up, it was Clint Eastwood in the classic scene of the aging cowboy engaging in a revolver duel in "Unforgiven."

When Martin wasn't shooting, he made it a point to practice shooting at least twice a week, though he used revolvers less frequently.

The screen transitioned to a clip from a movie that Martin had seen countless times. "Heat!"

The pace of the entire movie was as slow as Jack Nicholson maneuvering Meryl Streep in a trailer. Viewers accustomed to the fast pace of modern cinema often fast-forwarded to the bank heist, gunfight, and ending, skipping the measured buildup.

Chad commented, "This shootout is a classic among classics. We've obtained Warner Bros.' authorization to recreate this film." Martin nodded and watched as Al Pacino's character shot and killed a kidnapped child. He pressed pause and began mentally constructing a gunfight scene.

Chad paused and added, "This segment is not only realistic but highly practical. It's said that the two robbers used this film as a reference for a major heist in 1998." Martin thought of Michael Mann's "Heat" and "Collateral." Mann was known for his authentic gunfight scenes.

The TV screen transitioned once more, this time showcasing a scene involving someone using a borrowed knife to eliminate an adversary.

Chad mentioned, "I've been studying Michael Mann's gunfight designs lately, and I've gained some insights."

Martin agreed, "I remember his gunfight scenes always had that realistic touch."

After rewatching scenes from these three movies, Chad and Martin went to a nearby training ground to simulate exercises with prop guns, with Bruce joining in as Martin's training partner.

Efficiency was the name of the game in their training.

During a break, Martin received a call from Thomas and requested Bruce to negotiate with the agency on Martin's behalf. This was a manager's responsibility.

Bruce agreed, "I'll visit WMA this afternoon."

The crew employed a substantial number of WMA clients. For instance, the veteran actor playing the Wall Street tycoon had chosen Robert De Niro, an Ariel Emmanuel client.

In the afternoon, Aniston visited the studio to rehearse scenes with the leading actor, Martin. As the film's heroine, such rehearsals were part of her regular work routine.

The two of them entered a conference room, and Aniston closed the door to avoid interruptions, asking Martin, "Shall we get started?"

Martin had already shifted his focus to the role, replying promptly, "Let's begin."

Aniston initiated a discussion about her character: "Isn't Linda's character a bit ordinary?"

Martin provided his perspective, "It's not ordinary, but it's grounded in real life, right? The male lead, Eddie, struggles with poverty and relies on his writing to make ends meet, yet he's unable to concentrate, finish his work, or even pay the rent. Why would Linda be interested in him?"

Aniston countered, "Once the male protagonist starts using smart drugs, his IQ and EQ skyrocket, and he becomes successful. Linda chooses to get closer to him. Doesn't that make sense?"

The screenwriter, director, and Martin, who was leading the project, all viewed the female character from a male perspective, and Martin saw no issue with that.

He added, "The story has the heroine staying with the hero throughout and eventually entering the political arena."

Aniston playfully remarked, "So after the hero has had his fun and grown tired, the heroine takes over?"

Martin retorted, "It's true love!"

He emphasized, "One is exquisite and beautiful, and the other is handsome and rich. Aren't they a perfect match?"

Aniston couldn't help but look at Martin with newfound curiosity. If Martin were indeed an unattractive, overweight man, would she be resorting to such tactics against Angelina Jolie?

The answer was evident.

Aniston warmly invited, "Are you free tonight? I've been wanting to invite you for dinner for a while, but finding the right time has been challenging. How about tonight?" Martin gladly accepted, saying, "If Rachel is inviting me, I'll make time. But let me treat you."

Jennifer Aniston smiled and swiftly booked a table at the Chateau Marmont Hotel's Italian restaurant using her mobile phone. The hotel and restaurant were frequented by Hollywood stars, guaranteeing encounters with industry insiders.

Aniston's choice of location was strategic, hinting at her budding relationship with Martin.

Dedicated as ever, Martin put aside the script and prepared to rehearse the scene with Aniston.

Director Danny Boyle had already led part of the crew to New York for preparations, as they would soon be filming in the city.

At the entrance of Warner Studio, Bruce returned from WMA in Century City. He parked his car and strolled into the studio area. As he was about to drive his electric car, someone nearby called out to him.

"Bruce, Bruce!" Julie beckoned from her seat at a wooden table, urging him to join her. Bruce glanced at his watch, then walked over, taking a seat across from Angelina Jolie and greeting her with a friendly, "Good afternoon."

Angelina Jolie inquired, "Did Aniston visit Martin's set today?" Aware of the gossip surrounding Martin, Bruce, who knew the situation best, nodded in confirmation. "Yes, she's the female lead and had to rehearse and act alongside Martin."

Angelina Jolie paused briefly, her curiosity unquenched. "Just rehearsing?"

Bruce, with a mischievous grin, responded, "Well, with so many people around in that tiny studio, what else could they possibly do?" Jolie laughed.

Bruce asked, "Do you have time on your hands?"

Jolie nonchalantly replied, "I haven't been filming much lately, and I'm not too busy." She then inquired earnestly, "Brother, is there any female role in the 'Limitless' crew suitable for me? I don't mind the role or the pay; I just want to be a part of it."

Bruce considered it from a managerial perspective, realizing the potential for explosive publicity with Martin, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Aniston involved in the project. However, he cautiously stated, "If you're asking my opinion, I'm not sure."

Jolie understood and decided not to press further on the matter. Instead, she changed the topic, inquiring, "Is Martin free tonight?"

Bruce checked his phone and informed Jolie that Aniston had made dinner plans with Martin at an Italian restaurant at the Chateau Marmont Hotel. Jolie expressed her gratitude with a nod and a "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Bruce replied. Sensing the end of the conversation, he stood up and continued his way to the studio.

Jolie watched Bruce depart and said nothing more. Bruce hopped on his electric car and made his way to the studio. Along the way, he called Martin.

Jolie turned around and entered a nearby ice cream shop. She found a seat near the window, strategically located for anyone leaving the studio area.

After some contemplation, she decided to make a reservation at the Chateau Marmont Hotel's restaurant. Yet, something still felt incomplete.

Suddenly, her phone chimed with a text message. The message contained just one word: "Brad Pitt!"

Angelina Jolie immediately understood that an essential piece was missing: Pete. Without him, half the excitement would be lost.

"It's thrilling just thinking about it!" Jolie licked her lips and dialed her assistant, instructing them to find a way to inform Brad Pitt that Martin had dinner plans with Aniston at the Marmont Hotel. With a satisfied grin, she mused to herself, "Tonight promises to be exhilarating. Am I a little perverse? No, I'm simply enjoying it all!" Excitement coursed through Julie's veins, her hand trembling with anticipation, and she almost dropped her cold drink.

Subsequently, she frequently checked her watch, experiencing the rare sensation of time moving at a sluggish pace.

In Century City, within the Death Star Building:

The renowned entertainment agent, Brian Lord, was in his office, receiving Brad Pitt. Lord noticed the strong scent of alcohol and asked, "Have you been drinking a lot at lunch?"

Brad Pitt waved dismissively, saying, "Just a few drinks."

Lord decided not to dwell on it; after all, it was not unusual for Hollywood stars to indulge in alcohol. He addressed the matter at hand, saying, "I've talked to Martin Davis. Let's put the past behind us. Don't act impulsively when you see him."

Brad Pitt, upon hearing Martin's name, grew agitated. "I never planned to provoke him, but the things he did are despicable. He pursued Jolie when we were together, and when I turned to reconnect with Aniston, he pursued her too. How can I endure this? What man would tolerate it?"

Lord cautioned him, "This is a personal grudge, and the company won't intervene. Remember, Aniston is also one of our most valuable clients." He refrained from mentioning that Aniston's importance and revenue generation for CAA far exceeded Pitt's.

"I understand," Brad Pitt acknowledged, "I'll do my best to win Jane back."

Although he had been drinking more lately, Pete knew that he couldn't maintain his current status and appeal without a high-profile female partner. Without Jolie, Aniston was his best option.

"Promise me not to engage in any conflict with Martin Davis," Lord emphasized. He recognized that Martin was a formidable opponent. Brad Pitt nodded, stood up, and left Lord's office. As he exited the Death Star building, he received a phone call from his manager, causing his expression to tense up.