Chapter 57: Screening Opportunity

"It seems you have a lot of experience," Kara Faith laughed. "Have you done this before?"

"How could that be?" Murphy put on an innocent face. "Am I that kind of person?"

He adopted a serious expression but spoke in a joking tone, "Dear, only if it's you."

"Don't joke like that," Kara Faith warned, taking a sip of her wine. "I'll take it seriously, and then you'll regret it."

"Ahem..." Murphy coughed, changing the topic back. "Let's talk about movies. Hollywood has developed a complete production system. Once it becomes systematic, it's hard to think outside the box, like bad money driving out good."

Shrugging, he continued, "That's why the protagonist's car always escapes in chase scenes while the pursuer's car crashes or breaks down. When couples argue, it always ends with a slap, followed by a moment of silence, then the man grabs her and kisses her, solving all problems."

Kara Faith dismissed it, "Isn't that how all romance movies are?"

"I swear, that trick doesn't work," Murphy shook his head and redirected the topic again. "Anyway, this system is a Hollywood money-making machine. It's not just me saying this; the facts are out there."

Kara Faith took another sip of her wine and said suddenly, "I'm going to New York."

"Hmm?" Murphy looked up, puzzled. "Why?"

She was one of his few friends in Los Angeles.

Perhaps because they had taken different paths, Murphy could feel Ross actively distancing himself. If Kara Faith left, he would truly be alone in the City of Angels.

"The company suggested I go for further studies," Kara Faith said, resting her chin on one hand. "My mentor at Columbia University secured a good opportunity for me."

Murphy raised his glass to her. "Congratulations."

Although he didn't know much about American universities, he knew this was a good thing.

Being an extremely career-driven woman, Kara Faith took a plane to New York a few days later. After seeing her off, Murphy devoted all his energy to the post-production of "Hard Candy." With more work involvement, his skills improved, just as Bill Rosseys had evaluated; Murphy might lack experience but had excellent learning ability.

After several busy weeks, Murphy could independently handle most of the editing work. He could find the right editing points from the chaotic footage and turn the raw material into his envisioned final product.

To finish as soon as possible, he stayed at the studio, spending almost all his time working, except for eating and resting. He even declined several invitations from Carey Mulligan.

As Christmas approached, Murphy and Griffiths completed the film's editing. James Franco and Carey Mulligan also did some voice-overs for certain scenes, bringing the post-production to its final stages.

Every film needs a soundtrack, and "Hard Candy" was no exception. Lacking the money and time for original music, Murphy chose a few fitting tracks, paid the licensing fees, and obtained the rights to use them. The soundtrack featured three main pieces: "Awakening Afternoon" for Haley's entrance, a disco track for Jeff's photoshoot, and a heart-throbbing pop-metal song for the climax.

With the thirty thousand dollars almost used up, Murphy had no money for a professional sound editor. He and Jody Griffiths did it themselves, taking over a week to complete.

Meanwhile, Bill Rosseys fulfilled his promise, securing Murphy a spot for "Hard Candy" in the official screening section of the Sundance Film Festival. The film would be showcased alongside many other independent projects involving CAA.

Bill Rosseys also used CAA's channels to send the film to the MPAA. Due to Murphy's careful handling, the film received an R rating without any issues.

Murphy wasn't naive enough to believe that Bill Rosseys truly valued him as much as he claimed. This opportunity was indeed rare for someone without connections or credentials, but for those with resources, it wasn't a big deal. After all, Sundance is the most famous independent film festival in the US, with over three hundred independent films showcased each year. Only a handful would get theatrical releases or even become videotapes.

For a CAA agent, securing such an opportunity didn't require much effort.

Murphy understood he was just one of many prospects CAA and Bill Rosseys had cast their net for. Whether he could succeed depended on future developments.

Entertainment agencies and film production companies were essentially the same. Those who showed value became esteemed clients; those who didn't were discarded.

Regardless, receiving an invitation from Sundance provided Murphy with a stage to showcase his talent and a rare opportunity.

Participating in Sundance saved Murphy the effort of pitching his film to each distribution company. The festival attracted many professional viewers and buyers, who could potentially secure deals during the event.

"So frustrating!"

In the airport hall, Carey Mulligan stomped her boots, glaring at Murphy. "They insist I return to London now!"

She was referring to her parents. "I really wanted to go to the festival with you."

"There will be other opportunities," Murphy reassured her, patting her arm. He glanced at her luggage and reminded her, "Don't forget to call me when you get to London."

"Okay..." Carey Mulligan nodded vigorously. She shot a glare at Paul Wilson, who peeked from behind Murphy, and then said pitifully, "I won't be able to see my first film screened in a theater."

"I'll record the scene and send it to you."

Murphy sighed, "We might not even have an audience."

"No, that won't happen," Carey Mulligan shook his arm. "You're always the best! Always..."

The announcement for the London flight echoed through the hall. Murphy reminded her, "It's about time. You should go."

Carey Mulligan didn't move, staring at Murphy for a while. "I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too."

Hearing Murphy's seemingly sincere words, Carey Mulligan stepped forward and hugged him tightly, her doll-like face pressing against his chest. "Wait for me. I'll be back soon."

Murphy gently patted her back. "Safe travels."

After seeing Carey Mulligan off, Murphy and his unpaid assistant Paul Wilson, carrying two large suitcases, walked to another boarding gate and boarded a flight to Utah.