Chapter 220: Sudden Attack

"Sin City" had a grand North American premiere.

The film received great reviews from media, critics, and audiences at its screening. With everything going smoothly in its promotion, Miramax had high expectations and confidence in "Sin City." Though not scheduled during the competitive summer season, it was strategically placed on the last weekend of April, ready to compete with summer blockbusters.

Miramax invested heavily in the premiere, which was held at the iconic Hollywood Chinese Theatre.

Sitting in the backseat of the limousine, Gal Gadot watched the buildings of Hollywood Boulevard flash by, holding Murphy's hand tightly.

"Nervous?" Murphy asked with concern.

At first, Gal Gadot shook her head, then nodded, and finally took a deep breath. "A little bit."

"It's normal," Murphy reassured her, holding her hand firmly. "I'm a bit nervous too."

"You're nervous?" Gal Gadot was incredulous.

"It's my first big premiere in North America," Murphy admitted, his usually calm face betraying a hint of nervousness. "I want to make a good impression, and I'm concerned about the film's reception…"

Gal Gadot understood his real concerns and comforted him. "Didn't the screening get a good response from everyone?"

Murphy shook his head lightly. "That was just a small group of people."

He had introduced several changes to the film, such as high-speed slow-motion action scenes and more significant roles for female characters. The actual effect of these changes would only be known after a wide release.

"You always seem so confident," Gal Gadot observed, turning her gaze from the window to Murphy's handsome profile. "I didn't realize you could be worried."

"A lot is riding on this film. If I mess up, everything I've achieved so far could vanish, and I'll be back to struggling in the indie circuit," Murphy admitted.

"I believe in you!" Gal Gadot leaned in close, playfully kissing his cheek. "You're the best."

As they neared the Hollywood Chinese Theatre, their limo slowed due to several cars ahead, eventually stopping near the Egyptian Theatre.

"Oh, by the way," Murphy suddenly remembered an incident from a few days ago, "did the competition organizers give you any trouble?"

Their photos together had predictably made the news, with tabloids speculating about "Hollywood's newest director finding true love." However, the photos only showed Gal Gadot's back, keeping her identity safe.

"Nobody recognized me, what could they say?" Gal Gadot shrugged playfully. "Though, the coaches and supervisors were unhappy about me taking a leave for your premiere. Some said I'd be eliminated in the first round."

She didn't care much about it. "It doesn't matter. I never expected to rank high anyway."

"That's good," Murphy replied, indifferent about the Miss Universe title. "Remember my suggestion about studying law? Berkeley is a great choice."

"You were planning this from the start, weren't you?" Gal Gadot tilted her head, teasing him. "I'll need some time to think about it."

Murphy didn't press further, knowing these decisions take time.

One by one, guests arrived on the red carpet. Miramax and CAA, Murphy's agency, had invested heavily in the event's publicity.

After celebrities like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Douglas, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Quentin Tarantino with Uma Thurman made their appearances, the biggest surprise was Tom Cruise. His arrival on the red carpet drew thunderous applause, showcasing his immense fame.

In comparison, the stars of "Sin City" like Robert Downey Jr., James Franco, and Jessica Alba received modest applause.

Finally, Murphy's limo stopped at the red carpet. He stepped out first, instantly becoming the focus of the media's cameras.

While not as famous as Tom Cruise, as the director of the film, Murphy was one of the premiere's main attractions.

Gal Gadot, stepping out and standing beside Murphy, caused a frenzy of flashing cameras.

Murphy, in a black tuxedo, and Gal Gadot, in a white fishtail gown, hand in hand, clearly displayed their relationship to the reporters.

"Who is that woman?"

Reporters whispered, wondering if she was Murphy's girlfriend. Speculations arose about her identity – possibly a model, given her unfamiliar face yet striking physique.

Some reporters couldn't contain their curiosity. "Director Stanton, is this your girlfriend?"

Murphy just smiled and waved at the reporters, leading Gal Gadot along the red carpet towards the entrance of the theatre.

"She's so beautiful!"

"What a great figure!"

As they made their way, flanked by staff, Murphy overheard many comments.

"Did you hear that?" he whispered to Gal Gadot. "They're all praising you."

"You're not bad yourself," Gal Gadot whispered back, smiling.

Her rigorous training and experience in the Miss Universe competition had prepared her well for this moment. Her beauty, grace, and composure on the red carpet were impeccable.

Together, they attracted a lot of attention.

Reaching the seating area, Murphy whispered to Gal Gadot and then left her side to sign autographs for some fans holding posters and placards of "Sin City" and some with 'Murphy Stanton.'

This was part of the red carpet routine, meant to show appreciation for the fans.

"Murphy, are you married?"

"Are you really just 23?"

"What's your next film? I love your Cult movies!"

A particularly enthusiastic female voice stood out, asking if Gal Gadot was his girlfriend. Murphy saw a young woman in her early twenties, smiled, and confirmed, "She's my girlfriend."

The girl handed him her poster. "Could you write 'To dear Daisy'?"

"Sure," Murphy wrote the dedication, signed his name, and handed it back. "Remember, my name is Daisy!"

After the autograph session, Murphy rejoined Gal Gadot, and they entered the theatre's main hall without further delay.

Robert Downey Jr., James Franco, and others were surprised to see Gal Gadot at the premiere.

"Let me introduce you all," Murphy said, bringing Gal Gadot over after the group photo. "This is my girlfriend, Gal Gadot."

He introduced her to his friends, including Robert Downey Jr., James Franco, Seth Rogen, and Jonah Hill, all prominent actors and close friends of his.

Then, he took her to meet Bill Rosesis and Grace.

"Murphy, could I talk to Ms. Gadot alone for a minute?" Grace asked.

After Gal Gadot nodded in agreement, Murphy said, "Of course."

As they walked ahead into the theatre, Bill Rosesis expressed his frustration with Murphy for not informing him beforehand about such surprises. Murphy apologized, explaining it was an oversight and assured it wouldn't be a problem for him as a director, not a celebrity.

Bill reminded him to notify in advance next time.

Upon entering the theatre, Murphy caught up with Gal Gadot, who had finished talking with Grace. She shared that Grace had given her advice on handling media interactions.

Murphy wasn't worried; Gal Gadot's experience in handling media as Miss Universe Israel had prepared her well. Together, they joined the rest of the crew in the theatre's main hall.

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