Chapter 68

Chapter 68

The premiere of The Sixth Sense concluded quietly, leaving reactions and reviews to unfold the next day. From what could be gauged by the audience's and critics' immediate responses, the film seemed poised to receive strong praise.

Martin, however, wasn't concerned. He had the confidence of a model from his past life, and this version of the film, he believed, was even more compelling. The results were bound to be better!

...

On the way back, Martin's agent, Jeff, couldn't help but praise him. "Martin, your performance today was remarkable. You not only answered questions but also demonstrated your eloquence and quick thinking. I think after today's coverage, any lingering doubts about you will diminish."

Martin smiled, unfazed. "It doesn't matter. Doubts and controversy bring exposure. I'd actually prefer they criticize me in the papers every day, just like they do with 'Zero 37' Ruth."

Jeff chuckled, "That's the right attitude, Martin. Keep that mentality, and you'll definitely succeed."

He laughed again. "Cruise has been getting a lot of heat recently. I saw you kind of spoke up for him today. The News of the World has been really hard on him."

Martin nodded thoughtfully. "I noticed that. He's been in a tough spot lately. But, as for working with him... right now, it's out of the question. He's too expensive. Maybe in the future, though… we'll see."

It wasn't that Martin disliked Tom Cruise—he recognized Cruise's skills, especially in roles like Rain Man and Mr. Sweetheart. But Cruise also had a knack for selecting roles that suited his image. Martin thought that, given his own growing career, Cruise's star power might overshadow his own, making it more trouble than it was worth.

"Well, let's wait and see," Martin thought, musing privately.

...

The following morning, glowing reviews for the film flooded in.

"Good morning, Dad!"

"Good morning, your breakfast and milk are already on the table, Aranda."

"Thanks! When's Mom coming back to Atlanta?"

"She'll be back the day after tomorrow. It's her first time producing since returning to work, so she's really immersed in it."

Martin sat down to enjoy his milk and bacon-egg sandwich while his father, Grant, sipped his coffee and read the newspaper. As he flipped through, he came across the entertainment section.

"This is an exceptionally unique horror film. While it terrifies the audience, it also makes them feel the deep emotions within. The film reveals themes of human relationships, family love, loneliness, and understanding that permeate every frame."

"Bruce Willis gave a wonderful performance that was unlike anything we've seen before, but his brilliance was overshadowed by Martin Meyers. This young genius once again showcased acting that far exceeded his years."

Grant flipped to another paper. "Wow, The Los Angeles Times went as far as to say that you'll want to watch this film again, and they're absolutely confident in it!"

"It talks about the film's impact on the audience, how it makes us reflect on loneliness, family affection, and the need for communication. Martin's script, acting, and soundtrack all add so much to the film, with Bruce Willis playing a key part, of course."

"They even go as far as saying it might be the best Hollywood film of the entire 1990s," Grant added, shaking his head in disbelief.

He grabbed the Washington Post next. "This is a film about redemption. Every character longs to be saved, whether they are alive or dead—including Cole, his mother, and Malcolm, all finding their answers by the end. The dark, tense atmosphere grips you. I was genuinely frightened by several scenes. The first 90 minutes are so heavy, but the resolution at the end brings a sense of relief."

Grant paused for a moment. "There's even mention of the tear-jerking scene when Cole's mother hears her grandmother's words from her son. It's a beautiful moment."

He sighed. "But still, there's no mention of your acting skills. Seriously, how can they miss that?"

Martin grinned, swallowing his sandwich. "It's all about perspective. Not every critic is going to focus on my acting. Besides, I'm the screenwriter, the actor, and the composer in this film. Praising the movie as a whole doesn't necessarily mean praising me."

Grant rubbed Martin's head affectionately. "No wonder Jeff said you're so mature. You're nothing like other kids your age."

Then, flipping through the New York Times, he read aloud, "'A family ethics film cloaked in horror, so special and astounding.'"

"It goes on to mention Bruce Willis, Toni Collette, and Olivia Williams, all giving their best performances, but the real standout is 'the little guy,'" Grant continued. "That's right, Martin Meyers."

The article then quoted Tom Cruise's words, which had made quite an impact. "As Cruise said, they were all overshadowed by Martin's performance."

"Wow," Grant exclaimed. "This critic really nailed it. What do you think?"

Martin, his mouth still full, smiled contentedly. "It's nice to hear. You know, it's not just about me. It's about the film as a whole."

Grant leaned back, gazing at Martin. "My genius son. Do you need your dear father to take you to school today?"

Martin glanced at him with a teasing smirk. "Nah, I think you just want the compliments. I'll take the school bus."

Grant feigned indignation. "Is your dad really that shallow?"

Martin studied him carefully, then deadpanned, "Yes."

Grant rolled his eyes in mock exasperation.

At school, Martin greeted Lindsay and Mark, then took his seat next to Lindsay.

"Hey, Martin, you did it again. Congratulations," Lindsay whispered in his ear, her warm breath sending a tingle down his spine.

Martin couldn't help but notice how much Lindsay seemed to be perfecting her flirtatious manner—she was getting better at this teasing thing!

[•———•——•———•]

𝙥𝗮𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙤𝙣(.)𝙘𝙤𝙢/𝙂𝙤𝙙𝙊𝙛𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧

✨ • 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀: 𝙂𝙚𝙩 𝟲𝟬+ 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚.