Chapter 25: American Pie

"Is Craig Perry that effective?" Arthur arrived at ITA and heard that American Pie had caught the interest of New Line, New World, and Universal!

Tracy Jacobs said helplessly, "CAA has a lot of clout. They plan to package and sell American Pie to the highest bidder among the studios."

New Line and New World were both independent distributors, though New Line gained fame with the Nightmare on Elm Street series. Universal, having a history of monster and comedy films, became renowned after collaborating with Steven Spielberg.

"It seems the agents at CAA are quite interested in you," Tracy Jacobs suddenly said.

Arthur thought for a moment, considering how to leverage this situation. "Hmm, what did you just say?"

"Ah," Tracy Jacobs knew Arthur was ambitious and waved her hand dismissively, "Nothing."

"However, if Universal is interested, New World and New Line can't compete with Universal. The script's price should go higher."

Arthur nodded. "No rush. First, inform Nora Ephron. If Castle Rock isn't determined to develop Sleepless in Seattle, we don't have to work with them. Maybe we can hitch a ride with another company."

New World, New Line, or Universal — all were capable of both production and distribution. Castle Rock? Not so much.

"I see," Tracy Jacobs understood Arthur's intention to pressure Castle Rock. "Got it!"

The script for Sleepless in Seattle was still Arthur's, and choosing Nora Ephron as the director didn't tie them to Castle Rock.

"And American Pie? You really don't want to act in it?" Tracy Jacobs reminded Arthur. "Even though you're the writer, your image fits one of the roles perfectly!"

Arthur shook his head. "Not for me. If three companies are interested, let them bid. The highest offer wins."

"Alright. Any price in mind? New World has already offered $250,000. The final price should exceed $400,000," Tracy Jacobs continued.

Arthur stood up. "Do what you think is best. I think $450,000 is reasonable. I'm not a famous screenwriter yet. I can't just jot down an idea on a napkin and make millions."

If he remembered correctly, the original American Pie script sold for $750,000 in the late '90s, also written by a newcomer. But this was the early '90s, not as crazy yet.

"I'm leaving now!"

"Arthur, you should get a mobile phone. It's hard to reach you," Tracy Jacobs reminded him as he was leaving.

"I know, but it's inconvenient," said Arthur, used to smartphones and GSM phones. The current mobile phones were bulky, and he didn't have an assistant to carry one for him.

"If you need anything, call me at home..."

Tracy Jacobs could only shake her head helplessly, thankful that Arthur was usually home in the evenings.

After leaving ITA, Arthur drove to the airport to pick up Winona Ryder, then returned together to West Hollywood.

As soon as Winona Ryder walked in, she saw a large bouquet and a beautifully wrapped heart-shaped box.

"I got you a gift. Open it and see if you like it," Arthur said, putting his arm around Winona Ryder's shoulder and smiling.

Winona Ryder opened the box to find a Cartier necklace. "Arthur, it's beautiful!"

Arthur nodded. "Glad you like it." He had spent thousands of dollars on it for Winona Ryder a couple of days ago.

"Let me help you put it on," Arthur said, putting the necklace on Winona Ryder. It looked perfect against her fair skin.

"I went to ITA today. The American Pie script caught the interest of Universal, New Line, and New World," Arthur said as they sat on the sofa. "I have to thank you. If Craig Perry hadn't noticed it, it wouldn't have been discovered so quickly."

Winona Ryder shook her head with a smile. "It was just a coincidence. At CAA, several agents work together for the talent. Craig Perry found the script through the script agent, and I just mentioned you."

Arthur kissed Winona Ryder on the cheek. "You deserve credit. They've already made offers, and it will be sold soon."

Winona Ryder nodded. "CAA likes to package deals. Since you're not with CAA, don't you want to try for a role in it?"

"No need. You know my attitude towards acting, especially these roles," Arthur said, shaking his head. "I'm not picky about roles, but I can't let go for this kind."

"That's fine. These roles can typecast an actor," Winona Ryder agreed with Arthur's decision.

"By the way, I went to Venice. The beaches there are beautiful," Winona Ryder said, hugging Arthur's neck. "Next time, let's go together!"

Arthur smiled and nodded. "Did you go for the Venice International Film Festival?"

It was already late September, and the Venice Film Festival had ended.

"Yes, I went for three days to promote a previous film," Winona Ryder said, seeming to remember something. "I've sent my resume to the production of The Godfather Part III, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, trying for the role of the Godfather's daughter."

"Have you auditioned yet?" Arthur asked.

Winona Ryder shook her head. "No notification yet."

Arthur smiled. "Don't worry. Italians value family and loyalty. The Coppolas are Italian immigrants, and they'll prioritize their own family."

Arthur knew that even if Winona Ryder's audition went well, Francis Ford Coppola would still give the role to his daughter, Sofia Coppola, an inexperienced newcomer. In the Godfather series, most of Coppola's relatives got roles. In The Godfather Part III, the role of the Godfather's daughter was the most important female role.

Different nationalities have their strengths. Americans are innocent and enthusiastic, Japanese have a strong sense of belonging and teamwork, Jews are resilient and united, and Italians value family. 

*****

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