Chapter 495: Verification method of crazy fans

As the new weekend dawned, the North American summer movie season loomed on the horizon. Major productions flooded the screens, overshadowing "John Wick," which had held the top spot for three consecutive weeks, yielding its throne to "Fast and Furious 4."

Yet, despite a domestic box office haul of $165 million and a global tally of $255 million, placing it momentarily atop the 2009 list, "John Wick" was unlikely to maintain its grip. The forthcoming summer lineup boasted heavy hitters like Transformers 2, Harry Potter 6, and Ice Age 3.

April witnessed the release of Marcus's memoir, "Lone Survivor," courtesy of Random House.

Martin, Chad, Mene, and others participated in the launch, purposefully stepping back to shine the spotlight on Marcus, declining media interviews and thrusting Marcus into the limelight.

Tears welled in Marcus's eyes as he recounted the events of Operation Red Arrow, declaring all proceeds from his memoirs would benefit the American Legion. Revenue from potential adaptations remained a distant consideration, not included in this philanthropic gesture.

After a brief cheer on the platform, Martin retreated to the rear lounge.

Chad remarked, "I got a glimpse of Director Nolan's new script from Mene, but I couldn't quite grasp it."

Mene added, "Honestly, I was puzzled too."

The narrative in the script surpassed the visual imagery, its complexity leaving them bewildered had they not seen the movie beforehand.

"It's all about a dream," Martin explained.

Mene scratched his head, "A dream within a dream, I'm lost."

Martin reminded, "Your role carries weight as a supporting actor. Pay close attention if there's any confusion."

Mene nodded fervently, revealing, "I've been seeking guidance from Emma lately; she's been deciphering the script."

Martin was speechless.

Uncle Mene's presence loomed large, alongside the indispensable Emma Thomas.

Chad intervened, "In the sequel, I'm planning to deepen the interaction between your and Mene's characters, enhancing the chemistry and making scenes more engaging."

"Agreed," Martin concurred.

Chad summoned Martin to discuss the sequel by the window, while Mene's path was intercepted by Bruce.

"Something up?" Bruce inquired in hushed tones.

"Cannes, France, mid-next month?" Bruce probed further.

Mene's eyes lit up at the mention of Cannes Film Festival and the premiere of the boss's "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." "Count me in!" he exclaimed. "The film's competing!"

Despite not being a certified celebrity manager, Bruce operated discreetly, divulging, "The jury chair? The esteemed French actress, Isabelle Huppert."

Mene's mind conjured the image, his eyes sparkling with recognition. "She's incredibly talented, exudes classical beauty, hailed as the quintessential French rose, holding high esteem in the industry," Mene gushed.

Lost in admiration for Isabelle Huppert's stature, Mene exclaimed, "She's my literary idol!"

Bruce proposed, "We'll head to Cannes together, then."

Menet fervently nodded, his excitement palpable. "I must meet my literary idol!" he reiterated.

The pair conversed quietly until the lounge door creaked open, admitting Marcus, who stumbled in like an overinflated balloon.

Wiping sweat off his forehead, Marcus cracked open an icy soda, gulping it down before lamenting, "I'd rather face Afghan guerrilla fighters than these reporters again!"

Chad turned, offering reassurance, "You'll get used to it. Hang in there."

Martin anticipated a future riddled with complex situations due to evolving political climates. "No PR professionals or agents will be present. Refrain from engaging with the media," he advised Marcus.

Still reeling from the recent media onslaught, Marcus shivered, "I'll never forget this."

Martin nodded, adding, "Once the memoir adaptation's approved and released, expect more media attention. Gradually adapt to it."

Anxious about the adaptation, Marcus inquired, "Is it close to being approved?"

"Thomas is scouting directors," Martin explained briefly. "The project budget is around $40 million, with Korean investors onboard. It's a war film slated for a 2011 North American release."

This film, a reflection of Marcus's life, was something he yearned to see on the big screen. With the memoir out and the film on the cusp of approval, his deepest wish was about to materialize.

Martin's studio had inked distribution deals with Warner Bros. and was eyeing Akiva Goldsman as the project producer. Goldsman's recent works included "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" and "I Am Legend."

Meanwhile, the hunt for a director was ongoing, with Thomas seeking WMC's assistance in the quest.

As Marcus stepped out to sign books, Martin and the entourage departed. However, as they exited the commercial plaza, a chorus of adoration erupted from across the street.

"Martin, I adore you!"

"Forever Coke God of War!"

"Martin, I want to have your child!"

A bevy of young women in bridal attire dashed towards Martin's group, obstructing their path.

Bruce shielded Martin, noting, "It's them again!"

Martin recognized the fervent fans and waved warmly. "I adore you all too."

The fans gathered around, seeking autographs, but Bruce tactfully guided Martin away from the throng.

Their teamwork was evident: Martin, the beloved figure, and Bruce, the stern guardian.

The bridesmaids chased after Martin's departing car, their cheers fading into the distance.

One of them lamented, "Martin's sweet, but that bodyguard's ruthless, dragging him away."

"Yes, yes!" another agreed swiftly. "Martin loves us, we love him, but there are obstacles in between."

Aisha, their determined leader, declared adamantly, "Nothing can hinder our love for Martin!"

Asserting her leadership, Aisha emphasized, "Toni's no longer our leader; I lead you now!"

Concerns arose about Toni's absence, prompting inquiries about her well-being.

Aisha quelled their concerns, explaining, "Toni's handling personal matters and will return in due time."

Elsa, relishing her leadership stint, secretly wished Toni would never return.

As time passed, Elsa harbored hopes of securing her position as the new eldest sister, provided Toni stayed away.

In their departing car, Martin adjusted his attire, quipping, "Thankfully, they're not utterly insane."

Bruce concurred, adding a hint of humor, "A certifiably crazy fan in the States must aim for presidential assassination for validation!"

Mene reminisced, "I recall fan's initial stage appearance when they visited Martin in the hospital." Crossing himself due to shared ethnicity, he murmured, "God protect him; he'll be fine."

Martin reassured, "I'm no Manson, nor is anyone aiming to be Jodie Foster. Fans aren't that extreme."

Chad jested, "True, they just want to help you start a family; no ulterior motives."

Laughter filled the car, breaking the tension.

Though Martin wasn't keen on parenting, the thought of the Nicholson family's children, particularly Lorraine, briefly flickered in his mind. Swiftly dismissing the idea, he shook his head, "Kids are a bit daunting. I'm not ready."

Mene mused, "If Celine Dion offers me a child, the future looks bright."

Bruce, behind the wheel, inquired, "Her net worth?"

Mene pondered, "Hundreds of millions, surely."

Chad, somewhat envious, sighed, "I wish I had your skills. Directing's exhausting."

Amidst banter, they arrived at Warner Studio.

Chad headed to the John Wick studio solo, while the trio dashed to Nolan's office, where Emma Thomas handed them the crew's shooting schedule from the prior month.

Unlike before, the crew's filming hub was in Ouarzazate, dubbed African Hollywood, owing to Morocco's generous tax rebates and subsidies. Save for outdoor sequences, Atlas Studios housed most indoor scenes.

Post-Oscars, Nolan and the crew prepped in Morocco, indicating Martin's prolonged stay in Africa.

Thankfully, Morocco boasted stability and served as a favored filming site for Hollywood. The authorities prioritized visiting foreign crews, even dispatching security teams to ensure their safety.

Martin strategized his travel, planning to attend Cannes before heading to Morocco directly from France.

Late May marked the official shoot start for the new project.

Martin's latter-year agenda solidified, joining the cast of "Gone Girl."

"Gone Girl" studio, a joint venture between Davis Studio and Louise's Pacific Film and Television Production Company, fell under Louise's management. David Fincher officially inked on as director.

Before leaving Los Angeles, Martin engaged in discussions with David Fincher and Gillian Flynn, aligning creative visions with minor discrepancies.

With matters settled, Martin and Fincher flew to Paris in mid-May alongside the crew.