Chapter 102: Lionsgate

After completing the film, Murphy first contacted Bill Rosis and, through CAA channels, sent the finished film to the MPAA for rating. This task had to be done promptly. The MPAA rating system appeared to be open, fair, and transparent, but there were many unknown aspects to it, the most typical being the rating time.

The MPAA was entirely dominated by Hollywood's Big Six studios. Films produced by these major companies had priority in ratings. A film from Stanton Studios, without using CAA channels, might have to wait a month just for the rating.

"Milton Johnson, the head of distribution at Lionsgate, will definitely attend tonight's party," Bill Rosis said while standing in the living room of Stanton Studios. Kerry Mulligan was adjusting Murphy's bow tie. "I've met him a few times before; I can introduce you."

Glancing at the guest list obtained through various channels, he continued, "There's also an executive from New Line Cinema. I'll handle that."

He looked at Kerry Mulligan again, his eyelid twitching slightly, but he said nothing more.

After all, she was already sixteen, past the most sensitive age. As long as she wasn't willing, it wouldn't cause much trouble. Besides, he had seen Murphy's methods and believed he could manage this relationship well.

In both the UK and North America, this wasn't considered a big deal, especially in Hollywood.

Kerry Mulligan finished adjusting Murphy's suit. Bill Rosis added, "Murphy, you need to prepare more formal attire. You can dress casually for work, but you must wear a suit for negotiations or attending formal parties."

"I will," Murphy replied, taking this useful advice to heart. He currently had only one formal suit, partly because he rarely needed it and partly because he had been financially tight since his release from prison, gradually developing a habit of being frugal.

Bill Rosis checked his watch. "It's getting late. We should get going."

Murphy nodded and followed him out the door. As they neared the entrance, Kerry Mulligan called out from behind.

"Murphy..." She tilted her face slightly.

Turning back, Murphy gave her a light kiss on the lips before leaving Stanton Studios and heading to Beverly Hills in Bill Rosis's car.

Tonight, there was a charity party at the Four Seasons Hotel. Such parties were common in Hollywood, where the industry often showcased its glamorous side through various events.

These parties had certain entry thresholds. Without Bill Rosis's connections, Murphy wasn't sure if he could get in. His purpose was clear—he had no interest in the auction and fundraising segments.

Given his current financial situation, he couldn't afford to participate in such activities.

After the charity auction ended, the attendees left the banquet hall and moved to the hotel's back lawn. A stage was set up in the center, where a band played soothing music. The charity gala instantly turned into a social gathering, seemingly the real theme of the party.

Murphy noticed stars like Julia Roberts and Brad Pitt but didn't approach them for conversation. Approaching them now would be futile; he had his own targets.

"This way..." Bill Rosis urged Murphy to follow him to the palm trees where their target stood, now with fewer people around.

Standing there was a man with graying hair. Murphy noticed that the person who had just left the conversation with him was likely Scarlett Johansson, who, though not very famous yet, showed a respectful attitude, indicating the man's significant status in the industry.

"Hi, Milton," Bill Rosis greeted before they got close. The man looked over, his expression slightly puzzled, as if he didn't recognize Bill Rosis.

A young woman behind him seemed to remind him, prompting him to respond with a courteous, social smile. "Hello, Bill. I didn't expect to see you here."

Murphy understood then that Milton Johnson didn't remember Bill Rosis at all. It wasn't surprising. Lionsgate, while not one of the top companies, was quite powerful. For someone in charge of distribution at such a company, forgetting a minor agent like Bill Rosis was perfectly normal.

Bill Rosis noticed this too but acted as if nothing had happened. He warmly approached Milton Johnson, engaging in some small talk.

Murphy stood quietly behind him, refraining from interrupting. Until Bill Rosis formally introduced him, it would be unwise to interject, especially since he had no standing to do so.

"Many young directors are emerging these days, which is good for all Hollywood companies," Bill Rosis subtly shifted the conversation to Murphy. "I know one who is very young but extremely talented."

"Oh?" Milton Johnson raised an eyebrow, showing no particular interest.

In Hollywood, claims of talent were abundant.

"Let me introduce you," Bill Rosis turned to Murphy, deliberately mentioning his company, "This is Murphy Stanton. CAA has high hopes for his future and talent."

"Murphy..." He then introduced, "This is Mr. Milton Johnson from Lionsgate."

Milton Johnson looked at Murphy, his expression curious.

"Hello, Mr. Johnson," Murphy quickly extended his hand, "It's an honor to meet you."

Milton Johnson lightly shook his hand. "Hello."

The name seemed familiar to him.

The young woman behind him whispered, "Miramax released a small production called 'Hard Candy' a few months ago. It cost a million dollars to buy and has already brought in nearly three million dollars. The director of that film is also named Murphy Stanton."

She was clearly his assistant, speaking with just the right volume for Milton Johnson to hear without others catching it.

Milton Johnson didn't beat around the bush. "Are you the director of 'Hard Candy'?"

"Yes," Murphy replied calmly. "That was my first feature film."

Although Milton Johnson's expression remained neutral, Murphy detected a change in his tone.

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