Chapter 103: Impressing

In this circle, talent and genius are terms that have almost become clichéd. No one readily believes in so-called geniuses. To earn respect, it's very simple: present convincing results.

Bill Rosis left to find the New Line Cinema people, leaving Murphy with Milton Johnson. From their conversation, Murphy could clearly sense the difference in status between a so-called genius and a small-time director who can generate profit for a film company in Johnson's eyes.

The former is worthless, while the latter is worth a few minutes of conversation.

"You did well. Though I haven't seen the movie, generating several times the revenue of the cost speaks volumes," Milton Johnson said, standing under the palm trees with an air of authority. "Young man, keep up the good work. Directing a feature film at your age is no small feat."

Murphy remained humble, "Thank you, sir. Your praise is an honor."

Milton Johnson nodded slightly. So far, this young man had made a good impression—polite and respectful, unlike some young directors who think they're invincible after making one film or those who believe their talent entitles them to the world revolving around them.

Yes, they needed outstanding directors, but without the strong support of a distribution company, even the best directors' works couldn't reach a global audience.

Murphy discreetly observed Milton Johnson. Conversations in such settings required skill. You couldn't just meet someone and immediately state your goals. Even in the more direct North America, this would significantly lower an already slim chance of success.

If he claimed to be a genius who had created a film potentially worth millions in the market, Johnson would likely see him as a lunatic and a fantasist.

So, he patiently engaged in small talk.

As he noticed Johnson's tone and attitude improving, Murphy felt the timing was right and said, "It's indeed challenging. To succeed in Hollywood, one needs not only hard work but also the support of big companies like Lionsgate and experienced individuals like yourself."

Everyone loves to hear compliments, and Johnson was no exception. A slight smile appeared on his lips.

Murphy continued, "People like me, with no experience, really need guidance from seasoned professionals like you."

"Guidance is too strong a word," Johnson, clearly in a good mood, waved a hand dismissively. "But if you have questions, I can give you some advice."

This was the most sensible young person he had encountered this year.

"Thank you!" Murphy said earnestly. "After finishing 'Hard Candy,' I made another small film. I just completed the editing a few days ago, but I feel something is off and can't pinpoint it..."

Johnson's smile faded gradually.

"If... I mean, if..." Murphy could see the change in his expression but noted that Johnson hadn't interrupted or walked away, indicating his previous words had some effect. "If you have the time, could you watch the film and give me some pointers? It would be incredibly helpful to me..."

Hearing this, Johnson glanced at Murphy. Having reached his current position, he was no fool and understood the underlying request.

Normally, he would have outright rejected such a request from an unknown director.

However, Murphy had made a good impression earlier, and more importantly, "Hard Candy" had earned Miramax triple its cost, a number that would undoubtedly grow. Even for Lionsgate, a million-dollar profit was not trivial.

Murphy looked sincerely at Johnson, as always, his actions serving his purpose. He knew his approach might fail but also had a fair chance of success, given "Hard Candy's" performance.

He wasn't just a boastful director but had some credentials, though modest, they still counted.

Without the foundation of "Hard Candy," he wouldn't have approached, setting himself up for disappointment.

Johnson thought for a moment before finally asking, "What genre is it?"

Murphy had chosen Lionsgate for a reason. "Horror."

"Oh?" Johnson's interest piqued slightly. "We'll see about my schedule."

Murphy had left a good impression, but business was another matter entirely. Johnson wouldn't make any promises lightly.

Such an ambiguous response made it hard to tell if he had accepted the invitation. Murphy noticed that those who climbed high in Hollywood were rarely foolish, and they approached matters involving business interests with caution.

He tentatively asked, "Could I have your contact information? I..."

Before he finished, Johnson raised a hand to stop him and nodded to his assistant, who immediately came over and handed Murphy a business card.

After another polite remark, Johnson walked away. Murphy looked at the numbers on the card, a smile appearing on his lips. He had achieved his goal.

Having left his contact information, Johnson was very likely to accept his screening invitation.

For the remainder of the party, Murphy mingled, hoping to meet a few notable figures and build a network. However, being relatively unknown and without proper introductions, he couldn't penetrate the higher social circles.

Around nine o'clock, Bill Rosis found him. The two didn't linger and left the Four Seasons Hotel.

Outside the hotel, Bill Rosis immediately asked, "How did it go?"

Murphy nodded slightly, "I got his contact information. What about your side?"

Rosis didn't answer, merely shaking his head, indicating things hadn't gone well with New Line Cinema.

As they got into the car, Rosis offered to drive Murphy back to Santa Monica. Buckling his seatbelt, Murphy said, "Securing one potential partner is already pretty good."

"Distribution..." he sighed softly.

Bill Rosis started the car, turning onto the avenue. Noticing Murphy deep in thought, he reminded him, "Don't forget your meeting with Jones Butler tomorrow. Do not be late. She's quite sensitive about respect, like many others."

Murphy nodded.

He placed greater importance and hope on his collaboration with Miramax. However, just as he had done tonight, he wouldn't put all his eggs in one basket with Miramax either.

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