Chapter 324: Spreading Rumors

In a posh Beverly Hills club, the screening of "The Departed" had just finished. Everyone moved into a large entertainment hall. The crew had already set up a fantastic spread of food and fine wines, making everyone feel at ease at this high-class gathering.

Martin moved through the crowd, striving to leave a lasting impression on his peers, critics, and renowned journalists. He wanted to make the most of this opportunity.

Louise and Kelly, who jointly funded the Rita Baker team, had scattered throughout the venue to engage in professional networking.

Even Scorsese, a seasoned director with 40 years of experience, was working diligently, not to mention Martin, who was a newcomer in the industry for only three years.

Public relations in the industry was both a show of respect and a sign of the determination to compete.

However, the older white gentlemen, with an average age of 62, were rather two-faced. Their PR efforts were overwhelming, making it appear like they were in a fierce competition.

Finding the right balance was a challenge.

After the glamorous event concluded, guests returned home, having enjoyed a sumptuous meal. Coca-Cola, as the event sponsor, had prepared thoughtful small gifts for everyone.

The crew members appeared exhausted, evident on their faces.

Martin felt even more drained than Heidi Klum after two days of partying at her bachelorette party. Scorsese, still having over two months of awards season ahead, seemed disheartened.

Among the attendees, only Nicholson, holding three statuettes, remained relaxed and content. It was almost like watching a group of monkeys perform tricks.

With three golden figures in hand, Nicholson appeared completely at ease.

Martin looked at the other two members of the group and suggested to Scorsese, "Director, there's a special way to completely relax and recharge." Scorsese replied, "Let's not get involved in those things."

Leonardo understood the sentiment, saying, "We've sworn off gambling and drugs."

Martin added, "We're sticking to it."

Nicholson chuckled, "No need to worry."

They all headed to an inconspicuous car from the underground parking lot and went straight to a night club.

Meanwhile, a new member joined the Face Gang.

As the wheels rolled over him, Scorsese's fatigue vanished, and he felt instantly refreshed.

"How was it?" Martin asked.

Scorsese gave it a thumbs-up and praised, "Turns out refreshing oneself this way is good for physical and mental health. It's effective!"

Nicholson chimed in, "Life is for enjoyment. You work hard, just like us. I work hard to provide for my children and ex-wife."

Martin and Leonardo didn't say much but issued a subtle warning.

Everyone had their own thoughts, and Scorsese was thoroughly enjoying himself, even considering trying out the seventh one.

...

In the City of Angels at night, many secret activities were underway.

In another strip bar, seven dancers emerged from the VIP room. Three of them looked rather worse for wear, with their feet resembling prunes.

Quentin pulled out a tissue, wiped his mouth, and remarked, "Achieving something isn't easy. Isn't destruction your specialty?"

Harvey, with his plump face, chuckled, "You're right. Even I have to give it my all to win an award during the season. It might be easier to destroy, but Martin Davis has a vulnerability here, an objective factor that can't be eliminated."

Brad Pitt chimed in, "This is a small matter, quite simple."

Harvey smiled confidently, a result of many successful battles. He recalled the 1998 awards season when he steered "Saving Private Ryan" to victory amid controversies. Then, there was the classic case of Shakespeare's win over the soldiers.

Of course, veterans didn't have much time to focus on the Oscars. In 2003, Harvey didn't have to exert much effort to remind people of Polanski's scandals, sealing the fate of "The Pianist."

Brad Pitt inquired, "When will our guest arrive?"

Harvey gestured, "If you're going to do it, be bold. We've agreed, you're the adversary, no big deal."

Thinking of Jolie, Aniston, and the troubled movie "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford," Peter left the private room to meet Richard, the editor-in-chief of "Empire" magazine.

The place was too chaotic, so the two decided to head to a nearby bar for some respite.

Richard settled into the booth and asked bluntly, "Big star, what do you need from me?"

Pete, knowing they had a history of cooperation, got straight to the point, "It's nothing major. Let's create some buzz."

Richard inquired, "Who's the target?"

Pete pondered for a moment before responding, "Have you noticed how the Los Angeles media can't stop praising Martin Davis? It's like he's the best supporting actor already."

Richard, who was well-informed, replied, "As far as I know, he's just aiming for a nomination."

Pitt added, "Considering Martin has only been in Hollywood for a little over two years and is already competing for an Oscar, it's a bit audacious. Tom Cruise was only at this level back then. Many veterans who've toiled for years are still in line."

Richard saw the opportunity, "It's an interesting angle, offering a different perspective amidst the praise."

At the same time, a reporter at "American Rumor" received a lead and rushed to the office to work overtime.

...

The next morning, Martin returned from his morning run and sat down for breakfast.

A call from Thomas came in, "Check out the American Rumor, they've got a story about you."

Martin nodded, and Bruce fetched a stack of newspapers from the door's newspaper box. Martin carefully read the news on the second page.

"According to reliable information, the famous movie star Martin Davis had previous dealings with local gangs and drug dealers in Atlanta before his rise to fame. The relationship was intricate, leading to multiple disputes. According to a former neighbor in Marietta, Martin was involved in an incident where he shot someone..."

Martin pushed it over to Bruce, remarking, "He knows about my past."

Bruce read quickly and commented, "These writers have a knack for making everything sound fact-based. They've taken bits of truth and spun them into this narrative."

Martin shook his head, "Sending a lawyer's letter won't help. It's been over a month, and this news appears now, quite targeted."

Bruce questioned, "Could it be a competitor?"

Martin considered it, "It's possible." He called Thomas and arranged to meet. Together, they rushed to Century City. Martin also called Jessica to monitor online activity.

Jessica reported, "No relevant information on the internet so far."

In Thomas' office, they reviewed the latest issue of "Empire" which appeared to be a premeditated move.

Martin examined the relevant reports, noting, "These reports state facts. I did have encounters with gangs and drug dealers, and I did shoot someone, but it was all in self-defense."

Bruce added, "The way it's presented makes it sound like I'm one of those bad guys who shot people..."

Thomas inquired, "Should we take legal action?"

Martin shook his head, "It won't help. It's timed too perfectly, a month into the release."

Bruce suggested, "Could it be a competitor?"

Martin agreed, "Possibly." Taking the issue seriously, he called Jessica again, asking her to keep an eye on online developments.

All the way to Century City, Thomas explained, "This report makes it clear that you're very capable, a newcomer in the industry for just over two years."

Martin continued, "The average age of Oscar judges is around 62, and they've worked hard for years to establish themselves. They might not appreciate young stars who become famous too easily and too quickly."

Thomas observed, "The Oscars for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor have always leaned towards middle-aged and older men."

Martin realized, "Spreading these 'rumors' at a crucial time... they're not rumors at all, but facts aimed squarely at me."

Bruce asked, "How big is the impact?"

Thomas replied, " American Gossip won't be too bad it doesn't have the influence of the Empire magazine."

Martin thought for a moment and said, "Let's move up the interview."

He instructed Bruce, "Contact Atlanta and Judy. I remember Judy works at TMZ."

Thomas cautioned, "It would be wise to find out who's behind this."

Martin glanced at the Empire magazine and remembered something, "The author of 'Limitless' has been with them for years."