Chapter 687: No Brotherly Loyalty!

As the dawn barely kissed the horizon, a fleet of trailers lined the studio entrance, their engines humming with anticipation. Inside, the studio buzzed with activity as the film crew meticulously adjusted cameras and lighting setups.

Taking command of the bustling scene, David Fincher orchestrated the chaos with precision, his every move commanding the respect of the crew.

One by one, extras portraying news reporters filed onto the set, eagerly accepting vintage equipment from the prop master.

Amidst the flurry of activity, the seasoned actors Alan Arkin and Alec Baldwin made their grand entrances, each exuding an aura of experience and professionalism.

Minutes later, Martin sauntered in from outside, clad in a retro suit that seemed to belong to another era. With makeup and a fake beard aging him beyond his years, he seamlessly transformed into his character's older guise.

As David Fincher entered the set, he gestured towards a side door, directing Martin with a nod of his head. "Once we begin filming, just stand there quietly. No need for words, just blend into the background," he instructed.

Martin nodded in silence, embodying the stoic demeanor of a seasoned CIA operative, reminiscent of the characters he'd studied.

Ten minutes later, the cameras rolled, capturing Martin's presence as he stood by the door, a seemingly inconspicuous member of the crew observing the "Argo" press conference unfold.

In this elaborate ruse where reality blurred with fiction, every detail mattered, from the authenticity of the props to the believability of the performances.

"Cut!" David Fincher's voice echoed across the set, halting the action as he directed the camera crew. "Give Martin a close-up, three seconds," he commanded.

With precision, the director of photography acknowledged the instruction, ensuring Martin's brief moment in the spotlight.

As filming resumed, Martin adjusted his posture, channeling the subtle nuances of his character's demeanor as instructed by Fincher.

Once again, the director interrupted, offering guidance to Martin. "Ease off the intensity, Martin. Remember, when you're not acting, you're just an ordinary bystander," he reminded.

Martin, staying true to his character's persona, simply nodded in acknowledgment, embodying the essence of discretion.

Despite the meticulous attention to detail, the morning's shoot progressed slowly, each moment captured with meticulous care.

As the morning wore on, Martin found himself participating in scenes depicting his character's covert departure, his silence speaking volumes amidst the flurry of activity.

With the morning's work concluded, the studio erupted into a cacophony of chatter and movement, signaling the end of another successful shoot.

Spotting Tony Mendes across the room, Martin made his way over, eager for feedback. "How did the first scene feel?" he inquired.

Tony chuckled, acknowledging the grandeur of the production. "Your budget definitely outshines mine. We managed a modest press conference, nothing as extravagant as this," he remarked.

Joining the conversation, David Fincher offered his perspective on the day's shoot, emphasizing the need for grandeur to match the surreal events portrayed in the film.

Expressing his gratitude, Tony bid farewell to the crew, shaking hands with Martin and David Fincher before taking his leave.

As Martin and David made their way to the dining car, the director dropped a bombshell. "Randolph from Netflix mentioned he's eyeing you for their upcoming TV series project," he revealed, igniting a spark of excitement in Martin's eyes.

Martin leaned in, intrigued. "So, Randolph mentioned you'd be both directing and producing?" he inquired.

David Fincher nodded, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "Exactly. It's a political drama," he confirmed.

Martin's interest piqued. "Like 'House of Cards'?" he ventured.

David Fincher's grin widened. "Exactly. We're adapting it from the British series. It delves into the cutthroat world of Washington politics," he elaborated.

Having been an avid consumer of Fincher's work, Martin's admiration for the project was evident. "I remember the original. Underwood, right?" he recalled.

David Fincher nodded, confirming Martin's recollection. "That's the one. And here's the kicker—I've got a deal with Netflix. Regardless of the Oscars outcome, I'll be helming 'House of Cards' for them," he divulged.

Martin's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "This film's got potential. Let's aim for a few more Oscars, shall we?" he encouraged.

David Fincher's expression turned serious. "I don't have the stamina of a Leonardo or a Scorsese. If this film doesn't hit the mark, I won't chase after Oscars," he confessed.

Martin nodded in understanding, recalling how Fincher would later become one of Hollywood's most sought-after directors, seamlessly transitioning between traditional studios and streaming giants like Netflix.

After lunch, the studio received unexpected visitors—Leonardo and Nicholson, two Hollywood legends.

Spotting the trio, David Fincher wasted no time in assigning two assistants to keep a close eye on them, mindful of their potential mischief.

In the lounge, Leonardo approached Martin with a proposition. "Ever thought about joining me on a trip to Africa?" he asked.

Martin, intrigued, accepted the book Leonardo offered, prompting the actor to explain his mission—to film a documentary about mountain gorillas for environmental awareness.

Martin raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that just for show? Do we really need to risk our necks for it?" he questioned.

Leonardo's tone grew somber as he revealed the true danger—armed poachers and civil unrest in the Congo.

Appalled, Martin tossed the book aside. "Count me out of that madness," he declared.

Leonardo persisted, revealing his true motive—to have his friends by his side.

Martin scoffed at the idea. "I'd rather not become gorilla food, thank you very much," he retorted.

Nicholson chimed in, echoing Martin's sentiment.

Leonardo pleaded with them, lamenting their lack of brotherly support.

Martin shook his head, unyielding. "We'll pass. No offense, Leo, but turning into a gorilla isn't on my bucket list," he quipped.

Nicholson chuckled in agreement. "I'd rather stick to less life-threatening activities," he added.

With their decision made, Leonardo resigned himself to their reluctance, albeit with a hint of disappointment.

Martin scoffed, listing off his wealth and lavish lifestyle. "I've got cash pouring out of my pockets, assets worth hundreds of millions, a posse of loyal friends, and enough Coke to last a lifetime. Why trade all that for a war-torn African adventure?" he challenged.

Leonardo's expression shifted as he realized Martin's words struck a chord with him as well. It wasn't mere bragging but a genuine internal debate.

Nicholson chimed in, voicing his discomfort with the idea of risking it all for an uncertain venture.

With Leonardo's enthusiasm waning, Martin proposed an alternative. "Invest some cash, hire a crew, and shoot the documentary without risking our necks. We've got Asia Fund, don't we?" he suggested.

Leonardo revealed his struggle to secure funding for the project, lamenting the reluctance of major networks and studios.

Nicholson chimed in, highlighting the pragmatic nature of the industry.

Martin then suggested Netflix as a potential partner, citing their focus on original content and flexibility.

Leonardo mulled over the idea, acknowledging his lack of familiarity with the streaming giant.

Ever the helpful friend, Martin swiftly arranged a meeting with Netflix's content director, Greg Peters, demonstrating his unwavering support.

As plans took shape, Martin excused himself from the negotiations, leaving Leonardo and Greg to discuss the details.

Meanwhile, Nicholson decided to tag along with Leonardo, seeking relief from the studio monotony.

With the afternoon shooting underway, Martin rushed to his meeting in Beverly Hills, eager to facilitate the partnership between Leonardo and Netflix.

Greg welcomed Martin warmly, expressing his gratitude for the introduction and emphasizing Netflix's interest in the project.

Martin deflected the praise, underscoring his role as a mere facilitator.

After a brief exchange, Leonardo and Nicholson joined the meeting, and Martin discreetly withdrew to enjoy a game of bowling.

Upon his return, Martin found Leonardo and Greg deep in discussion, indicating progress towards a mutual agreement.