Chapter 100: Lionsgate Entertainment
After completing the film production, Murphy first contacted Bill Rossi, who sent the finished film to the MPAA for rating through CAA channels. This aspect of the work needed to be expedited as the MPAA rating system, while appearing fair and transparent, had many hidden aspects, the most notable being the time it took for ratings.
The MPAA was dominated by the six major Hollywood studios, with films from these studios given priority ratings. For example, without the assistance of CAA channels, films produced by Stanton Studios might have to wait for a month just for a rating.
"In tonight's party, Milton Johnson, head of distribution at Lionsgate Entertainment, will be attending."
In the living room of Stanton Studios, Kerry Mulligan was helping Murphy with his bowtie. Bill Rossi, looking in that direction, said, "I've met him a few times before and can introduce you."
He glanced at the guest list obtained through various channels and added, "There's also an executive from New Line Cinema; I'll handle that."
Glancing at Kerry Mulligan again, Bill Rossi's eyelid twitched, but he didn't say much.
After all, she was already sixteen, past the most sensitive age range. As long as she didn't mind, she wouldn't cause much trouble. Besides, he had witnessed Murphy's capabilities and believed he could handle this relationship well.
In both the UK and North America, this wasn't a big deal, especially in Hollywood.
As Kerry Mulligan finished arranging Murphy's attire, Bill Rossi added, "Murphy, make sure to prepare some formal clothing. You can dress casually for work, but for negotiations or attending formal parties like this, you must wear a suit."
"I will," Murphy replied.
He would definitely heed such useful advice. Currently, he only had one formal suit. On one hand, there were few occasions to wear it, and on the other hand, his finances had been tight since his release from prison, gradually instilling a habit of frugality.
"It's getting late. We should leave," Bill Rossi said, checking his watch.
Murphy nodded and followed him towards the door leaving Stanton Studios and getting into Bill Rossi's car, heading towards Beverly Hills.
Tonight, there was a charity party at the Four Seasons Hotel. Such parties were frequent in Hollywood, showcasing the glamour of the industry to the outside world through various means.
These parties had a certain entry threshold. Without Bill Rossi's maneuvering, Murphy wasn't sure if he could attend. His goal for coming here was clear; he had no interest in the auction and fundraising activities preceding the party.
With his current financial situation, he didn't have the means to participate in such games.
After the charity auction ended, everyone moved from the banquet hall to the lawn behind the hotel, where a stage was set up. A band played soothing music, turning the charity event into a social gathering, seemingly the true theme of the party.
Although Murphy spotted a few big stars like Julia Roberts and Brad Pitt, he didn't approach them for conversation. It would only be boring if he did so now; he had his own goals.
"Over here..."
Seeing that the target had fewer people around, Bill Rossi quickly called Murphy to walk towards the palm trees.
Standing there was a man with slightly graying hair. If Murphy wasn't mistaken, the person who had just finished talking with him and left should be the future famous Scarlett Johansson. Although Scarlett Johansson wasn't very famous at the moment, her respectful attitude indicated her position in the industry.
"Hi, Milton."
Before they even got close, Bill Rossi greeted him. Milton looked over, his expression a bit strange, as if he didn't recognize Bill Rossi.
A young woman behind him seemed to lean over to remind him, and he immediately put on a polite smile. "Hello, Bill. I didn't expect to see you here."
Seeing this, Murphy understood. Milton probably didn't remember Bill Rossi at all. It wasn't surprising; although Lionsgate Entertainment wasn't one of the top studios in the industry, the head of distribution at such a big company wouldn't remember a small agent like Bill Rossi—it was perfectly normal.
Ignoring this, Bill Rossi approached Milton enthusiastically, saying some appropriate pleasantries.
Murphy stood quietly behind him, not casually interrupting. It wasn't wise to interrupt unless there was a very suitable opportunity before Bill Rossi made a formal introduction.
To be blunt, he didn't have the capital to interrupt now.
"Young directors emerging these days are a good thing for all Hollywood companies," Bill Rossi subtly brought the conversation to Murphy's side. "I know one, very young but extremely talented."
"Oh?" Milton Johnson raised an eyebrow but didn't show any special interest. He just raised his eyebrows.
In Hollywood, he had seen too many people claiming to be talented every day.
"Let me introduce you."
Turning to Murphy, Bill Rossi deliberately mentioned his own company, "This is Murphy Stanton, highly regarded for his future and talent within CAA."
"Murphy..." he turned to introduce, "This is Mr. Milton Johnson from Lionsgate Entertainment."
Milton Johnson looked at Murphy, his gaze somewhat strange.
"Hello, Mr. Johnson," Murphy quickly extended his hand. "It's an honor to meet you."
Milton Johnson shook his hand lightly. "Hello."
He seemed to have heard this name somewhere
before.
The young woman behind him came up again and whispered in his ear, "MiraMaxx bought a small production called 'Hard Candy' a few months ago for one million dollars, and it has already brought in nearly three million dollars in revenue for them. The director of that film is also named Murphy Stanton."
This woman was clearly his assistant, speaking very skillfully. These whispers were just right for Milton Johnson to hear without being heard by the people in front.
Milton Johnson didn't beat around the bush and asked directly, "Are you the director of 'Hard Candy'?"
"Yes," Murphy said calmly. "That was my first feature film."
Although Milton Johnson's face remained calm, Murphy could hear a change in his tone.