Chapter 51: A Word Is Set

Pitchers of dark beer flowed onto a dozen tables as the aroma of barbecue wafted through the air. The clinking of glasses echoed continuously, and the busy film crew welcomed a rare moment of relaxation, especially one where the boss and director could finally let loose. For the employees of the crew, this refreshing feeling was truly rare.

In their eyes, Murphy was synonymous with stinginess.

But Bill Rossi, sitting at the same table with Murphy, didn't see it that way. In his eyes, Murphy was someone who understood how to plan.

The importance of planning for a director is self-evident.

After discussing the topic of agent business earlier, over a satisfying meal, Murphy brought it up again. "Bill, to be honest, I don't really need an agent right now. The film I'm shooting is entirely financed by me."

Setting down his glass, Bill Rossi raised a finger and shook it at Murphy. "You're right. Your crew has overcome the most difficult initial stage and is now in full swing. Getting an agent wouldn't really help with your filming."

He emphasized, "But Murphy, have you thought about how your film will enter the distribution channels?"

Murphy opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. He had already considered distribution issues, and the best way would be to pitch the film to numerous distribution companies in Hollywood.

This was a method that anyone in the industry could think of, so there wasn't much to say about it.

"With my involvement, the situation changes." Agents are undoubtedly skilled in rhetoric, and Bill Rossi was no exception. "I may just be a regular entertainment agent, but I have a huge company backing me. There are considerable resources within the company that I can utilize. I'm sure you're aware of the strength and position of my agency in the industry."

When signing with Carrie Mulligan, Murphy knew that Bill Rossi came from a massive entertainment empire—CAA!

Bill Rossi continued, "I know many people, and even if it's not using the company's resources, I have my own network of connections. I can introduce you to some buyers from distribution companies and help you navigate independent film festivals to promote your film."

Murphy lightly tapped his index finger on the table, clearly deep in thought.

"I'm sure you also know..." Bill Rossi continued to press, "a film that's completed but can't find distribution channels is almost meaningless."

This viewpoint aligned with Murphy's. Any brilliant film was only the foundation of success; comprehensive marketing and distribution were essential for it to shine.

Not to mention the quality of the film he was making, even those acknowledged classic films, how many flopped due to distribution issues, leaving investors bleeding money?

He had no experience, no network, and no distribution channels. If he could leverage the power of an agent, the film would inevitably face fewer obstacles after production was completed.

Murphy wasn't naive enough to think that once filming was done, he could approach a few distribution companies, present a marketing plan, and they would sign a fair distribution contract with him. That was the kind of thinking only children in kindergarten would have. Murphy was well aware of how difficult it was to distribute independent films in Hollywood, even as someone new to the entertainment industry.

"Murphy, I can't guarantee how many resources CAA will invest in you, and with my position in the company, I can't make that guarantee."

Bill Rossi knew that to impress someone like Murphy, it was best not to make empty promises. Showing enough sincerity was more effective. "But personally, I will do everything I can to promote your film, find suitable distribution channels for it, and ensure that 'Hard Candy' truly reaches the audience, instead of gathering dust in a warehouse."

"Well, that sounds quite enticing." Murphy raised an eyebrow but then sighed. "There's one thing you need to know. I squeezed $100,000 out of Kobe Bryant, and the person dealing with it should come from your CAA."

"That's not a problem." Bill Rossi seemed unconcerned. "Our sports agency is a completely separate department from CAA, and the basketball department isn't as valued internally as American football."

As an invitation from a CAA agent, Murphy couldn't help but feel tempted. Considering CAA's strength and position in the entertainment agency field, it would be a lie to say he wasn't interested. After all, it made sense to take advantage of the resources of a big agency.

After weighing the options for a while, Murphy slowly spoke up. "Let me think about it. Before 'Hard Candy' is completed, I'll give you a definite answer."

Bill Rossi extended his hand. "A word is set."

Murphy slapped his hand. "A word is set!"

Both of them had their own thoughts. Murphy wanted to leverage the resources of an experienced agent like Bill Rossi, and Bill Rossi's words might not be entirely trustworthy. If Murphy didn't sign the contract in the end, Bill Rossi wouldn't suffer any real loss apart from wasting some saliva. Entertainment agents were all exceptionally shrewd characters—how could they possibly engage in unprofitable deals?

The

phrase "a word is set" was just lip service.

Murphy was well aware of this, but having an excellent agent would undoubtedly help him avoid some detours in the future.

"It's getting late." Bill Rossi glanced at his watch and took the initiative to bid farewell. "I have to head back to Los Angeles. Goodbye."

"Goodbye." Murphy didn't insist on keeping him, but reminded him, "Bill, get my leading actress back to me as soon as possible."

"You'll see her soon."

As Bill Rossi turned to leave, James Franco approached Murphy with a large cup of dark beer and sat down across from him without hesitation.

"Cheers!" He clinked his glass against Murphy's and took a big gulp of beer. Murphy raised his glass. "Cheers."

He took a big sip too.

Perhaps he had drunk a bit too much, as James Franco's face showed a hint of drunkenness. "You know, Murphy, you're the person I admire most on this set."

"No..." He waved his hand. "Among the people I've met in the past two years, you're the one I admire the most."

"Hmm?" Murphy looked puzzled.

"To be able to tame a devilish girl like that..." James Franco lowered his voice, fueled by alcohol, "and have her think you're the best person in the world. Isn't that admirable?"

Murphy shook his head, not responding to his words. Instead, he said, "You've had too much to drink, Jim. You should go back and rest. We have filming tomorrow."

With that, he stood up, clapping his hands firmly. "Alright, everyone, that's it for tonight. Let's go back and rest. We have work tomorrow!"