Chapter 591: Encouraging Nolan

"Inception," directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Martin, was a monumental cinematic venture backed by investments and production from Warner Pictures and Legendary Pictures. Its release date was set for Independence Day, with the anticipation of it coinciding with the holiday season.

The film bore a colossal production cost of $160 million, and Warner Bros. left no stone unturned in its promotional and distribution efforts. The expectations surrounding it were nothing short of astronomical.

From media reporters and critics to theater managers, "Inception" garnered resounding acclaim during three exclusive preview screenings. It appeared poised to make a significant impact in the world of cinema.

While Martin was deeply engrossed in the filming of "Gone Girl," Warner Bros. had already initiated an extensive promotional campaign for "Inception." This campaign was impossible to ignore, with larger-than-life posters adorning iconic landmarks in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. At a mere glance, these posters had the power to blur the lines between dreams and reality, leaving passersby captivated by the movie's enigmatic allure.

Nolan had assumed the role of not just a director but a marketing maestro. He consistently teased the media and fans with intriguing "behind-the-scenes" glimpses from the film's production. Leading a viral marketing campaign, he orchestrated various online activities, revolving around central themes like dream machines and conscious crimes. This allowed the audience to gain a preliminary understanding of the film's intricate concepts, making it all the more accessible upon its release.

After attending to his immediate obligations, Martin also joined the ranks of those promoting "Inception."

Within the welcoming confines of Entertainment Weekly's lounge, Martin readied himself for an upcoming interview. As he acclimated to the setting, Bruce arrived, discreetly stowing away his cellphone. With no one else in the room, he leaned in and whispered, "I've just received word that Warner Pictures is in the early stages of developing a fairy tale and magic-themed production. They're already scouting for screenwriters and directors."

Martin responded with an air of expectation, his thoughts extending back to when he chose "Jack the Giant Killer." "It doesn't come as a surprise," he admitted. "The resounding success of 'Alice in Wonderland' has caused numerous Hollywood production companies to turn their attention to classic fairy tales from the past."

Bruce chimed in, referencing a newspaper article he'd been perusing, "That film's box office earnings are nearing the billion-dollar mark. Hollywood is enthusiastically embracing this trend; other studios can't afford to stay idle."

Martin continued to elucidate, "The advantages of adapting live-action movies from classic fairy tales are manifold. Most notably, it circumvents exorbitant copyright fees. These timeless stories become ubiquitous, appealing to a broad audience and facilitating the development of peripheral works."

Hollywood is always fervently chasing trends. The success of one live-action fairy tale film had triggered a domino effect, resulting in numerous projects being greenlit throughout the industry.

Bruce, his brow furrowed with curiosity, inquired, "Could Warner be contemplating a live-action fairy tale blockbuster destined for box office glory?"

Martin contemplated for a moment and replied, "While that might be plausible for other studios, it's a more intricate endeavor for Warner."

Bruce probed further, "Could this have something to do with the newly appointed management?"

Martin simply shrugged, leaving the question unanswered.

In Martin's recollection, there was a time when Warner Brothers dominated Hollywood's landscape, particularly from the early 2000s to 2010. However, in the decade that followed, Walt Disney not only caught up but also surpassed Warner Brothers.

Martin was still somewhat puzzled by this shift, but the personnel upheaval that led Allen Horn to transition from Warner Pictures to Disney Pictures left him with a nagging suspicion that it played a role in this transformation.

Various factors may have contributed to the shift, and Alan Horn played a significant role in it.

As the conversation flowed, there came another knock on the door of the lounge. Bruce went over to open it and stepped aside to welcome Nolan.

Nolan entered from outside, greeted by Martin who stood up to shake his hand warmly. Martin, with a curious tone, inquired, "I've heard that filming for 'The Dark Knight Rises' has begun?"

Nolan nodded, confirming, "Indeed, it's a bit ahead of schedule. We had to accommodate Bale's commitments. He signed a contract with Warner Bros., and we're gearing up for an epic production scheduled to kick off in late July."

Martin mentioned, "I've also heard about 'Exodus,' directed by Ridley Scott."

Nolan, somewhat indifferent to that project due to scheduling constraints and other factors, responded nonchalantly, "That's a rather mundane story that's been adapted countless times in Hollywood. It's as if they're afraid the whole world won't recognize it."

Martin concurred, saying, "True, they seem compelled to do it."

Nolan still remembered the intrigue of "Inception" and the unspoken truths of the "Dream Space." He remarked, "They dare to venture into these realms, but they're hesitant to acknowledge it openly, and they shy away from discussing it."

Martin shared Nolan's frustration, revealing, "Warner Brothers even cautioned me not to bring up the Morocco kidnapping incident during promotions."

Nolan, clearly irked, chimed in, "It's ironic. They tout freedom of expression, yet when it comes to certain individuals, freedom of speech seems absent. You're either with them or against them."

Martin sighed, "Unfortunately, that seems to be the industry's prevailing atmosphere."

Nolan recognized that he had let slip more than he'd intended, but with Martin as his confidant, he felt at ease sharing, "Speaking of Harvey Weinstein, I'm grateful for the outlet he provided to vent my frustrations."

Martin quipped, "Mostly for my own sake; he had me on edge. I got lucky last time, but next time, it could be me."

Despite Harvey Weinstein's denials, Brad Pitt admitted that Harvey had pressured him into hiring a set art assistant for a certain purpose. Pitt became a key witness in the case, resulting in an additional criminal charge against Harvey.

Their discussion was interrupted by an assistant who informed them that the interview was about to commence. Martin and Nolan made their way to the elaborately decorated room, where they were greeted by Grace, the chief reporter of Entertainment Weekly.

The two parties had coordinated ahead of time, focusing primarily on movie-related topics during the interview. Toward the end, Grace threw in an unexpected question, addressing Martin, "I've heard some crew members say you had trouble comprehending Nolan's scripts?"

Martin, taken aback by the question, quickly clarified, "That's not true at all. I understand the scripts perfectly well. Director Nolan can vouch for that, right?"

Nolan affirmed, "Among all the actors on set, Martin is the quickest to grasp the script."

Martin seized the opportunity to add a twist, "It must have been a misunderstanding. There were moments on set when I became so deeply engrossed in the role that distinguishing reality from dream became challenging. Director Nolan came to my rescue."

Nolan, ever the master of suspense, smoothly continued, "I told Martin, wherever I am, it's reality; wherever I'm not, it's dreamland."

Martin chuckled, "Director Nolan effortlessly helped me navigate the depths of the film."

Then, he shifted to a more earnest tone, declaring, "Director Nolan is an exceptional talent, leading an extraordinary team, and it's nothing short of exhilarating to be a part of it."

Nolan reciprocated the compliments, saying, "Martin is the kind of actor every director dreams of working with. He consistently grasps my vision and exceeds my expectations. I couldn't ask for a better collaborator, and I hope our partnership continues."

As the interview concluded, the two exchanged a knowing glance, realizing they had indulged in mutual praise for quite some time but harbored no regrets about the encounter.

Grace found herself with no alternative but to halt the interview abruptly.

Nolan and Martin exited the magazine's premises, exchanging words as they strolled. "Once we wrap up filming for 'The Dark Knight Rises,' I'll bid farewell to superhero movies altogether and delve into the realm of science fiction," Nolan proclaimed.

Martin offered his assistance, saying, "Feel free to reach out if you need anything."

Nolan paused, pondered for a moment, and inquired, "I've heard rumors of your disagreements with Warner Bros.?"

Martin had no reason to conceal the truth, explaining, "It mainly revolves around distribution fees. Warner Bros. currently claims the highest percentage in the industry."

The studio jointly established by the Nolans and Jonathan Nolan also contributed to the production investment of "Inception" and "The Dark Knight Rises," making Warner Bros.' larger distribution cut a source of frustration.

Martin added another fact, stating, "Our old friend Alan Horn now presides over Disney Pictures. Disney Pictures' North American distribution fee is only 27%, one of the lowest in the industry for overseas and offline distribution."

Nolan contemplated the situation, remarking thoughtfully, "Alan has reached out to me. Let's arrange a meeting when we have some time."

Martin agreed, "Certainly."

Exiting the magazine's premises, the two hopped into their respective cars and drove away.

As Bruce maneuvered onto the main road, he inquired, "Were you trying to encourage Nolan to leave Warner Bros.?"

Martin denied the notion firmly, asserting, "No, I'm just concerned for my friend. He might face undue losses in the future."

Bruce glanced at the time and explained, "I'll drop you off at home. You needn't wait for me for dinner. I have plans."

Martin asked teasingly, "Kim and Khloe?"

Bruce appeared somewhat solemn, as if marching to his doom, and replied, "Judy invited me to celebrate her Pulitzer Prize for Journalism."

Martin suggested, "Go to the basement storage room at home and pick up whatever gifts you need."

Bruce remained obstinate, saying, "I won't bring anything."

Martin, with his characteristic audacity, retorted, "That's correct. Bruce, you are the best gift for Judy."

Bruce drove into the Davis Manor but opted to withhold words from Martin. He swiftly changed into an inconspicuous vehicle and headed away from Beverly Hills, arriving at the TMZ headquarters building.

After a brief ten-minute wait, Judy, elegantly made up, opened the passenger door and entered the car. She leaned over to kiss Bruce, exclaiming, "Boss, you look incredibly dashing today!"

Bruce inquired, "Where are we headed?"

Judy's desire for celebration and intimacy was written across her face, "We're heading to my place, of course. Half of the Pulitzer Prize I won belongs to you. Naturally, we should celebrate together."

Bruce maintained his humble stance, "You deserve all the credit; it's not connected to me."

Judy asserted, "I understand that outwardly it may seem unrelated to you, but in my heart, half of this award belongs to you. All the accolades I've received, I owe to you. I must show my appreciation."

Bruce persisted, "No reward is necessary. I'll join you for a celebratory meal and then head out."

Judy, her lips curling into a smile, agreed, "Alright, let's grab a bite first."

Shortly after, the two arrived at Judy's home. Judy personally prepared a lavish dinner to mark her award, shared with Bruce.

At Davis Manor, Martin waited patiently for Bruce's return, but the hours passed with no sign of him.

Around ten o'clock, Martin finally received a text message from Bruce. It read, "I won't be coming back tonight."

Seizing the opportunity, Martin responded immediately, "No loyalty!"