Chapter 624: This Is Marriage

In the dimly lit theater of Burbank, with the screen casting its mesmerizing glow, the "perfect couple" portrayed onscreen engaged in a dialogue about the secrets of a blissful marriage, their professed love echoing through the room, captivating the audience.

The eerie undertone of "perfect life" leapt off the screen, seeping into the minds of every viewer present at the preview of "Gone Girl."

It appeared to be a marriage steeped in deep affection, yet marred by attempts at control, leading to resentment, injury, and ultimately, a sinister unraveling.

Perhaps, mused the audience, this is the essence of marriage—simultaneously bound by love and plagued by animosity, a paradoxical union of dependence and disdain.

In the front row, Martin's phone buzzed discreetly. Glancing at the caller ID—Marina—he swiftly declined the call, prompting a subtle furrow of Elizabeth Olsen's brow as she observed him, pondering if there was a hidden agenda behind his invitation to the screening.

For the portrayal of marriage depicted in the film he starred in was so chillingly realistic, it instilled an involuntary sense of dread in its viewers.

Is marriage truly this absurd?

Elizabeth remained contemplative, her thoughts shrouded in silence.

As the credits rolled, bathing the theater in light, the audience erupted into warm applause after a moment of introspective silence.

The story was gripping, its darkness punctuated by moments of twisted humor that lingered in the memory long after the screen faded to black.

Basking in the applause, Gillian Flynn, the author, rose from her seat, casting a glance around the theater at the enthralled faces before her.

Distribution producer Daniel beamed with pride, proclaiming, "This is another masterpiece. I have no doubt the film will be a resounding success!"

Gillian's excitement was palpable as she concurred, "Indeed, it's bound to be a triumph."

Warner Pictures President Jon Burr shared in her enthusiasm, confident in the film's prospects. With its success assured, Gillian Flynn's next project, "Dark Places," was poised to garner widespread attention, further cementing Warner Pictures' reputation.

This, Jon believed, was a pivotal project—one that would solidify his legacy within Warner's illustrious history.

But for Jon, actions spoke louder than words.

Since assuming office, he had spearheaded numerous ambitious projects, such as the ongoing production of "Pharaohs and Gods" and the forthcoming "Jack the Giant Killer," along with the adaptation of "Dark Place."

He had also invested in "Green Lantern," the inaugural project of the DC movie universe initiative.

With these endeavors poised for success, Jon stood to not only validate his leadership but also surpass his predecessor, Alan Horn, in the annals of Warner's legacy.

Meanwhile, amidst the post-screening buzz, Martin exchanged fist bumps with David Fincher, expressing his eagerness to watch the film again.

Charlize Theron, ever the jester, teased, "Impressed by your acting chops or mine?"

Elizabeth chimed in with praise, commending Sally for her stellar performance.

Confident as ever, Charlize asserted, "This role rivals my performance in 'Monster.'"

David Fincher lauded Martin's performance, affirming, "Your chemistry with Sally was exceptional, precisely the effect I envisioned."

With the film nearing completion and the reception overwhelmingly positive, the mood among the creators was buoyant, brimming with anticipation for its impending release.

After the screening, Martin, Charlize, and David Fincher graciously accepted interviews with the media, exchanging mutual compliments and praises.

As the interviews wrapped up, Martin's phone buzzed once more. Glancing at the caller ID, he excused himself to take the call in a quieter corner.

Marina's voice greeted him from the other end, extending an invitation: "Hi, Martin. I'd like to treat you to dinner tonight. You've been instrumental in my journey to Los Angeles, helping me secure roles and projects. I've arranged something special to express my gratitude."

Martin's response was curt: "You've already paid your dues. Consider it a well-deserved reward." With a dismissive tone, he declined Marina's invitation, showcasing his typical indifference. "I'm tied up with work. Let's leave it at that." With that, he ended the call abruptly.

On the other end, Marina's spirits sank as she listened to the dial tone, feeling utterly dejected.

Meanwhile, Susie Flavor and Catherine Oxenberg approached, extending an invitation to a weekend party. "There's a gathering this weekend. Would you care to join us?" Catherine asked.

Marina, accustomed to seizing opportunities, readily agreed to the producer's offer: "Sure, count me in."

Susie beamed, "Fantastic! I'll touch base with you over the weekend."

With plans made, Catherine promptly made arrangements for the event.

Simultaneously, Raniere fielded a call, instructing his team to prepare for an upcoming event. Nxivm's strategies involved more than just persuasive rhetoric; they relied on a display of energy to entice potential recruits.

Elsewhere, a crew member from "Canine Game" sent a message, which eventually reached Nicholson's attention.

"After discreet investigation, it's evident that Nxivm's methods for attracting high-profile targets are simple yet effective," Nicholson relayed to Leonardo. "Raniere's persuasive eloquence, coupled with a captivating ideology, entices recruits with the promise of endless benefits."

Leonardo acknowledged the efficacy of such tactics, drawing a parallel to Martin's own approach with Coke God.

With a toast, Nicholson expressed hope that their targets would take the bait, while Leonardo reasoned that their investment in Marina was too substantial to abandon.

Back at the Burbank Theater, Gillian Flynn approached Martin, offering an explanation for the early reveal of "Dark Place."

Apologizing for the deviation from their agreement, Gillian explained, "Warner Pictures made an irresistible offer before the book's completion."

Martin, understanding the nature of business, reassured her, "No harm done, Gillian. Our friendship remains intact."

He expressed gratitude for the advance sample of "Dark Place," acknowledging it as a prudent move given the circumstances.

Elizabeth Olsen joined them, and as Gillian excused herself, Elizabeth shared Warner's initial feedback: an average theater rating of A and positive reviews from critics and test audiences alike, indicating a promising start for the film.

She grinned, triumphant. He chuckled, admiration evident in his voice. "My dear, you've done it again."

Martin, ever the pragmatist, tempered the excitement. "Let's not count our chickens before they hatch. Positive test screenings don't always translate to success in the public eye. We need to keep pushing for promotion and distribution. David and Daniel are waiting for us."

He paused, reflecting on the fickleness of film audiences. "Remember 'Star Wars'? Critics panned it in test screenings, yet it became an American cultural phenomenon."

As they drove back, Elizabeth broached a weighty topic. "Is marriage truly that dreadful?"

Martin, influenced by the tumultuous relationships around him, painted a bleak picture. "I've seen my fair share of disastrous marriages. Lily's parents, for instance, are skilled in the art of dysfunction. And my own father…" He trailed off, the bitterness evident in his tone.

Elizabeth, familiar with Martin's family history, inquired about his father's whereabouts. Martin grimaced. "Last I heard, he fleeced Lily's mother, Emma, and vanished, leaving her stranded in Hawaii."

He mused, "If he knew where I was, he'd come knocking. Nothing's ever stopped him before."

Elizabeth offered a glimmer of hope. "People can change, Martin."

He shook his head, his skepticism palpable. "I'll believe it when I see it."

As the conversation veered toward lighter topics, Martin suggested trying out a new restaurant in Century City.

Elizabeth, eager to change the subject, agreed with a smile. "It's been ages since we dined out together."

Little did she know, in a few days, she'd be embarking on a business trip with her sisters to promote their investment in a brand.