Chapter 399: A Good Person

The first showing of "The Reader" in a single theater was packed, and the second showing was almost full too. Fans of Martin and Kate easily filled the theater seats.

To control word-of-mouth and excel in marketing, the crew extended the single showing for two weekends.

Kate Winslet, who dreams of competing in the Olympics, spent a lot and appeared in the media everywhere.

"Kate Winslet delivered her most thrilling performance to date."

"Kate's acting skills are astonishing, and Martin's role is equally impressive."

In contrast to Kate, Martin keeps a low profile and is practical. Oscar Impact Funding by Coca-Cola continued to sponsor, with Brioni and Cadillac chipping in.

They also hoped Martin would appear at the Oscars wearing his own brand.

"Our aim this time is to secure a Best Actor nomination," Thomas said, being realistic. "Winning the award is too tough."

Leonardo, not in the Olympics race, approached Martin. He playfully remarked, "The academy's favorites have been in Los Angeles since the start of the year, preparing for the Oscars."

Martin guessed the name, "Daniel Day-Lewis."

Jessica checked her computer data and said, "His film 'There Will Be Blood' is screening in Los Angeles, and the buzz around it and Daniel Day-Lewis' performance is incredible."

Martin looked at Leonardo, "That's why you didn't win this year."

"No chance, the academy's old guard adores him too much," Leonardo, who acted alongside Daniel Day-Lewis, said. "Did you know? Compared to regular artists, Daniel Day-Lewis is even more relentless in promoting and public relations. He participates in various events just like young actors."

Martin nodded and told Thomas, "You handle the connections. If we can secure a Best Actor nomination, it's a win." The brief meeting concluded, and Leonardo answered a call, while Jessica returned to her office.

Thomas found Martin alone and said, "Ari inquired to me about your contract renewal."

Martin's three-year agency contract with WMA was about to expire, and several agencies were interested.

He didn't respond but asked Thomas, "What's your take?"

This question made Thomas feel valued; it seemed Martin was looking for his opinion.

After four years of working together, Thomas knew Martin quite well. After some thought, he suggested, "If WMA can reduce the agency fee to 5% and adjust later earnings to match your stature, I recommend sticking with WMA."

He put himself in Martin's shoes, saying, "Our partnership with WMA has been smooth without major conflicts. It's better to continue with familiar people and companies. WMA has also started efforts to secure your Best Actor nomination."

With Martin's decision, there was no hesitation, "Go and talk to WMA. No need to hold out; if negotiations are favorable, you can bring someone here to sign a new contract."

Thomas agreed, left, returned to the agency, and went straight to Ali Emmanuel's office.

Martin checked the time, donned a Brioni suit, and headed out with Leonardo to Kate's Los Angeles residence.

Kate was hosting a pull-up party tonight and had invited many guests.

As they got out of the car, they bumped into Brian Lord, a CAA partner who had also arrived.

When Martin and Leonardo approached him, Brian Lord's expression appeared a bit unusual. Nonetheless, he initiated a greeting and said to Martin, "Let's have a private chat." Martin slowed his pace slightly and inquired, "What's on your mind?"

Despite some past tension between CAA and Martin, Brian Lord wasted no time in attempting to lure Martin away, "Is your contract with WMA expiring soon? Would you consider joining CAA?" Seeing Martin's non-immediate objection, Lord added, "Here are the terms: you'll be treated as a superstar in the industry, and I'll personally oversee your career development."

Rather than refusing directly, Martin placed the ball in Thomas's court, asking his agent to proceed, "I've had a great working relationship with Thomas Ryan, and we're also good friends privately. I've never thought about changing agents."

Lord noted that Martin hadn't entirely rejected the idea and decided to deal with the agent first.

Martin leaned toward continuing with WMA but saw the potential to leverage CAA to secure better terms. He took a few steps and caught up with Leonardo.

Leonardo mentioned, "CAA wants to poach you? In fact, dealing with a talent agency is unnecessary. After my last contract with CAA expired, I didn't sign with any agency."

Martin asked, "Entertainment Bill?"

Leonardo explained, "It's not just that. I handle job opportunities independently through managers." He also mentioned that even Martin couldn't compare to his level of influence at the moment, "Even Scorsese doesn't have an agent anymore."

The two entered the mansion and met Kate Winslet and Sam Mendes, who were dressed up. After greeting them, Martin and Leonardo had the freedom to mingle.

It was evident that Leonardo's goal was to spot attractive blonde women, and his eyes always gravitated in that direction. Pointing to a corner of the hall, Leonardo remarked, "Look over there, your favorite."

Martin followed his gaze and spotted Harvey Weinstein and Georgina Chapman. Leonardo teased, "You're in your early 30s, good-looking, and married. Isn't this your thing?"

Martin retorted, "Stop spreading rumors. I'm a committed person." As he said this, Martin confidently strode over.

Of course, Leonardo tagged along to witness the interaction. As they approached, Martin took the initiative and greeted, "Hi, Georgina, it's been a while."

Georgina's face lit up with a smile, and she greeted Martin cheerfully, "Would you like me to introduce you? Angela Lindewald and Carolina helped my brand break into the fashion industry this year, not just in the entertainment and awards season." Martin congratulated her, "That's a great achievement."

Georgina expressed warmth, "You've always been willing to help. KK and Angela speak highly of you."

When Harvey Weinstein approached, Martin acknowledged, "I'm happy to assist. We all work hard in this industry, and mutual support is valuable." Harvey picked up on Martin's change of direction and commented, "You finally got to the point."

Martin tried to mend bridges, "Harvey, I've always admired you. Perhaps there were misunderstandings in the past."

Georgina chimed in, "Yes, let's discuss those misunderstandings in person. That would be great." She added, "Harvey, Martin is a very nice person."

Harvey Weinstein extended an invitation, "I'll host a party soon and invite you and Leo." Leonardo was eager for some entertainment, believing that Martin had ulterior motives. He was the first to accept, "I'm in."

Martin nodded and smiled. Georgina continued to share stories about her experiences with KK and Angela Lindewald.

After about five or six minutes of conversation, Martin took the initiative to bid farewell. Leonardo reminded him, "Don't forget our bet. When will you make your move? Need help from Jack and me?" Martin's expression darkened, "Am I the type to chase after someone else's wife or girlfriend?"

Leonardo nodded with mock solemnity, "You are."

Martin chose not to dwell on the topic. He recalled last year's incident involving Brad Pitt, which didn't implicate Harvey Weinstein, possibly due to his Jewish identity and the lobby behind him.

Hollywood has its favorites, and it's a tough world.

Take Mel Gibson, for instance. Despite his talent, a drunken rant against Jews almost cost him his career.

Martin knows how to keep his cool, and ideally, everyone can go their separate ways.

If Harvey continues to press him, Martin has a way to up the stakes.

Screening sessions are crucial, and some of the film's highlights will be on display.

Kate's performance is particularly outstanding.

In most scenes with Kate, Martin shares the spotlight as the male lead, drawing considerable attention.

Leonardo gazed at the screen and fell silent.

After the wrap-up of the event, people scattered. Leonardo turned to Martin and said, "I've realized you're better than me in terms of acting."

Martin didn't hold back, "I'm better than you in many ways, like the 100 meters..."

Leonardo frowned, glared, and threatened, "You came here in my car. Believe it or not, I'll leave you here?"

Martin chose to stay silent.

On the other side, after Harvey Weinstein's press conference, he didn't accompany Georgina home. Instead, he headed to a nightclub to join a party with the Foot Gang.

In the VIP room, Quentin wiped his mouth with a tissue.

If all customers were as eccentric as these, life would be easier.

Quentin tossed the tissue into the bin and then spoke, "Harvey, I've picked the theme and backdrop for my new film: an assassination plot during World War II."

Harvey had confidence in Quentin's abilities and replied, "You handle the planning, and I'll deal with the project and other issues."

Quentin continued, "Last year at the party, I considered using Brad Pitt as the lead, but with his ongoing lawsuits and unresolved issues, I dare not cast him. It's hard to gauge his appeal now."

"Let's steer clear of Brad Pitt," Harvey advised. "As for the male lead, I might have a promising candidate. When you write the script, I'll approach him."