Chapter 51: The Wrap Party

Simon listened with a smile as Peter Butler finished speaking, then said, "Peter, this should give you enough for a feature article about me, right?"

Peter could hear the undertone in Simon's words. He nodded, but then added, "Of course, but this all just makes me more curious about you."

"Oh?"

"Firstly, your surname," Peter began to address the core issues, "Simon, was I correct in my article that it's an original creation?"

Simon admitted, "That's right."

"I've checked numerous sources, even called some professors from my alma mater, but none could shed light on it," Peter continued, "So, does 'Westros' have a special meaning?"

Simon honestly shook his head, "Sorry, I can't say."

Peter was surprised by the refusal of what seemed like a simple question and instinctively asked, "Why not?"

"There's no particular reason, I just can't say," Simon replied, "And I don't want to fabricate a reason just to placate you."

Peter paused momentarily, then nodded in acceptance, "Alright, then onto the second question. Simon, where are you from? This has greatly puzzled me. I've contacted your agent, but he was unwilling to disclose this. I couldn't find this information through other channels either."

This time, Simon did not conceal anything but first clarified, "Peter, I need to confirm once again that the article about me and 'Run Lola Run' will definitely be published after next year's Sundance Film Festival, right?"

Peter nodded affirmatively, "Of course."

Simon then revealed, "Well, it's quite simple. I'm from San Francisco, an orphan who grew up in a children's home in San Jose. Last year I entered Stanford to study Computer Science. Two months later, I was admitted to a psychiatric hospital where I spent nine months. After being discharged, I came to Los Angeles. Everything that followed is as you know."

Although he had gone to great lengths to retrieve his medical records from Watsonville, Simon was not overly secretive about his past.

If he remained obscure, it wouldn't matter if these details were discovered by others. Conversely, if he were to become a public figure, it would be better to disclose this information to a familiar media reporter rather than being blindsided later, allowing some control over the narrative.

Peter was slightly stunned by Simon's straightforwardness, which, despite its brevity, was incredibly rich in content.

After a moment of silence, Peter grasped a small but key detail, "Simon, if I'm not mistaken, you should be 19 this year?"

"Actually, 18."

18 years old with a $200,000 screenwriting contract from Fox!

Peter felt overwhelmed, barely processing the information before asking, "Does Fox know your age?"

Simon shook his head, "They don't."

In America, unlike many other countries, there is no national identity card system, primarily to protect privacy. The Social Security number system was only implemented under Roosevelt's assurance to Congress that it would not infringe on personal privacy.

When Simon signed with Fox, he provided his Social Security number and credit card details to ensure he received his script fees. As for his personal information, there was no need to disclose it since he was not an actor.

In fact, even actors in Hollywood often conceal their ages.

Peter took another moment to gather his thoughts, his mind racing from the revelation.

18 years old and already directing his first film.

Peter observed Simon working on set the previous day and saw that the filming of 'Run Lola Run' was far from amateurish. Simon's control over the entire crew did not seem like that of an 18-year-old.

Right.

He was also serving as the cinematographer.

Such a role should not be manageable by an 18-year-old, yet there was no question or dissent from the crew, indicating that Simon had gained their recognition.

My God.

What kind of person had he come across?

As the waiter served their lunch, Peter paused the conversation.

Once the waiter left and they began eating, Peter resumed the interview but did not probe further into Simon's past. If necessary, he would prefer to verify these details personally.

"Let's talk about the movie. Regarding 'The Butterfly Effect,' that's quite an intriguing title. I made some guesses about the plot in that article, how accurate were they?"

"1 point," Simon chuckled, "It's indeed a script that would suit De Palma well. Your other speculations in that article were completely off. Moreover, I can't reveal more; the contract includes a confidentiality clause."

Peter nodded in understanding, then asked, "What about 'Run Lola Run'?"

Simon thought for a moment, then explained, "'Run Lola Run' is a non-traditional film, exploring the numerous possibilities of life. Also, I made this film to illustrate the concept of 'the butterfly effect.' From the beginning, many people told

 me the term was too obscure, and Fox even considered changing the movie's title. However, after watching 'Run Lola Run,' viewers will definitely understand the meaning of 'the butterfly effect' fully."

Peter probed, "It sounds like an art film."

"That depends on your definition of an art film," Simon replied, "If you believe anything outside of commercial cinema falls into that category, then it indeed is. However, 'Run Lola Run' will be a very interesting film."

"Can you share some details?"

"You must have captured the female lead's photo yesterday, right? I think that's enough for now. As for the content, if you're interested, I can reserve a ticket for you at Sundance."

Peter didn't press further about the film details, understanding the need for secrecy before its release. He simply nodded, "That's a deal."

They continued chatting about various topics, finished their meal, and after sending Peter off, Simon returned to Fox Studios to continue his editing work.

Thanks to thorough and meticulous planning, the filming over the following two weeks went smoothly.

Until November 14th.

Friday.

Outside Roger Griffin's supermarket on 25th Street, Santa Monica, at four o'clock in the afternoon, after completing the third take of the last shot, Simon turned off the camera and signaled an 'OK' to the crew amidst their anxious anticipation.

A month and a half of hard work finally came to an end. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief, and applause broke out amongst low cheers.

Simon handed the camera to an assistant director and thanked everyone with hugs. Jenny, not knowing from where, produced a camera and arranged for everyone to gather for a group photo outside the supermarket. She handed the camera to the chubby supermarket owner Roger Griffin, who promptly took their picture.

The street was still closed off, and the crew couldn't linger too long in celebration. After a quick clean-up, the street reopened to traffic.

A wrap party was planned for the evening at Simon's house. Everyone briefly went their own ways to freshen up before converging at his place.

Simon stayed until almost everyone had left, then entered the quickly reopened supermarket to hand Roger a check for using the location.

Roger efficiently accepted the check, slightly wistful, "I can't believe it. When you first mentioned making a film, I thought you were daydreaming."

"Sometimes you have to dream," Simon smiled, "There's a party at my place tonight, Roger, are you coming?"

"I can't, I have to mind the store," Roger said regretfully, pretending to be inundated with responsibilities.

After chatting a bit more, Simon was about to leave when he saw Courteney Cox walking in, still preferring to carry her groceries by hand rather than using a cart.

After exchanging greetings, Courteney mentioned she had seen the filming, asking about its progress.

"Just wrapped," Simon informed her.

Courteney congratulated him and mentioned her own project, 'Masters of the Universe', due for a summer release next year.

After bidding Courteney farewell, Simon headed to the parking lot. Jenny and Catherine were already preparing for the evening's party at his house, and Simon needed to stop by the rental company to ensure all props were returned properly.