Chapter 25: The Well-Structured Script

"...I'm currently performing at a community theater," Jessica Chastain explained, providing Murphy with details of her current commitments.

Having already observed her surroundings and noticed Murphy's composed demeanor, she continued, "I also serve as a board member at the community theater, managing ticketing and arranging venues, among many other responsibilities."

Nodding in understanding, Murphy could glean from Jessica's previous introduction that this high-achieving graduate from the Juilliard School had encountered her fair share of challenges upon entering society. Her journey down the Hollywood path, like that of many others, was undoubtedly fraught with obstacles.

Glancing at his notebook, Murphy looked back at Jessica and asked, "Why should I hire you?"

Taking a moment to consider, Jessica Chastain replied, "I have relevant professional experience. I've worked in theater operations at the Lincoln Arts Center in New York and Off-Broadway. Since coming to Hollywood, I've also worked as a temporary assistant on a set. I believe I'm qualified for this job..."

Pausing briefly, she added, "I need this job. I need something closely related to Hollywood and the film industry."

Rotating the pen in his hand, Murphy asked, "Are you still in school?"

"Yes," Jessica Chastain admitted straightforwardly, "I'm interning."

"I see..." Murphy pondered for a moment. After a while, he said, "I can hire you."

Jessica visibly relaxed at Murphy's response.

However, Murphy quickly added, "But considering you're still in school, I can only offer you an internship."

Understanding that this meant no pay, Jessica Chastain immediately shook her head. "Sorry, I can't do that. I need money now."

Murphy's previous statement was more of a test. If she agreed, he would have a free labor force. If she refused, it would lower her salary expectations.

"I'll give you a chance to explore your career options and learn about my company," Murphy offered, providing her with some hope. "I'll observe your performance and consider offering you a full-time position later."

He emphasized, "My company is about to start filming a movie. It's expected to begin production in one and a half to two months."

This seemed like a real opportunity. Hearing about an upcoming film production sparked Jessica Chastain's interest. She hesitated for a moment before saying, "I need a salary. I just moved out of my parents' home and need money."

Looking at Murphy with a strong desire to secure the job, Jessica Chastain conveyed her eagerness.

Murphy understood that his mention of an upcoming film production had sufficiently piqued her interest in the job.

"Alright, considering your circumstances..." Murphy made a reluctant expression. "I can offer you $300 per week."

Although this salary was not much considering her qualifications, it was still an opportunity. After considering for a while, Jessica Chastain finally nodded. "Okay, when can I start?"

"After all, it's Friday today. Let's start from next Monday. I'll contact you," Murphy decided.

Jessica Chastain stood up, extending her right hand towards Murphy. "Thank you. Thank you for giving me this opportunity."

Shaking her hand, Murphy confidently replied, "You won't regret your decision."

Returning a polite smile, Jessica Chastain bid farewell and left the café.

Over the next two days, Murphy mostly focused on finalizing the script. It was just a rough draft, and there would be continuous revisions. Additionally, he had several interviews lined up. Being in the heart of the world's film industry, Los Angeles attracted countless dreamers seeking opportunities. Many responded to the advertisements, hoping to join his project.

Luckily, Murphy was no longer alone. Stanton Studios now had its first temporary employee—Jessica Chastain.

On Monday morning, Murphy received a call from Jessica Chastain and met her at a junction, leading her into the Latin community.

Encountering two rough-looking young men with visible tattoos, Jessica Chastain's wariness increased. She discreetly prepared to dial "911" on her phone, ready to call for help if needed.

The documents she saw earlier played a crucial role. Without those genuine company documents, she wouldn't have followed a man into such a place.

Navigating through the Latin community, they finally arrived at a rundown gray building. As they ascended the stairs, Jessica Chastain observed her surroundings, maintaining her guard.

"The company is just starting out, and all funds are being invested in the film project," Murphy explained, addressing Jessica's concerns about their office location.

Arriving at the third floor, Murphy led Jessica to the door of a modest apartment. As he opened the door, Jessica hesitated, observing the space before cautiously stepping inside.

Taking in the simple yet tidy furnishings, Jessica finally relaxed her guard, realizing that the owner valued cleanliness.

Handing her a stack of documents, Murphy outlined her tasks for the day. "Your job today is to contact potential candidates for our film project, confirm interview times and locations, preferably at Milton Café."

He then passed her another set of documents. "These are the photography equipment we need. You've worked on several sets before, so you should be familiar with it. Find rental shops, compare prices, and get the best deal."

Finally, Murphy handed Jessica a stack of folded posters. "These are recruitment posters. In the afternoon, visit the USC School of Cinematic Arts and the California Institute of the Arts and post them around the campuses."

Many of the individuals who contacted Murphy were aspiring professionals or interns. Seeing the effectiveness of the recruitment posters, Murphy had them produced in bulk.

Lastly, Murphy handed Jessica the freshly registered script. "This is the script for our upcoming project. It's a rough draft. Familiarize yourself with it, and I'll need your assistance in creating shot lists and production schedules."

As Jessica flipped through the script, she quickly realized that it was a well-structured piece of work.

"Can I start by reading the script?" she asked tentatively.

Murphy had already taken out a drawing board and was preparing to sketch storyboard frames. He waved his hand, granting her permission.

Flipping through the script, Jessica Chastain read it carefully. As a high-achieving graduate from the Juilliard School's drama department, she had a good understanding of scripts. She quickly realized that this was a meticulously crafted script.

The first page set the tone with a graphic and brutal opening scene, which effectively captured the audience's attention. Although the written words differed from the visual representation, Jessica could envision the disturbing scene of an adult man abusing and killing a young girl.

Glancing at Murphy, who was diligently sketching, she murmured to herself, "This kind of script..."

Shaking her head, Jessica continued reading. By the fifth page, the theme became clear. The subsequent pages laid out the groundwork for the story, following a standard structure for Hollywood scripts.

A good script should have development and change, and these two scenes— the opening and ending— were crucial in outlining how the film would evolve.

Jessica realized that this script possessed all the necessary elements.

"I can see why you've chosen this script," she remarked, engrossed in the story.

Finally looking up from his work, Murphy nodded in agreement, acknowledging Jessica's observation.

"I'll start working on these tasks right away," Jessica declared, her initial apprehension fading as she became more invested in the project.