Chapter 265: Troublemakers

In the studio, Chad operated a remote control, and the TV screen came to life with clips from Bruce Lee's classic action movies. These were meant for Martin to observe and learn from.

In the movie, the character Eddie is a self-taught fighter, mainly drawing inspiration from action films.

Martin always approached his work with utmost seriousness, watching the clips attentively.

Chad provided insights, saying, "Eddie's fighting style is known for its speed, precision, and ruthlessness. He takes down his opponents swiftly and with sheer power."

Having dabbled in Jeet Kune Do in his previous life as a martial arts substitute, Martin responded, "I'll give it a shot."

Both of them had changed into practice attire and headed to a section covered with padded mats. Chad emphasized, "Let's start slowly, get acquainted with the moves, and then we can increase the tempo."

Martin nodded in agreement, "No problem."

They practiced their routines in a slow, methodical manner, understanding that in filmmaking, even during hand-to-hand combat sequences, style and appearance took precedence. Action scenes that resembled actual fights would likely alienate the audience.

Chad's action choreography had a realistic touch. They continued rehearsing their routines throughout the morning.

By noon, after a shower and a change of clothes, Martin and Chad walked over to the Smoke House restaurant across from Warner Studios for lunch.

As Martin ordered his meal, he noticed that the patrons at the adjacent table recognized him.

A young woman with dimples when she smiled had her eyes fixed on him.

Being cordial, Martin proactively greeted her, "Good afternoon, Mia."

Mia, who worked at the studio's soda shop and also acted, promptly replied, "Hello, Martin."

She introduced the man sitting across from her, saying, "This is Sebastian, a pianist."

Martin recognized him, "I'm familiar with you."

Sebastian rose and gave a slight bow, "Mr. Davis, you've sent me flowers several times."

Being a restaurant pianist, he received a commission every time someone ordered a bouquet of flowers to be delivered along with their meal, a practice common all around the world.

"Enjoy your meal," Martin decided not to intrude on their conversation and returned to discussing work with Chad.

In addition to close combat, the film also involved gunfight scenes.

They continued their conversation while eating. Chad, sticking to his previous idea, mentioned, "Smart drugs enhance the protagonist's learning abilities. He even learns how to handle firearms from the movies. I plan to select clips from actual gunfight movies in the future, and you can use those as references."

Martin gently reminded, "No gunfight scenes. It's too intense. Remember, I have a supporting role. Don't steal the main plot."

Chad acknowledged, "I understand."

After lunch and a brief rest, Martin moved on to his next project.

"The Departed" had entered post-production at Warner Bros. Studios, and director Scorsese had called in several lead actors for re-dubbing on some of the scenes.

Upon arriving at the studio, Martin encountered Leonardo and Nicholson, two characters he had a history with. He paid them no attention and greeted the director.

Scorsese didn't beat around the bush and got straight to the point, "I've called you three in today because most of the scenes that need re-dubbing are filled with expletives, especially you and Leo. Your expletives lack the intensity required."

Martin inquired, "You mean we need to re-dub the 'F-word'?"

Scorsese affirmed, "Yes. The issue isn't the pitch of your voices, but rather the tone and emotion. It's not conveyed through yelling and scowling. You've both got to express genuine hatred."

But after a couple of attempts, Leonardo was still struggling. He wasn't known for explosive talent, and his efforts in the recording studio weren't producing the desired intensity.

Scorsese sent Leonardo out twice and still couldn't find the right feeling.

Martin had an idea and leaned over to Scorsese, saying quietly, "Director, I have a suggestion."

Recognizing that the three of them were capable of some unusual antics, Scorsese nodded, "Go on."

As Leonardo turned away, Martin whispered, "Leo, are you sure you can pull it off? Your dubbing isn't matching the intensity, are you an '11-second man'?"

Intrigued by the term, Scorsese asked, "What's an '11-second man'?"

Martin offered an illustrative gesture and clarified, "You know, in terms of men and women."

The mention of an "11-second man" was enough to leave Scorsese's seasoned expression in a state of complete wonderment.

Leonardo couldn't contain his anger and shot up his middle finger at Martin, erupting in a string of curses.

Scorsese, on the other hand, was delighted with the intensity and roared, "Yes, that's exactly what we need!" He pushed Leonardo back into the recording studio, declaring, "Hurry up and start while that fiery mood still lingers!" These antics from the trio of troublemakers served a purpose, contributing to the project's atmosphere.

Leonardo successfully completed his dubbing, and when it was Martin's turn, he playfully commented, "Theresa, Melissa, KK, Angela, Duchenne... They're all obsessed with you and want to know your home address so they can visit. What do you say we keep it a secret? Let's make a video, and I'll send it to Blake. It'll be fantastic!"

Nicholson, the seasoned trickster, chimed in, "How about sending one to Jolie too?"

Martin continued with his suggestion, "My other studio is right next door. You're welcome to visit and practice the action routines together." While he queued up for the recording, it took him a couple of tries to genuinely capture the desired emotion and complete a series of playful dubbing.

Nicholson, having fewer lines, had a relatively easier time with his dubbing.

In total, these actors were contributing over 500 expletive-laden dubs throughout the movie. After editing, it was anticipated that more than 200 would make the final cut.

By mid-afternoon, they had wrapped up their work in the recording studio.

Martin invited Leonardo and Nicholson to join him in a nearby studio, suggesting that they change into workout attire and exercise together.

However, Leonardo refused, saying, "I'll only do water gun scenes, no need for training."

Martin didn't hold back in teasing Leonardo and likened him to Jack, joking, "When you become as chubby as Jack? Oscar will be handing you a statuette."

This light-hearted banter caused a stir. Nicholson took the opportunity to rib Martin, claiming, "Little bastard, at this rate, you'll have trouble getting it up by the time you're thirty, tops. You better watch us and weep."

Martin retorted confidently, "You both underestimate me. I'm stronger than Leo, despite having played around as long as he has."

Nicholson chimed in, "Who said Leo's okay? He's an '11-second man' now!"

Leonardo, angered, tried to choke Nicholson, saying, "I'm going to strangle you!"

Martin intervened, humorously suggesting, "Don't kill him just yet. He's still useful. I'll let you decide his fate after I'm done with him." He patted Nicholson on the back and added, "Old man, there's a big villain role in this movie, a Wall Street tycoon. Are you Interested?"

Nicholson responded playfully, "I won't do it for less than 10 million dollars!"

To this, Martin gave him a playful middle finger, saying, "You can go and—"

Nicholson interrupted, "Die?"

Martin corrected himself, "No, I was going to say 'negotiate,' but 'die' works too."

As the evening approached, Martin invited the two actors to go out for a drink, and the trio headed to the Avalon nightclub.

Prior to entering the establishment, Martin discreetly retrieved some items he had prepared with Bruce.

Inside, Martin ordered a bottle of whiskey, and after Leonardo and Nicholson found a place on the first-floor lobby, he joined them.

The three shared a few drinks, and Martin, seeming a bit tipsy, began, "Leo, Jack, we're three troublemakers in the same boat. We've brawled and sharpened each other. We don't need words to describe our bond!" After Warren Beatty married and Marlon Brando went to meet his maker, I haven't met fellow troublemakers like you for a long time."

Nicholson raised his glass, and they clinked in unison. "Here's to the trio of troublemakers!" he proclaimed.

Continuing, Martin added, "We're a trio of troublemakers, so I'll let you in on a little secret. Do you want to know why I'm so strong?"

Leonardo was quick to jest, "I'm just young and vigorous!"

Martin retorted, "No." From his pocket, he produced two small green boxes and placed them on the table. "The real secret is these."

Nicholson inquired, "What kind of medication is this?"

"A drug with no side effects. It's great for that." Embracing their status as a trio of troublemakers, Martin still recalled the time these two actors had secretly arranged for paparazzi to photograph him. So, he facetiously recommended, "It's highly effective, and I'm living proof."

Leonardo had his doubts, "Is what you're saying true?"

Martin pointed out, "My reputation has always been impeccable!"

With the evidence right in front of them, Leonardo and Nicholson accepted the truth.

Nicholson gave Martin a playful pat on the arm, indicating, "Brad pitt is here."

At the bar's entrance, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, and Ben Affleck arrived together.