Chapter 765: Robbery Prevention Drill

After a few drinks, Martin and Scarlett Johansson exchanged personal contact information, their laughter filling the air as they parted ways. Making good on her word, Blake Lively swiftly made herself at home in Martin's suite, her presence a whispered secret among the hotel staff.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Renner, residing on the same floor, noticed Martin's door shut tight. Chuckling to himself, he mused over Martin's techniques for charming women, considering employing them himself. Perhaps, he thought, it was time to end his own single status and strike up a conversation with the Canadian model down the hall.

Martin's rendezvous with yet another actress on set hardly raised eyebrows amidst the gossip-hungry crew of "The Bitch." Such affairs were practically routine, accepted with a knowing nod by all involved.

As the days passed, the crew busied themselves with filming scenes involving supporting actresses, particularly those featuring Martin and Blake Lively in intimate exchanges.

Following a leisurely weekend break, Villeneuve meticulously scheduled the final shootout scene, its importance undeniable to the success of the film. Preparations began with a focus on firearms, the crew implementing a stringent four-tier security protocol involving the prop master, safety personnel, Bruce, and the actors themselves.

Villeneuve, ever the perfectionist, led the cast and crew in analyzing classic shootout sequences from iconic films, including a tense bank robbery scene from "The Wire." Martin and Jeremy Renner were tasked with studying additional footage from "44 Minutes," a documentary detailing the infamous North Hollywood bank robbery.

As the group delved into discussions about incorporating clips from other films, Martin raised a concern about copyright authorization, to which Villeneuve assured him that all necessary permissions had been secured.

After a thorough review of the film clips, Villeneuve steered the conversation towards the upcoming shootout scene, confirming adjustments made to reflect the latest updates from Fenway Park. Martin eagerly inquired about negotiations with the venue, eager to ensure the scene's authenticity down to the smallest detail.

"Starting from tomorrow, the crew can arrive ahead of the next shooting day. We'll have free rein to shoot at Fenway Park," Villeneuve announced with a hint of excitement. "The entire park will be at our disposal."

Martin's nod conveyed his understanding. Graham had already hammered out the details with John Henry, securing unprecedented access for the crew.

Not only would the logos of the Boston Red Sox and Fenway Park grace the final cut of the film, but the Fenway Group had also generously sponsored the filming process, providing complimentary access to the iconic stadium.

As the door swung open, Graham King entered, accompanied by a woman whose presence commanded attention. Clad in a striking red dress and towering black boots, she exuded confidence and grace.

With her perfectly coiffed waves and elegant jewelry, Linda Henry, in her thirties, cut a formidable figure. Her gaze fixed on Martin as she strode forward, extending a hand. "Hello, Martin. I'm Linda Henry."

Graham made introductions. "Linda oversees external publicity for Fenway Group and also happens to be John Henry's wife."

Martin, well aware of John Henry's stature as the owner of Fenway Group, greeted Linda warmly. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

Linda, well-versed in Martin's reputation, exchanged pleasantries before getting down to business. "Through this film, I hope we can forge a strong partnership for future endeavors," she expressed, her smile radiant.

Martin reciprocated the sentiment graciously. "Thank you for Fenway Group's invaluable support."

Transitioning to the matter at hand, Martin expressed surprise at Linda's personal involvement. "I didn't expect Mrs. Henry to personally attend to this matter."

Linda's grin was as vibrant as her attire. "Part of my role now involves overseeing Fenway Group's publicity efforts. Consider this part of the job."

As they conversed, Graham facilitated introductions between Linda and key members of the crew, including director Villeneuve and supporting actor Jeremy Renner.

After Linda's assistant set up the projector, she launched into an explanation of the scene's significance. "In the final scene, our hero's team doesn't just rob a bank, they hit Fenway Park."

With a flourish, Linda directed attention to the projection screen, a laser pointer highlighting the iconic stadium. "Fenway Park boasts the highest average attendance in the league, consistently packed since May 15, 2003," she elucidated.

Jeremy Renner couldn't resist a comment to Martin, his voice low: "The Boston Celtics don't draw crowds like that."

Martin, not well-versed in the intricacies of American sports leagues, remained silent, absorbing Linda's detailed explanation.

"Every game day at Fenway Park," Linda elaborated, "we welcome 40,000 passionate fans who treat it like a holiday, splurging on tickets, concessions, team merchandise, and souvenirs. This translates to $3 million in revenue per game day, much of it in cash."

Villeneuve interjected, linking the discussion back to the film's plot. "Our heist is all about targeting that cash flow from Fenway Park."

Martin, playing devil's advocate, turned to Linda. "Aren't you concerned about copycat crimes once the movie hits theaters?"

Linda's smile remained unwavering. "We've thought about security risks, which is why we're collaborating with the crew. After 9/11, Washington authorities convened Hollywood creatives to brainstorm potential terrorist threats, a proactive measure to safeguard against such incidents."

Martin nodded, recalling hearing about the initiative. "Some of those ideas ended up in movies, I heard."

Linda nodded, elaborating on their security concerns. "John and I were alarmed by the robbery plot in the script, especially the idea of impostors posing as police. It's alarmingly plausible and could have devastating consequences if attempted."

She then delved into the financial logistics of Fenway Park, detailing the meticulous cash handling procedures and the staggering weekly revenues, which averaged over $3.5 million.

Villeneuve confirmed the film's depiction of the heist amount. "We've set the robbery haul at $3.5 million."

Martin marveled at the team's financial prowess, realizing it didn't even include additional revenue streams. "The team's earnings are staggering."

Linda's smile turned rueful. "It's a shame game attendance isn't as robust."

Martin queried, "What about tourists?"

Linda shook her head slightly. "While there are some, Fenway Park isn't as popular a tourist destination as we'd like."

Looking to the future, Linda expressed her hopes for deeper collaboration. "John and I envision Fenway Park becoming a cinematic icon, akin to the Golden Gate Bridge or the Statue of Liberty, landmarks Hollywood loves to feature."

It was clear that Fenway Group approached their business operations with meticulous foresight.

"If this hits Hollywood levels, we'll have tourists flocking in from all over the globe, not just North America," Martin mused, envisioning the potential impact of their cinematic endeavor.

With the intricate details of the robbery funds laid out, the protagonist team found themselves better equipped to bring their characters to life on screen.

The preparation meeting concluded swiftly, setting the stage for the crew's early morning venture to Fenway Park for the final heist scene.

From the initial robbery to the ensuing shootout, every frame of the scene would unfold within and around the iconic stadium.

Dozens of vehicles converged in the parking lot area adjacent to the street, including numerous police cars graciously loaned by the Boston Police Department. Off-duty officers eagerly volunteered to serve as extras, adding an air of authenticity to the production.

Originally constructed in the 1920s and 1930s, Fenway Park had since evolved into a bustling commercial hub, providing a fitting backdrop for the high-stakes drama unfolding within its confines.

As the prop trailer disgorged an array of firearms, meticulous care was taken by the prop masters to prepare blank ammunition under Villeneuve's watchful eye. Safety officers, equipped with recording devices, oversaw every step of the process.

Bruce, ever vigilant, personally inspected and distributed the firearms to the actors, including Martin, who received a modified automatic rifle.

Unlike previous scenes, AR series firearms were utilized this time around, lending a heightened sense of realism to the proceedings.

Clad in body armor and full BPD police uniforms, Martin and Jeremy Renner prepared for their roles as the cameras rolled.

Under Villeneuve's direction, gunfire erupted as Martin unleashed a barrage of shots from the underground parking lot window, each muzzle flash meticulously captured by the nearby cameras.

With each sequence meticulously crafted, Villeneuve orchestrated a series of adjustments, refining the shootout scene through hours of meticulous filming.

Four intense days of filming ensued, culminating on the eve of the next Boston Red Sox game day, as cast members bid farewell to their roles and departed the set.

Martin, the linchpin of the production, remained steadfast as an unexpected visitor piqued the interest of producer Graham's old friend, signaling potential new opportunities on the horizon.