Chapter 119

As soon as the news spread about the "Lord of the Rings" movie project, with an investment of 300 million dollar, it immediately attracted the attention of countless actors and actresses.

One such actor was Orlando Bloom.

This young Englishman starred in his first film in 1997, Oscar Wilde, in which he played a minor role.

In 1999, after graduating from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Orlando Bloom was signed by CAA as a potential newcomer.

His agent, Robin Baum, is considered a veteran at CAA. While the clients he's represented in recent years haven't made major waves, his decades of hard work have earned him strong connections in Hollywood.

This time, Robin Baum helped Orlando Bloom secure an audition for The Lord of the Rings.

In a small conference room at CAA, Robin Baum entered holding Entertainment Weekly. On the cover was none other than Martin Meyers, a handsome, sunny young man.

CAA is well-known in Hollywood. As the world's premier talent agency, it's at the peak of its success. Its core concepts—"resource sharing" and "project packaging"—have revolutionized Hollywood's film and television industry.

Although Robin Baum is just a small agent at CAA—his office is on the ground floor—he still has access to the agency's public resources. This includes conference rooms, photographers, and makeup artists, which he used to prepare Orlando Bloom for his casting.

"The casting will be in New Line's audition room. I visited it six months ago, and here's the layout. There's the door, and the window is here…"

Robin Baum gestured as he explained, "Once you enter, stand slightly to the right so the sun hits the left side of your face. This is the perfect angle for your features."

He paused and continued, "Also, be careful of a dent in the floor. It makes a squeaky noise when stepped on. Avoid it when you move and deliver your lines…"

"And the most important thing," Robinbaum added, "is that one of our important CAA clients will also be attending this audition for the main role. Of course, he'll be serving as a judge."

He threw the magazine on the table, pointed to the character on the cover, and said, "Martin Meyers, our little genius."

Orlando Bloom's eyes lit up when he saw the cover. "Robin, can we contact him in advance? What are his preferences?"

Robinbaum smiled bitterly and shook his head. "I've already contacted Jeff, who manages Martin's affairs. Unfortunately, Martin doesn't have time."

"So I'm on my own?" Orlando Bloom's voice reflected a hint of disappointment.

"No," Robinbaum reassured him, "I've sent Jeff your photo and mentioned your name. If Martin sees your photo in advance, CAA will take care of you. The most important thing is that you treat him with respect during the audition. Don't show even the slightest contempt because of his age, you understand?"

"Don't worry," Orlando Bloom said, a bitter smile on his face. "I'm just a newcomer. Martin is a super genius and a Centi-Millionaire—how could I disrespect him? I'm not Ben Affleck."

At the mention of Ben Affleck, the room erupted in laughter.

One of the female makeup artists remarked, "Ben Affleck has become a joke in Hollywood, but he deserves it. The way he treated women and minors was despicable. At least Martin handled things like a pro and didn't let that scumbag succeed."

Robinbaum turned to Orlando. "As long as you understand. Now, let's talk about the key role you're competing for: Faramir."

"I have inside information. Though Faramir isn't part of the Fellowship of the Ring, his role in The Lord of the Rings trilogy is critical. There's an important scene involving him in the third movie—everyone knows about it."

"I hope you get this role. It's nearly a major supporting role. But because the film has so many characters, Faramir's presence isn't as prominent, which is why he's in audition group B. This gives us some maneuvering room."

"I'll do my best. But honestly, I'd prefer to audition for the Elf Prince, Legolas Greenleaf. I think he's more suited for me."

"Don't even think about it. That role is already reserved for Martin. Focus on Faramir."

Orlando Bloom chuckled nervously. "Hey, don't worry. I'm just getting emotional."

While Robinbaum was working on securing Faramir for Orlando Bloom, Martin was in a costume fitting at New Line's audition room.

When Martin, with silver-blond hair, emerged in a flowing white robe, everyone was stunned.

His light blond hair was neatly combed back, his striking facial features, tall and well-proportioned figure, and deep blue eyes created an air of mystery. His presence gave the impression that he was the real Elf Prince. What particularly pleased Peter Jackson was that Martin's height had noticeably increased, meaning there was no need for him to wear special insoles in his boots.

As the room marveled at him, Martin felt a swell of pride.

When it came to portraying elves, no one understood them better than he did. With just a little practice, he could easily impress these people.

In that moment, Martin's usual narrow-mindedness faded away. He raised his robe, revealing his white outfit underneath. Then, with a graceful movement, he jumped onto the table. Balancing on the tips of his toes, he spun 360 degrees in a fluid motion, positioning himself at a 45-degree angle. With the prop bow in hand, he slowly drew the string.

His handsome face was resolute, his blue eyes deep and intense, and his figure stood tall and elegant.

His presence was both mysterious and seductive, like the perfect embodiment of an Elf Prince.

"My God, he is the Elf Prince!" a New Line staff member exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement.

Peter Jackson, wide-eyed, muttered to himself, "We need more scenes with him. With Legolas like this, why worry about the box office? Those women will be lining up to pay just to see him on screen…"