Chapter 264: Martin Wants More, Bruce Almighty

As more people watched the film, various reviews began to surface online, with mostly positive feedback.

"Perfect! Classic! Unmatched!"

"Epic storyline, stunning fantastical scenery, and Martin's ever-perfect soundtrack—definitely worth watching!"

"The film is amazing, perfectly showcasing Tolkien's dreamlike world in The Lord of the Rings. Legolas is so handsome, I'm completely captivated by him."

"As for the film, all I can say is that it's a genuine classic, full of sincerity, and then—Legolas, Legolas, Legolas! I'm completely crazy about him. After watching the movie, my heart is filled with his heroic figure."

"The movie is great, the battle scenes are grand, but—oh my God, all I want to do is praise Legolas! He's perfect in looks, charm, and combat skills... When will the video tape be released? I need to collect it."

"Before, I thought Leonardo in Titanic had the highest male idol looks, but after seeing Martin's Legolas in The Lord of the Rings, I realize how shallow I was."

Kevin Thomas, a film critic from Los Angeles Times who had always been on good terms with Martin, even wrote a lengthy review about Legolas.

"An aloof aura, an innate elegance and agility, a pure but slightly immature look, golden hair shining in the sunlight, pupils glinting like starlight, simple yet modest clothing that couldn't hide the brilliance in his eyes, the sparkling vitality of life—just like his dazzling golden hair and eyes..."

"This elf, who had no significant presence in Tolkien's work, radiates unparalleled charm under Peter Jackson's lens."

"It's unbelievable. In this movie, the most standout character isn't the protagonist, nor the first or second supporting roles—but the fourth most important secondary character. This character's charm transcends screen time, lines, and presence—whenever he appears, standing there, he is the true lead."

In fact, Legolas' role had been expanded by Peter Jackson for Martin. In the original timeline, Legolas' screen time would only rank eighth, but still managed to be one of the most captivating characters in the movie.

Now, Legolas—his screen time was longer, his acting better, and his looks more striking—his brilliance shone even brighter.

...

On the second day after the premiere, in the afternoon, Martin, about to start his promotional journey with Orlando, took some time to meet Jennifer Aniston at a café.

As soon as Martin arrived, he caused quite a stir at this high-end café.

It was known for attracting wealthy and influential clientele, yet it was rare for anyone to react so excitedly over a celebrity, even though Martin had a capital background.

But now, it could only be said that Legolas' charm was irresistible. No one could resist it.

"Martin, can I have your autograph?"

"Martin, can we take a picture together?"

"Martin, ..."

"Sorry, I didn't expect this to happen," Jennifer said, standing up as Martin finally escaped the enthusiastic fans and approached her.

"It's okay, better than no one caring," Martin replied with a smile.

"Yes, it's just like me. I've been sitting here for ages, and no one's paid attention."

Jennifer made a little joke.

"Haha, that's because your beauty is untouchable, like a goddess—only to be admired from afar!"

"Oh ho ho," Jennifer covered her mouth and laughed. "I didn't expect you to be so good with words!"

"No, I'm just being honest!"

Jennifer's smile grew even brighter.

Once Martin sat down, Jennifer ordered a coffee for him before getting to the point.

"Martin, I asked you here because I have a script I'd like you to collaborate on."

"A script?"

"Yes, I'm not sure if you'd be interested in doing a comedy."

Martin paused, quickly thinking, and a certain movie surfaced in his mind.

Could it be?

He said, "Comedy? I'm fine with that. My first movie The Parent Trap was a comedy."

"No, it's not that kind of comedy," Jennifer thought for a moment and said. "Have you seen Jim Carrey's comedy films?"

"Of course, I love his exaggerated style. Wait, does that mean this movie is also..." Martin pretended to be surprised.

"Exactly, this film requires that kind of over-the-top performance, especially from the lead actor."

"But then, why not just get Jim Carrey?"

"We've approached him," Jennifer replied without hesitation. "But Jim Carrey said he's not interested in doing any more comedy films for now."

"Then how did you end up with me?" Martin scratched his nose, genuinely curious. "A film with that kind of exaggerated performance style doesn't really fit my style, does it?"

Jennifer smiled, "Producer Roger Burnbaum thinks that if Jim Carrey doesn't want to do it, maybe the film could be done in a different way, but that carries some risk. And you—"

"My popularity can help mitigate the risk," Martin laughed as he finished her sentence.

"Exactly, that's the idea."

"Can I take a look at the script?"

"Of course!"

Jennifer beamed, took a stack of scripts from her bag, and handed them to Martin.

Martin didn't immediately take them, instead asking, "Shouldn't I sign a non-disclosure agreement?"

Jennifer laughed, "No need. I trust you."

Martin's reputation in Hollywood was quite solid, especially after helping Peter Jackson out of a tight spot and achieving massive success. Countless producers and directors were eager to work with him.

And besides—

It was just a script, Jennifer felt that with Martin's brain, he could come up with a script that might not be worse than this one.

So, she truly trusted him, not just putting on an act.

Martin smiled, "Thanks for your trust," and then took the script and began flipping through it.

The script was about a man named Bruce, a news commentator for a local TV program in Buffalo, New York. Although he was somewhat of a local celebrity, he was often sloppy and clumsy. Fortunately, he was incredibly handsome and talented, and his humor and wit on TV had attracted many viewers, including his girlfriend, Grace...

Grace was a lovely girl, deeply in love with Bruce and hoping for him to marry her. However, despite living together for a long time, the careless Bruce showed no signs of wanting to marry. Worse still, he was a whiny guy, easily angered, and always complaining that God was unfair to him...

Sure enough, Martin realized, this was Bruce Almighty, the blockbuster comedy film from the original timeline.

However, in the original timeline, this film ultimately went to Jim Carrey.

As for why Jim Carrey agreed to take the role—

It was simple. The film's production team offered him an irresistible deal.

In the original timeline, Jim Carrey earned his highest-ever paycheck of $25 million plus 10% of the North American box office gross, with his total earnings exceeding $50 million.

But Martin wanted more.