Chapter 543: The Most Unconfident

Anne Hathaway wanted to win an award to prove herself beyond just a pretty face. Compared to the beautiful Charlize Theron and Nicole Kidman, Anne Hathaway was far luckier.

After all, both Charlize Theron and Nicole Kidman started as mere "trophy" actresses. It took almost a decade of hard work for them to win their awards.

"I feel that some people dislike me for no reason," Anne Hathaway said, listening to Charles' explanation. It seemed she also understood some of the reasons behind it.

"Don't worry. You can appear more genuine on camera in the future. Authentic personalities are really popular," Charles suddenly thought of the future Jennifer Lawrence, who would take the world by storm with her genuine persona.

"Fans are the foundation of an artist and represent the artist's market value. You should understand that."

Anne Hathaway nodded. She knew that Hollywood stars in front of the camera and behind it were two different beings. The side fans saw was just what the stars wanted them to see. The other side belonged to Hollywood itself.

"Charles, are you free today?" Anne Hathaway asked, as she sat on Charles' lap, unbuttoned his shirt, and began to kiss his chest.

"Nothing specific today, the company will call if there's anything," Charles said, reclining on the sofa as he held the lady. "Don't worry, I'll be staying here for the next couple of days to keep you company."

Although Charles had lots of things to deal with, Anne Hathaway was also quite busy. With the upcoming awards season in Hollywood, things were slightly less hectic. Next year, Anne Hathaway's movies Valentine's Day and Alice in Wonderland were slated for release. There was a lot of promotional work to do!

Anne Hathaway smiled, sat up, and pulled off her pajamas, licking her lips. "Charles, didn't you say last night I was good? I want you to feel it again!"

Without waiting for Charles to speak, Anne Hathaway bent down, and Charles could only enjoy it freely. Anne Hathaway's mouth was quite big, and the feeling was indeed different from others...

...

In early December, the new Hulk movie produced by Capet Pictures' Marvel Studios held a grand premiere at Universal City, as the first release by the newly merged Universal Pictures.

The lead actors, Mark Ruffalo and Marion Cotillard, attended dressed to the nines, and the event was hosted by Marvel Studios' president, Kevin Feige.

"Boss, The Hulk opened in more than 4,000 theaters in North America and was released simultaneously in over 60 countries and regions worldwide," Phyllis Jones reported to Charles in the lounge.

"How's the lead actor for The Green Hornet coming along?" Charles asked. The Hulk's release was well-managed by others, so he didn't need to worry.

"There are currently two candidates: Ryan Reynolds and Bradley Cooper. Both have comedic elements, fitting our casting requirements," Phyllis Jones responded.

Ryan Reynolds was the male lead in The Proposal, while Bradley Cooper starred in The Hangover. Both were popular actors in Capet's hit movies this year, with comedic elements but not part of the kind of "Frat Pack".

"But Ryan Reynolds is set to shoot Warner Brothers' DC movie Green Lantern, so he might not have the availability, right?"

Charles obviously knew Ryan Reynolds. This guy had expressed interest in Marvel's Deadpool character during The Proposal and hoped to play it.

After all, since Charles acquired Marvel Entertainment a few years ago, he hadn't sold any more character movie adaptation rights, leaving the Deadpool character with Marvel.

This meant there wouldn't be a Deadpool character in 20th Century Fox's X-Men Origins: Wolverine!

"Bradley Cooper is indeed better choice. After all, Ryan Reynolds is already playing DC's superhero Green Lantern," Phyllis Jones laughed.

Bradley Cooper playing The Green Hornet, partnered with Stephen Chow, made sense. Bradley Cooper's comedic talent in The Hangover was well-displayed.

The Green Hornet was indeed an action movie with comedic elements. It seemed like a good fit!

Charles nodded, "Good, start preparing and filming as soon as possible. Let's aim for a 2011 release."

Phyllis Jones then laughed, "With Bradley Cooper as the lead, the production budget set by the team is $75 million."

The male lead, Bradley Cooper, female lead Kate Beckinsale, and director/co-star Stephen Chow!

A $75 million budget was reasonable, and Charles reminded, "Don't exceed $80 million!"

In the evening, at The Incredible Hulk's premiere banquet, Charles met Marion Cotillard, the French Oscar-winning actress.

Since winning the award, Marion Cotillard's career had taken off. Her European charm, coupled with her superb acting, was very popular!

"Marion, long time no see," Charles said, hugging Marion Cotillard with a smile.

"Charles, thank you," Marion Cotillard said, kissing Charles on the cheek, "I owe all of this to you!"

"No, no, your talent and hard work are also very important," Charles said, taking two glasses of wine from a tray and handing one to Marion.

Marion Cotillard shook her head, "There are many talented and hardworking European actresses. My success is mainly due to luck, knowing you, Charles Capet. Audrey Tautou is an example. She wasn't as lucky as I was!"

Audrey Tautou was the leading lady in the French movie Amelie, which was released in France in 2001 to both critical and commercial success.

Audrey Tautou had a shining moment in France back then, with immense fame!

"Not all European actors long for Hollywood," Charles smiled. He really liked European actors like Marion Cotillard, as they were easier to work with compared to American actors.

"But Hollywood remains the world's movie center. Actors who want to prove themselves hope to gain recognition in Hollywood," Marion Cotillard continued after taking a sip of wine.

"I've heard about the success of The Intouchables in France. Congratulations on being so well-received internationally!"

Charles smiled, "The Intouchables didn't do great in North America, with just over $10 million in box office, but globally, it grossed over 425 million dollars, setting a new record for a French film worldwide."

Marion Cotillard raised her glass, "Here's to The Incredible Hulk being a huge box office hit too!"

Charles clinked glasses with her. The Incredible Hulk was the movie he had the least confidence in.

*****

https://www.patreon.com/Sayonara816.