Chapter 233: Sharing Benefits

[Chapter 233: Not All Benefits Are For One]

"What's up? Is something wrong?" Seeing Eric's surprised expression, Elisabeth leaned over to check the cover but didn't notice anything unusual, so she asked again, "What's going on?"

"Uh, it's nothing," Eric shook his head and opened the script, quickly flipping through the pages.

After about ten minutes, Eric finished reading the script and looked up to ask, "Where did you get this script?"

Of course, Elisabeth wouldn't tell Eric that Drew had sourced it. Instead, she relayed Drew's statement to Eric. The girl had insisted that she and Julia keep things under wraps, wanting to achieve something on her own and surprise Eric later on.

Hearing how Elisabeth had 'casually' acquired the script, Eric could only shake his head in disbelief. If he had known that Drew had dug up this gem, he would've given her a piece of his mind. How could she share something this valuable with others, and in such quantity?

"You've read it too. What do you think?" Elisabeth asked nervously. While she had already decided to produce the film, it was natural for her to want some reassurance from Eric.

Eric fondled the cover of the script and momentarily entertained the idea of involving Elisabeth in the investment. After all, this wasn't just a potential blockbuster; it was one of the rare films that had swept the four major Oscar categories. However, that thought was quickly suppressed. He figured there was no need to take all the benefits for himself, leaving others with no way forward. Especially since this young lady had just stepped into a deeper friendship with him.

Having come to this realization, Eric said lightly, "The story isn't particularly unique, but as a film, it could deliver a different experience. So, I think the casting for this movie is vital. Do you have anyone in mind for the lead roles?"

"I plan to have Julia play Clarice Starling, and she has agreed. I haven't thought about the other roles yet; after all, this is my debut as a producer. I want to take my time with it," Elisabeth replied.

Eric immediately shook his head. "No, Julia isn't right for Clarice. Clarice is a very complex character, and Julia doesn't possess the range to pull it off."

"Then who do you think is suitable?" the young woman asked, probing for suggestions.

Without hesitation, Eric blurted out, "Jodie Foster."

"Ah... interesting. I just happened to hear that the writer adapting this script also suggested Jodie Foster for Clarice," Elisabeth exclaimed in surprise, then continued in a tone she considered professional, "But, Eric, this is just a horror film. Audiences watch horror for the thrills and chills. So, I don't think the lead actress needs to be overly skilled. Horror films aren't aiming for Oscars. I haven't heard of many horror films winning Academy Awards."

"Just because it hasn't happened in the past doesn't mean it won't happen in the future," Eric noted. "Of course, it's just a suggestion; whether you take it is up to you."

Since this film wasn't his responsibility, Eric didn't want to interfere. Hollywood's history had already changed completely with his entry. Even without The Silence of the Lambs as a classic, there were bound to be other great films surfacing.

"Then I'll think about it some more," Elisabeth cautiously nodded, adding, "Is there anyone else?"

"For Hannibal Lecter, you could try Anthony Hopkins."

"Anthony Hob... Hopkins?" Elisabeth repeated the name, and it was no wonder she hadn't heard of Anthony Hopkins. Although this famed Hannibal had been around since the '60s, he only reached his peak after the success of The Silence of the Lambs. By then, he was already over fifty and had yet to have a standout role.

Eric had no idea how to explain his knowledge of the actor to her, so he just vaguely replied, "He's an old pro in Hollywood, known for many art-house films, so his acting skills are definitely solid. I can't remember where I saw him last, but his image fits Hannibal perfectly. If you ask around, you'll definitely find him."

"Got it. I'll make a note," Elisabeth nodded, pulling out a notepad from her bag and carefully jotting down the name.

Watching the girl's focus as she wrote, Eric finally spoke again, "You know Jonathan Demme, right? After The Others, he will surely gain substantial fame, so let's have him direct The Silence of the Lambs. Although he's currently in Venice, when he returns, I'll introduce you."

Elisabeth's hand paused mid-write, and she looked up at Eric, saying, "I don't need you to compensate me!"

Eric was taken aback and then realized something, chuckling, "You're too sensitive. I wasn't thinking about compensating you. You can consider this... a business deal. Jonathan Demme signed a contract with UTA, so UTA will take a cut of his directing fee, and I just happen to be a major shareholder at UTA."

Elisabeth pouted and then said, "I'll handle the discussion with Jonathan Demme myself. No need for you to interject, and I will pay him his worth, no less."

Eric shrugged. "Sure, it's up to you."

Once they wrapped up that discussion, Elisabeth tucked the script into her bag and looked up to ask, "Do I have any work to do now?"

Eric gathered some papers on his desk and handed her a few files. "Take these out and shred them, then toss them. Also, the top sheet is the shooting schedule for Sleepless in Seattle. Familiarize yourself with it, so you aren't completely in the dark when filming starts. There's an office desk in that outer lounge area; you can use that. I'll call for you if there's something."

"Okay," Elisabeth nodded, pleased that Eric finally let her do something productive. She stood up with the files but paused to ask, "Eric, it seems you only have Allen as an assistant and no secretary or anything?"

"Because I used to be away from the office a lot, I didn't need one. However, after this year, there will definitely be more things that require my direct attention at the company. So, I'll be looking for a lovely face to handle the miscellaneous tasks," Eric said, winking suggestively at her. "So, do you have someone in mind to recommend or maybe yourself?"

"Hmph, you can't afford to hire me, and I'm definitely not a pretty trophy!" Elisabeth huffed, turning around and heading for the door.

*****

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