Chapter 51: Agreed

Cups of black beer flowed to the dozen tables, the aroma of grilled meat wafted through the air, and the sound of clinking glasses echoed. The crew, busy for a long time, finally had a rare moment of relaxation. Especially since they could make the boss and director bleed a little, this kind of satisfaction was truly rare for the crew members.

To them, Murphy was the epitome of a miser.

However, Bill Rosis, sitting at the same table as Murphy, didn't see it that way. In his eyes, Murphy was a person who understood how to make plans.

The importance of planning for a director cannot be overstated.

They had already talked about the brokerage business before, and after eating and drinking their fill, Murphy brought it up again. "Bill, to be honest, I don't need an agent right now. I'm shooting a film that I have fully invested in."

Putting down his glass, Bill Rosis shook his finger at Murphy. "You're right, your crew has passed the toughest initial stage and is now in normal operation. Having an agent indeed won't help with your shooting."

He emphasized, "But Murphy, have you thought about how you're going to get your film into distribution channels?"

Murphy opened his mouth but said nothing. He had long considered the issue of distribution. The best way was to market the film to the numerous distribution companies in Hollywood.

This was an idea any industry insider could think of, and there wasn't much more to say about it.

"With me on board, the situation will be different." Agents are undoubtedly eloquent, and Bill Rosis was no exception. "I'm just an ordinary entertainment agent, but I have a large company behind me with significant resources that I can use. I'm sure you know the strength and status of my agency in the industry."

When signing with Carey Mulligan, Murphy knew that Bill Rosis came from a massive entertainment agency empire—CAA!

Bill Rosis continued, "I know many people. Even without considering the company's resources, I have my own network, and I can help introduce you to buyers from distribution companies. I can also help you get the film into independent film festivals and promote it."

Murphy tapped his right index finger on the table, clearly in thought.

"As you know…" Bill Rosis pressed on, "a film that is made but can't get into distribution channels is almost meaningless."

This viewpoint aligned with Murphy's. Any great film is just the foundation of success; complete marketing and distribution are necessary for it to shine.

Not to mention the generally average quality of the film he was shooting. Even many recognized classics have failed miserably due to marketing issues, causing investors to bleed money.

He had no qualifications, no network, and no distribution channels. If he could leverage the agent's resources, the difficulties he faced after completing the film would certainly be less.

Murphy wasn't naive enough to think that once filming was over, he could just approach a few distribution companies, throw out a marketing plan, and they would readily sign a fair distribution contract with him.

That was a kindergarten-level idea. Even someone new to the entertainment industry like him knew how difficult it was to distribute independent films in Hollywood.

"Murphy, I can't guarantee how many resources CAA will invest in you. With my position in the company, I can't make such a guarantee."

Bill Rosis knew that to impress someone like Murphy, it was best to avoid exaggeration and show enough sincerity. "But I will personally do my best to promote this film, find suitable distribution channels, and ensure 'Hard Candy' actually reaches the audience instead of being shelved in a warehouse."

"Oh, that does sound tempting." Murphy raised an eyebrow but relaxed. "There's something you should know. I managed to get a hundred thousand dollars from Kobe Bryant. The handler should be from your CAA."

"That's not a problem." Bill Rosis didn't seem to care. "We're in a different department from sports agents, and basketball is not as valued as American football within CAA."

An invitation from a CAA agent was indeed tempting. Considering CAA's strength and status in the entertainment agency field, Murphy would be lying if he said he wasn't moved. There is some truth in the saying about leaning on a big tree for shade.

After weighing it for a while, Murphy slowly spoke, "Let me think about it. Before 'Hard Candy' is completed, I'll give you a definite answer."

Bill Rosis extended a hand, "Agreed."

Murphy slapped his hand, "Agreed!"

Both had their own thoughts. Murphy wanted to leverage the resources of an agent with some clout in Hollywood. Bill Rosis's words might not be entirely credible. Signing Murphy to a brokerage contract meant adding a potential stock to his portfolio. If Murphy didn't sign, he would have just wasted some breath with no real loss.

Entertainment agents are exceptionally shrewd characters, unlikely to make a losing deal.

The recent agreement was just verbal.

Murphy understood this too. However, having an excellent agent would certainly help avoid some pitfalls in the future.

"It's getting late." Bill Rosis checked his watch and took his leave. "I have to head back to Los Angeles."

"Goodbye." Murphy didn't try to keep him, but reminded him, "Bill, return my leading lady as soon as possible."

"You'll see her soon."

As Bill Rosis left the barbecue restaurant, James Franco approached Murphy with a large mug of black beer. He didn't stand on ceremony and sat right across from him.

"Cheers!" He clinked Murphy's glass and took a big gulp of beer. Murphy lifted his glass, "Cheers."

He also took a big gulp.

Perhaps he had drunk too much, as James Franco's face showed signs of intoxication. "You know, Murphy, in this crew, the person I admire the most is you."

"No..." He waved his hand, "Of all the people I've met in the past two years, you're the one I admire the most."

"Mm?" Murphy looked puzzled.

"Being able to handle a devilish girl so well…" James Franco, emboldened by the alcohol, whispered, "and having her think you're the best person in the world. Isn't that admirable?"

Murphy shook his head, not responding to his comment. Instead, he said, "You've had too much, Jim. It's time to go back and rest. We still have filming tomorrow."

With that, he stood up and clapped his hands, "Alright, everyone, that's it for tonight. Go back and rest early. We have work tomorrow!"