Chapter 41: The Drama King

After the birthday, Gilbert continued to focus on his work. He understood well that his career was the foundation; if he did well as a director, everything else would follow.

On the contrary, if his directing career failed, everything would be lost. In that case, not only would Hollywood beauties become distant, but even the currently obedient Cameron Diaz might kick him to the curb.

Aside from being busy with *Final Destination*, Gilbert also kept an eye on the North American film market for the year. He was born in the 90s and not a local, so he was unfamiliar with the happenings in this film market.

In his new life, although he had gained an extra twenty-two years, it brought enormous opportunities. Whether this exchange was worthwhile was a matter of personal perspective.

This year, the North American film market seemed somewhat lukewarm compared to the previous year, possibly due to the lack of top directors participating.

However, many films performed well at the box office. Warner Bros. emerged as the biggest winner in the market.

*Bad Boys III*, released on May 15, had accumulated $125 million at the North American box office, making it the year's box office champion so far. The film was still in theaters, with an expected total of over $140 million.

*Batman Returns*, released on June 15, also made a strong showing, earning $52.61 million in its opening week. The film broke the opening-week box office record set by *Batman* and achieved the best opening-week performance for a superhero movie.

However, it was still not the peak time for superhero films, and it would take many more years to reach that point.

This film was also produced and distributed by Warner Bros., which released several other films this year, with many proving profitable.

A notable disappointment was *Alien 3*, which faced a box office and critical flop. David Fincher's directorial debut had failed, and 20th Century Fox regretted handing the project over to him.

The failure of *Alien 3*, a high-profile sci-fi sequel with a broad fan base, was also a significant blow to CAA's bundling services.

In contrast, *Far and away* had a great time, kicking *Alien 3* while it was down.

Rumor had it that the film's star, Tom Cruise, bought several million dollars' worth of tickets to surpass *Alien 3*'s box office. Buying box office figures was common, as the commercial value of a film surpassing $50 million versus $100 million was substantial.

Tom Cruise investing a few million dollars to boost the box office meant he could earn back the money in other ways. Most importantly, it was about reputation and status, crucial assets for Hollywood stars.

However, it seemed that *Far and away* would have a hard time surpassing $100 million at the North American box office, unless Tom Cruise spent another $50 million to buy tickets.

But that was not a problem; if the North American box office was unachievable, they could still boost global numbers.

Globally, *Far and away* had already surpassed $100 million. The legend of Tom Cruise's films crossing the $100 million mark continued.

Although this didn't directly concern Gilbert, after *Far and away*crossed the $100 million mark globally, an invitation arrived for him.

"Inviting me? I don't have any connection with Mr. Cruise," Gilbert said, puzzled, looking at the invitation.

Cameron Diaz draped her arm around his neck and said, "Since you've been invited, you should go. I heard Tom Cruise's mansion in Beverly Hills is very luxurious."

"After all, it's the Cruise estate," Gilbert said, putting away the invitation and telling Cameron Diaz, "Alright, let's go and see what Mr. Cruise is up to."

Cameron Diaz was thrilled and went to prepare her dress.

In this circle, if Gilbert didn't take her, she wouldn't have the chance to enter.

As for Gilbert himself, if possible, he would prefer to attend the celebration for *Basic Instinct*.

Released on March 20, *Basic Instinct* had already grossed over $110 million at the North American box office, setting a record for R-rated films and surpassing *Far and away* in success.

Of course, that was not the main point. Gilbert was more interested in meeting Sharon Stone, the star of the film, and experiencing her 'basic instinct.'

Unfortunately, he did not receive an invitation.

On a weekend evening in mid-July, Gilbert, accompanied by Cameron Diaz, arrived punctually at Tom Cruise's estate in Beverly Hills to attend the party.

A party hosted by Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise was naturally star-studded. Before arriving, Gilbert's agent, Sheena Boone, had given him detailed instructions, especially about Nicole Kidman.

"I don't think Mrs. Cruise is an easy character. Be careful when you meet her," Sheena Boone advised.

Gilbert knew that later Tom Cruise divorced Nicole Kidman, and it was after the divorce that Tom Cruise faced a period of public and personal turmoil.

If not for *Mission: Impossible 4*, Tom Cruise might not have recovered.

However, Sheena Boone made predictions about the then-rising Tom Cruise couple based on minor signs, which made Gilbert see his agent in a new light.

As the hosts of the party, Tom Cruise and his wife welcomed the arriving guests at the door.

Gilbert noticed that when guests referred to Nicole Kidman as Mrs. Cruise, a flash of displeasure crossed her face. Although she quickly covered it up with a warm smile, Gilbert caught it with his keen observation.

So, Gilbert whispered to Cameron Diaz, "When you greet them, don't refer to Mrs. Cruise."

"Why?" Cameron Diaz asked, puzzled.

"Just follow my lead," Gilbert advised, then put on a formal smile and approached.

"Congratulations, Mr. Cruise, on the success of your new film," Gilbert congratulated.

Tom Cruise's smile seemed to wane, probably because he had heard too many compliments that day, and he appeared indifferent.

"Welcome, welcome…"

When attending a private party, it's customary to bring a gift. Cameron Diaz obediently placed their gift on the pile, deliberately putting it on top.

Gilbert then turned to Nicole Kidman, putting on an astonished expression: "Oh my, Ms. Kidman, you look stunning tonight!"

Nicole Kidman's face lit up instantly, and her smile appeared much more genuine.

She extended her hand, and Gilbert, understanding, performed a hand-kissing gesture.

Following Gilbert's example, Cameron Diaz followed suit in greeting.

"I'm so glad you could come. Tom has prepared some excellent drinks; make sure to try them later," Nicole Kidman said warmly.

"Absolutely, thank you for the warm invitation, Mr. Cruise and Ms. Kidman," Gilbert said with a sincere smile.

His acting skills were such that, if not for an Oscar, a Golden Globe would definitely be within reach.

Every day in Hollywood felt like acting.

Tom Cruise, not noticing the change in Gilbert's address and seeing his wife much happier, regarded Gilbert as a minor figure and gave him only a formulaic greeting before letting him and Cameron Diaz in.

Once inside, Cameron Diaz asked curiously, "Dear, how did you know Nicole Kidman would react like that?"

"Hey!" Gilbert smirked and said, "From moving to Hollywood from far-off Australia to chase dreams, becoming the famous Tom Cruise's wife, gaining much and losing much.

For an ambitious actress, she definitely wouldn't want to be someone's appendage."

Cameron Diaz agreed: "That makes sense…"

Such a party, beyond Tom Cruise's showoff, was mainly about networking.

Thus, Gilbert let Cameron Diaz handle the socializing, which was also a form of training for her.

He also kept busy, casually chatting with a few acquaintances at the party.

...

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