Chapter 25

The Underworld crew finally wrapped up filming in October and returned to Los Angeles.

At the Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel, a party was in full swing. Attractive men and women mingled, keeping the waitstaff on their toes.

"Naomi, good evening!" Charles greeted warmly.

"Charles, you're here too!" Naomi replied, surprised.

"You've been quite busy this year, working on several films," Charles inquired of Naomi Watts, whom he had bumped into at the party.

Naomi Watts, dressed in a bright yellow evening gown that matched her blonde hair and fair complexion, looked remarkably well-maintained for a 34-year-old.

"The Ring is about to be released. I came back specifically to participate in the promotion. I also shot 21 Grams and We Don't Live Here Anymore, and just rushed back from France," Naomi said.

She continued, "Next month, I'll start filming Ned Kelly, all of them are art films."

Perhaps Naomi Watts had been too idle in the previous years. Both We Don't Live Here Anymore and Ned Kelly were supporting roles; Evelyn did not recommend wasting time on them.

Just doing 21 Grams would have been enough, but Naomi believed she could handle it.

"Not bad," Charles acknowledged. He knew Naomi Watts had gained some influence by then and didn't want to waste time, especially considering her age.

Her filmography was remarkably sparse!

"By the way, Charles, you've been involved in the production of three movies already," Naomi said, changing the subject. "I recently received a script for a low-budget independent romance film. The production company doesn't have much funding for development and invited me to participate as a producer. What do you think?"

Charles paused, realizing this might be just a nominal producer gig.

"The main issues to solve are investors and distributors. With limited funds, the main creators are likely newcomers. Now that you've gained some recognition, they probably hope you can help attract distributors," Charles offered his advice. "If you think it's worthwhile, you could give it a shot. You might find a distributor through film festivals after it's finished."

However, Naomi surely knew how many such films bombed in Hollywood every year, with basically no pay involved.

Spending a few months to gain some experience in film production wasn't a bad idea.

"I also asked Nicole. She just supported a film called In the Cut, produced by Miramax. You know, she invested in it but did not act in it," Naomi said. She didn't think the script was exceptional, just average, but she wanted to try.

"Take your time to consider. At least, finish the projects you're currently working on first," Charles suggested. Naomi Watts was not hugely famous yet. Before the release of King Kong, she was only somewhat recognized in the indie film circles.

"Good point. The Ring has its premiere at Universal City on the 18th. Can you come and join us? We can see how the movie turns out," Naomi invited.

Charles nodded and smiled, "I've seen the Japanese original. From the trailer, the American version wins in terms of visuals. With more special effects, it's no wonder Disney chose Gore Verbinski to direct Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl after this."

"This highlights the cultural differences between East and West. Eastern horror focuses on atmosphere and sensory experience, while Western horror emphasizes visual shock. It's hard to say which is better; it depends on audience preferences."

"Still, The Ring holds significant influence worldwide, especially in the Eastern market. DreamWorks' remake already has a solid audience base."

Naomi laughed, "Evelyn also reminded me to pay attention to my commercial movie choices; building influence and recognition still relies on commercial films."

"The scope of indie films is small, and it's hard to generate high box office and widespread influence. The massive promotion of commercial films can rapidly build recognition. Look at Angelina Jolie. Before Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, she wasn't that influential either. But after Tomb Raider, she gained worldwide fame!" Angelina Jolie hadn't won many awards by then - only an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress two years prior, with a future Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama.

But wasn't her influence far greater than some Oscar-winning actresses?

However, Naomi Watts was British, not American. Among foreign actresses, Australia's Nicole Kidman was a top-tier product.

"Charles, I'll introduce you to some Australian friends. You know I moved to Australia when I was a child," Naomi shifted the conversation.

"Oh, that sounds great!"

Naomi then introduced a man and a woman to Charles Carpe.

"Heath Ledger and Isla Fisher!"

"Hello, I'm Charles Carpe!"

Heath Ledger, 23, and Isla Fisher, 26, were both young. Heath Ledger had been navigating Hollywood for three to four years, starring in several films and gaining some popularity.

Isla Fisher was still relatively unknown, although she had authored a book.

"Nice to meet you, Charles," Heath Ledger and Isla Fisher greeted warmly. A 20-year-old producer who had already made three films, with his first release being this year's box office hit My Big Fat Greek Wedding, was impressive.

"Heath, your performances are really impactful. I've seen some of your work, very impressive!" Charles sincerely complimented Heath, recognizing the method actor's intense dedication.

*****

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