Chapter 259: Life Is Hard

At Burbank's Davis Film and Television Studio, a meeting took place in the conference room. Martin stood at the front, using a laser pointer to highlight information on the white projection screen. He began by officially naming the Dark Realm adaptation project "Never Ending" and introduced Bradt as the script adapter, who was seated on the left side of the conference table. Bradt acknowledged his role with a nod.

Other attendees included Louise Meyer, representing Pacific Pictures, Kelly Gray from Atlanta, and Daniel Bernard representing Warner Bros.

Martin went on to present the project, announcing Chad as the action director and assistant director of the crew. He emphasized that he would be playing the male lead, and the expected production cost would be no less than $30 million.

Louise voiced concerns, noting that the original novel hadn't been a best-seller. Martin recognized this and stressed that the script adaptation should incorporate commercial elements such as chases, pickups, and rags-to-riches narratives to make the film more appealing.

Brandt added, "First and foremost, we must ensure that we tell a compelling story with a clear and logical plot."

Martin agreed, reiterating that the goal was to depict the protagonist's journey from being a common pauper to achieving success through cunning and determination. He explained, "In a word, we want to depict the transformation from poverty to prosperity by using the common trope of rags to riches."

Kelly raised concerns about potential vulgarity and a perceived conflict with the values of hard work leading to success. Louise supported Kelly's viewpoint, emphasizing the importance of hard work in achieving success.

Martin clarified that the "The film should be narrated from the first-person perspective of the male protagonist to immerse the audience in his experiences". He pointed out that while many people work hard, not all can overcome life's difficulties through effort alone.

Chad, Daniel, and Brandt, who had worked their way up from the bottom in Hollywood, empathized with these challenges and the limitations of hard work.

Martin stressed that the film should offer a form of escapism for the audience, allowing them to dream and temporarily escape their own challenges. He cited the success of "Wanted" as an example of this narrative style.

Brandt agreed that stories of ordinary people achieving success by unconventional means could be enticing, and Louise echoed his sentiment.

Kelly, aware of Martin's track record and the support from Coca-Cola, conveyed her approval of the project.

Louise, who had witnessed Martin's journey from an actor to a famous movie star, signaled her support from Pacific Pictures.

Daniel indicated that Warner Bros. would likely give the project the green light.

With the major players on board, Martin affirmed that the project was well underway. He also noted that Coca-Cola Company would continue to sponsor his projects.

The discussion highlighted Martin's growing independence, making Louise realize that he was becoming less reliant on her support.

Kelly confided to Louise that, as long as Martin remained the leader of the Coca-Cola Cult, she would invest in all of his projects.

In a hushed tone, Louise assured her that Martin would undoubtedly be extremely grateful for the investment. She acknowledged Martin's successful track record and high profit margins in previous projects.

Louise hinted that Martin was moving towards a point of greater independence, implying that their partnership might be reaching its conclusion.

Kelly chuckled, asking Louise, "Do you want to marry him?"

Louise replied with a slight shake of her head, "I'm not crazy." Kelly had already figured out Louise's reasons for investing in Martin back when he was in Atlanta, saying, "Investing in him can bring huge profits. What's wrong with enjoying both wealth and pleasure?"

Louise playfully labeled Kelly as the most promiscuous one.

The meeting concluded swiftly, and Martin had largely achieved his objectives. With his current influence, forming a production company on his own was unrealistic, given the numerous uncontrollable variables involved. Joining established production companies allowed him to secure more significant compensation and investment.

An opposing company had emerged to challenge his project. There was much competition in the industry, and even securing an MPAA rating could be a challenge. Fairness and justice in the capital-dominated industry were often elusive.

After seeing Daniel off, Martin bid farewell to Kelly and Louise. Louise inquired directly, "Kelly just mentioned that she'll invest in all your future projects. How do you plan to thank her?"

Martin, elated, held both Kelly and Louise, exclaiming, "I have nothing to offer but my best efforts!"

Kelly, on her way to Warner Bros., gently pinched Martin's jaw, stating, "I'll be staying at Louise's tonight. Don't be late."

Louise, with consideration, mentioned, "I'll have the chef prepare lamb and oysters for you. If your strengths turn into weaknesses, we'll toughen them up." Martin teasingly responded, "Just you two?"

Kelly laughed, "You know that we're not looking for toughness."

Louise escorted Kelly out of the studio.

As Martin walked back, Bruce handed him a mobile phone. Martin inquired about the phone number, and Bruce informed him that Blake had called and Julie had sent a text message.

Understanding the importance, Martin called Blake first, learning that the heroine needed to spend time in New York experiencing life on the Upper East Side.

Julie had suggested a meeting at noon, but Martin had to decline due to an upcoming late-night event.

Not enough time!

Martin stored his phone and turned to Bruce, asking, "Are there any time management courses available in Hollywood?"

Martin and Bruce shared an understanding of the necessity, and Bruce promised to inquire with Thomas and others.

Martin affirmed, "Time management is crucial, and I aim to master it."

Upon returning to the office, Leonardo called again. He shared good news, inviting Martin to his party at his Malibu beach villa the following day and mentioning that he had invited Danny Boyle. Martin gladly accepted, but threatened to toss Leonardo into the Pacific Ocean if there was no surprise at the party.

Leo playfully gave Martin a middle finger over the phone and assured him it would be real.

Martin confirmed there were no pressing matters for the following day and informed Bruce, who agreed that they had ample time.

Martin added, "Tomorrow morning, you'll pick up Louise at her mansion. I'll need the morning to rest."

Bruce commiserated, saying, "It's tough for men."

Martin concurred wholeheartedly, reflecting on the challenges he faced in his career, aspirations, and pleasures. He spent billions to pursue success abroad.

That afternoon, Martin remained at the studio, working with Chad and Brandt on creating the film crew and shaping the personalities and plotlines of the main characters. Their goal was to craft engaging, entertaining narratives while maintaining a clear narrative rhythm essential for a logical movie.

Reality could be illogical, but films had to maintain a logical structure to resonate with audiences.

After finishing work, Martin returned to Sherman Oaks, just a short drive from the Coty community to Louise's mansion. Success wasn't easy for anyone, regardless of gender.