Chapter 85: Protecting Oneself

In the audition room, the casting director, Thomson, glanced at the list and announced, "Let Martin Davis come in." The Latina assistant by the door went to fetch him.

One of the assistants whispered, "He's recommended by WMA, Thomas Lane's client."

Thomson replied in hushed tones, "I'm aware. Let's see how his audition goes."

Thomson knew that no matter the recommendation, the actor's talent had to shine for the role.

Martin followed the Latina assistant into the audition room and saw seven people seated, including a photographer. Six of them appeared serious, while one was engrossed in a game on a PSP.

It was evident that this seventh person had a connection to the production.

Martin recognized Thomson and approached him, extending his hand. "Director."

Thomson nodded subtly. "The role you're auditioning for is that of an independent film director. There's no script yet. Just perform a scene."

Martin approached the director's chair, took a moment to gather his emotions, and channeled the memory of Benjamin's intense moments during a breakdown.

This was a director he was intimately familiar with.

"With one million dollars, this film can take off! Just one more million!" Martin conveyed the desperation and madness of an independent filmmaker. "Who can cough up a million bucks? Who can invest a million dollars in my project?"

He grew increasingly hysterical, raising his voice, "I'd sell my soul to him! I'd kneel down and give him blowjob, no problem!"

Thomson privately commended that the agency's recommendation seemed well-founded as Martin displayed a convincing portrayal of an indie filmmaker's struggle.

After Martin's audition, Thomson commented, "That was good. You can wait for the results."

Martin thanked Thomson and exited the audition room.

Thomson turned to those present and asked, "What's your opinion?"

The assistant, in sync with Thomson's line of thinking, replied, "He conveyed the dilemma and helplessness of an independent film director very convincingly."

A woman among them added, "Among the seven auditions we've seen today, he was the standout. His acting was impressive."

Thomson made up his mind but kept his composure. "Next, please."

After leaving the audition room, Martin checked in with the receptionist, confirmed his contact details, and located the building number of the casting office.

Walking to the parking area, he pondered for a moment, then dialed Robert's number. "Hey, buddy, what are you up to?"

Robert's voice brimmed with enthusiasm, "Teaching acting to newbies. Why do you ask?"

Martin got straight to the point, "As a favor, could you get a bottle of Coke, glass or can, and place it facing Los Angeles?"

Robert was puzzled, "Why?"

Martin explained, "I just had an audition, and it's crucial for me. It's related to my quick entry into the Screen Actors Guild."

Robert understood, "Coke won't cut it, but I get what you mean."

Martin emphasized, "I don't want just any Coke; I want Robert-blessed Coke."

"Got it. I'll do it now," Robert agreed, feeling somewhat accustomed to these requests by now. After hanging up, he bought a can of Coke, placed it on his desk, and even spread olive oil on it, making the sign of the cross, taking a photo, and sending an MMS to Martin.

When Martin received the message, he felt a sense of reassurance and decided to call Benjamin. "Director, nothing's wrong. I just wanted to express my gratitude."

Benjamin chuckled on the other end, "Grateful for what?"

Martin responded, "Congratulations on your latest success. I won't disturb your happiness. I'll hang up."

In his final call, Martin dialed Thomas's number. The agent sounded occupied and required two tries before he picked up.

Thomas tersely stated, "Just wait for the results," and promptly ended the call.

Martin was notified on Friday morning that he had secured the role.

In the afternoon, he met Thomas at the entrance of Warner Studios and together they headed to the small building housing the production crew.

Thomas, dressed in a suit and tie, carried a black briefcase. In New York, he could be mistaken for a stockbroker, but in Los Angeles, he was unmistakably an entertainment agent.

"You're not a union member, so the pay won't be high, maxing out at $3,000 per episode," Thomas briefed him as they walked. "At this stage, don't fret too much about the salary. The opportunity to land a role is more crucial. The shoot will commence soon, and once you submit your union application, you'll be eligible for more significant parts."

Martin complimented him, "You're a true professional."

The two arrived at the office building, and Martin waited in the lounge while Thomas went to negotiate the salary with a producer. He returned in about ten minutes.

Thomas explained, "The role pays $2,800 per episode. You can appear in a maximum of two episodes. Standard transportation, meals, accommodations, and insurance will be provided per crew norms. If you're comfortable with this, we can proceed with signing the contract. After signing, you'll receive a few pages of character scripts."

Martin didn't mind the salary for this role. "No problem."

Thomas instructed his assistant, "Let your boss know we can sign the contract."

The actor's contract was already prepared, and Martin reviewed it carefully before signing his name.

Thomas asked, "Any issues with the contract?"

Martin shrugged, "Of course, I need to read what I'm signing."

"Very well, remember this," Thomas emphasized, "Don't easily place your trust in anyone." Though Thomas's words might sound harsh, they held wisdom. Martin had witnessed many celebrities being deceived by those around them, such as certain rootless individuals.

With the contract officially signed, the assistant director handed Martin a few pages of the script, cautioning, "These are character details from the screenwriter, hot off the press. Familiarize yourself with the character background. Although the plot may evolve, the character details will remain constant."

Martin accepted the pages and responded, "I'll study them closely."

The assistant director issued a confidentiality warning.

A quick scan of the script's first page revealed the code name "Star" as the film's title, fitting for his role as a director.

Additionally, HBO was mentioned in the corner of the contract. Being under Warner Bros., Martin couldn't help but recall the network's reputation for explicit content.

He queried Thomas, "Is this project affiliated with HBO?"

"It likely is," Thomas replied matter-of-factly. "In the film and television industry, projects can shift between HBO and Warner TV during post-production. The specifics depend on various factors."

Martin thought to himself about HBO's reputation for bold content. He inquired, "Is it going to be one of those HBO 'sex and violence' productions?"

Thomas, astute as an agent, probed, "Are you hesitant about large-scale dramas? You shouldn't be. I specifically watched 'Zombie Stripper' and the late-night drama you starred in. HBO's productions won't be grander than your City Folks." In his mind, Martin finished the thought: "City Folks is coming to Los Angeles."

Thomas added a word of advice, "You're a talented actor with diverse skills. Just be cautious on set."

Martin decided to be candid, "I come from the tough neighborhoods and strip clubs of Atlanta, where gangs run rampant. I've never shied away from competition or challenges."

As they exited, they encountered casting director Tom Sen in front of the office building.

Thomas extended his hand to shake Thomson's and expressed his gratitude, "Thank you for this opportunity."

Thomson courteously replied, "You're welcome." Just as he was about to evaluate Martin, Martin approached him, shook his hand firmly, and said, "Director, when would you be available for a casual dinner?"

Seeing Martin's reasonable approach, Thomson smiled and agreed, "No need for dinner. Just give me your personal contact information."

Martin understood that a dinner couldn't repay the favor, so he handed over his business card, saying, "If you ever need anything, feel free to reach out."

Thomas, too, accepted the business card, and then he inquired of Thomas, "Where did you find this newcomer? He's quite talented."

Thomas replied, "He has some connections."

Martin didn't say much and played the role of a humble beneficiary.

Thomson walked towards the office building, saying, "You're busy, and I have work to attend to."

As they reached the parking lot, Thomas drove off first.

Martin got into his car but didn't immediately start it. Instead, he took out a few pages of the character script from his bag and began reading it carefully.

The content of the first page seemed ordinary, depicting an independent director organizing a pool party with ordinary actresses.

Martin deduced, based on HBO's style, that the final film might include scenes with numerous cars and nudity, but it wouldn't go to the extreme of explicit content. HBO, while daring, had its limits.

However, the director's character was portrayed as cruel, raising the possibility of group interactions among the characters.

Anyone familiar with HBO's style would understand the implications.

The second and third pages of the script featured a similar scenario: the male lead sought out the director amidst a group of women, and they conversed while surrounded by these women.

The fourth and final page included a dialogue between the actor and the director about the movie. An independent director wanted to make a film, and the male lead expressed a desire to be the protagonist. The director admired him but made a request. The actor had to perform it personally for the director.

Martin surmised that the screenwriter might not have contemplated whether the male lead would agree later in the story.

"It's not yet the era of LGBTQ activism, so HBO's script is quite liberal," Martin mused. He tried to recall, "Ang Lee's 'Brokeback Mountain' is a landmark, but it probably hasn't been made yet." After all, Hollywood wasn't quite like the European film industry. Even if such scenes were included, they wouldn't be filmed in real life.

Martin wasn't overly concerned. He collected the script pages and headed to the Burbank film library to research books like autobiographies and interviews with independent film directors. Despite it being a small role, he prepared for it with unwavering dedication.