Chapter 40: Female Lead

Manhattan, 400 Fifth Avenue, The Langham, New York; the wrap party of Sleepless in Seattle was held here.

Arthur Smith attended the party with Jennifer Aniston. It was Jennifer Aniston's first time attending such an event, and she felt a bit nervous.

Director Nora Ephron, lead actor Tom Hanks and his wife, lead actress Meg Ryan with her actor boyfriend Dennis Quaid, producer Gary Foster, and other cast members were all present.

Arthur specifically brought Jennifer Aniston to introduce her to some people in the entertainment industry, such as director Nora Ephron.

"This industry is all about connections. It's good for you to show your face now," Arthur gently patted Jennifer Aniston, who was standing next to him.

Jennifer Aniston, wearing a low-cut dress, held tightly onto Arthur's arm. "I know, thank you, Arthur!"

Jennifer Aniston was a complete newcomer at the time, without any fame. Even getting a chance to play a supporting role in a movie to gain experience was good for her.

"Once Sleeping with the Enemy starts shooting, I'll arrange for you to make a cameo. You'll be one of the classmates the heroine secretly learns swimming with. The lead actor only finds out that the heroine has learned to swim and faked her death to escape when he accidentally picks up a call from that swimming classmate. Although there aren't many scenes, you'll still have a few minutes of screen time," Arthur reminded her.

"Hmm, I've read the script," Jennifer Aniston was happy that her man could independently develop films. "Have you prepared everything?"

Arthur glanced at Meg Ryan in the distance and explained, "Orion wants Meg Ryan to play the lead role!"

Meg Ryan, then America's sweetheart, was envied by Jennifer Aniston. "Oh, a lot of people really like Meg Ryan now."

Shortly after, Arthur found Meg Ryan and struck up a conversation. "Meg, have you read the script for Sleeping with the Enemy?"

"Is it your new script, Arthur?" Meg Ryan smiled. "It's very challenging. Are you inviting me to play the lead role?"

"Uh," Arthur was momentarily stunned but quickly nodded. "That's right, the movie studio and I both think you'd be perfect for the leading role!"

"Fine, but I want to take a break before filming. You're not starting immediately, right?" Meg Ryan laughed.

"Not at all. We're not starting until at least March or April."

Had she agreed already? Meg Ryan had become easier to talk to. Wasn't it said that she didn't like thrillers or horror movies?

"Meg," Arthur thought for a moment and chose his words carefully. "Actually, I also acquired the rights to The Silence of the Lambs. I heard you don't particularly like thriller stories?"

"Arthur, The Silence of the Lambs isn't just a thriller and mystery; it's also gory and scary. My refusal was mainly due to those aspects. I was worried I couldn't handle those scenes," Meg Ryan laughed. "As for Sleeping with the Enemy, it's indeed a thriller but focuses on themes of domestic violence and psychological torment. The heroine's character is not the sweet type seen in romantic comedies. Lately, I've been getting too many sweet comedy roles."

"I've already done two in a row and want to try something different. Sleeping with the Enemy fits my requirements."

Arthur nodded. "I see." Looking at Meg Ryan, he continued, "Don't worry. Sleeping with the Enemy is sure to be a successful film. After this year, Meg Ryan will undoubtedly be the top among Hollywood's new-generation actresses!"

Meg Ryan pointed to Jennifer Aniston in the distance. "Alright, go keep your girlfriend company. When we get back to Los Angeles, you can discuss the contract with my agent."

After talking with Meg Ryan, Arthur didn't expect everything to go so smoothly. He had prepared a whole series of arguments.

For example, how she shouldn't limit herself to romantic comedies and should try different genres!

Having settled things with Meg Ryan, Arthur also gave the project proposal for Sleeping with the Enemy to Mike Medavoy.

The Sleeping with the Enemy project wasn't particularly challenging; they just needed to find a director experienced in thrillers. Male actors didn't need to be big stars either!

Once Meg Ryan was confirmed, Arthur felt a weight lifted off his shoulders and joined the party with Jennifer Aniston.

That night, in the East Village.

Jennifer Aniston was lying on the bed, tightly hugging Arthur, who was on top of her, breathlessly asking, "Have you been busy recently, except for Christmas and New Year's Eve with me?"

"Yeah, writing the proposal at the hotel and keeping an eye on Sleepless in Seattle!" Arthur whispered.

Jennifer Aniston laughed, "No wonder you performed so well tonight?"

Hearing this, Arthur playfully retorted, "I always perform well! Last time you even said you wanted to bring your coffee shop coworker back!"

"Hmph, Arthur, you're such a flirt," Jennifer Aniston teased, biting Arthur's ear. "By the way, did Meg Ryan agree to be the lead in Sleeping with the Enemy? Does that mean it can officially start planning?"

"Yeah," Arthur exhaled, his hands on Jennifer Aniston's chest, causing her to squirm, "the lead role is the most important part of this movie. The plot is simple too. Filming can be completed in at most two months. I plan to start shooting at the end of March."

Jennifer Aniston nodded and then stroked Arthur's hair. "At the hotel this afternoon, everyone was very polite to you. Did some pretty girls hit on you? Honey, weren't you tempted? They had great bodies and faces!"

Arthur chuckled and then kissed her on the lips. "That's because I control a $15 million movie production project right now."

"Many newcomers want to get involved. They're after my resources, not me!"

"Arthur," Jennifer Aniston wrapped her arms around Arthur's neck. "Do you think I'm suited to be an actress?"

"Of course you are. With me around, you'll definitely become a star!" Arthur said, rolling over with a smile.

"Although there are no major roles suitable for you in Sleeping with the Enemy or The Silence of the Lambs, I'll develop more projects!"

Jennifer Aniston nodded, "The TV show I'm in will air this year, so I'm officially entering this industry."

Arthur silenced her with a kiss, beginning another round of passion.

*****

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