King of Hollywood
Chapter 312 - Chapter 312 39 chapters 2 choose 1

Chapter 312: 39 chapters 2 choose 1 Chapter 312: 39 chapters 2 choose 1 “I completely understand how you feel, Ed, John,” Adrian began, gesturing with sincere eyes toward Kammer and Lasseter, “I’ve heard about Pixar’s ‘ugly duckling’ nickname in Silicon Valley. You indeed need a weighty film to prove yourselves, but now is not the best opportunity. Consider this–which would be more impressive: making an animation movie that receives praise from audiences or creating one that shocks the industry with its excellence?”

He made a gesture: “You should be aware that the Christmas season and the summer season are the two most important release windows for films. Even if you work overtime to complete the last bits of production, distribution and promotion will take weeks. I don’t need to emphasize the importance of promotion, but without an exceptional hook, there is almost no effect in less than four weeks. At most, you could catch the tail end of the ’94 Christmas to ’95 New Year schedule, which is disadvantageous for box office returns. I’m sure that’s not what you want to see. If we wait until next summer, we’ll have ample time for promotions and to prepare for various scenarios, such as contacting toy manufacturers…”

“Sorry, did you say toy manufacturers?” Lasseter couldn’t hold back, “Isn’t it a bit early to be thinking about that?”

“Not at all, John,” Adrian replied with a smile, his self-assurance evident. “‘Toy Story’ is an exceptional animation film, it will be very popular because my judgment has never missed.”

He dared to say this because, having seen the preview and comparing it to his memory, aside from some differences in montage techniques, everything else was nearly the same, and some parts even seemed more perfect after his suggestions. Unless all Americans collectively lost their minds, there’s no way ‘Toy Story’ wouldn’t cause a sensation.

“That’s… really exhilarating news,” Ed Kammer removed his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose. Beside him, except for Peter Docter who didn’t wear glasses, John Lasseter and Andrew Stanton made the same gesture, their faces expressing clear joy and excitement.

“Any other questions, gentlemen?” Adrian then asked.

There were no questions left. Adrian had made it clear that he had their best interests at heart. Coupled with his famously accurate foresight and his unwavering support over the past year, this group of Hollywood dreamers now looked to him as their leader.

“For now, you can relax. If you have time, why not make a few shorts? They can serve as practice for interesting little stories or can be commemorative tales based on the movie’s characters. Also, consider how you would want to make ‘Toy Story’s’ sequel. Trust me, this film will ensure no one underestimates Pixar again,” Adrian said to Kammer and Lasseter as he was leaving.

“Although you often have high hopes for many, it’s quite rare for you to have such confidence,” Charlize, who seldom spoke up in the car, suddenly made a comment, looking into Adrian’s grey-green eyes with an inquisitive gaze.

“Of course, they are outstanding. You’ve seen that animation; what do you think?” Adrian asked with a smile.

“Not bad, but…” Charlize shrugged her shoulders but was interrupted before she could finish.

“I think Emma will represent the thoughts of many children,” Adrian pinched the cheek of the little girl in his arms, “You must have heard what the little one said back in the meeting room,”

“Ed, I want Buzz Lightyear’s wings and the pull string on Woody’s back,” the little girl, largely focused on the models, appropriately brandished the two main characters from the movie and clamored.

“Don’t worry, dear, these are just models. When the toy company makes them, I promise to get you a pair right away,” Adrian laughed, and Charlize shrugged her shoulders, staying silent.

Compared to the promotion of live-action films, ‘Toy Story’ had several disadvantages. Live-action films can leverage stars, scandals, and behind-the-scenes stories for publicity, while ‘Toy Story’, aside from Tom Hanks’ voice acting for Woody–easily secured because of Adrian’s involvement–had few promotable figures.

The first 3D feature-length animation was a gimmick, but the industry was broadly skeptical that computers could produce a quality feature-length animation. After ‘The Lion King’ had crowned Disney’s final glory, it was hard to say how much attention it would attract. As for the Pixar brand, it might become an object of pursuit for countless people in a few years, but for now…

Therefore, an adequate length of promotion time is necessary. Only after the animation has sufficiently fermented can it earn enough box office and merchandising profits. Of course, another reason for postponing the animated film to the summer season is Disney, which is a good opportunity; it might even act as a surprise hit.

After concluding her journey at Pixar and achieving a desirable outcome, Emma had to return to the United Kingdom. The little girl couldn’t help but part with lingering reluctance at the airport, only leaving after casting countless backward glances once Adrian had promised her innumerable things.

Frankly, Adrian also felt a little reluctant to let go. Although the little one clung to him quite a bit, she had grown to understand boundaries much more than before. However, it was somewhat inconvenient to have her around. Besides, he wasn’t her legal guardian nor did he have custody rights, so maintaining the status quo was just fine.

Once it was confirmed that “Toy Story” had not undergone too many changes, Adrian immediately diverted his attention to focus on another film that required attention–Bossworth Film Company’s final release of the three films set for this year, “Little Women.”

As usual, after the lights came on, a sparse but earnest round of applause broke out. It didn’t matter; this was, after all, an internal film screening at the movie company attended by producers, directors, and a few leading actors.

“Outstanding performance, Noni. Even though there are some discrepancies from the original story, that’s not your fault,” Adrian said as he walked up to Winona and shook her hand. “Your classic makeup is truly elegant and refined; I’m starting to feel envious of Dan.”

As he spoke, he turned his head to smile at Dennis, who had accompanied Winona to the screening.

“Thank you,” Winona replied briefly, her expression unchanged as she withdrew her hand and glanced at Dennis before standing up and leaving.

“Your Noni seems quite observant,” Adrian commented as he watched Winona walk away to talk to others. He then turned his gaze back to Dennis. “Just a little hint, and she gracefully gave us the time and space.”

“Not bad,” Dennis sighed, aware of the implications hidden in Adrian’s words.

“Does that mean she’s just a little suspicious?” Adrian immediately laughed.

Although Winona only dated Depp for a little over a year before Dennis swept her off her feet for various reasons, the tabloids didn’t let her off the hook. So the fabrications that were supposed to be about her and Depp fell on her and Dennis instead, such as last year when the tabloids linked Winona with Daniel Day-Lewis during the filming of “The Age of Innocence.”

Compared to the Depp that Adrian recalled from that era, who had performed excellently in diverse films like “Pulp Fiction” and “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” Dennis, who could play a variety of roles, naturally drew more attention. Plus, with Adrian’s strong support, the tabloid fabrications about him were more plentiful than those about Depp at the time, including rumors about him and Aniston.

The proverb “Three men make a tiger” is not without basis–no matter how groundless, repeated mentions can brainwash many people into belief. Moreover, Dennis and Aniston indeed had a past physical relationship.

“She’s just a bit uneasy,” Dennis defended his girlfriend, his tone revealing a noticeable uncertainty, “I’m quite troubled now. If she visits the set, I don’t know what situation will arise.”

If all went as expected, “Broken Arrow” would start shooting next month, in mid-January 1995. Wu Bage was thrilled to direct a substantial Hollywood film, and Travolta was very interested in the role of the vicious antagonist, Dix. Convincing Jennifer Aniston, however, proved a bit more troublesome.

Given his memories, Adrian knew that Jennifer aimed to break away from being typecast as a decorative vase or comedy actress and needed to start changing now, a change that had to be comprehensive and couldn’t be achieved by just taking on an action movie role. Hence, he designed a character for Jennifer–a female park ranger with a masculine short haircut.

For any woman wanting to attract attention, a head of beautiful long hair is essential; though it’s not impossible to find attractive women with short hair, they are considerably rarer. So, how could Jennifer bear to cut her long locks? Especially when she had just become America’s favorite television actress, as voted by viewers for her role in “Friends”–her sweet image was universally acclaimed. How could she possibly make such a sacrifice for a role?

But she agreed, all thanks to Dennis. It was his relentless persuasion, combined with Adrian’s reputation, that led Jennifer to carefully consider and then make her decision. It also showed how close her relationship with Dennis had become; the press had even concocted stories when they captured the two in intimate conversation at a cafe.

Had it not been for Dennis using the excuse that this was a task given to him by Adrian, and given Winona’s recognition of Adrian’s name leading her to a misunderstanding, who knows what unexpected developments might have occurred between them?

“What, has Jenny never met Noni before?” Adrian asked Dennis with a raised eyebrow.

“Of course she has, but at that time I hadn’t…” Dennis said with a wry smile, making a “you know what I mean” gesture.

“So what? Jenny has already lowered her pride and expressed a desire to chase after you. Do you think avoiding her will let you escape?” Adrian said with a teasing smile, and he gave Dennis a hearty pat on the shoulder, “Don’t worry so much. This is a great opportunity. Believe in yourself; you can handle it, Dan!”

Dennis still bore a bitter smile, unsure of what to say. Adrian didn’t dwell on the subject any further and glanced around the screening room. Laverne was discussing something with the production staff and the Australian female director Gillian Armstrong, while other people in groups of threes and twos were sitting or standing together, voicing their opinions about the film, except for…

A hint of a smile crossed Adrian’s lips as he patted Dennis on the back and then stood up to head outside. After carefully considering outside the screening room, Adrian walked down the corridor to the left and after turning a couple of corners, he stood in front of a certain room’s door and pushed it open.

The girl sitting on the chair looked bored as she was counting on her fingers, but when she recognized who had entered, her face revealed a look of plaintive charm. She sat up properly, placing her hands on her thighs and appearing pitiful.

Without a word, Adrian closed and locked the door, walked up to her, scooped her up in his arms, sat down on the couch beside her, and kissed those tempting, pale pink lips without hesitation.

Kirsten didn’t hesitate to offer her tongue. Under Adrian’s special guidance, her kissing skills had become increasingly proficient, and her kisses more passionate.

After ravaging her mouth until she was almost breathless, Adrian finally let her go.

“Your technique is getting better and better, Qiqi,” he said, caressing Kirsten’s flushed, smooth cheeks and greedily inhaling her scent, now and then sucking on those soft lips.

“That’s because I have a great teacher,” Kirsten giggled, her eyes still clouded with seduction–she sounded like a ripe fruit waiting to be plucked rather than an innocent young girl.

Adrian chuckled lightly and said nothing more. Kirsten then straightened up and began to sway her lower body enticingly as she looked at him. She had dressed up nicely today: a checkered dress of white and green, a white silk long-sleeved overcoat, white knee-high socks, and black leather shoes, all giving her a very youthful and energetic appearance.

Yet, Kirsten’s current coquettish and alluring demeanor created a stark contrast that made her irresistibly seductive. More importantly, she was straddling his right thigh, an indescribably delightful sensation due to the intimate contact.

“Don’t rush, my dear. Let’s talk first,” Adrian said, taking a deep breath and calming himself down from her light friction.

“What’s the matter?” the enticing young girl paused, her eyes wide as she looked at him.

“The first thing is about your new movie,” Adrian smiled slightly, “You have already won a fair amount of accolades, so it’s time to get you into some money-making commercial productions.”

“Already won a fair amount of accolades?” Kirsten raised an eyebrow, seemingly about to say something.

“Don’t rush, that’s the second thing I want to talk about,” Adrian waved his hand, “Let’s finish the first thing–You are quickly approaching an awkward age, Qiqi, when it is difficult for a girl your age to find any standout roles. Playing younger than your actual age could lead to accusations of trying to appear too youthful, while playing older could be seen as not fitting your image. You must understand, many people hold this view, so you may face a lull over the next two or three years. Therefore, I plan to tailor a role for you in a potential blockbuster, to help you maintain a certain level of popularity during this time.”

“What role?” Kirsten asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice.

“A girl who has lost her parents, depends on her little brother, is a bit frivolous and likes to play tricks on others, but is very strong in crucial moments,” Adrian explained briefly, “Do you trust me, Qiqi?”

“Of course, you have a good eye,” the girl said with a sweet smile, leaning in and giving him a light kiss on the lips.

“Well, for the second matter,” feeling the soft touch on his lips, Adrian restrained the impulse to return a passionate kiss, “You have a choice between the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress and the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.”

“You mean…” Although Kirsten had already guessed what Adrian meant when he mentioned “accolades,” her breathing still quickened noticeably.

“The Golden Globe nominations will be announced soon, and as far as I know, the role of Claudia has already secured a spot; as for the Oscars, at least a nomination shouldn’t be a problem,” Adrian said leisurely.

The young girl’s body couldn’t help but shake slightly, even though the man before her had told her last year that the role of Claudia could give her the chance to compete for the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. Although his reputation as the Miracle Director led her to take the gamble, Kirsten always harbored a flicker of uncertainty. She was smart and audacious, but the more intelligent and bold one is, the more they tend to worry about certain things. Now that Adrian was confirming it in person, it would be odd if she wasn’t excited.

“Of course, it’s…” The girl was about to speak but Adrian covered her mouth.

“You need to think carefully, Qiqi,” Adrian said with a smile, looking into her eyes, “There’s only one chance, so you must think it over. The chances of winning the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress are over 80%, but the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress is much harder to predict, understand?”

After a few minutes of thought, Kirsten’s expression was hesitant; she roughly understood what he meant, and indeed, it was a tough choice. She was about to enter an awkward age bracket, so this might be her only chance to win an award for now. The influence of the Golden Globe was only slightly higher than those director’s guild awards and nothing compared to the Oscars, but the odds were in her favor; on the other hand, the Oscar was the highest honor in the North American film industry, but the chance of failure was not negligible. So, which one to choose?

“I choose the Oscar!” A few minutes later, the girl took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and made her decision. Even if she couldn’t break Taitem O’Neil’s record for youngest winner, to receive the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress at her age would already be an incredible achievement.

“Good, I’ll do everything in my power to fight for it…” Adrian pinched her chin, staring into her grey-green eyes as he spoke. Kirsten’s choice was entirely within his expectations. With the ambition and desire she had shown, how could she opt for the Golden Globe given the chance?

His gaze grew more profound, and although he didn’t finish his sentence, he knew the precocious little fairy understood the implication.

Kirsten’s smile became even more seductive as she unhesitatingly picked up Adrian’s hand and placed it on her smooth thigh, then extended her tongue to lightly trace her lips.

(To be continued. For the continuation of this story, please visit www.NovelFire.net. For more chapters, support the author, support genuine reading!)