The theater outside was swarming with people, with huge posters featuring the main characters in various costus towering around, attracting countless eyes. Many movie enthusiasts stopped in front of the posters to take photos as keepsakes. As for the surrounding area of the red carpet, it was already packed with crowds: fervent fans waving their arms, entertainnt reporters shouldering equipnt, making the place impenetrable. Although the pain from two months ago hadn’t completely healed, people ultimately needed entertainnt, especially for such a grand premiere.
Not to ntion the famous actors and Universal’s executives, Marvel Comics’ top brass and several authors had also arrived. Stan Lee, the old man himself, had a powerful presence as he walked down the red carpet. Then there were people from other film companies who wanted a piece of the Marvel pie, along with many big-na stars and directors; calling the event grand was by no ans an exaggeration.
After Adrian dealt with the reporters outside, he entered the theater lobby and began weaving through the crowd. As before, he ca alone, partly to not give the reporters too much to work with, but the real reason lay with the premiere itself.
"To be frank, I do have so regrets since the comic’s universe is so vast that over a hundred minutes of film cannot capture all the details, even if it’s three tis a hundred minutes," Adrian spoke freely in front of several movie company executives and Marvel writers.
"Is Adrian thinking of launching a TV series version?" Sony’s Taylor Reed interjected with a smile.
"Not a bad idea. Maybe it’s really worth considering—what do you think, Stan?" Adrian shrugged his shoulders and turned to look at Stan Lee.
"Let shine in the movies first, then we can talk about that, Ed," the old man said humorously, drawing a round of laughter.
Stan Lee had made a cao in "Spider-Man" as an old fellow who exclaid in surprise when Spider-Man flew over his head. Unlike in his previous lifeti, his scene wasn’t cut after the official release. He then ca to cao in "X-n" and was expected to continue doing so; naturally, he didn’t want to switch from movie caos to TV series caos.
Among the group, aside from Universal’s people, it was Sony’s who laughed the most heartily. They not only co-invested in the "X-n" series with Universal but also obtained so of the rights. Of course, the final interpretation rights belonged to Marvel, which could be reclaid when needed, but Adrian had also privately indicated that unless it was a very special circumstance, character rights could be freely arranged within the contract period, as long as they communicated with Marvel.
However, the other film companies were not particularly envious, having preliminarily confird that "Fantastic Four" would be produced by Paramount. They were allies, after all. Although the second movie wasn’t great, the first one did well at the box office. With Adrian around to provide so guidance, maybe they could avoid a loss with the second film. He gave "Hulk" to Fox out of his mischievous taste, since that superhero was not so easy to shape into the mainstream audience’s liking. If they also chose Ang Lee to direct, it would be their own downfall.
Of course, if Fox were to nicely ask for his advice, he wouldn’t mind offering a few tips, as it involved another series from Marvel. Plus, even if AC dia and News Corporation, Universal and Fox were potential competitors, there was room for collaboration within the competition, right?
As for Disney, they were still undecided. AC dia’s grudges with them weren’t small matters. Miramax and ABC were both snatched from their hands by AC dia, and Eisner was a very arrogant fellow. He firmly believed that if Adrian and Claude had not erged to disrupt things, Disney would have grown even stronger now—an undoubtedly true fact, though ABC truly shone after his departure.
So if they wanted to collaborate, they would inevitably have to humble themselves, which would be very uncomfortable for him. But Adrian didn’t mind; AC dia’s strength was now evident to everyone. If Disney wanted a share of the pie, then what was the issue with humbling themselves? Wait any longer and there would be no chance left. Moreover, the offer to choose between "Daredevil" or "Captain Arica" was a courtesy not available to other film companies.
Okay, he admitted that it was just as mischievously fun as giving "Hulk" to Fox, but no one could be certain that the films would fail. Perhaps they would find the right director and make a brilliant film.
"I must admit your enthusiasm surprises , but don’t you think it’s a bit early to discuss this?" Adrian shifted the topic after changing the group, "Yes, I admit I was the first to bring it up, but I only wanted you guys to be conceptually prepared. Bringing it up now is too soon. After most of our superheroes have fully utilized their value and audiences begin to grow weary of Marvel’s heroes, that’s when we can surprise them, and Marvel will continue to lead on this front."
Unquestionably, these people were Marvel Comics’ top brass, and what they were discussing was none other than the "Avengers" initiative. After Adrian initially proposed the concept, many inside Marvel were intrigued. "Spider-Man" had already proven their superheroes were popular, and the outlook for "X-n" was very promising, coupled with the renowned Miracle Director’s reputation. That’s why they swiftly proposed a series of plans.
Adrian understood their feelings. After all, Marvel had been consistently overshadowed by DC for a long ti. The 50s and 60s were one thing, but once "Superman" hit the screens, DC imdiately surpassed Marvel. Despite Marvel producing its own superhero films years later, such as the 1991 TV movie, they were poorly received, thus never surpassing DC.
Now, they saw the light of dawn. "Spider-Man’s" trendous sales had proven that audiences were tired of DC’s perfect superheroes, and it was ti for Marvel’s flawed heroes to shine. Imagine if they launched the Avengers before the Justice League—what a victory it would be.
Yet, they did not let excitent cloud their judgnt, so after Adrian explained, they all accepted his point. After all, if the Miracle Director wasn’t interested, he wouldn’t have brought it up in the first place.
This is another function of the movie premiere, just like many cocktail parties; it provides a setting less formal than a eting room, allowing people to communicate certain things more easily and comfortably. Of course, everything has two sides; while communication becos easier, it also keeps playboys like Adrian busy.
"I’m starting to worry now," Zetajones said to Adrian in a corner. "Many friends think that this role doesn’t suit very well, lacking a bit of a sharp temperant and not quite like a superhero, except for Julie."
Although she sighed, the smile on her face didn’t show any worry at all. She was as sexy and charming as ever, very tempting.
"Indeed, a bit," Adrian replied with a smile. "But that’s because you’re too beautiful, especially when you’re in uniform and wearing glasses. No one can resist you."
"I knew it," Zetajones’ smile turned even more enchanting. "You like this sort. I thought your taste might have changed."
She glanced discreetly at a distant Halle Berry, who was laughing and talking with soone. Her dark, delicate skin made her look healthy, and her short hair gave her an air of sophistication. Before Zetajones had co over, she had been chatting rrily with Adrian.
"As long as you’re in front of , nothing will change," Adrian shrugged.
This could also be interpreted as, if there were other won in front of him, it would be a different story. Zetajones knew this too, but so choices are irreversible, and moreover, there’s nothing wrong with that, so when she ca over and heard Halle’s intentional or unintentional hints, she imdiately took over the conversation.
For a woman like her, who was very good at reading people’s expressions, Adrian would not let her down, so he changed the subject: "Speaking of which, you should be ready, right? By the beginning of next month at the latest, I’ll have soone send you the script."
"Are you going to direct it?" Zetajones’ eyes lit up. She could always see more than other won.
"No," Adrian shook his head and then smiled, "Don’t worry, dear Kate. Since I’m recomnding it to you, it will definitely have its unique points. Although it’s just a supporting role, but..."
He made a gesture and didn’t continue, just winked, but Zetajones imdiately understood. She felt a surge of excitent; he was finally willing to fulfill the initial agreent. But at the sa ti, she felt a hint of loss. This made it seem that climbing any further wouldn’t be easy.
"I’m really looking forward to it." Her smile beca even more charming.
"Then, I must excuse myself for a mont," Adrian said, disappointing her without giving her the chance to continue, as he left with an elegant bow.
Zetajones didn’t mind; she was used to his attitude. As long as she was by his side, she wouldn’t lack opportunities, just like when she first started.
Such behavior was actually quite good; after all, mature won understand restraint. Even if they didn’t like soone, they wouldn’t show it, so Adrian managed to play both sides a bit. But if it were young girls...
"Let’s put it this way, Kirsten. I don’t like you, not one bit. You’re just a spoiled brat," Scarlett pointed at Kirsten and said bluntly.
"Okay, then let tell you, I also don’t like you, Scarlett. You’re also a self-centered brat," Kirsten rebuffed, arms crossed and sneering.
"Alright, ladies, please be mindful of the occasion," Adrian, standing between the two, tried to smooth things over.
"Shut up, Ed! I know where I am, and I’ve been really quiet already!"
"Shut up, Ed! I know where I am, and I’ve been really quiet already!"
Speaking nearly in unison, their commanding presence made even Adrian lean back a little. Then they both realized what happened, looked at each other with surprise, followed by a glare, and promptly turned to walk off in opposite directions.
Adrian sighed. This was the last scene he wanted to witness. In such a situation, chasing after either of them would leave the other unhappy. Thinking it over, he decided to first follow the direction in which Kirsten had left.
"When I ca over, it seed like you were arguing about which comic character is the most interesting. How did it suddenly turn into, personal accusations?" Adrian asked Kirsten, who stood to one side sulking alone, in a tone that was both curious and comforting.
"I don’t like her, Ed." Seeing that Adrian had co to her first, Kirsten imdiately smiled, but her lips pursed again as she looked away, holding back, appearing simultaneously angry, sad, and aggrieved, "We had already argued once before, and I let it go, shifting the topic elsewhere. But she just wouldn’t drop it."
"Hmm... That’s very normal. Everyone has their stubborn side. If you don’t like soone, then just don’t talk to them in the future." Adrian shrugged.
"Do you think I’m so spoiled woman?" Kirsten suddenly asked, biting her lip and looking both unhappy and unwilling to accept it.
"Of course not," Adrian laughed, "you’re just... lacking a sense of security."
Kirsten fell silent, a sore spot touched. Indeed, her precociousness and her willingness to gamble everything did stem from that very insecurity.
"Actually, Scarlett is just like you, with divorced parents. So why bother picking fights over trivial things with her?" Adrian pressed the point ho.
"Really?" Kirsten seed surprised, and upon receiving a nod, she huffed, "Fine, now I know, but I still don’t like her."
She then gave Adrian a sideways glance, "Don’t think I don’t know what you’re up to."
Adrian laughed heartily, "Alright, I got it. You don’t have to talk to her in the future. But, Qiqi, don’t you think you should have a friend?"
"I have lots of friends," Kirsten said, puzzled.
"No, no, no, I an..." Adrian’s smile turned mischievous as he leaned in and whispered sothing in her ear.
Kirsten first appeared startled, then her cheeks flushed slightly red. She squinted at Adrian as if about to speak but was suddenly caught off guard because a hand had smoothly trailed up her thigh and didn’t stop, ambitiously reaching for her pert behind. With few people around and standing in a secluded 90-degree corner, Kirsten, dressed in a high-slit long skirt, didn’t need to worry about being seen. The lady didn’t speak, just pursed her lips, her eyes nearly a fine line. While she appeared calm, her quivering lips soon revealed sothing, and monts later, she let out a soft gasp, her tense body relaxing.
"I knew it," Kirsten said, catching her breath after the exhilarating encounter, shedding any previous gloom and turning seductive, "So, have you and her ever..."
"No, that’s why I asked you to co," Adrian shrugged, "It’s more fun with more people."
His words were already quite blunt, but he wasn’t the least bit worried. Others might feel the need to mince words, but there was no need for such courtesy with Kirsten. After all, she was the one who had initiated the transaction with him in the first place, and over the years, he had certainly not skimped on his efforts with her, and she had always been compliant.
"There are still so many places I haven’t been to," Kirsten humd in response.
Indeed, she had agreed, but it was conditional. She had always enjoyed making love outdoors, seeking the thrill of being open to the sky and earth. She had left her marks by the lakes of Adrian’s estate in the United Kingdom and the forests of New Zealand where they fild "The Lord of the Rings." Hence, she insisted on experiencing renowned landscapes around the world before discussing it further.
However, Adrian’s judgnt wasn’t wrong, as she agreed imdiately, "But since it’s a request from you, the Playboy, I guess I have no choice but to accept."
Kirsten stopped speaking there, her gray-green eyes unblinkingly fixed on him. Adrian flashed a slight smile and, in front of everyone, bent down to plant a light kiss on the corner of her mouth.
That took care of one issue, but there was another to handle.
"You shouldn’t have quarreled with her, Scarlett. You do realize this is your premiere," Adrian told Scarlett after calling her out from the crowd.
"If that’s all you have to say, then I might as well go back," Scarlett replied, quite coldly, not even giving him a direct look. The proud lift of her chest, intentionally accentuated to appear nonchalant, seed inadvertently to have the opposite effect.
"You know she grew up in a single-parent family just like you, and even earlier than you at that, so she’s quite precocious. She also has a strong sense of insecurity, which can turn protective, and occasionally aggressive. Why bother holding grudges against her?" Adrian patiently explained.
"Really?" Scarlett showed far more surprise than Kirsten, partly because she was younger and partly because the hardships she’d faced were sowhat less severe in comparison.
"Yes." Adrian nodded seriously, then proceeded to describe Kirsten’s family background, with a bit of artistic embellishnt, of course.
"No wonder," Scarlett sighed after listening, seemingly no longer holding a grudge against Kirsten. But then she narrowed her eyes at Adrian, "So you took advantage of her vulnerability to play with her?"
Being intimate with Adrian, winning Best Supporting Actress at a young age, playing Spider-Man’s girlfriend—if anyone claid that she hadn’t slept with him, nobody would believe it. Of course, Scarlett was quite open-minded about it; otherwise, she wouldn’t have willingly gotten into bed with Adrian.
"Hey, Scarlett, that’s not a nice word," Adrian quickly said with a smile, gesturing with his hand to stop her. By saying that, aren’t you implicating yourself too?
Scarlett realized this and blushed slightly, coughing awkwardly before composing herself, "Still, I don’t like her."
"Okay, okay, just avoid her in the future then. Even if you do see her, you don’t have to talk or interact with her. Just ignore her," Adrian said, sowhat amused.
The two of them were really quite a pair, even their words were similar, but getting them together was virtually impossible. Their personalities were sowhat alike but also very different. They had quarreled tonight and both said they disliked each other; that was enough for now. But never mind, he already had plans in his mind, and everything that should happen would happen.
Seeing the smile beginning to form on Scarlett’s face, he felt it was about ti. She was relatively easier to appease, which is why Adrian had approached Kirsten first.
Just then, a familiar voice called out, "Hey, Ed?" (To be continued. If you like this work, you are welco to vote for it with recomndation tickets and monthly tickets at qidian. Your support is my greatest motivation.)
Reviews
All reviews (0)