[Chapter 108: The Appointnt of Superstars]
Beverly Hills, Hilton Hotel.
In a small conference room, Hawke turned on the television, playing the recorded press conference from Private film company so that Josh Hartnett and Allison Faith could watch it again.
The press conference held yesterday in the San Fernando Valley had dozens of dia outlets in attendance, and Los Angeles Channel 9 even aired it live.
Justin Blatt represented Private film company and announced that they had legally acquired the video featuring Josh Hartnett and Allison Faith. The video, lasting 42 minutes, would be released unedited on both VHS and DVD as soon as possible.
Posters were placed at the event, showcasing intimate images of the couple, their faces deliberately blurred. However, anyone who had seen the photos online in recent days could easily identify them.
After the press conference ended, the Private film company released six brand new video stills on their official website for promotional purposes. The images, particularly explicit, resembled those from the Valley films.
anwhile, Brian, Julius, and Fergie walked in.
Brian joined Hawke and said, "After the Private website released the promotional photos, it got overloaded and had to be taken down. The influx of users crashed the server three tis in just eight hours after midnight last night."
He sighed, "Is it really that appealing?"
Hawke fired back, "You doubt your own work?"
Brian clarified, "It's about the public's invasive curiosity. Arica has truly fallen."
Hawke replied, "It has always been this way. Consider it from another angle: if you were unaware of this story and stumbled upon juicy news about a Hollywood blockbuster male lead and a forr pop star, wouldn't you be intrigued?"
Brian's answer was straightforward: "I wouldn't rest until I saw the video! If anyone tries to stop it, I'd hold a grudge for life."
Hawke shifted topics, "Your script was impressive. It's hard to believe a man can write sothing that gives voice to won so well."
"Because you provided with a complete perspective," Brian rubbed his forehead, "Buddy, you should really get involved in social activism, seriously. That bunch in the Blue (Democrats) party should pay big bucks to recruit you."
The video concluded.
Hawke turned off the television, saying, "We have an hour until the press conference begins. Let's hold our eting now."
Will and Scott pulled chairs over and sat down on either side of the conference table.
Hawke looked at Fergie and asked, "What's the dia situation?"
Fergie glanced at her stats, reporting, "Sixty-seven dia outlets have confird their attendance at our press conference, including Fox 11 Channel, which will broadcast it live."
Hawke continued, "What about our online representatives?"
"Over fifty entertainnt bloggers are confird," Julius answered. "The actual number may be even higher; this is making too big of a splash online."
She seed to have a newfound perspective on the internet: "For the first ti, I feel like the whole web is filled with perverts."
Brian joked, "Hawke has awakened the souls of these guys all across Arica."
Hawke disregarded his comnt and turned to Josh and Allison: "Since yesterday afternoon, I've been training you both on how to speak at the press conference. You've morized your lines, so I won't repeat that. Now, I must emphasize one crucial point!" 𝖗äＮòBЕŜ
Josh was willing to do anything; his expression was particularly serious and solemn.
Allison may have been flirtatious and bold, but she knew that if she wanted to truly captivate Arica, she better listen to Hawke.
Hawke intensified his tone, saying, "At today's press conference and in any future interviews, no matter who you're speaking to, don't apologize or give in to any feelings of guilt -- there's nothing wrong with what you did."
He needed to build their confidence: "What's wrong with two people in love making intimate videos without coercion? If your computer breaks down, is it abnormal to get it fixed? The wrongness lies not with you but with those prying into your lives and profiting from it!"
"Great point! Well said!" Brian cheered, thinking to himself that if he hadn't directed the filming, he might've actually believed Hawke.
But those words worked on Josh and Allison, who both felt a surge of confidence.
Hawke addressed Josh, "You are a man, an adult; you must step up and take responsibility for this matter. Rember that you're responsible for the video itself; if you hadn't insisted, Allison wouldn't have fild it at all. As the process unfolds, be willing to bear that burden and act like a man. Protect the woman!"
Josh replied, "I'm ready."
Hawke turned to Allison, "Rember your stance. You must face this bravely and showcase won's courage and freedom. Your body is your own, and won, like n, are central to this world!"
Allison pulled out her script again to review it.
...
With the press conference about to begin, Hawke checked the news room one more ti before allowing the dia into the hall.
Fox 11's crew was setting up their broadcasting equipnt, and gan Taylor was also present.
She approached Hawke, pointing to the podium, "I have a suggestion; remove the tables and chairs on both sides. Just keep two sets and no background decorations. A simple black curtain would create an image of two fighters, alone yet unwavering, for those watching from ho."
Her initial seriousness gave way to cody, "This way, the audience will find the video even more intriguing. It will look even more impactful."
When it ca to producing atmospheres on TV, Hawke knew he couldn't match a veteran like gan. He imdiately called for Fergie and instructed her to make the necessary adjustnts.
gan suddenly thought of a question and quietly asked, "Have you ever fild us without permission?"
"Absolutely not! Do I seem like that kind of person?" Hawke glanced at gan, adding, "But if you want to shoot sothing, I wouldn't mind."
gan ignored his remark.
Hawke shifted back to the main topic, "Have we contacted the feminist organizations?"
"Of course," gan replied briefly. "While I'm not participating, I've collaborated with them in the past. Rember when that LAPD female officer shot Robert Downey Jr.? I worked with the Parker Center to organize the Feminist Majority Foundation to offer support."
Hawke nodded, "So the Feminist Majority Foundation is willing to help?"
gan smiled, "Once the heat reaches this level, how could they refuse?"
Hawke encouragingly advised Josh Hartnett to take charge, aligning with the organizations' expectations of n.
...
Half an hour later, over a hundred dia reporters and entertainnt bloggers started to fill the venue.
Hawke headed to the backstage lounge and checked on his two clients: Josh was in a black suit, and Allison was sporting a white T-shirt that read "Freedom."
All the outfits were carefully chosen by Hawke; it was part of the PR strategy.
Josh's black suit, paired with his tall and sturdy figure, made him appear strong and reliable.
As for Allison, the goal for her today was to highlight female freedom.
The press conference didn't allow for any questions from the floor.
Thus, by the ti the press conference began, ninety percent of the work had already been completed.
Only Josh and Allison sat on stage at the start of the press conference.
Josh spoke up first, imdiately placing the responsibility for the video on himself: "The video was my personal decision, and I insisted on filming it. We made it for ourselves and not for any film. Allison and I did nothing wrong, but the Private film company's intention to release it without our consent is a criminal act."
His deanor was exceptionally serious: "We will take all necessary legal steps to defend our rights. I will fight them to the end!"
Allison instinctively took her cue from their rehearsal and continued, "This is not a scandal between Josh and ; this is a blatant cri! Over the past few days, many have been engaging in sexual exploitation and violation, fixated solely on making money while disregarding a woman's legal rights."
Her newfound skills in rhetoric ca pouring out with conviction: "It's already the 21st century; I cannot believe that in a free and democratic civilization like Arica, such violations of won's rights still occur. I find it hard to swallow that they could be so selfish and indifferent to a reasonable request from a woman. It's hard to accept that I live in such a world."
n didn't need to ander in lengthy speeches; they rely needed to project strength, responsibility, and reliability. Too much elaboration would only make them sound like gossips.
Won, however, were different.
Allison continued, "In the past few days, I've kept an eye on the online discussions; many have mocked , calling shaless, just because I used to be a public figure, a singer. But this wasn't a choice I made; I am a victim! Besides, I'm of legal age; I have the freedom to love and be loved -- My body, my choice!"
"Many want to see cry, but I will never shed a tear because I am not the criminal! It is those who exploit my photos or videos for profit -- sha on you!"
"Won, like n, are essential to this world. A woman's love is love, and a woman's desire is also freedom. Without a woman's love, there would be no humanity!"
As Allison's voice trailed off, the press room fell silent.
gan Taylor was the first to break the stillness, applauding, followed by nurous reporters and bloggers clapping for Allison.
In California, the dia landscape was highly left-leaning, with a significant number of dia professionals holding such views.
The script that Brian wrote, inspired by Hawke's ideas, resonated with many on a personal level.
In the press room, nearly all the female reporters and bloggers applauded for Allison, and even so male reporters joined in.
The accusations and speeches were key to shaping their public personas and self-promotion.
Josh Hartnett would handle the video promotion.
This actor delivered a grand finale announcent: "We will be taking legal action. Please refrain from viewing or purchasing any related videos or photos; that is criminal behavior!"
Everything else could be debated, but in these matters, the louder the shout, the stricter the consequences. Those Stans were even more enthusiastic.
Anyone who tried to hinder the video's release was seen as an enemy to these guys, including those involved.
The press conference concluded successfully.
...
Hawke found Joanna: "You need to personally go to the Los Angeles Feminist Majority Foundation and formally request dia assistance for Allison's plight."
"Sure," Joanna asked, "Are we not requesting legal aid?"
Hawke pointed to Brian: "He will handle the legal matters. If the FMF gets involved in the legal aspects, it could lead to chaos."
He reminded her, "Joanna, our goal is to make Allison and Josh hot topics, not engage in mindless, radical feminism -- their support doesn't co with funds."
Joanna responded, "I'm on it."
Hawke instructed Fergie nearby, "Notify the dia to cover Joanna as she heads to the FMF."
Fergie hurriedly made the phone call.
Hawke called Josh and Will over: "Tomorrow, you two, alongside Brian, must go to the local court and approach the Private film to request a restraining order. Don't worry; Brian has handled so groundwork; the restraining order likely won't pass, but we need to show our stance. Josh also needs to maintain visibility and build an uncompromising persona before the video is released."
Will nodded in understanding: "Got it."
Allison walked over, asking, "What about ? Am I not going with Josh?"
"Legal matters are Brian and Josh's responsibility; won's organizations will be handled by your mother," Hawke had already outlined the plan. "And you, Allison, your next task is to return and shoot the music video (MV). It must be completed before the Private films' DVD and VHS release."
Before the DVD and VHS hit the market, Hawke had further plans for the duo on Midnight Entertainnt.
As for other talk shows, Will and Scott were already contacting those as well.
Given North Arican dia's penchant for sensationalism, as long as both gained significant attention, countless programs would invite them regardless of the scandal's origins.
Hawke sought out Roger, the owner of West Voice Records, saying, "According to our plan, Allison shouldn't just embody a sexy image; she also represents bold, free, and avant-garde ideals in pop music. Her performances and outfits must be unique and innovative!"
Roger had beco accustod to following Hawke's directives: "The MV must fit her style?"
"The dance design should be bolder," Hawke responded. "Outfits need to be even more avant-garde."
He grabbed a piece of paper and drew a cal toe. "Have you ever seen sothing like this?"
Roger laughed, "Isn't this what happens when soone particularly well-endowed wears tight clothing?"
Hawke replied, "Tailor the outfit, and if it doesn't fit, get silicone padding for it. We'll test it during tomorrow's MV shoot."
"Bold, avant-garde, unique..." Roger burst out laughing, "Hawke, you have quite an imagination!"
Hawke calmly stated, "I've earned every dollar I've ever gotten."
Roger acknowledged, "Your capabilities are worth every penny."
As the dia reporters left, everyone gradually filed out of the venue.
Hawke called Justin Blatt from the Private film company, ensuring their continued collaboration.
Soon after, Joanna called with news: the Feminist Majority Foundation agreed to support Allison.
Just as Hawke had expected, these individuals were like sharks sensing blood; any hint of opportunity would have them jumping in to stir things up.
...
The following day, several left-wing newspapers ramped up their coverage, showering praise on Allison, calling her a representative of the new era of won.
"My body, my choice!"
This declaration made headlines across various won's publications.
Allison began to beco a symbol.
Josh Hartnett also earned a good deal of praise.
The won's organizations desired a man like him to step up and take the heat.
The struggles, burdens, and responsibilities were his to bear while she enjoyed the ride.
Promoting Josh Hartnett aligned with their interests as well.
After all, these organizations weren't after equality; they sought privilege.
As for Josh Hartnett's previous allegations of racism against Black individuals, the dia had completely forgotten to bring it up.
The buzz surrounding the video news far eclipsed those concerns.
On the internet, at Hawke's suggestion, Fergie used the term "SelfieGate," making Josh and Allison the spokespersons for the SelfieGate and tape scandal.
After the promotional wave from the press conference, both of their online prominence surpassed the hottest movie of August, Signs, which brought together M. Night Shyamalan and l Gibson.
Many people flooded the Private website with comnts, urging the private film company to expedite the release of the SelfieGate DVD and VHS tape.
The Private film company responded to the press conference by releasing a 45-second teaser.
They also announced the title of the DVD and VHS.
Allison Faith and Josh Hartnett: The Appointnt of Superstars.
Many ca flocking in, and the Private website's servers crashed once more.
anwhile, Brian took Josh through legal procedures, while Edward snapped photos occasionally for promotional use.
With continuous operations and excitent, the heat surrounding SelfieGate now surpassed what Hawke rembered about Paris and the Kardashian tape.
...
Malibu, beach villa district.
The MV production team was set up, and the backup dancers were gathering on the grass.
Roger was present, personally discussing the MV style with the director, ensuring the shoot was trendier and bolder.
The investnt side was willing to pay, so the director would comply with their demands.
Soon enough, Allison erged from the dressing room wearing tight shorts, instantly capturing everyone's attention in her fresh look.
It was a pri example of avant-garde fashion.
Especially for an MV featuring upbeat songs and sultry dances, her movents beca even more bold.
The director, mindful of Roger's instructions, angled the cara cleverly, allowing won's beauty to shine through completely.
On the steps in front of the villa, Hawke sat under the sunshade, enjoying the dance.
Next to him, Joanna was nearly bursting with joy, telling Hawke, "Once Allison's MV releases, I'll pay the remaining half of her fee imdiately."
At this point, half of Allison's fee had already been paid.
Hawke is quite responsible for doing things for money, insisting, "Maintain this style and continue collaborating with the FMF. I can't guarantee forever, but it won't be hard for Allison to stay popular for 3 to 5 years, even without standout projects."
Joanna added, "As long as Allison can gain fa, the subsequent resources will improve. The West Voice Records company may likely be acquired by Bad Boy Records. P. Diddy loves promoting black artists..."
Hawke seed to have heard that na before, "P. Diddy?"
"He's Sean Combs, a rapper, and owns Bad Boy Records," Joanna summarized. "Sean has launched several successful black artists, and Scott spoke with him on the phone last night; he said he admires Allison."
These details fell outside Hawke's purview, yet he rely nodded: "Good luck with that."
*****
/Sayonara816.
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