The phone lines at the police station were ringing incessantly, each call bringing the tally of victims to a staggering 90. The tension in the room was palpable as officers scrambled to keep up. The atmosphere was thick with dread, and it seemed inevitable that the count would soon exceed 100.
As Thomas and Martin made their way to Warner Studios, Thomas decided to update Martin on the latest developments. He leaned in and spoke in hushed tones, "You know, Thomas, the numbers we're hearing don't even include Gwyneth. Famous actresses like Nicole Kidman and others haven't reported to the police."
Martin nodded solemnly, "They won't call the police. They won't admit Harvey attacked them. They'll just say they were harassed."
Bruce interjected, his face twisted in disgust, "It's hard to believe these strong women had any relationship with such a repugnant man. They probably don't even want to think about it."
Thomas refocused the conversation, "With the Academy's statement, Harvey's career is officially dead in the industry."
Martin's determination shone through as he responded, "That's not enough. He needs to be sent to prison, locked away for at least ten years!"
Thomas raised an eyebrow, "Why not twenty?"
Martin considered, "Twenty years might be a death sentence for him. Let's leave him with a glimmer of hope, so he doesn't become a liability."
As the conversation continued, the mention of a billionaire's apparent suicide linked to Harvey caught their attention. It was clear that none of them wanted to be entangled in this mess.
Thomas sympathized, "I've been disconnected from society for ten years. Rejoining it now could ruin me."
Bruce added, "Georgina Chapman divorced him and took half his fortune. There are civil lawsuits and even a betrayal by his own brother. When he's out, he'll be just an ordinary man."
Martin concluded, "Once Harvey's sentenced, find someone to send him a 'gift'."
Thomas was surprised, "You want to give him a gift?"
Martin grinned darkly, "Can't go wrong with some 'special' soap."
Bruce chimed in with a smirk, "Soap with a touch of menthol essence, perhaps?"
Martin nodded, "Go to Chinatown, have it customized. Money's no issue. Double the menthol, just to be sure."
Changing the subject, Thomas mentioned, "Brad Pitt and Affleck are going to trial soon."
Martin nodded and turned to Bruce, "When's Mene returning?"
Bruce had more information, "Mene and Isabelle Huppert finished filming and are vacationing in the Caribbean. Menet should be back in December. Huppert's planning to stay in LA for the Oscars season."
Martin decided, "Elizabeth will return in a few days. We'll throw a welcome party for Huppert, considering Mene's bringing her along."
Arriving at Warner Studios, Thomas headed to the Warner Tower while Martin and Bruce entered the set of "Gone Girl." The studio was a hive of activity as David Fincher's meticulous project progressed through its final casting stages.
In the front hall, Martin was greeted by Léa Seydoux, who flashed a smile revealing her charming, bunny-like teeth. She couldn't contain her excitement as she shared, "I just received word from the crew. I landed a major role!"
As Martin and Léa Seydoux stood in the bustling front hall of the studio, anticipation hung in the air. The studio was a hive of activity, with people coming and going, their eyes curiously glancing at the duo. Léa's success in landing the role of Margot Dunn in the upcoming film was a significant milestone in her career.
Martin inquired, his interest piqued, "Which role, Léa?"
With a glint of excitement in her eyes, Léa replied, "Margot Dunn, Nick's sister."
Martin offered a warm smile and nodded approvingly, "Congratulations! This role carries a lot of weight. Opening the door to Hollywood can make things easier down the road."
Unbeknownst to most, Léa Seydoux's journey into Hollywood had begun in the shadow of Quentin Tarantino's "Shameless," where Harvey Weinstein had exploited her, ultimately reducing her to just a farmer's daughter among three daughters. The world of generosity was all about comparison, and in comparison to Harvey, Martin appeared exceedingly generous.
Léa Seydoux leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper, "Could we find a quiet place to chat tonight?"
Martin hesitated briefly, remembering his prior commitment to Charlize for a drink that evening. He sighed and declined, "I'm afraid not tonight. I've got plans already. Let's catch up soon."
After a moment's thought, he added, "Wait for my call tomorrow."
As the pair conversed, the front hall remained a bustling hub of activity. Léa Seydoux had achieved her goal, securing Martin's attention and potentially avoiding troubles on set by associating herself with him.
While Léa waited, Martin headed towards the production room. Hollywood was known for its insularity, and connecting with Martin could prove advantageous for her career.
In the film room, the atmosphere was charged with creative energy as director David Fincher and the original author, Gillian Flynn, joined Martin. They engaged in a brief exchange before delving into the audition videos of potential heroines.
Martin had been preoccupied with Harvey's case and had missed the third round of auditions. Only four actresses had made it to this stage: Natalie Portman, Emily Blunt, Charlize Theron, and Scarlett Johansson.
The combined presence of Martin and David Fincher made the project highly appealing. After watching the auditions, Martin turned to Gillian Flynn, the author of the original work, "Who, in your opinion, embodies the enigmatic Amy from your book best?"
Gillian Flynn had observed the auditions closely and replied without hesitation, "Charlize Theron and Scarlett Johansson both did well, but Scarlett Johansson is a bit short for the role."
Martin then looked at David Fincher, who concurred, "Charlize Theron is the most suitable."
In agreement, Martin nodded and decisively stated, "Let's go with Charlize Theron."
With a unanimous decision, David Fincher called a production manager to inform Charlize's agent of the good news. The heroine's role had been cast, marking a significant milestone in the preparations for "Gone Girl."
Eager for progress, Martin inquired, "When will we officially begin filming?"
David Fincher responded, "I have to handle publicity for 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,' which is due for release soon. It won't be until at least February before we can start shooting."
Understanding the importance of the Oscars season to many in Hollywood, Martin replied, "That works for me."
David Fincher playfully teased, "Get ready to embrace the role of a scumbag."
Martin chuckled, "Too easy."
Exiting the film room, Martin and David Fincher crossed paths with Daniel, who had just emerged from the producer's office.
Daniel stopped Martin and initiated a conversation, "We need to talk."
Martin inquired, "Has the copyright issue for 'The Hobbit' been resolved?"
Daniel explained, "It's pretty much settled. Bob Weinstein is far more cooperative than Harvey. He accepted Warner's offer of $8 million and proactively put an end to this dispute."
Martin congratulated him, "Well done, Daniel. You've eliminated the biggest obstacle to the project."
Daniel reflected, "Dealing with Harvey was something else. Many issues are far simpler without him."
Martin's words took a different turn as he extended an invitation, "By the way, do you have some time? How about joining me on a trip to Warner? Barry Meyer expressed his desire to have a meaningful conversation with you this morning."
Martin didn't hesitate to accept, "Certainly, I have the time."
The two left the bustling studio and made their way to the impressive Warner Building.
On the top floor, Martin entered Barry Meyer's office, where the atmosphere was serious yet congenial. Their discussion naturally gravitated towards Harvey, a tacit acknowledgment of the pivotal role Martin had played in Harvey's downfall.
Barry Meyer couldn't help but marvel at the influence Martin had harnessed, far beyond what he had anticipated. He had assumed Martin would lean heavily on Warner, but Warner had barely flexed its muscles, and the tide of public opinion had already turned against Harvey. He had become isolated from everyone.
All Warner needed to do now was to deliver the final blow, ensuring that Harvey would never rise again.
Daniel interjected, "Warner has been revisiting its classic film library lately and is considering remaking some of them. I'll provide you with a list soon. If any pique your interest, we'll collaborate."
Martin, renowned for his astute film selection, welcomed the offer, "That sounds great. Once you've compiled the list, provide me with a brief plot synopsis."
Daniel agreed readily.
Before departing, Martin instructed Bruce to make a note of this opportunity and schedule a meeting with Daniel in the near future. Warner's film library held the potential for remakes, as demonstrated by the success of "I Am Legend," starring Will Smith, a remake from Warner's archives.
In an industry where originality dwindled, Martin acknowledged the value of revitalizing classics. Directors like Christopher Nolan, who championed originality, were becoming increasingly rare.
Returning to Beverly Hills, Martin received a call from Louise, who shared a tidbit of Warner-related gossip passed down from her father. It was a restricted piece of information that only circulated among a select few, owing to its connection with her collaboration with Warner.
Concerned, Martin asked, "What's the news? Warner isn't on the verge of bankruptcy, is it?"
Louise quickly clarified, "Someone within Time Warner is considering a reshuffling of Warner Bros.' management."
Martin immediately grasped the implication, "Barry Meyer and Alan Horn are stepping down?"
"It seems to involve a significant internal power struggle within a major corporation," Louise relayed the vague information her father had received, "We're opting to observe from the sidelines for now."
Understanding his limited influence over Warner's internal affairs, Martin concluded, "I'll follow your lead and monitor the situation."
Warner Bros. currently reigned supreme in Hollywood, boasting blockbuster franchises like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Harry Potter." However, leadership changes were a norm in the industry, and Warner Bros. would likely weather the transition smoothly.
Martin had initially planned to head straight to Charlize's residence but received calls from Jolie and Aniston, urging him to meet at their usual rendezvous.
These two women had been actively involved in the recent Harvey Gate scandal. Leveraging their status as opinion leaders, they had made frequent media appearances, significantly influencing the entertainment industry's direction.
Martin, a conscientious individual, couldn't easily forget his past relationships when involved in a new one.
He made his way to the hotel for their meeting, knowing he would have to attend alone.
As darkness descended, he left the hotel and hurried to Charlize's home, grappling with the complexities of his situation.
Who could truly understand the trials of a man's heart?