Lucas pondered deeply, then turned to Neil with a thoughtful look. "Listen, Neil, I'm not against starring in blockbuster films, especially as the main character. But diving into superhero movies... I'm just not sure. It feels like it might be too soon for me," he expressed, pausing to take a sip of his coffee.
He set down his cup and added, "Plus, there's the risk of being pigeonholed. If I take on a superhero role too early in my career, I might end up typecast. I could be known only for that character, not for my own name or for the range of my acting. In other words, I could be boxing myself in if I jump into this superhero role right now."
Despite the allure and his own fondness for the Spider-Man character from his previous life, Lucas was wary. Becoming known merely as 'the superhero guy' wasn't appealing, especially when he was still striving to establish himself in the industry under his own name, Lucas Knight.
Neil sighed, understanding Lucas's hesitation. "I get it," he said, giving Lucas a moment to process. "Plus, this big project isn't kicking off anytime soon. It might be several months, even a year, before production actually starts."
Lucas gave a smile, seeing Neil's understanding. "I'm all for being part of a major, big-budget film, just not superhero flicks yet. It feels premature. I aim to be like Peter Parker, but I don't want to box myself in," he said with a light chuckle. "And if I ever do join one, I'd want a say in the creative direction. I'm not keen on just following along, especially if I feel the project isn't heading in a direction that I or the audience will appreciate."
Neil laughed at that, "Haha, I doubt they'd let you wield that kind of creative control."
Lucas smiled, nodding. "Exactly. They won't just hand over significant creative influence to someone relatively new to Hollywood. That's why I think it's too early for me."
Neil gave a slight shake of his head, a touch of pity in his voice as he moved past the topic of Spider-Man. "Look, besides Spider-Man," he started, his tone softening, "there are a couple of commercial projects on the table for you. I've pulled some strings, talked about what you could bring to the table, and got two big offers." Neil had half-expected Lucas to pass on Spider-Man, so he came prepared, securing opportunities from his industry contacts.
"Really? I'm all ears," Lucas responded with an intrigued smile.
Neil reached into his bag, pulling out two scripts. "Here we go: One's a role in 'Fast and Furious Five' from Universal Studios, and the other is for 'The Hunger Games' by Lionsgate Entertainment," he explained, spreading the script sheets on the table for Lucas to see.
Lucas was genuinely taken aback, his astonishment evident as he closely examined the scripts Neil had laid before him. The realization of Neil's significant industry connections, capable of securing such prominent projects, left him in awe.
Neil, understanding the gravity of each project, shared his insights, "The Fast and Furious series has a huge following, making it a solid choice for building your career, especially after 'Inception.' It's well-established and action-packed." He paused, weighing his words, "On the other hand, 'The Hunger Games' is an upcoming adaptation. Such projects are risky; they can either soar or flop, regardless of the source material's success. Personally, I lean towards 'Fast and Furious Five' for you, Lucas."
Neil observed Lucas, who was deeply considering his options, holding the scripts. "But it's your decision," he said, giving Lucas space to think. "I'm just sharing my perspective."
Despite his words, Neil was leaning towards "Fast and Furious Five." He felt "The Hunger Games" carried risks, particularly the pitfalls of adapting a novel, which might not translate well to film and could impact Lucas negatively.
Hearing Neil's concerns, Lucas understood where he was coming from. But Lucas had the advantage of knowing future outcomes from his previous life, making his decision clearer - he was leaning towards "The Hunger Games."
He knew this wouldn't just be another failed adaptation. Plus, Lucas anticipated reconnecting with an old acquaintance there, Jennifer Lawrence, who, from his previous life, played a pivotal role in the series.
Lucas, reflecting on the offer for the role of Peeta Mellark in "The Hunger Games," felt a mismatch. Despite having the blond hair and blue eyes matching the character, Lucas's taller stature made him feel more aligned with the character of Gale. "They're considering me for Peeta even though I don't fit the exact physical traits from the book? I think the Gale character suits me more," he mused, contemplating the script in his hands.
Neil responded pragmatically, "In big productions like this, minor differences in appearance aren't a deal-breaker. Plus, they believe your look could actually enhance the romantic aspect of the movie. And as we both know, romance sells well at the box office."
Lucas couldn't help but chuckle. He knew that to be true. And even though "The Hunger Games" wasn't primarily a romance, the element was there, woven subtly into its narrative.
Neil looked directly at Lucas, curiosity evident in his gaze. "So, what's your decision?" he inquired.
Lucas, with a sense of determination, replied, "I'm going for 'The Hunger Games.'"
Neil, taken aback by the unexpected choice, couldn't hide his surprise. "Really? It's quite a risk," he said, outlining the risks involved with such a project.
Lucas nodded firmly, "I've made up my mind. I want to be part of it."
Seeing Lucas's conviction, Neil couldn't help but smile. "Alright then," he said warmly. "The auditions start in November. We'll prepare you for it."
Neil was hesitant about Lucas joining "The Hunger Games" because it was an adaptation of a popular novel. He worried that if the film didn't meet fans' expectations or diverged significantly from the book, it could negatively impact Lucas's career.
Neil preferred a more established and less risky project like "Fast and Furious" for Lucas, considering it a safer choice for his career trajectory at this stage.