Returning to Los Angeles, Matthew's life didn't change much, except for the occasional harassment by paparazzi. However, the paparazzi didn't persist as there were far too many people in Los Angeles more newsworthy and entertaining than him. Most paparazzi would take a few photos and leave.
Since he was still practicing reading and writing, he would buy a pile of newspapers daily. Except for a few limited occasions, he seldom saw himself in the newspapers. In contrast, photos and posters of the Scorpion King appeared more frequently.
It seemed that the media had not yet fully linked the Scorpion King with him, a regular actor.
Matthew knew not to rush. It was the summer blockbuster season in North America, and entertainment news was bustling. After the promotion of "The Mummy Returns" had ended, related news cooled down, which was only natural.
Not to mention him and the Scorpion King, even the previously hotly debated incident of Brendan Fraser assaulting a fan seemed to have gradually subsided.
As for the spin-off movie of the Scorpion King, all he could do was wait.
He had done everything he could. Helen Herman had been in touch with Sean Daniel and Stephen Sommers, and news had come through that Universal Studios was officially moving the project into the review phase. To get the green light, they would have to wait a bit longer.
Helen Herman had specifically instructed him not to contact Sean Daniel, Stephen Sommers, or Universal Studios for the time being, and definitely not to make any promises. All negotiations should be handled by her to avoid unnecessary changes.
Matthew now saw clearly that actors should not appear in negotiations involving interests. It's best left to agents to avoid conflicts over interests and to leave room for maneuver.
If the agent and the producer or production company reach a deadlock, the actor can blame the agent. But if the negotiations fail face-to-face, it would be awkward.
This also complies with the "California Talent Agencies Act" and the regulations of the actors' union.
After improving his reading skills, he specifically read a lot of books and regulations related to Hollywood, such as the "California Talent Agencies Act." His understanding of the Hollywood circle is far beyond what it was over a year ago.
Hollywood is undoubtedly a game of fame and fortune, and like any game, it has certain rules, such as actors relying on agents to find work.
After more than two years of cooperation, Matthew also trusted Helen Herman's capabilities. Although Angel Talent Agency now managed many small actors, he was the one who received the most resources.
Moreover, he had learned that the costs involved in promoting him were far more than the mentioned two hundred thousand dollars. Angel Talent Agency had also invested a sum of money, which of course was not to help him. Helen Herman, being so astute, would not spend tens of thousands of dollars on him for nothing.
Matthew could guess Helen Herman's purpose: she had bigger plans for this project.
It must be said that this woman had grand ambitions, which could very likely succeed.
Of course, having an ambitious agent also met his needs. If he had an agent who only knew how to idle away, he would not have come this far so smoothly.
Matthew knew he was much luckier than most actors who came from ordinary backgrounds.
Recently, Matthew had some free time. He initially wanted to visit Britney in Nashville, but Britney's schedule changed again, as she had to shoot a music video for her new album. So, he had to continue staying in Los Angeles.
With plenty of time, he took the opportunity to do some self-reflection and future planning.
The summary was quite simple: now, he was almost out of money, had a little fame, and many flaws in his acting skills, still far from his initial goals.
Regarding future plans, the only certain thing about work was the spin-off movie of the Scorpion King. Since Universal Studios had moved it to the project review phase, the likelihood of it proceeding was very high.
He had to continue reading newspapers and books, as well as maintain his fitness training and boxing. Nigel Braithwaite had recommended a free-fighting coach, suggesting it could be helpful for improving physical ability and beneficial for future action movie shootings.
He also had to keep up with writing practice. He frequently updated his blog, not managing daily posts but two or three times a week, although the blog had limited followers.
Lastly, the most important was honing his acting skills. Since graduating from the acting class at the Los Angeles School of Performing Arts, he hadn't taken systematic acting lessons, mostly practicing various imitations.
Matthew seriously concluded that his acting skills were average. Handling roles in commercial entertainment movies or action-oriented characters wasn't too difficult, but he struggled with deep roles like Sergeant Hoot.
He was optimistic, seeing this as a good sign, indicating much room for improvement in his acting skills.
To improve his acting faster, Matthew specifically visited his former teacher at the Los Angeles School of Performing Arts, David Astor.
"It's hard to improve one's acting skills in a short period," said David Astor at a café in North Hollywood, sipping coffee and speaking to Matthew across the table. "I've never seen such a prodigy. Most actors I've seen progress step by step."
Matthew drank some tea (he still couldn't get used to coffee) and mentioned, "But many actors become famous with mediocre acting skills and even become superstars."
David Astor smiled, "Even such actors meet the basic requirements." He then shook his head, "But most actors lose their drive after becoming stars, their performances stagnate, and they play every role as themselves."
Matthew agreed, having seen such actors, like Vin Diesel, who seemed the same in every role, always portraying Vin Diesel.
"I don't want to be that kind of actor," Matthew said.
"You're a hard worker," David Astor commented, touching his bald head. "Now you're somewhat famous. Remember to stay true to your initial aspiration."
Matthew took this sincere advice to heart.
David Astor then hesitated but spoke out, "You're the most diligent actor I've taught, but strictly speaking, the path you're taking in acting isn't quite right. You're taking shortcuts, which might not lead you to true acting skill."
"I'm too eager for success," Matthew replied, not taking it too seriously and smiling.
David Astor reiterated, "Simple imitation has no future. It lacks soul. You can't rely on imitation forever."
Matthew nodded in understanding.
Seeing Matthew receptive to his advice, David Astor continued, "You've been acting in action movies recently, and your next role might also be in an action movie. Matthew, this genre focuses too much on physical appearance. Your looks are already good. If you become famous through such roles, you'll be despised by the academy and critics for a long time."
"That's... too far off," Matthew chuckled.
Indeed, getting noticed by the academy and film critics is something many stars struggle to achieve.
David Astor, an old-school actor, added, "The best path for young actors is to start in independent productions to hone their skills, win some awards, and then move on to commercial productions while still taking on art films. This way, they can balance commercial success and critical acclaim."
He then smiled, realizing he might be expecting too much from Matthew, who was far from reaching such a level.
Matthew knew this was the mainstream path for actors. If he didn't have opportunities, he might consider it, but there was no need to think about it now. Why give up a fantasy action lead role to dive into the messy independent film scene?
He had heard from Helen Herman that the independent film circle was even more chaotic than the commercial film industry.
"David," Matthew spoke honestly, "I can't give up my current opportunities."
"I understand," David Astor, who had spent most of his life in Hollywood without much success, knew this mentality well. "Just remember, don't forget your initial aspiration."
"Of course," Matthew nodded seriously again.
David Astor looked at his watch, "Matthew, at this stage, there's not much I can help you with anymore. If you need tapes, you're always welcome to ask me."
"I haven't finished studying the last batch you gave me," Matthew smiled, "I'll come to exchange them later. David, I'll continue to trouble you."
David Astor stood up, "You're always welcome."
He had an acting class to teach and was the first to leave the café. Matthew paid and left as well.
He respected David Astor, who helped him not for any benefit but because he appreciated his effort, offering help within his means without expecting anything in return.
Such people were rare in Hollywood, where most are like Matthew.
Looking at the bright sun, Matthew walked towards his car, a second-hand Ford. As he opened the door, he noticed someone across the street taking photos of him with a camera. After a closer look, guessing it might be a paparazzo, he casually waved. Surprisingly, the paparazzo waved back.
"Interesting guy."
He got into the car. When he looked again, the paparazzo had disappeared, probably leaving upon realizing Matthew wasn't that newsworthy.
Matthew started the car, heading to Burbank. At a red light, he pondered David Astor's words.
"Stay true to the initial aspiration? What was my initial reason for entering Hollywood?"
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