Avalon, one of Los Angeles' most famous nightclubs, boasts a long history and remains at the cutting edge of fashion. Especially in Hollywood, this club is a favorite hangout for many actors and singers.
A Lamborghini Murciélago slowly approached the club, immediately attracting attention. A long line of people eager to enter the famous club had already formed at the entrance, including many tourists from different parts of the world.
The car stopped at the curb, and Eric stepped out. He casually tossed the keys to the valet, and the security guards at the entrance didn't even think of stopping him, instantly letting him inside.
"Why doesn't he have to wait in line?" a disgruntled voice came from the crowd, but the guards didn't bother to explain. Someone else answered for them: "If you arrived in a Lamborghini, you'd get in without waiting too!"
Laughter and cheerful comments followed.
Inside the club, rock music filled the space, though it was not heavy metal, but more relaxed melodies. On the dance floor, many men and women swirled, enjoying the rhythm.
Noticing Eric, a waiter immediately approached him and, after exchanging a few words, led him to the VIP area.
"Eric Cooper, you finally made it! I was beginning to think you'd let us down!" Warren stood up to greet Eric, while Ryan Reynolds poured him half a glass of wine.
Eric took a small sip and said, "Didn't want to be late, but your call caught me while I was reading a script. Had to finish it."
Hearing the word "script," Ryan's ears perked up like a radar detecting a UFO: "What script?"
"It's for a TV series about zombies. Not for you, Ryan. Your face is better suited for the big screen. Small screen isn't for you."
Upon learning it was for a TV series, Ryan immediately lost interest. He had already gone through the TV route and didn't want to go back. For him, it would be a step backward, unless he could become a leading film actor.
In the entertainment industry, there is a harsh but common belief that film is always above television. No one knows exactly where this opinion originated, and no one dares to openly support it, but it is a widely accepted truth.
The difference between a top-tier film actor and a top-tier television actor is like two different worlds. It's not just a generational gap; it's a class distinction.
Therefore, while film actors can transition to TV series, it is extremely difficult for TV actors to break into film.
As of 2002, George Clooney remained the only actor who had successfully transitioned from the television circle to film at the highest level. Many TV stars had tried to overcome this barrier but failed, like moths to a flame.
For instance, in Eric's favorite show "Friends," the six main actors became top-tier television stars, and Jennifer Aniston, thanks to her role as Rachel, became the symbol of the American sweetheart. However, despite such popularity, breaking into film was not easy for her.
For example, she auditioned for the role of Clarice Starling in the film "Hannibal" after Jodie Foster declined to participate. Despite all her efforts and even personal connections, the role went to Julianne Moore.
Warren raised his glass and clinked it with Eric's: "Zombie-themed, is that 'The Walking Dead'?"
"Yes, the project has been in development for a long time. Today I saw the first draft of the script, but there's still a lot to work on; it lacks depth."
"It's just a series, why so much fuss?"
"It's the first series for the new MGM, and I'm responsible for it. Everything needs to be top-notch. Survival is the main theme of 'The Walking Dead.'"
Warren shrugged: "You're the boss, it's your call. But tonight, I invited you for Ryan's sake."
Eric looked at Ryan Reynolds, who scratched his head awkwardly: "Sorry, Eric. You recommended me for the lead role in 'Saw,' but I messed up. I blew such a big opportunity, I'm sorry!"
Warren poured Eric some more wine: "It's not Ryan's fault. His audition was excellent, but somehow this rookie director James Wan found another actor and replaced Ryan."
"Eric, I know you have high hopes for this film. Such projects shouldn't be assigned based on one person's whims. I think the director might have been driven by personal preferences. Why not give your guy a chance? Ryan worked really hard, even in 'Sharknado,' he gave it his all."
Warren fell silent, but Eric already understood that they were asking him to put pressure on James Wan.
With a slight smile, Eric put his hands on Warren's and Ryan's shoulders: "Guys, I understand, but there's something you don't know. Patrick Wilson was also my suggestion."
An awkward silence immediately ensued. Ryan looked like he wanted to sink into the ground.
"Ryan, I recommended both of you, so I'm confident that James Wan was fair. Maybe Patrick just fit better."
Ryan fell silent, holding his head in his hands, realizing he couldn't argue with the boss. Seeing his dejected state, Eric felt sorry for him. He remembered inviting Ryan to the set of "Sharknado," and despite the project's quality, Ryan gave it his all. It was unfair to leave him without compensation.
After thinking for a moment, Eric said: "I have a major project starting soon. There's a supporting role for you. How about it?"
Ryan looked somewhat bewildered: "A major project?"
"Yes, a Class-A project, with a budget of no less than $150 million. Interested?"
Hearing the figure, Ryan was speechless. In his 12-year career, he had participated in films with budgets not exceeding $12 million. Such a scale was beyond his wildest dreams.
"What, you don't want a supporting role? Are you aiming for the lead right away?"
"Ryan, say something, quickly!"
Warren nudged Ryan, and he finally came to his senses, hurriedly nodding: "Of course, I want it! Anything, just give me that role."
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