The woman's name was Patty Jenkins, she was 31 years old, and she held the position of assistant director. Perhaps her name is not well known, but her works are definitely familiar. Her film "Monster" brought Charlize Theron an Oscar for Best Actress. She was also the director of "Wonder Woman," in which Gal Gadot would later star.
Recently, Patty Jenkins was looking for investors for her script "Monster" when she was noticed by Judy. It must be said, Judy was a real expert in scripts. First, she suggested "Saw," and now "Monster."
Eric immediately made a decision, promising to invest in the film and let Jenkins direct it, provided she became the assistant director for "Transformers." Patty quickly agreed, as exchanging six months of work for several million dollars in investments in her project was a beneficial offer!
The man's name was Neill Blomkamp, he was 23 years old, and he worked as an assistant director. His well-known works include "District 9" and "Chappie." His abilities were not yet on par with Patty Jenkins, but he was perfect for the assistant director position.
Checking the time, Eric said, "Let's begin."
Soon, a guy with a sunny appearance walked in. He confidently greeted everyone, not showing a hint of nervousness. Although he was only 23, he had been in the industry for 10 years and had seen similar scenes many times.
At first glance, Joseph Gordon-Levitt looked suitable for the role, and his appearance matched the image of a seventeen-year-old student. Patty Jenkins and the others marked a check next to his name on their forms.
Wasting no time, Eric got straight to the point: "Joseph, have you read the script? How do you envision the character Sam?"
This question was almost inevitable, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt was prepared for it. Without hesitation, he replied:
"I believe that Sam initially appears a bit of a nerd, an ordinary schoolboy who doesn't stand out among his peers and doesn't have a girlfriend. No one believes in his grandfather's stories, so in my opinion, he craves recognition deep down."
"But at the same time, he is very brave and ready to stand up and defend when it matters most. Deep inside, he harbors courage and valor."
"When Bumblebee is captured, he worries about his friend, which speaks to his loyalty to friendship."
Joseph Gordon-Levitt's answer was satisfactory. Eric continued to ask questions: "If you were to play Sam, how would you portray him?"
"I would rely on my understanding of the character and follow the director's instructions to match the film's style. This character is interesting but not complex, and I am confident I can handle it."
"Great, you seem confident, and I like confident actors; it shows self-belief. Let's proceed with the scene. Neill, you'll assist."
The scene Eric chose for the audition depicted the moment when Sam, with the help of the Autobots, threatened Sector 7 agents, demanding they release their comrades. Eric specifically chose this scene because everyday school scenes wouldn't be challenging for Joseph. Here, he needed to show Sam's boldness and thirst for revenge.
A few minutes after the scene concluded, Eric and Patty Jenkins exchanged glances and then calmly looked at Joseph.
Inside, Joseph Gordon-Levitt felt a pang. He knew that such scenes were his weak point, and perhaps Heath Ledger would have done better. However, years of acting experience gave him confidence.
Soon, Eric asked another important question: "Joseph, you're currently studying at Columbia University, right?"
"Yes, I'm a sophomore."
"Then here's the question: filming 'Transformers' will take a lot of time, and I can't allow actors to miss shoot days. Can you take a three-month break from your studies?"
This question was difficult and crucial. It's worth considering that Joseph Gordon-Levitt was not studying acting but French poetry, history, and literature. Missing his studies could mean academic problems, not to mention getting permission from the university.
...
The door to the audition room opened, and all eyes turned to Joseph Gordon-Levitt, trying to read the result from his face, but he remained impassive. His friend Heath Ledger, with whom he had worked on the film "10 Things I Hate About You," approached and patted him on the shoulder: "How did it go, brother?"
They stepped aside, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt finally spoke: "Heath, I think I messed it up. Good luck to you; this audition was really tough."
"Really tough?"
"Not necessarily tough, but they will put you through the wringer!"
"Who exactly?"
"That MGM vice president, Eric Cooper."
"Eric Cooper? He must be the producer. Who's the director?"
"I don't know, there were only a few people in the room, but I didn't see the director."
Heath Ledger looked puzzled at the casting room, suddenly recalling that the director's name for "Transformers" hadn't been officially announced yet.
Usually, such things are decided in advance. First, the script is chosen, then the director, and only after that the actors. After all, choosing actors is the director's task, and if the director doesn't like the actors, how can you expect good results?
"Anyway, good luck, brother!"
In the casting room, after Joseph Gordon-Levitt left, Patty Jenkins looked at Eric.
"Eric, you were very aggressive today. What's wrong?"
Eric answered with a question: "Really?"
Another jury member, a man in his forties, chimed in: "It was quite obvious. Among the younger generation in Hollywood, Joseph is one of the best."
"It seems you specifically chose this scene for his audition, although this scene is just a small episode in the film. Didn't you like him?"
Eric took a sip of water and said, "No, I liked everyone. Those who made it to this stage are the best; they just have different strengths."
"Joseph is an excellent actor, but in my opinion, his temperament doesn't fit 'Transformers.'"
"Didn't you notice? He has this intellectual aura. Right now, he is better suited for school or urban romance films. If he develops in that direction, he has a brilliant future."
"'Transformers' requires a cheerful guy, and their temperaments don't match."
Everyone agreed with Eric's explanation.
Some people are just born with a certain aristocratic trait, and when you see them, the first impression is melancholy. Such actors are perfect for corresponding roles.
"Eric, did you really study finance before?"
"Why do you ask, Pierce?"
Pierce Sr. smiled: "I've been in this industry for decades and have seen thousands of actors at auditions. But if I had to analyze what path an actor should choose, I wouldn't dare make such a conclusion. I think few would dare."
"Even Joseph Gordon-Levitt, despite his years in the profession, probably hasn't yet determined his direction."
"But you immediately saw his prospects. Your words would be worth saying directly to Joseph."
"Eric, this is a very rare ability, usually inherent only to the best directors and producers."
Realizing he was being praised, Eric continued in the same vein: "Do you think I have the potential to become a great director?"
"Hahaha, why not? 'Transformers' is a great project; maybe you should give it a try."
"Interesting suggestion! You said it yourself!"
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