From any perspective, *Murder by Numbers* was far from a success, and Richard Crystal's career as a producer officially came to an end.
This was a mainstream film produced by Warner Bros., with a $50 million investment, and widely released in North America. Naturally, the film studio expected it to turn a profit.
However, the film only grossed $56 million at the box office. After deducting distribution and marketing costs, the studio, distribution company, and theaters took their share of the profits. In the end, Warner Bros. lost nearly $30 million.
While a $30 million loss might be insignificant for a company the size of Warner Bros., it's important to note that Richard Crystal had previously worked on independent films and television series. His first attempt at producing a mainstream movie ended in such a disastrous failure that his future in Hollywood was effectively cut short.
But for the audience, *Murder by Numbers* left a different impression. The three actors—Sandra Bullock, Ryan Gosling, and Michael Pitt—were gems.
Now, back to the present.
Richard Crystal, Sandra Bullock, Ryan Gosling—these names all come together, pointing towards the project *Murder by Numbers*.
Does this mean Brad Renfro has stumbled upon a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?
Looking at the timeline, *Murder by Numbers* was likely chosen by Sandra Bullock before the box office success of *Miss Congeniality*, reflecting her ambition to make a career shift. The success of *Miss Congeniality* delayed that transition, but *Murder by Numbers* remained a possibility, showcasing another side of Sandra.
After *Murder by Numbers*, Sandra continued to progress steadily, from *Crash* to *Infamous* and finally *The Blind Side*. In the span of ten years, she took three significant steps that culminated in her winning the Academy Award for Best Actress. She also became Hollywood's highest-paid actress at 38 years old.
The importance of *Murder by Numbers* is clear in hindsight.
It's also worth mentioning that this film brought Sandra Bullock and Ryan Gosling together as a couple. Despite their 16-year age difference, they captured significant public attention. While their relationship didn't last, the film holds a special place in Ryan's career.
This is how Anson came to know about *Murder by Numbers*.
Now, Brad Renfro has entered Richard Crystal's radar.
If Brad had taken a role in this film, even though the movie wasn't successful, it would have brought him into the public eye, possibly reopening the doors to Hollywood. Does this mean Brad's career would have had a second chance, leaving the past behind?
So, which role does Richard think Brad fits—Ryan Gosling's or Michael Pitt's? If Brad had starred in the film, could it have changed the fate of the movie? And could it have altered the actors' futures, creating a new parallel universe?
Is Anson, the small butterfly, starting to influence the lives of those around him?
Of course, it's still too early to say.
Not to mention, Brad hasn't even secured the role yet. He's been left in limbo, feeling lost and anxious—abandoned by Richard.
In Hollywood, this is the norm. You wait and wait, and then... nothing happens.
Even if Brad does land the role, it doesn't guarantee that he'll become the next Ryan Gosling or Michael Pitt.
They all need to stay calm and take it one step at a time.
So, what now?
As these thoughts surged in his mind, Anson looked back at Brad. "Take a deep breath, Brad. Take a deep breath. The opportunity hasn't slipped away yet."
"You said that producer is going to visit another actor?"
Brad nodded.
Anson smiled. "Then let's go find them together."
Brad was stunned. "And then?"
Anson shrugged lightly. "Then we simply present ourselves in a fair and open way. Actually, it's not even a competition—it's just socializing, casual conversation. Everyone has a chance to talk to the producer or director, and everyone gets the opportunity to make an impression, to prove they're the best choice."
Brad blurted out, "But… in front of other actors?"
In independent film auditions, it was usually just the director or producer one-on-one. They wouldn't hire a casting company or invite a group of actors to audition together.
Sometimes, there wasn't even an audition. If a director liked an actor, they'd send a project proposal or script through the actor's agent, and if the actor was interested, they would sit down and have a conversation.
Brad had always been used to this approach, and the idea of suddenly having to promote himself felt overwhelming.
Anson, however, thought it wasn't that complicated, suggesting a shift in perspective. "You should think of it this way: other actors aren't necessarily your competition. Maybe they're your collaborators. When you stand in front of the producer or director, you can showcase the chemistry between you and the other actors, sparking inspiration."
"Perhaps what starts as just a paper project can come to life because of the spark between you. That might generate more attention and support for the project. Even the investors could become more hopeful and be willing to increase their investment. It's a win for everyone."
Brad was stunned. He visibly relaxed, and the thoughtful expression on his face suggested a brainstorming session was underway.
Anson gently patted Brad's arm. "Hey, save the thinking for later. So, where's Richard Crystal?"
Anson recognized the name—though vaguely—and had no memory of his face. Brad would have to spot the target.
Brad looked a little dazed.
Anson remained calm. "Which sofa were you sitting on when you were talking?"
Jeff Robinov's mansion was massive—very, very large. They hadn't even explored the entire place yet, but they already felt its vastness. But no matter, people always congregated in certain areas. Ignoring private spaces, they could trace some clues.
Returning to the original spot and then following the direction Richard had left, combined with Anson's social skills—casually chatting with guests and waitstaff for clues—took them less than fifteen minutes before they found Richard under a palm tree, absorbed and focused.
Another bald head.
It was the second one they'd seen that evening, but unlike Jeff, Richard was small and frail, easily swallowed up by the surrounding women. He blended so well into the crowd that you could easily miss him, like a hobbit wandering in an elven world—if you weren't paying attention, you'd walk right past him.
Yet that shiny bald head acted like a beacon, making him easy to spot among the crowd.
From the way Richard moved, it was clear he had a comedic presence. His appearance didn't stand out, so he had to rely on other skills to survive in Hollywood, much like a court jester.
Even if they had missed Richard, they wouldn't have missed Ryan Gosling, standing right in front of him.
Chapter Four ends here.