The Birth of the Avenue of Stars and Hollywood's Power Players
After the celebrations at the Roosevelt Hotel, where Hollywood's elite gathered, Charlie Lee, ever the shrewd businessman, turned his attention to his next ventures. The evening's atmosphere buzzed with laughter, toasts, and strategic alliances. Among the notable conversations was one with Walt Disney, now relieved of his financial troubles thanks to Charlie's support.
"Charlie, since creating Mickey, my mind has been flooded with ideas, but without the means to bring them to life. Now, thanks to your investment, those dreams can become reality," Walt said, raising his glass in a toast.
"To Disney!" Charlie replied, reciprocating the enthusiasm.
However, the celebration wasn't without its side stories. Lawrence, sitting nearby, grumbled to himself, reflecting on his recent losses and deals gone awry. The self-deprecating humor didn't escape Charlie's notice, but his focus remained on Walt. After the festivities, Walt departed in haste, driven by his creative zeal.
"Charlie, those ideas won't let me rest until I bring them to life," Walt said as he left.
Charlie admired his persistence, knowing this drive would one day propel Disney to global fame.
Later, Lawrence approached Charlie with an unfamiliar middle-aged man in tow.
"Charlie, I want to buy 10% of Disney's shares," Lawrence declared.
"Do you have $50,000?" Charlie asked nonchalantly, lounging on the sofa.
Lawrence sighed. "I secured a loan from my father at 16% interest per month."
Amused by Lawrence's predicament, Charlie negotiated down to 5% shares instead. The terms were clear: the shares would remain in Charlie's name, but Lawrence would enjoy the dividends while Charlie retained voting rights.
Satisfied with the deal, they signed a secret agreement. Lawrence introduced the middle-aged man as Elan Sticknerd, his father's trusted housekeeper and advisor.
"Charlie, where's your date tonight?" Charlie teased, nudging Lawrence.
"Charlie, one day you'll regret mocking me," Lawrence shot back with a grin.
Meanwhile, Bergman, an aspiring actress, wrestled with her ambition.
"Charlie, should I audition?" she asked hesitantly.
"Finish your studies first," Charlie advised. "Once you graduate, I'll ensure you have the right opportunities."
Though Hollywood's allure tempted Bergman, she valued Charlie's guidance. She knew he had grander plans for the industry.
In a casual conversation with Lawrence, Charlie proposed a groundbreaking idea: the Avenue of Stars.
"A walkway to honor legendary actors, directors, and filmmakers," Charlie explained.
Lawrence's eyes lit up. "That's brilliant, Charlie! You should start this project immediately."
Bergman, equally enthusiastic, embraced Charlie and planted a kiss on his cheek. Lawrence chuckled at the scene but eagerly offered to connect Charlie with influential figures at the Royal Theater Academy.
Charlie's vision for the Avenue of Stars began to materialize. Elaine Sticknerd, observing the enthusiasm, suggested reaching out to influential Hollywood figures like Louis Mayer, the formidable CEO of MGM.
Louis Mayer, often referred to as the "King of Hollywood," was a towering figure in the industry. Under his leadership, MGM rose to prominence, overtaking Universal Studios and cementing itself as a giant in Hollywood. Mayer's influence extended beyond MGM, as he also chaired the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, solidifying his control over Hollywood's power dynamics.
Elaine hesitated to leverage his connections with Mayer but eventually relented, agreeing to set up a meeting.
"Charlie, Louis has a strong sense of control. Convincing him will require tact," Elaine warned.
Understanding the stakes, Charlie prepared for the meeting, knowing that Mayer's support could elevate his idea of the Avenue of Stars into reality.
Elaine elaborated on the Academy's dual structure, with the Planning Committee overseeing development and the Academy handling film selection. While these roles seemed distinct, they both ultimately fell under Mayer's influence. His strategic brilliance and strong personality made him the de facto ruler of Hollywood.
Van Punk, the Academy's president, was largely considered a figurehead, echoing Mayer's decisions without objection. Mayer's persuasive speeches had once turned the Actors Guild into an empty shell, further consolidating his power.
Elaine's efforts bore fruit as Mayer expressed interest in the Avenue of Stars project. The meeting, held at a reception room Charlie hastily prepared, would bring together Mayer and Van Punk.
"Charlie, this could be a turning point," Elaine remarked.
As Charlie awaited the meeting, he reflected on the alliances he had forged and the vision he had for Hollywood. With Mayer's potential endorsement, the Avenue of Stars would not only immortalize Hollywood's legends but also solidify Charlie's place among its power players.