Tom arrived at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel to meet Alex. He brought along his agent Paula Wagner from CAA (Creative Arts Agency), a 40 year-old capable looking female.
"Paula, why did you insist on coming to meet Alex?" Tom asked with slight irritation.
Paula took no note of irritation in his tone. To be a top agent in a talent agency like CAA you should be thick skinned first.
"Tom, relax. I told you the reason already. I just want to ask Alex whether he was interested in joining CAA." Paula replied looking around.
"He already rejected invitations from 'William Morris Agency' many times. Why do you think he will join yours ?" Tom questioned.
"Tom, how much do you think Alex's paycheck for a movie ?" Paula asked.
"I heard it was $9.5 milliom" Tom said wondering when will he earn that much.
"That's conservative estimation. If Alex really wanted to he can demand $12 million from studios but he didn't. That's where we come in. We will negotiate with studios to increase his salary and percentage in profits. We also set up auditions for them. But....." Paula stopped in mid sentence.
Tom continued her sentence "But Alex stopped attending auditions long ago. He choose his own projects and he produces them himself. Alex doesn't need a increase in the paycheck as he is already one of the richest in USA. So,my dear Paula, Alex doesn't need CAA but it is CAA who needs him."
Paula nodded with a self-deprecating smile "True. But still my bosses want me to try anyway."
Tom understood her situation. Who doesn't want to own a golden goose anyway ?
They found Alex talking to a man at a table. After closer examination Paula recognised him as one of the Alex's close friends Robert Downey Jr. Paula remembered the material about Robert. His father was a director of small budget, independent films. Robert collabarated with Alex in his films "Lucas", "Stand By Me" and in the "Ferris Bueller's day off" which was in production. He was also set to play another role in the Alex's next film, which will start in the second half of the year.
Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
"Hello Tom, it's been a long time." Alex greeted Tom.
"Hi, Alex. Alex its Paula Wagner, my agent." Tom introduced Paula to Alex and went to greet Robert.
After the pleasantries, Tom broached the subject about the role he wanted. "Alex its a movie abou Vietnam war. I read the script and thought it has the potential. I auditioned for the role of the lead 'Private First Class Chris Taylor' but the producer and director are still in process of making a choice. I want your help in obtaining this role."
"Tom, first tell me the name of the film, director and the production company ?"
"Oh, my bad. Its called 'Platoon', director is Oliver Stone. Hemdale Film Corporation is producing the film." Tom gave the details.
Alex facing Paula asked " Why can't CAA resolve this matter ?"
"Though CAA is one of the top agency, it still doesn't have enough influence to sway the decisions of the studios." Paula said in embarrasment.
Alex nodded remembering that CAA still has to gain the reputation as one of the powerhouses in the hollywood. "Platoon" is considered as one of the finest films made in the Hollywood. If Alex helped Tom once again, Tom will owe him a big one. But the problem is that Alex don't know anyone from 'Hemdale Film Corporation'.
"I have their contact number." Paula said interrupting his thoughts.
"Ok, then. I'll do my best but no guarantees." Alex gave his word to Tom. Facing Paula "And Miss Paula, I'm not interested in joining CAA."
Paula was shocked at the sudden change of togic. "How do you...."
"I know because I'm not stupid." Alex answered even before she questioned. "But I'd like you to take care of my friend Robert here." pointing to Robert Downey Jr.
Tom and Robert were watching Paula Wagner with amusement. Paula heard most people say that Alex had the sharpest mind they had seen and Paula thought how right they were. Paula Wagner agreed to Robert joining CAA.
........................................................
John Daly is the co-founder of 'Hemdale Film Corporation'. This British film company relocated to Hollywood in 1980 and still had to put its roots. In original Timeline "Terminator" was produced by this company. Now they still are waiting for their big chance.
At this time John Daly got a call from the person, that can make it happen. "Alex King". John Daly cancelled all his appointments for the day to meet him.
[http://www.dvd-covers.org/d/75571-3/211Platoon.jpg]
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Paula Wagner