Arthur Smith's Hollywood Odyssey

Arthur had been waiting for nearly three hours when the assistant finally called his name, "Arthur Smith!"

Arthur stood up and followed the assistant into the audition room, where three people were seated.

Director Tim Burton, Executive Producer Denise Di Novi, and Screenwriter and Producer Caroline Thompson!

"Good morning, everyone," Arthur recognized Tim Burton immediately, seated in the center. That unique gothic vibe was unmistakable.

Denise Di Novi's eyes lit up when she saw Arthur because Edward Scissorhands was a highly personal drama romance work.

Arthur Smith had a good look, and having him as a supporting actor could attract young female audiences.

"Arthur, right? You're auditioning for the role of the female lead's boyfriend, Jim. What kind of person do you think Jim is?" Caroline Thompson asked.

"Flashy, jealous, and narrow-minded!"

Arthur was direct because, according to the script, Jim grows resentful and vengeful toward Edward due to the attention Edward gets, especially from the female lead. Jim tries to harm Edward but ends up getting killed by him.

"Oh, you're a student at California State University, Northridge. Are you shooting films during your summer break?"

"I've taken a break from school, likely going to drop out," Arthur responded.

Caroline Thompson nodded, then glanced at Tim Burton and Denise Di Novi before asking, "Shall we have him perform a scene?"

Tim Burton spoke up directly, "Hmm, perform a scene where you're comforting your girlfriend..."

Jim's role was simple, and since the character was a young athlete, Arthur made sure to showcase his strength and physique.

About 10 minutes later, Arthur was asked to wait for further information.

Caroline Thompson sighed, "He's got good potential. Jim's role is simple, but Arthur's look might be too striking, which could be an issue!"

Denise Di Novi disagreed, "The female lead is the prettiest girl in town. I think Arthur's attributes fit well. His acting is a bit raw but sufficient."

"Of course, it depends on what Tim thinks!"

Denise would not clash with the director over a minor role since she represented 20th Century Fox, and everything was driven by box office success.

Tim Burton's opinion was decisive, especially since it was only a supporting role, and the impact on the box office would be minimal.

Tim Burton grinned, "Caroline, are you worried he will steal the lead's thunder? Don't worry, you've seen the lead's look; it's unconventional!"

"Let's see if there's anyone more suitable who shows up," Tim Burton didn't care much about a few supporting roles; the main focus was on the leads.

The female lead was Winona Ryder, who had collaborated on the fantasy comedy 'Beetlejuice' last year, and he was also satisfied with the male lead's audition.

Arthur left the office after a ten-minute audition, having waited three hours. It wasn't easy being a small fry in Hollywood!

Looking up at the sun, he pondered, "It's already noon. I wonder how Jennifer Aniston is doing?"

At that time, neither Arthur nor Jennifer Aniston had a cell phone; those early mobiles were way too expensive!

Arthur patted his stomach, needing to find a place to eat. On the way to the parking lot, a middle-aged woman approached him.

"Arthur Smith?"

"May I ask who you are?" Arthur didn't recognize the sudden stranger.

The woman smiled and handed Arthur a business card before explaining, "I'm a Hollywood agent!"

Reading the card, it introduced herself as Tracy Jacobs from ITA.

[Note: Tracy Jacobs has not joined ICM.]

"What can I do for you, Ms. Jacobs?"

Arthur had guessed it. Hollywood had countless talent agencies, and agents would often sign promising talents they spotted on the streets. Whether they were worth cultivating would depend on their subsequent performance.

"It's lunchtime. How about finding a place to eat and talk?" Tracy Jacobs suggested.

"Sure," Arthur replied, pointing to his car, "I'm not familiar with this area. Let's drive around and find a fast-food place."

Tracy Jacobs nodded.

Arthur drove around and found a Taco Bell, a Mexican-style fast-food chain.

After finishing lunch, Tracy Jacobs spoke, "I think you can guess my purpose. I see a lot of potential in you."

"How about it? It's hard without an agent, right?"

Arthur nodded, "Indeed. There are so many youngsters in Los Angeles. If I can attract an agent's attention, I guess I have a good look. Most newcomers like me don't have agents at all!"

Newcomers like Arthur were often signed merely as a trial. It didn't matter much, as it was usually an initial two-year contract.

Tracy Jacobs smiled, "Discovering new talent is our job. Your image can be packaged very well. Your look fits roles in teen dramas or romance films. What's your plan for school?"

"School? I've already taken a break. I'm currently working on a screenplay, aiming for film and television production in the future."

"Film and television production?" Tracy Jacobs studied Arthur. Taking a break was normal--many dropped out entirely. But what did a 20-year-old just out of school mean by film and television production?

"Yes, I'll see if your agency can help pitch it."

"What genre?"

"Campus comedy!"

"Oh, sure. Once you have the script, I can help recommend it," Tracy Jacobs shrugged.

"Last year's writers' strike got writers many benefits, but getting an original script selected for development is tough!"

"I understand. I'm prepared for that," Arthur knew it would be hard. This first pot of gold was particularly elusive, so he needed to build a reputation first.

"Good. You should trust me. Johnny Depp, the lead in 'Edward Scissorhands,' signed with me last year. He had gained some fame from the TV show '21 Jump Street,' but he was still just a TV actor. This year, I got him the lead role in Tim Burton's movie. Now, everywhere you look, there's 'Batman' advertising. Tim Burton's fame is growing!"

Although Tracy Jacobs was a mid-sized agent, she had an eye for discovering new talent.

"Understood. From my perspective, 'Edward Scissorhands' is a fantastic romance film with great appeal to critics. I believe that once it's out next year, the leads' fame will skyrocket!" Arthur flattered her.

"Alright, come to ITA tomorrow at 10 AM. We'll have a detailed discussion and then sign the contract!"

"Okay..."

*****

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