《King of HOLLYWOOD》 Chapter 1: 1970, Los Angeles Alexander King doesn''t haave a fucking idea what to do now. And even if he know he can''t do anything with in the body of a 2-year-old boy. Its 1970 and he doesn''t belong to this time. The real Alexander ''Alex'' king was born in 1996 to a prostitute who died in the child birth. The orphanage that took him in was so awful that he ran away at age 5. But the outer world was no better either. Its a dog eat dog world and he learned his lesson early. For the next 8 years he did everything he needed to do to survive. He fought, he stole, he lied all in order to survive. At 13, a chinese martial arts master saw him fight and thought Alex had a great talent for martial arts. "Will you accept me as your master?" Lin Hh, the martial artist asked. "What benefit will get of it?" it''s Alex''s first response. "If you do accept, you can stop worry about surviving and start thinking about living." Alex accepted without any delay. After all who woudn''t want to live. Alex cleaned up his act, joined school and started training in the martial arts. It took him only 4 years to master it. He even perfected it. But he wasn''t really interested in competitions and his master respected his wishes as long as he didn''t stop practicing.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. Alex''s real passion was films. In his gloomy childhood they are his only friends. Alex''s first laugh was in the movie hall. So right after highschool graduation he applied for UCLA and got the admission. He chose to major in direction and Digital media. Alex was creative and hardworkin. Alex''s most impressive talent was to perfect a better script.The professors thought he had the talent to make it in Hollywood. One day there was a shootout between robbers and cops on his way to university. There was Chaos everywhere and a child was in the center of the fire. Alex''s legs moved without his permission to save the child. By the time he came to senses the child was safe in his arms but he was shot five times trying to save her. The last thought before he died was that he didn''t even cross 21, the legal age to get a beer. The next time he opened his eyes he was struck in the body of a two year-old. The child''s body was quite frail even for 2-year-old standards. And the biggest joke is that he was an orphan again. Atleast he wasn''t in the streets. The orphanage warden is an honest and sweet 55-year-old Ruth Jackson. She is widowed and her two children are settled in their lives. Alex decided to first improve his health condition. So from next day he began doing exercises that his previous master taught him. Its a great age to learn martial arts. In the remaining time he read books regarding Jews as he found out that he has Jewish lineage. He was abandoned outside the orphanage with a card showing his name and birthdate and that he is a Jew. The Hebrew meaning of Alexander isDefender/Ruler/King of the mankind. His body improved slowly and he intensified both his martial arts training as well as reading. Time passed slowly and he turned 4-year-old on July 4th 1972, which is also the independence day of USA. Chapter 2: Plans for the future Alex started to make plans for the future. He know what he wants to be in the future. To base himself in Hollywood you need to have certain strength. And he had a plan for that. Alex with the help of Ruth started writing short stories and sent them to various newspapers. He didn''t select the stories that are complex but the stories that are for children. His first story published in "Los Angeles Times"named "TOY STORY". The readers liked it and the newspaper got 5000 letters asking more stories from the author. And he got a check for 750$. He continued writing for LA Times. He got published "TOY STORY 2" and "TOY STORY 3" and he got 1500$ and 2250$ for them. He wrote them not for money but for copyrights as they are going to be a billion dollar franchise. He took care of orphanage with that money. He continued writing and the LA Times continued publishing. They never knew the author was a 4-year-old boy and warden Ruth Jackson just thought that he was a talented boy. And even if anybody found about it there were always geniuses in the world anyway. He wrote "Finding Nemo", "The Incredibles", "Monster Inc.", "The Lion King", "Shrek 2", "Shrek 3", "Kungfu Panda" etc. His remuneration for each story rose to 5000$. It was not easy writing these stories. Coverting them from pictures to prose was a great difficulty but Alex drew the main characters to introduce them to readers. The time passed slowly . It was 1976 and Alex was eight. He grew healthy and handsome boy. Ruth Jackson opened an account for him in the bank to deposit his money. Life was going leisurely but it didn''t last.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! One day Ruth got heart attack and the doctors said she had to take it easy. So a new warden was appointed. Her name was Brenda Jones and she was the meanest old lady he had ever seen. She soon found about Alex''s situation and tried to coax him to appoint her as the guardian. Alex flat out refused. Brenda with the help of the security locked him in the narrow basement of orphanage without any food. Though Alex practiced martial arts he was still a boy and he couldn''t bear the hunger. Four days passed and every day is like hell but he still didn''t give in. One night he broke from the basement and ran away.Alex didn''t remember how long he ran but he broke down for the lack of energy. After a long time Alex conciousness is back and he opened his eyes to see a beautiful face. She smiled and said, "Are you okay? " He shook his head to clear it and asked, "What happened ?" " I found you unconscious on my way to jogging and brought you my home. You''ve been unconscious for three days. The doctor said you may have not eaten anything for five days." she said with concern. He simply nodded. "By the way my name is Kim Basinger. Yours?" she asked with a beautiful smile. " Alexander King. Call me Alex." And then he remembered where he saw her. She is a popular actress and an Oscar winner for best supporting actress. Chapter 3: A New Life Kimcouldn''t help but see into the depth of Alex''s eyes. They are not the eyes of a child that usually filled with innocence but of a man who knew and experienced the cruelties of the world. She came from a normal family where her parents loved her and protected her until she became an adult. So she couldn''t imagine what Alex had gone through but the expression in his eyes made her decide to help him. Alex couldn''t afford to refuse her help in his present condition so he accepted her help. They hired a lawyer named Ethan Crane. He did all the paperwork and made Kim Alex''s temporary guardian. After several legal proceedings, the board of directors of orphanage paid Alex $1 million dollars and dismissed Brenda from her post in exchangefor Alex''s silence. Alex accepted with the condition that the next warden will be of Ruth''s choosing and made out a check for $500,000 in the name of Ruth Jackson Kim paid all legal expenses and didn''t take a single penny from Alex. Without a problem the two adapted to the new life. She is a model before but didn''t like the profession. So, she came came to L.A. to try her luck as an actress . Its been two months since she came to L.A. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Kimtreated him with care and love and he liked it as he didn''t have a family in both lives. Though he has master and respected they are never as close as family. Kim was taking advanced acting classes and Alex once again started writing. He planned to publish his short story collections. So he chose a publishing company named SCHOLASTIC CORPORATION and sent his resume. They couldn''t believe that a 8-year-old wrote these stories. So they sent a representative named Paul Collins to investigate and to sign a contract. Kim was shocked and happy for Alex. They signed a contract for 50,000 dollars with 8% royalty for first 150,000 books and 10% if sales exceed that. In July 4th,1977 on the day of his birthday , the book ALEX KING''s short stories went into market. The publishers are dumbstruck by the sales of the book. In just a week, the sales exceeded 100,000 and still going strong. So, they printed 200,000 additional copies and also made it known to the newspapers that the writer is a 9-year-old boy. Alex approved to use him as publicity but forbid them to tell the address as did''nt want unnecessary struggle. This stunt proved effective and within a month they sold 600,000 copies. As the cost of the book is 10$ and the net profit is 5$, on the first 150,000 books he made 60,000$ and for the next 450,000 copies he got 225,000$ for the grand total of 285,000$. After the taxes he will get approximately 160,000 dollars. So to decrease taxes his lawyer Eric Crane recommended an accountant named Christina Johnson, a 40-year-old lady. Chapter 4: E.T. Time passed slowly and its 1979 and he was a 11-year-old. In these two years he studied hard and made improvements on the scripts of the films he has seen in his previous life. Some movies were god they are not successful at the box office, its because they are not mainstream. So he added commercial elements that will make that movie successful. Kim continued to be his guardian and they became a family. He didn''t let her take any roles in the tv shows and convinced her to continue to concentrate on improving her acting. His story collections are popular and is bank balance grew slowly to $4.2 million. He released another collection this year and it is too making a ton of money. By using his resume he send scripts to various production companies two months before. He was waiting for the call from them. And it came from a production company called Amblin Entertainment and who made the call is Kathleen Kennedy. She said she was the secretary of ''''Steven Spielberg'''' and contacted him regarding the script he wrote. Alex knew what is the script that attracted Steven''s attention. Its ''''E.T''''. The movie that outgrossed STAR WARS and made Steven a household name. They made an appointment. Alex and his lawyer Ethan Crane went to Amblin Entertainment located on the backlot of Universal Studios in Universal City, California. Kathleen Kennedy met them personally and was surprised at seeing Alex. Although she knew from resume he was a 11-year-old boy, it didn''t hit her until this moment that he was a genius. "Hello Mr. King and Mr. Crane, nice to meet you." she spoke professionally. "Just call me Alex Ms. Kathleen. Its kind of embarrassing if you address me like that." he said with a lovely smile. Kathleen thought he was a very handsome boy. And she ushered them into a conference room where he saw two men and he identified one of them as Steven Spielberg and another must be Frank Marshall. This two found the Amblin Entertainment. Steven and Frank showed the same expression as Kathleen after seeing Alex.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. "Its unbelievable that a boy of your age can write a script like that, isn''t it Frank?" Steven spoke directly. Frank nodded smilingly. Frank knew Steven has a childlike temperament and that what made him successful, his childlike imagination. Alex too know that and he read he was quite jovial outside of his work. "What can I say, I am a talent." Alex replied with a mischievous smile. Steven Spielberg nodded and somewhat absent-minded for a moment as he thought of something. After the pleasantries, they went straight into the heart of the subject. "Alex we want to make this film and I''ll personally direct it. Actually I was trying to conceive a idea similar to this script but it was more perfect. So, what do you think?" Steven said sincerely. Frank smiled bitterly and didn''t say anything. He said to Steven never reveal your interest that much earnestly but it''s a advice Steven still has to listen. "So Alex, how much is this script cost?" Steven asked hoping that its in the range of $150,000- 200,000 as he heard that the boy is a successful writer though he never read them. "Nothing." Alex said calmly. Steven was about to say something then he realised what Alex said and dumbfounded. So are Frank and Kathleen. Kathleen Kennedy Frank Marshall Steven Spielberg ( Young & Old) Chapter 5: A New Turn Alex was amused at the sight of their shocked expressions. He smiled and said "I don''t want to sell my script." Steven recovered and asked, "Why? Do you think I can''t direct it?" Alex shook his head and said, "No, you misunderstood me Mr. Spielberg. If anyone can do it it''s definitely you." Steven confused asked " Then why are you not selling it?" "I won''t sell it because I want to invest in the film" "You want to invest in it?" this time it''s Frank who spoke. Frank doesn''t believe that a 11-year-old boy can invest anything. "How much?" Alex looked at Ethan, his lawyer. Ethan took his cue and said, " We estimate the production cost gonna be $10 million and we are going to invest $3 mil. " Frank was somewhat taken back with surprise and then remembered that Alex was a successful writer, but he never imagined that he was that successful. And he was also amazed that they are spot on estimation on budget. "What''s your conditions then?" this time it is Kathleen as the other two are still in shock. "18 % share in profit and 20% share in the profits of peripheral prodducts. That''s our final offer." Alex repliedSupport the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Frank was suprised as he thought they were gonna ask more share in profits. Script is free in exchange for the right to invest $3 million for 18% share in profits. "It''s a deal" Steven replied without any hesitation. Frank was about to say something when Steven said " But you have to take the role of the boy in this film." This time it was Alex''s turn to be shocked. He always imagined himself as director but never as an actor. There is no specific reason as it just never entered his mind. Alex thought about it and found it interesting as he can see a legendary director work in close quarters. Alex offered his hand and said " Deal." They both shook on it. *************************** Kim was surprised after hearing this and was happy. "Alex it''s great. You are going to be an actor. We are going to celebrate." "Well Kim, there is another reason to celebrate. First hear it." Alex said curbing her excitement with a smile." You are going to participate in audition for the role of my mother." "What..?" it''s too sudden for her to hear it. She ws silent for a few minutes and said "What if I screwed up?" she said with a face of worry. "Don''t be so pessemistic. It''s just an audition and you have to strive for the role." He comforted. The audition went great as she had to read her lines with Alex and it came very naturally as she care for him very much. She got the role. Alex remembered that actually Steven''s next film should be INDIANA JONES: Raiders of the Lost Ark ,and E.T. should be released in 1982. But because of his butterfly effect it all changed. But the main character''s sister is still DREW BARRYMORE, the trouble child of Hollywood ,though she cleaned up her act later. In February 3rd, 1980 E.T. The Extra terrestrialstarted shooting. Chapter 6: Shooting "No. No. No... Alex I want innocence at the samee time some maturity. Your performance is too mature. If we are making a film a prodigy it woul''ve been great but its the role of an innocent boy." Steven shouted and explained. "God acting is not as easy as I thought." Alex sighed. "Because you are stupid." said a 5 year-old imp Drew Barrymore. "You are doing fine Alex. It''s just you have embrace the innocence of the character." Steve comforted. "Yeah I''ll try." "Ok. Everybody take 20 minutes break." Steve announced. "You are stupid, Alex." Drew said once again. Alex just smiled and messed her hair. It''s been 40 days since shooting started. It''s been smooth most of the time but in the situations where he has to act like a normal boy he sucks. He''s improving but still sucks doing sentimental scene. The scene now they are shooting is the scene where the alien is being experimented by scientists and Alex has to converse with the alien to say that don''t die. But he couldn''t quite get it. "You have to use your imagination Alex" came a voice from beside him. "How Kim?" Alex said with a helpless smile. Kim Basinger smiled "Imagine that it''s the most important to you. Acting is all about that." Kim said and went to talk with somebody. Alex thought deep about her words.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. ****************** "E.T. stay with me" Alex said the dialogue with a low voice as he is having the problem breathing "Please." with tears at the corners of his eye"Stay" he held out his hands to reach the alien. "Together" gasping for breath "I''ll be right here." Alien stopped moving."E.T. answer me please" gasping. ************* Alex was seeing that doctors and scientists are trying to revive alien and he is on the verge of tears quite not believing that E.T. was gone. As he felt someone behind and turned and saw Kim. He burst into tears and hugged her. "Cut" Steven shouted" Excellent Alex. Excellent." That''s when Alex came out of his character. "How did you do it?" Kim asked still hugging him. "I just imagined that it was you." Kim just hugged him tighter. That''s enough no words are necessary. ************* "Cut. and that''s a wrap" Steven shouted and everyone on set gave an applause. It''s completed in 50 days a week ahead of schedule. "At last its over." Alex sighed. "Come on Alex. you enjoyed it .Say it." Steven laughed. "Yeah. Yeah, I enjoyed it. Are you happy?" Alex admitted with a smile." So when are you going to release the film?" "If all went well may be at July 4th." seeing Alex laughing aloud "what?" Steven asked. "Well it''s hell of a coincidence that you are releasing the film on my birthday." "Well it''s really hell of a coincidence." Steven laughed. *********** "Alex call me okay." Drew said with teary eyes. She is like a little sister to him so he nodded. He already made a promise to himself that he will help her. And he saw her mom at a distance. He knew that she money crazy bitch. So, if she made a little wrong step he will make her pay. Drew Barrymore in E.T. The Extraterrestrial Chapter 7: Negotiations Alex and Kim took a break after completion of shooting. It''s Sunday and Kim was preparing lunch for them. Alex was solving the cross-word puzzle. Then they suddenly heard a car stopping in front of the house. Kim went to see who it was. After 2 minutes Alex saw a woman in her early 30''s . She was a brunette and from her appearance Alex can see she was in a high-powered position in a company and he guessed it was a film company. "Hello Mr. King, my name is Dawn Leslie Steel and I am Vice President of production in Paramount Pictures." she intoduced herself. "Nice to meet you Miss Dawn, just Alex please and can I call you Leslie?." Alex said with a smile. After the pleasantries, Leslie directly broached the subject. " Alex I read your short story collection and I also saw a script sent to us based on a story in it. So we want to buy the script "HOME ALONE"." Alex thought about for a while and said "What was the budget fot he film?" Leslie brows wrinkled and she replied, " $7 million." Alex tapped his fingers on arm chair for a moment and said "No remuneration for script. We will invest $1.5 million for 13% profits and I will keep copyright ." Leslie was surprised as it was a diadvantageous conditon to Alex. But she didn''t say it, as she was a business woman. "Alex, can I use your phone?" Alex nodded and Kim showed her the way. Alex thought about Leslie and slightly remembered her as a well known figure in hollywood. She approved films such as "Flash Dance", "Fatal Attraction","Top Gun", "Beverly Hills Cop"etc. She was the first woman studio head in Hollywood by becoming the president of "COLUMBIA Pictures" in 1987.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. Alex''s thoughts are interrupted as Leslie came back. She contacted higher-ups and they gave the green signal but they also put out a condition." They learned that you starred in "E.T." and want you star in the role of Kevin." Alex was surprised . He thought it was a one time deal with Steven but the fate didn''t think so. And Alex also want to taste that experience once more. So he nodded. Their lawyers drew contracts and Alex got another 2% profit sharing as his actor fee. *************** After that Alex has given another script he had written to Leslie to read and tell her opinion and he stated firmly that this script was written for Kim Basinger. Only if she was chosen as the star in the movie otherwise he wouldn''t sell the script. The script was named "Pretty Woman". Leslie said that she will read it. Kim was not satisfied with his decision as it would have profited him to simply sell the script. Alex simply said, "Kim we are family. Ofcourse , I will help you." Kim simply tousled his hair with a slight sheen of tears in her eyes. *************** For the role of bandit Harry Lime he recommended "Joe Pesci" as he was the original actor and he was not famous yet. As for the role of Marv he recommended Dan Aykroyd. The shooting was scheduled to start in August. Time flew by and it was July 3rd, the day before the release of E.T. Although he knew the result but still he was anxious of what would happen because of the butterfly-effect. Dawn Leslie Steel Joe Pesci in "HOME ALONE" Dan Aykroyd Chapter 8: Phenomenal Actually in his time E.T. in its original theatrical run made $619 million worldwide and after two re-releases madeworldwide total of $792 million with North America accounting for $435 million. So, Alex was hoping to break that record. The distribution rights were sold to UNIVERSAL and they made publicity using the fact that the screen writer is a 11 year-old boy, which made a lot of fuss in the public. And they are also interested in watching how that boy acted. It was a good publicity. The critics in preview ceremony gave high praise but still it''s not enough. on July 4, 1980 "E.T." was released in 1200 theatres in North America. ******************** Alex was in deep sleep when Kim woke him up "Alex! Alex! Wake up" "Oh... let me sleep some more Kim." Alex said yawning. "Lazybones wake up. The weekend box office report came." with excitement in her voice. "How much?" alex asked with eagerness. "$15.5 million" she said smiling like a cheshire cat. "How many?" Alex couldn''t believe his ears. "$15.5 million" Alex was somewhat surprised because he knew in previous life the film''s first weekend gross is around $11 million. It looks it is the butterflyeffect. And that morning several people made phone calls to congratulate like Steven Spielberg, Katherine Kennedy, Thomas Crane and paramount''s Dawn Steele. On Monday it still maintained the momentum and grossed $3.5 million. On Tuesday $3.2 million. On Wednesday $3.1 million. On Thursday $ 3.7 million. By the first the film grossed $29 million. Alex knew it was the highest opening weekend and first week box office results but it''s 1980 and it only matters if it have long legs. But still it was a record. Aside from the box office success Alex got all the media coverage only next to Steven Spielberg. And Paramount higher-ups are happy that they signed him before the release otherwise his salary would have been sky rocketed.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. On it''s second week it grossed $31.75 million with a significant rise. On it''s third week it grossed $30.9 million. On it''s fourth week , $28.8 million. In just one month it grossed $120.45 million making everybody shocked and at the same time surpised. It also became one of the highest grossing films in North America in just a month. In overseas it grossed $75.6 million taking the total box office gross to $196.05 million. The box office analysts predicted that it may out gross the STAR WARS to become the highest grossing film in North America. ************** In August 14, 1980 the shooting of HOME ALONE started in Chicago. The director is John Landis. He previously directedThe Kentucky Fried Movie,National Lampoon''s Animal House,The Blues Brotherswhich were very successful. And also Dan Aykroyd and John worked previously on The Blues Brothers . The filming was going smooth and E.T. was still going at the box office. By the end of august it crossed $200 million in North America earning $209.7 million and $ 171.6 million overseas for a grand total of $381.3 million making it the second highest grossing film just below the $450 million gross of STAR WARS(1977). And E.T. is going to outgross it sooner or later. At this time Kim Basinger was shooting "Pretty Woman" in Los Angeles. Paramount greenlit the project after the success of E.T. and Kim showed her three years of hardwork in audition and got the role. Alex didn''t invest in it as he hadn''t got any money and he had to wait until december to get the dividend from profits. In the "Pretty Woman" as the male lead Al pacino got cast . In Alex''s previous actually Al pacino almost got cast as the lead in this film but for unknown reasons he rejected and Richard Gere got the role. Alex played the role of Kevin with ease as he took acting lessons after E.T. and he thought he acted way better than the previous actor who played Kevin. The filming of HOME ALONE finished in October 12, 1980 and alex got on a plane to meet Kim Basinger on the film location. *************** By the fourteenth week E.T. grossed $296.7 million in North America and $223.8 million from overseas to the world wide total of $520.5 million making it the highest grossing film of all time. But Alex was somewhat surprised as it grossed more than the film in his previous life. He tried to understand the cause but giave up and attributed the reason to the butterfly effect. Al Pacino John Landis Chapter 9: Microsoft Alex was on the plane to LA reading an article published inThe Economistabout a company they think might have bright future. The company''s name is MICROSOFT and its founders are 24 year-old Bill Gates and 27 year-old Paul Allen. They just released the new operating systemXENIX in August 1980. And it''s on way to become the leading OS(operating system). Alex smiled reading this as he knows what the company''s future is and he is going to be part of it''s future because he owns 25% of the company. One day Alex while using the computer remember that MICROSOFT still was not the big company. After he hired Ethan Crane as his lawyer he told him to find a way to get him a meeting with Bill Gates and Paul Allen. They were surprised as they met him but were happy that he was so excited about the computers. He told them that he knew about their company fromJanuary 1975 issue of Popular Electronics.He said he want to help them and invested $1.2 million by leveraging his copyrights of the books. Bill and Paul had already mortgaged their homes so they readily accepted his offer. Alex''s age is his best weapon as they wouldn''t suspect that he may have deep plans. By his investment the developmentof company became easier. He felt giddy imagining the fortune the company would bring in the future. He even gave some ideas that are helpful which they might have gotten in the future anyway. ************** Alex was gobsmacked seeing her in the prostitute outfit on the set of the film " Pretty Woman". She had great curves and the dress shows them. He knew from experience she was gorgeous even when she hit 60 but still he was surprised. She hugged him with in excitement tightly when she saw him. Although he didn''t hit puberty his soul was of a man in his 30''s so he''s troubled for a bit. He recovered quickly and hugged her back. Alex''s eyes searched for Mr. Al Pacino as he was another reason to visit the set besides meeting Kim.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. ************** Al pacino was listening seriously to Alex at the same time observing Alex. He heard that this boy provided three scripts and that one of the film was already the highest grossing film in the history. So he was not neglecting him and he even thought it was quite a good script. After pitching the story Alex waited for Al to say something. Al pacino''s last filmCruising was critically panned and he got a lot of controversy. So, he needed a big hit now. Though Alex was quite confident about its success Al Pacino thinks that it might do average.But, he is quite interested in this project as it''s theme is dark and at the same time acceptable for family audiences. The script that Alex pitched was "The Sixth Sense". Although E.T. became a big hit but it''s production credit mostly goes to Steven Spielberg. So, to gain a name as screen writer he needs a story driven film. That''s why he chose this script and also to once again experience the feeling of performing befor a camera. It is addicting that feeling. Al pacino after a long pause said, "Ok Alex, I quite like it but who''s going to produce it." "Amblin Entertainment." " Spielberg''s company?" Al pacino relaxed as Spielberg never yet have to make a big mistake. Alex nodded. " Ok Alex, contact with my manager for other details." saying that Al pacino had gone to film next scene. ************** The negotiations are done and Al Pacino salary is fixed as $5 million and 7% share in profits. Kim was cast as Al Pacino''s wife by Alex''s request. Director was Jonathan Demme, who in Alex''s previous life directed the classic "The Silence of the Lambs". The film is sheduled to start in January 1981. It''s the start of december and E.T. grossed $601.2 million world wide with $331.1 million from North America and $270.1 million from overseas becoming the first film to gross $300 million in North America and $600 million worldwide. Jonathan Demme Chapter 10: Americas favourite Teen Idol The "Home Alone" was released on 19th December, 1980 in 700 theatres. The Paramount at first doesn''t want to allot that many theatres to the film, but because of the success of E.T. Alex became a very recognizable in America. So, they are trying to cash on that popularity. They were just expecting a box office gross $25-$30 million. But boy, were they wrong? The film grossed $5 million in just 3 days . Maybe it''s not much by 21st century standards and not even by 90''s standards but in early 80''s that amount will give weekend crown 9 out of 10 times. In the first week it grossed $9.2 million and dethroned the E.T. from the first place since its release. The Paramount''s higher ups are grinning from ear to ear with this result. For the next weekend they increased the theatres to 1,200. The film took $7.4 million in this weekend and $11.3 million for the week. In two weeks it grossed $20.5 million and everything it makes from now on will be pure profit. Meanwhile golden globe nominations came out and E.T. got 5 nominations forBest Picture in the Drama category ,Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Music and Best New Male Star for Alexander King. But the film directed by Robert Redford "Ordinary People" and the film by Martin Scorsese " The Raging Bull" each got 7 nominations. In Alex''s previous generation E.T. released in 1982 lost Oscars to "Gandhi" and "The Raging Bull" lost to "Ordinary People". "Gandhi" and "Ordinary People" are great but not on the same level as other two. So, Alex was excited to see if there will be any changes in this life. ************ It''s New Year''s Eve and Kim and Alex had gone to see New Year''s ball in New York. When they arrived at the square it all packed with thousands of people. Alex had never attended this event before and he was amazed at the sheer excitement in the air. He was watching everything with an amazement that experienced only when watching movies. "Hey, see that''s Kevin." somebody shouted. "Kevin who?" another one questioned loudly. "That E.T. kid and kevin is his name in "Home Alone"." he replied. Surrounding people heard this and turned their heads in his direction. Alex exactly doesn''t remember what happened after that. There were a lot of flash lights from cameras, kisses and hugs from ladies and small girls and by the time he recovered he was escorted by the police to their hotel.It was Kim who was more terrified than Alex. For more than four years they were almost inseperable and Alex became the most impotant part of her life. She didn''t saw him as a new star but still as a ordinary boy. If anything happened today she didn''t know what she would have done.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. She was shivering when Alex said "Kim it''s not you fault." "No, I.. I sh...should have thought about ev...everything. I am the ad..adult." she replied shakily and suddenly hugged him tightly and said "Sleep with me tonight." Alex nodded and they both slept on bed holding each other. He was unable to sleep as her soft body was enveloped around him. He was watching her face as she was asleep and caressing her pink lips lightly he thought....''Mine''. He decided at that moment she was going to be his sooner or later. As for the 15 year-old difference , he doesn''t care . if anyone cares then they can go and fuck themselves. But he doesn''t want Kim to endue their stares and taunts, so he need the power to shut their mouths and he will get that power. ''Oh, Kim you are mine forever and ever'' Alex thought while slightly kissing her lips. She didn''t respond and hugged him even tightly. ............................ The next morning in the news papers the incident involving Alex was published and the phone was ringing from non-stop. Dawn Leslie Steel telephoned and adviced to get a bodyguard or two. "Leslie, is that necessary?" Alex complained. Kim beside him said "Dear, listen the advice. Although you are almost 13 but you still look like a 10 year-old. Even if you pracised martial arts you don''t have the build." Alex didn''t say anything again and in heart scoled the god as he was the cause. Leslie laughed aloud from that side and said, "It''s necessary Alex you are a star now. Did you see the box office results this week? "Home Alone" grossed $13 million and the analysts are saying that it''s going to gross $120 million in North America and $200 million worldwide. We are going to add the theatres from this week and your two films may gross close to 1 billion together and that not including the peripheral. Now you are the America''s favourite Idol." Alex some what felt proud about himself hearing those words. Yeah, he was a Idol and he will take this route seriously and pave a way to reach the absolute top. Martin Scorsese Robert Redford Chapter 11: Oscars & Preparation to face Crisis Its March and the last day of his shoot in the "The Sixth Sense". Alex was playing Cole and Susan Sarandon was playing Lynn his mother. COLE: Grandma comes to visit me sometimes. Lynn becomes still. Her face is unreadable. When she speaks, her words are extremely controlled. LYNN: Cole, that''s very wrong. Grandma''s gone. You know that. COLE: I know. Beat. COLE: She wanted me to tell you-- . LYNN (soft): Cole, please stop. COLE: She wanted me to tell you, she saw you dance. Lynn''s eyes lock on Cole''s. COLE: She said when you were little, you and her had a fight right before your dance recital. You thought she didn''t come to see you dance. She did. Lynn brings her hands to her mouth. COLE: She hid in the back so you wouldn''t see... She said you were like an angel. Lynn begins to cry. COLE: She said, you came to her where they buried her. Asked her a question... She said the answer is "Everyday." Lynn covers her face with her hands. The tears roll out through her fingers. COLE (whispers): What did you ask? Lynn looks at her son. She barely gets the words out. LYNN (crying): Do I make her proud? Cole moves closer to Lynn. She cradles him in her arms. Mother and son hold each other tight. "Cut! and perfect" Jonathan said with a smile. "Oh, Alex you made me cry." Susan laughed while wiping her tears. The whole was impressed with Alex as he didn''t take too many takes to get it right. ............................... In Golden globes E.T. just got two awards best original score and best new male star of the year. But in Oscar nominations it got 9 for Best picture, director, original screenplay, original score, visual effects, sound, art direction, cinematography and edting. "The Raging Bull" got eight and "ordinary people" got six nominations. Meanwhile E.T. grossed $411.3 million in North America and $319.4 in overseas for total gross of $730.7 becoming the first film to gross $400 million in North America and $700 million globally. It may reach $750 million mark. Home Alone grossed $221.6 million domeastically $191.2 million internationally for a worlwide total of $412.8 million. As it is released ten years too early it may not out-gross the original version but still it is impressive. ............................... Kim and Alex are watching the Oscars in television as Kim got a fever and Alex was taking care of her. E.T. won the best original score, visual effects and cinematography and lost editing to "The Raging Bull", sound to"Star Wars : Empire Strikes Back" and art direction to "Tess". "Ordinary People" won best supporting actor for "Timothy Hutton" and best adapted screenplay.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. The best original screenplay nominations are "Melvin & Howard" "Brubaker" "Private Benjamin" "Fame" and "E.T." "And the award goes to..........Alexander King "E.T."" "Yes!" Kim jumped hugged Alex and kissed him on lips. She was blusing after that from embarassment. But Alex was still on a daze. He didn''t expect that the old men in jury will give him this award not because there is something wrong with script but he was too young. Steven Spielberg accepted that award in his place. Robet De Niro won best actor for "Raging Bull" and Sissy Spacek won best actress fot "Coal Miner''s Daughter". Next award is best director and the nominations areRobert Redford ¨C Ordinary People David Lynch ¨C The Elephant Man Martin Scorsese ¨C Raging Bull Roman Polanski ¨C Tess Steven Spielberg -E.T. The Extra-terrestrial "And the winner is......... Robert Redford "Ordinary People"." Alex''s rebirth still couldn''t change the result. The next and last award is best picture and its nominations are "Ordinary People" "Tess" "Raging Bull" "Elephant Man" and " E.T." "And the best picture is..........."E.T."" And the applause started for the film that created milestones in the film history. Alex was dumbfounded as he saw that his rebirth changed history. Kathleen Kennedy and Steven Spielberg both got on stage to receive the award. Steven said with excitement, "Thank you for the Jury and my team and especially Alex who made it possible." Kim was so proud of Alex at that moment. And the oscars ended with E.T. becoming the champion with 5 awards. ................................................. The two films brought Alex a profit of $85 million. And he through Ethan Crane made many thought as insane purschases. He bought large waarehouses and cold storages. He bought almost six months worth of non perishabe food items for atleast 3000 people. He bought pig farms and fish farms. He even bought stocks in Walmart which is still in the regional stage. He was purchasing the stocks in Walmart for a long time and at present in his hands had 1.2% stocks of the company. He even bought stocks in IBM and Intel. And in July 1981. the Recession hit USA. Timothy Hutton Sissy Spacek Chapter 12: Costco Alex was sitting before two middle-aged men while they were in deep thought. Alex was in no hurry as he was drinking coffee with his lawyer Ethan Crane. The two men names are James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman. In his timeline they were the founders of Costco, the second largest retailer in the world.Costco focuses on selling products at low prices, often at very high volume. These goods are usually bulk-packaged and marketed primarily to large families and businesses. Alex figured that since the recession is effecting the people they want products with low cost and the established companies won''t decrease prices that easily. In normal circumstances people will prefer the branded goods but in these desperate times they will look for low cost products. So, he''s going to provide them that. But he can''t oversee the business part ,so that''s why he need these two . He was offering them 10% of the company each on the condition that they have to sell it back to him if in the future they leave the company. "Alex 10% is kinda low." James mumbled with hesitation. Alex smiled in amusement "How much do you expect?" James and Jeff saw each other and Jeff responded "Each 20%" Alex shook his head and said "James, Jeff, nobody sane will agree to that. 13% is my final offer."The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. James and Jeff hesitated for a while but finally they signed the document. The headquarter would be in Los Angeles as oppossed to Washington in his previous life. Alex owns 7 warehouses in L.A. and another 6 in California city filled with the products bought from small companies with quality. All the products will have the same lebel of Kingston . The customers need $10 membership card to get discount . Within a month they have 25,000 members with a profit of $250,000 just from membership cards. Alex gave jobs to the unemployed to manufacture handmade food products. Under him there are 500 workers with proper wages. ............................................ Even in recession the movie business is running successfully. E.T. grossed $751.2 million worldwide and ended its run in theatres. Home Alone grossed $455.6 million finally. In august "The Sixth Sense" and "Pretty Woman" are released and they both are smashing hits. "The Sixth Sense" opened with a $10.3 million weekend grossing $17.6 million in its first week. It got positive reviews. Alex was singled out for his performance. The critics said "The Sixth Sense is a twisty ghost story with all the style of a classical Hollywood picture, but all the chills of a modern horror flick." The line "I see dead people" from the film became a popular catchphraseafter its release. "Pretty Woman" opened with $9.1 million weekend grossing $15.2 in first week. Kim got rave views for her performance. The audiences wanted to escape from reality in these times and this modern fairy tale provides it. Alex''s reputation soared both as screenwriter as actor as his films are both critical and commercial successes. His name became synonymous with success. Chapter 13: Continuation of success One of the few things that Alex figured out in his new life is that he likes acting as much as directing. Alex also liked the attention and adoration by the people. Not all good actors could achieve that. May be thay can gain respect but not worship. There are only few of those kind like Harrison ford, Robert Redford, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro etc. And Alex know that action stars are the super stars, but in the new millenium there aren''t enough bonafide super stars left that can carry the whole movie by themselves. Only Tom Cruise, Leonardo Dicaprio, Brad Pitt and one or two other actors retained their status. It''s because they couldn''t give consistent hits, franchise stars couldn''t shed their image, and there were lot of one hit wonder kind of actors. There are talent actors but not Idols and Super stars. Alex want to become both a great and popular actor. To achieve that he had to give consistent hits in deversified roles. The first step in that direction is "The Sixth Sense" to shed the image of Kevin from "Home Alone". After this year''s "Home Alone 2" he wouldn''t star in this role again. And even if he want to he couldn''t as he was about to hit his growth spurt. Alex chose to make atleast two films every year, one dramatic movie for awards and one for the masses. He will make sure that both are critical and commercial success. ********************* Alex was in the shooting of "Home Alone 2" when he remembered a film directed by Steven Spielberg about a boy in Shanghai in the time of World war II. But the problem is the script was adapted from the book by J.G. Ballard based on his experiences in the war as a boy. So, it would be difficult to copy the book. That''s why Alex had gone personally to meet with the author. He didn''t take his lawyer along with him as it would be too business like. At the front door he was met with a 21 year-old girl with blond hair pinching his cheeks. "So cute!" she said loudly with excitement. It was not the first time Alex experienced this. Ever since the release of "Home Alone" every female whether she was 16 year-old or 60 year-old he gets the same treatment. But he still couldn''t get quite used to it. "Bea, you are embarrassing him" said J.G. Ballard who came after her daughter. "But dad, Kevin is so cute." she said with a smile.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Alex said with a serious face "Miss Ballard, my name''s not Kevin but Alex, Alexander King" Bea''s eyes became wide and Alex cheeks were again piched "You are cute even in anger." Alex surrendered with his hands up in his mind. *********************** After that embarrassing event Alex and James (James Graham Ballard) went on their business. James was quite impressed with alex''s work in The Sixth Sense and he agreed to let Alex write his childhood as script on the condition that it will start filming only he was satisfied with it and his name as co-writer in the credits. Alex offered $150,000 and 2% share in profit of the film. Alex chose to revise the script of the originalversion of the film. The film''s length is 150 minutes and there aren''t even some grandoise war scenes. Though Alex liked it , it''s not everyone''s cup of tea. He trimmed it maintaining the soul of it , but adding some muscle to it. In Alex''s estimation, this version''s length would be around 120 minutes. James was quite satisfied with the script and signed the contract. Alex showed the script to Steven Spielberg and Steven was excited to direct it. Steven was labeled as science fiction specialist but Alex knew that his two best directors are for war films and this movie will be a training exercise for him. Alex founded a prodution company named Kingston Studios and along with Amblin Entertainment they are going to produce this film. *********************** By the start of November "The Sixth Sense" grossed $124.8 million domestically and $138.4 million in overseas for a total of $ 263.2 million world wide. Since it was released almost a decade earlier it couldn''t out-gross its $672 million but it may as well reach $450 million mark. "The Pretty Woman" grossed $111.2 million domestically and $102.6 million from overseas for a total of $213.8 million world wide. Although it may not out-gross it''s original version world wide it will definitely out-grosss domestically. In November "Home Alone 2" was released in 2,120 theatres and opened with a staggering $19.2 million weekend and grossed $30.1 million in first week breaking all the records. And Alex''s winning streak is continuing. James Graham "J.G." Ballard Chapter 14: End of the year & Nominations "Give up James, you are going to lose anyway." "Shut up Keith! Why don''t you give it a try? You too got your ass handed to you by Alex." James said between heavy breaths. "It''s called wisdom and after an entire year of your butt getting kicked by Alex, you should have earned it." Keith retorted. "But come on, look at him, he''s just 5''1 weighing 78 lbs with a face of baby angel. If the girls hear that we lost to him, we will be laughing stock." James grumbled. "Last year Alex was 4''10, but we still picked a fight with him" Keith countered. The boys names are James Gilbert and Keith Richards.They are the heirs of rich families who tried to bully him , when he enrolled at Harvard boys for School, one of the prestigious prep school in in the USA. After getting their ass kicked, they asked Alex to teach them how to fight so that they can beat him. Keith gave up after three months but James was stubborn. Alex looked at them with an amused expression. Though they started on wrong foot they became friends. Alex was just 13 while James and keith both were 16 year-old and all three of them were in the 11th grade( junior year). Harvard boys school students graduate early compared to their peers as they all are very intelligent. "Alex, did you see latest Forbes edition?" Keith questioned looking into the magazine. "OhGod, another article about Alex. What''s this time?" James inquired. " Not specifically about Alex but the year end box office results. "The Sixth Sense" grossed $363.2 million and "Home Alone 2", released early in november, grossed $210.7 million worldwide. "Pretty Woman", written by Alex, grossed $231.8 worldwide making Alex the hottest commodity in Hollywood." In early 80s these figures are extremely dazzling but it was all part of Alex''s plan. With his first film "E.T ." he got inernational recognition and next chose the phenomenal commercial value scripts. His popularity combined with solid scripts got these results.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. "Well, Miss Basinger was hot in "Pretty Woman"" James said with a dreamy look in his eyes. "Yeah, she was" Keith replied with the same look as James. "And I am gonna kick your both asses again" Alex said with the smile of a devil. "Mommy.......!" "Help......!" ********************* It''s Christmas day and Kim''s family members came to visit. Kim''smother, Ann Lee (n¨¦e Cordell), was a model, actress and swimmer.Her father, Donald Wade Basinger, was a bandmusician and loan manager; as a U.S. Army soldier, he landed in Normandy on D-Day.The third of five children,kimhas two brothers, James Michael "Mick" and Skip, and two sisters, Ashley and Barbara. Though they are Kim''s family Alex was not close with them. Alex had serious trust issues, so Kim never forced him. Golden globe nominations were announced and "The Sixth Sense" was nominated for Best Picture, director, actor in Drama for al Pacino, supporting actor for Alex, original screenplay, supporting actress for Susan Sarandon and best editing. "Home Alone" got 2 nominations for the Best picture Musical or comedy and best actor in musical or comedy for Alex. For "Pretty Woman", Kim was nominated for Best actress in Musical or Comedy. ******************** Alex was busy with the preparation work of "Empire of the Sun" . Its budget is $30 million with Phoenix studios and Amblin Entertainment sharing half of the investment with half of the profits. Phoenix Studiosnegotiated with Shanghai Film Studios and China Film Co-Production Corporationandpermission was granted for a three-week shoot in early May 1982. It was the first American film that''s going to be shot in Shanghai since the 1940s. Since the movie schedule is pushed to May, Alex decided to film a new movie "Lucas"(1986). Chapter 15: Casting " Golden Globe Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy award goes to..........Kim Basinger, "Pretty Woman"" "Yes!" Alex jumped with excitement when the award was announced. He turned to see that Kim was smiling and crying at the same time. He held her shoulders saying, "Go, its your time now." She went on to stage and received the award. Giving the award speech "I Thank the jury for giving me this award. I also thank my director, my co-star Al Pacino and the entire crew. But the person I most want to thank is the person most dear to me in the world. He gave me courage to take this road and he provided me the opportunity again and again to me. Alex King, I love you." There was a loud applause as all they know how those two got acquainted and the difficulties Alex faced as the child. Alex was touched by her words and he was on verge of tears. That was the first time anybody had said that they loved him in this life or previous. Though he knew that Kim loved him but it was never said out aloud. Kim came back to sit beside him and her fingers threaded through his sharing a companionable silence. In this awards ceremony "The Sixth Sense" had won no awards. The best suppoting actor award had gone to John Gielgud for Arthur. Best Pictur Drama isOn Golden Pond. Best Actor Drama-Henry Fonda(On Golden Pond). Best Actress Drama-Meryl Streep(The French Lieutenant''s Woman). Best Supporting Actress-Joan Hackett(Only when I laugh). Best Director-Warren Beatty(Reds). It was pretty disappointing for Alex at the same time expected as there were heavyweights in the competition, "On Golden Pond", "Arhtur" were conidered as classics in his previous life. .......................... Right after the Golden Globes the Oscar nominations were announced with "The Sixth Sense" earning six nominations for, Best picture, director, supporting actor, supporting actress, editing and original screenplay. This was Alex''s second nomination for Original Screenplay and first nomination for acting. Kim was also nominated for the Best Actress (Pretty Woman).Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Steve Spielberg right after "E.T." started filming "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and gave a blockbuster again. Steven was researching for the next film "Empire of the Sun" . Meanwhile Alex was preparing for his next film "Lucas". He selected David Seltzer, the original director and screenwriter of this film though this time Alex was the screenwriter. The film''s budget was $4 million with Lucas and David serving as producers. ................................ For the role Cappie Roew, the protector of Lucas, Alex chose one of his favourite actors Robert Downey Jr. . Downey is a natural actor and there is no concern about his acting. The role Maggie, the girl Lucas had crush on, needs an actress who was both cute and sexy at the same time. Alex remembered Robin Wright, the lead in "The Princess Bride" in his previous life. She had a grace in her, so Alex inquired and found that she was working as a model. Alex contacted her manager and they happily agreed as it would be a great chance working with Alex. On February 15th, 1982, the filming of "Lucas" officially started. Robin Wright (young) Robin Wright(2010) Robert Downey Jr. in 1980s Chapter 16: Advice For a movie to succeed it need a good story, captivating rhythm, good acting etc. But for the movie to be a blockbuster it needs a star, though there are some exceptions like STAR WARS, E.T. They are the movies where the visuals are the star. In 1980s and 1990s even a mediocre movie becomes a hit if there was a big star in it. In 1980s, if a movie made $100 million domestically it would be called a great hit and a movie if made $200 million worldwide it would be the biggest hit of the year. In 80s Hollywood still had to fully invade the international market and there wasn¡¯t a big international star as opposed to North America. But every film Alex starred in grossed almost $400 million worldwide making the box office analysts searching for an answer. The answer they came to was that Alex was a bona fide international superstar. His age, his innocent good looking face, his backstory of rags-to-riches made him an motivational figure. ¡°The Sixth Sense¡± grossed $401.2 million worldwide crossing $200 million mark domestically and in overseas simultaneously. ¡°Home Alone 2¡± grossed $242.3 worldwide with $101 million from North America. The Studios are ready to pay $5 million paycheck for Alex to star in a film. $5 million is the amount the top of the actor crop gets in the early 1980s which is equivalent to $15 million club in 1990s and $20 million club in 2000s. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. ¡°Come on Alex, it¡¯s not that big of a thing, every actor have this problem in one point of their career.¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah, save it Robert. I don¡¯t want your sympathy, I want solution.¡± Alex grumbled. The young man comforting Alex was Robert Downey Jr. They became friends on the set of LUCAS and Robert didn¡¯t hit rock bottom yet. The problem they were discussing was about Alex having the problems to portray the character of Lucas. Lucas was an intelligent, shy, nerdy 14-year-old social outcast with inferiority complex. Alex was also very intelligent in his previous life, his master sent him to high school at 13 year-old as Alex skipped middle school. But Alex was not a social outcast as he was popular though he didn¡¯t care, he didn¡¯t have inferiority complex as the life he led gave him enormous self-confidence. The roles he Alex played until now are the roles he can relate to somehow. ¡°We couldn¡¯t relate to every role we portray. So, you have to deduct the role to a single point where you have the common ground and imagine it from there.¡± Robert replied smoking joint.Stolen novel; please report. Alex didn¡¯t tell him to stop smoking because although they are friends they are not best friends. Alex tried to find the common ground between Lucas and him. Lucas was a social outcast but Alex didn¡¯t care about the society¡¯s approval. ¡°By the way, your sister Kim was hot.¡± Robert suddenly said. ¡°She¡¯s not my sister and you will feel fire on your ass for your comment.¡± Alex replied with a smile knowing that Robert made that comment to lighten his mood. At that moment Alex suddenly figured out the common ground between Lucas and him. LOVE. Yes. Lucas¡¯s love for Maggie though it¡¯s more of a puppy love. But still it was an intense love that made Lucas to come out of his shell. Alex¡¯s love for Kim was the fuel for his desire to be at the top, so nothing can hurt her. Love is the greatest common ground between Alex and Lucas. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­ From the next day the film shooting was smooth as Alex deduced the character of Lucas perfectly. On February 22nd Alex made a call to Los Angeles. ¡±Happy Birthday Little Imp, how are you?¡± ¡°Oh Alex, thank you for remembering my birthday, but why don¡¯t you come and say it directly ?¡± Drew complained. Alex kept in touch with Drew Barrymore to keep an eye on her. She was seven this year and he sent a gift to be delivered to her. Drew was the only one other than Kim he was close to. ¡°Stop complaining, do you like my gift?¡± ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a painting of me and I like it. Alex, was it you who painted it?¡± ¡°Yes, anything for my little sister.¡± Alex as a digital media student in his previous life had some experience in painting, so that he can show what he want on paper. ¡°Ok, I got work to do, and I am hanging up the phone. Bye, bye birthday girl?¡± Alex completed his phone call and went on to complete the rest of his scenes. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­ On March 3rd, the filming of Lucas was finished. Kim and Lucas took a break from their busy lives and were enjoying a quiet day in the home. Kim¡¯s new film was Mr. Mom which was handpicked by Alex and even invested in it. Fox Studios welcomed his investment as they have confidence in his judgment and if the movie fails Alex would owe them one. As he was reading the scripts, one script caught his eye Never Say Never Again, James Bond film. In his previous life, the role Domino Petachi was Kim¡¯s big breakthrough role and she was beautiful in it. ¡°My agent said to reject that film?¡± Kim said from behind. Alex turned with a smile and asked ¡°Because of the superstition?¡± Kim nodded with a smile. The superstition was that most actresses¡¯ career dooomed after playing the bond girls. ¡°Take the role, Kim.¡± Alex told her without any explanation. ¡°I¡¯ll make my manager contact them.¡± Kim agreed without any hesitation. She had complete confidence in him more than in herself. Chapter 17: Shanghai "Ladies and gentlemen, this is the 54th Academy awards show and coincidentally it''s the 54th awards show of the year......." audience laughed at the joke of Johnny Carson, who is hosting Oscars. Alex and Kim were sitting together a with Steven Spielberg,Jonathan Demme and others. "There are so many veterans in competition this year. Just consider the acting nominees alone. We have screen veterans Henry Fonda, John Gielgud, Katherine Hepburn and Alex King. Oh, I''m sorry, Alex''s not a veteran but who cares his film''s grossed more money than any veteran''s all films put together." everybody laughed as they all know Alex''s four films combined grossed $2 billion globally. The award show continued and time came for the Best Supporting Actor award. ".......and the winer is Alex King for "The Sixth Sense"." applause brokeout as soon as the name was announced. Everybody congratulated Alex but he still was in a daze. Though he knew he got chance to win the award, it was still such a schock. It was his first Oscar win for acting, the profession he never thought he would choose. After receiving the award, Alex said "Well,..ha..I don''t know what to say. I always imagined saying something cool and sophisticated after receiving the award, but my mind is blank right now. So, I will just say, thank you for your support." Alex finished with a simple speech. It was Alex''s second Oscar that night as he won Best Original Screenplay (The Sixth Sense). Even when receiving that award Alex was composed but his brain got muddled receiving the acting award. Over Alex won three individual Oscars (Best Original Screenplay E.T.). Henry Fonda won Best Actor (On Golden Pond) Katherine Hepburn won Best Actress (On Golden Pond). Kim was not upset for losing as she knew she got a long road ahead of her. Best Director- Warren Beatty (Reds) Best Picture- Chariots of Fire "The Sixth Sense" only earned two but very important awards. With the publicity of winning two Oscars "The Sixth Sense" completed its run in theatres with $511.5 million worldwide with $241.3 domestic gross. "Home Alone 2" finished its run with $354.7 million worldwide with $140 million domestic gross.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. .................................. Alex and Steven started the filming of "Empire of the Sun" in Shanghai. Alex with the experience he gained while shooting "Lucas" integrated into the role of Jim Graham. The common ground between Jim and Alex is hunger. Jim''s main motive behind his actions in the film was to escape hunger. Alex experience in his both lives. He fought for food in his previous life. He was kept hungry as punishment in this life. So, Alex was perfect for this role. Alex loved the Shanghai city. It is the most populous city in the world. There was always something to visit in his spare time like museums, historic buildings. Alex received a good news from his lawyer Ethan that he gained 25% ownership in the Oracle Systems Corporation by $20 million funds. Ethan thought the price was somewhat high but Alex demanded to purchase it. Alex earned newfound respect as an actor from Steven Spielberg while filming the movie. Alex''s depiction of Jim as the boy who does whatever necessary to stay alive and at the same time his desire to help others. Alex showed the Jim''s character growth throughout the film. After a difficult and tight scheduled three weeks, the shooting part in Shanghai was completed. Next, they travelled to Spain to film the remaining part. Meanwhile, Jeff Spencer, the head of Pheonix Studios, who Alex appointed negotiated with AMC Entertainment Inc. and Regal Entertainment group and got 700 theatres for the release of "Lucas" on June 3, 1982. It was the first film that the Pheonix Studios was distributing and all the employees of Pheonix Studios were under a lot of pressure. Three days before the preview ceremony Alex came to the company after successfully completing the filming of "Empire of the Sun". Other Studios were not optimistic about "Lucas" as it was different from Alex''s previous films. E.T. had the alien, "The Sixth Sense" had Al Pacino and "Home Alone" films are comedy films. In "Lucas" Alex is the true lead and he had to prove that he had the strength to carry the whole movie on his little shoulders. .................................. Kim was filming "Tootsie" alongside Dustin Hoffman in the role which was played by Jessica Lange in his previous life. "Tootsie"tells the story of a talented but volatile actor whose reputation for being difficult forces him to adopt a new identity as a woman to land a job. Because of the butterfly effect of his rebirth, "Mr. Mom" was going to be released ahead of 1 year than in his previous life. Alex was planning her career meticulously. Kim came with Alex to attend the preview ceremony of "Lucas" on June 2nd, 1982. Chapter 18: Ballet Billy Elliot Lucas: I guess everybody has their own idea of fun. Some people go to football games. Other people do less superficial things. Maggie: Look, just because you don''t approve of something, doesn''t mean other people don''t have a right to enjoy it. You''re in the band aren''t you? Lucas: Yeah? Maggie: So? Lucas: So? Maggie: So the band goes to football games! Lucas: We''re totally different! Maggie: Why? Lucas: Because the band does not have fun there! ........................................................
Ben: Did you hear about Lucas? It''s suicide! Rena: What do you mean? Ben: He''s gone out for the football team! (Rena is a girl having crush on Lucas)
Audience laughed loudly at the dialogues in the film. "Lucas" film''s strength lies on it''s witty dialogues and Alex delivered them brilliantly. (In another scene where the jocks try to bully Lucas): Bruno: Leukoplakia! They actually found a jock strap to fit you? Somebody should stop by home ec. tomorrow to pick up a thimble. Or maybe a thimble is too big. How about a contact lens and a band aid? Lucas: Are you referring to the size of my penis? Bruno: Yeah, I am. Lucas: With a flaccid penis, it''s the number of folds that count. Besides, I''m not semi-erect like some of you guys here. Bruno: What did you say? Lucas: A University of Chicago study. You can tell the fags in a warm shower by who''s got the longest dong. Hey, yours seems to be growing even now. Bruno: The hell it is! Lucas: It IS, look! There was another burst of deep loud hearty laughter coming from the audience at somewhat crude but clever joke. It was Alex''s first film using the vulgar language but the audience seem to accept it. Coach: Hear me good, you pissant! Because I''m only going to tell you one more time. Lucas: Don''t you call me that! Don''t you call me a pissant, you dumb fucking jock! Coach: What''d you say? Lucas: You heard me, pencil-brain! I mean, who are we kidding here, who is the pissant? The second-rate coach of a third rate team or me? ....................................
Maggie: You know how wonderful you are?
Lucas: Yeah, but it doesn''t turn you on, does it?
Maggie: Lucas, we''re just friends.
[Lucas looks at her and tries to kiss her; she bemusedly backs away from]Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.
Maggie: What am I going to do with you?
Lucas: [Heartbroken, he gets up and goes to the nest] Go away. Go. [eyes her] Leave! LEAVE!! GO!! GO AWAY!!!
Audience felt the pain of Lucas and understood it. It only happens when they care enough about the character.
[spoiler] The next day, Lucas, still reeling, removes his helmet during his first football game (the uniform was too big for him) and is severely injured, requiring hospitalization. Maggie, Cappie, and Rina attempt to contact Lucas'' parents, though Maggie discovers that she does not know Lucas as well as she thought she did. Correcting Maggie''s misguided impression that Lucas lives in a large luxurious house she has seen him at several times before, Rina shows the pair that Lucas lives in a dilapidated trailer with his alcoholic father and works as a gardener at the large house where Maggie had visited him previously. Meanwhile, Lucas'' schoolmates hold a vigil in the hospital for him as he recuperates. Maggie visits Lucas'' room that evening and sternly tells him never to play football again. Lucas promises, and the two reconcile, picking up their close friendship where they left off. They speculate as to where they will be when the locusts return seventeen years later, with locusts being one of the many scientific things Lucas introduced Maggie to during their summer together; both express the hope that they will still be friends when the locusts return again. Lucas returns to school a short time later, with schoolmates all casting surprised looks at him as he walks through the hall. Many talk amongst themselves about what he did on the football field, and how the jocks at school likely have it out for him now. Upon reaching his locker, he finds Bruno and Spike there waiting for him. Thinking it''ll just be the same old story, Lucas tries to ignore them as he opens his locker. Inside is a varsity letter jacket, emblazoned with Lucas'' name and number (72) on the back. As Lucas takes it out in shock, Bruno starts the "slow clap", and the entire hallway starts applauding. Maggie, Cappie, and Rina are there, too, leading the applause as Lucas raises his arms triumphantly and smiles. [/spoiler] Audience gave a thunderous applause after the ending of the film expressing their approval of the film. ................................ These are the taglines of the film Lucas. The Critics gave good reviews Roger Ebert gave the film 4 out of 4 stars, calling it a film "about teenagers who are looking how to be good with each other, to care, and not simply to be filled with egotism, lust and selfishness, which is all most Hollywood movies think teenagers can experience". Walter Goodman of NY Times praising Alex''s performance wrote, "Behind his big eyeglasses, Alex King, playing Lucas, is like the young Woody Allens who sometimes pop up in Woody Allen movies. (In a nice play on movie conventions, he takes off his glasses in preparation for a love scene.) He''s a romantic smart aleck, an innocent intellectual. He dismisses as ''''superficial'''' the world that rejects him and that he longs to join. " "Lucas" grossed $4.9 million in the weekend, the lowest weekend gross of Alex''s career but still well above the expectations as it was released in just 700 theatres. AMC and Regal increased 200 theatres each after the weekend bringing the theatre count to 1100. By the end of first week "Lucas" grossed $10.3 million defying all the expectations. If all goes well it may cross the $100 million mark in the North America. It opened in the #2 place behind "Star TrekII: The Wrath of Khan". ................................ After the release of "Lucas" Alex was once again busy with the dubbing and post production work of "Empire of the Sun". After finishing the work he contacted "Disney" and asked if they are interested in the new script he wrote. The reason Alex contacted Disney was because to get a strong backer for the Phoenix Studios. The President of the Walt Disney Studios was Ron William Miller, son-in-law of Walt Disney. In previous life Ron in 1983 became CEO but ousted from the company in 1984. Even in 1982 Ron was unsure of his position and he need a big hit to gain a footing in the company. Ron thinks Alex maybe his savior. Ron and Alex met at a restaurant to discuss the cooperation. Ron read the script "Billy Elliot" and he was quite satisfied with it. "Billy Elliot" was the type of film that Disnay was famous for producing. "Mr.Miller are you interested in the copyright of the "Home Alone" series?" Alex asked suddenly. Ron Miller was shocked at the question. Ofcourse he was interested, it was a great series especially fot the kids, who are the Disney target audience. "What do you want in exchange?" Ron Miller asked with doubts in his heart. "Mr. Miller I am giving it to you as a token of friendship for just $1 million. You need it right now." Alex said with a calm voice. Ron was shocked and saw Alex in a new light. Ron listened that he was a genius and he didn''t know how right those words are until now. Ron simply nodded and accepted his offer. Alex presented two more scripts named "The Mighty Ducks" and "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" and left with a smile as Ron was in a state of daze. Alex know Ron will like the films and they are sure hits spawing the sequels. Ron will be busy the next two years. ............................ For the role of "Billy Elliot" Alex started his grusome training of ballet.
Chapter 19: Meet James Jeff Spencer, head of Phoenix Studios contacted Alex when he was preparing for the role of Billy Elliot. "What''s the matter Jeff ?" Alex asked sipping the orange juice after an intense ballet session. Jeff was a 40 year-old middle aged man married with two kids. He was hardworking and loyal. "Alex, I read a script that I thought brilliant but was rejected by other studios." "They are not always right, Jeff. If you think its a good script then you have to worry about only my opinion." Alex said with a touch of arrogance in his voice." So, what''s the name of the script ?" "Well, it''s about a a cyborg assassin sent back in time from 2029 to 1984 to kill a woman, whose son will one day become a savior against machines in a post-apocalyptic future. The script is named ''The Terminator''" Aex was excited hearing each word from Jeff but he hid hi excitement and asked "Who''s the writer ?" "A fellow named James Cameron, he directed ''Piranha II'' which was a disaster. He wants to direct this film, which is my major concern." Jeff expressed his concerns to Alex. Alex doesn''t have any doubts about James Cameron''s ability as director. "Jeff, arrange a meeting witth him ?" Jeff nodded and had gone to do just that. ................................................... "Mr. Cameron, stop! You don''t have to convince me anymore. I came because I already made my decision to produce your film." Alex said putting a stop to non-stop talk. "Well,I...Thank you Alex. You won''t regret your decision." James couldn''t contain his excitement. "I hope so. Now, to the important matters. How much will it cost me ?"Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. "$5 million." James said without any hesitation. Alex didn''t believe him. James has the notorious reputation for going over the budget. "Don''t make me laugh James." James'' expression stiffened. "Do you think it''s unnecessary ?" Alex shook his head "That''s not what I meant. You know how much it cost for my last movie ''Lucas''. $4 million. But what you are going to make is a sci-fi film. Do you really think that''s enough ?" James understood his words "You mean....?" "$10 million. That''s your budget. Don''t make me regret." "Yes, yes." James was excited and made a promise to himself that won''t make Alex regret his decision. "Contact the person in this number. She will be the producer of this film." Alex said giving him a contact number. The name of that person is Gale Anne Hurd, original producer of this film and later James Cameron''s wife. She was working in the Phoenix studies as Jeff hired her. .............................................. Kim''s film "Mr. Mom" was released and grossed $5 million in the opening weekend, which was way above the expectations. "Lucas" was faring well in it''s fourth weekend grossing $3 million for a total domestic gross of $32 million. In Europe, the paradise for art films, Lucas got a good response because of it''s artistic tone in addition to Alex''s charm. In the foreign territories it grossed $18 million for the worldwide total of $50 million. Though it''s well below Alex''s previous films, considering the subject of the film, it''s a big success. Alfred Pendleton was a quiet man. He was an Ex-SEAL and did many tours. Alfred was now working as Alex''s bodyguard. Right now he was teaching Alex how to use a gun. Alex learned from his master every weapon has its merit but he never used the gun. Alex was now a public figure and he will face malice and jealousy of others. So, Kim and Alex are taking shooting lessons to protect themselves. Though Alex said he doesn''t need them Kim insisted. Anyway it''s a nice practice for his roles in future films. His company Costco. now had 120,000 members and still joining. Alex gained a total of 3.6% shares in Walmart making him one of the key shareholders. Alex invested another $4 million in the Microsoft. Alex was waiting for the day to cash on his investment. James Cameron Chapter 20: New Projects Alex wanted the Pheonix Studios to enter Television industry and they need a ground breaking show. There were many successful TV shows in 1990s and 2000s but he wanted a show that will appear innovative and daring. So, he chose the TV show''Miami Vice'' . Some said that it is the ''first show to look really new and different since color TV was invented''. Alex didn''t plan to write the entire show as he had to complete several projects. So, he contacted the original creator of ''Miami Vice'' Anthony Yerkovich with just a pilot episode and asked him to develop the show based on the pilot. Besides Miami Vice, Alex wanted to produce a game show '' Who wants to be a Millionaire ?''. It was one of the most popular game shows in television history and one of the most profitable. It can be produced in new version in any country and can enjoy the rewards as long as you have the copyright in your hands. Alex pitched the idea to Jeff Spencer and gave him the duty of developing and producing the show. .............................................. "Mr. Craven, the Phoenix Studios are interested in producing your film." Jeff said to the man who was renowned as the ''Master of Horror'', Wes Craven. And the film they were talking about was''A Nightmare on Elm Street'', one of the most successful horror franchise. "Mr. Spencer, how did you know about the script ?" Wes Craven asked as not many people know he was seeking the investment for his next film. "Actually I don''t know." "Then...." "Its Mr.King who told me to contact you" Jeff interrupted the questioning and continued, "as for how he knew, it''s not my job to ask that questions." Wes Craven understood that he wouldn''t get answers but he didn''t mind as long as they can produce his film. The film''s budget was confirmed as $2 million with Wes Craven getting 20% of the profits. Phoenix Studios aquired half of the copyright with the condition that if in the future Wes decided to sell his half of the copyright then he had to sell it to Phoenix Studios. ............................................................ Alex was attending theRosh Hashanah (Day of Judgement/Day of Memorial/Jewish New Year) in the Steven Spielberg''s house. Kim came tagged along with Alex. He saw Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, John Williams whom he knew very much. He also saw George Lucas and Brian De Palma.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. Spielberg,George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, John Milius, and Brian De Palma, collectively known as the "Movie Brats". "Alex, what''s your next film ?" Brian De Palma asked with genuine curiosity. "A musical called ''Billy Elliot''. The filming will begin after the release of ''Empire of the Sun''." Alex hesitated a moment but asked anyway. "Mr. Brian, is the leading lady in your next film decided?" Brian De Palma''s next film was''Scarface''. Brian looked at Alex with questioning in his eyes "No, I and Al Pacino couldn''t agree with each other on the leading lady." "Can you give the audition opportunity to Kim ? Not the role, just an audition to see if she was suitable to the role." Alex requested him. Brian nodded hesitatingly. Infront of him was a young and successful actor, screen writer and producer. Most important role was the third role as Producer. In Hollywood most co-operations are based on favours. ........................................................... "Lucas" grossed $82.6 million in its run in North American theatres and $76.4 million in other territories for a worldwide gross of $159 million and ended its run. It was nothing compared to Alex''s previous films but it''s 1980s and anything north of $50 million is a superhit. But still some people say that Alex lost his charm at the box office and predicted that ''Empire of the Sun'' was going to be his first flop. In amidst these rumours, ''Empire of the Sun'' was released in 750 theatres, on 24th September, 1982. Brian De Palma Chapter 21: Worthy of Oscar Nomination "Come on Harry, it''s Alex''s new movie. You know how much I love him." A 17 year-old said to her boyfriend. "Nikki, but I want to see Rocky III. It''s a great film, our friends said so." Harry tried to convince her. "And more over it''s a war film, and you said those movies are not your cup of tea." "But it''s Alex. I have to support his films as his fan." Nikki said pouting. Harry gave up and bought two tickets for the film. Alex''s fans are mainly kids and girls. Kids bring family and girls bring guys to the films. Alex and his fans are of the same generation. Kids loved him in E.T, ''Home Alone'' series. He entered teenage and so are his majority of fans. When he reaches adulthood so will they. He had to satisfy his fan base with changing times and at the same time bring new fans of other generations. ''Empire of the Sun''-To survive in a world at war, he must find a strength greater than all the events that surround him. It''s the tagline for the film. It''s about the forces that assault a boy''s childhood in World War II. The central character is a precocious 11-year-old English boy named Jim (Alex King) who lives with his parents in the suburban British quarter of Shanghai''s International Settlement. At the film''s beginning, on the eve of the Japanese invasion of Shanghai, Jim is too absorbed in his boy''s adventure fantasies to pay much mind to the gathering war clouds. Jim: I was dreaming about God. Mary Graham: What did he say? Jim: Nothing. He was playing tennis. Perhaps that''s where God is all the time and that''s why you can''t see Him when you''re awake, do you think? Mary Graham: I don''t know. I don''t know about God. Jim: Perhaps He''s our dream... and we''re His. This scene between Jim and his mother shows his innocence at the same time his keen mind. The most agonizing moment in "Empire of the Sun" comes near the beginning as the streets of Shanghai are filled with a panic-stricken mob and he is separated from his parents as they flee to sanctuary. One moment his mother has him by the hand, and the next moment he has dropped his toy airplane and stooped to pick it up and they are separated by 5,000 frightened people, never to see each other again until the war is over. Desperate for food, he''s later taken in by Basie (John Malkovich) and his sidekick, Frank, a pair of American merchant seamen who scavenge the area for whatever loot they can find. Initially, they plan to sell Jim, but there are no takers (he''s too skinny), and eventually the three of them are captured by the Japanese and imprisoned. Once the locale shifts to the main prison camp the movie begins to deteriorate. The scenes that follow focus on the traumas that Jim and the other prisoners must endure, and they''re meant to emphasize Jim''s suffering. Instead, they demonstrate Jim''s resiliency and indomitable energy. Jim is a quick learner. Short, fast and somewhat invisible because of his youth, he has the run of the camp. He knows all the shortcuts and all the scams and steals to survive.Jim seems to thrive in prison, and, taking tips from Basie he negotiates the lanes of supply at the camp, both official and unofficial, with an enviable shrewdness and savvy. Jim always admired Japanese for their bravery but now they are against his home country England, the country he feels no layalty to.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. Jim: If the Americans land, the Japanese will fight. Dr. Rawlins: You admire the Japanese? Jim: Well, they''re brave, aren''t they? Dr. Rawlins: That''s important, is it, Jim? Jim: It''s a good thing if you want to win a war. Dr. Rawlins: But we don''t want them to win, do we. Remember, we''re British. Jim: Yes. I''ve never been there. As the months go by, he dreams less frequently of his parents and finally cannot quite even remember their faces. The audience were spellboundby the performance of Alex though they are some flaws in the film. Alex improved the original version and shortened the film length. As a result of the attack the Japanese decide to evacuate the camp. Basie escapes during the confusion, though he had promised to take Jim with him. The camp''s prisoners march through the wilderness where many die of fatigue, starvation, and disease. Jim witnesses flashes from the atomic bombing of Nagasaki hundreds of miles away. After the Japan''s surrender,Jimencounters the Japanese teenager he befriended earlier, who has since become a pilot but is now disillusioned. Basie reappears with a group of armed Americans. One of the Americans, thinking Jim is in danger, shoots and kills the Japanese youth. Basie: Jim, didn''t I teach you anything? Jim: Yes. You taught me that people will do anything for a potato. Basie offers to help Jim find his parents, but Jim¡ªinfuriated over his friend''s death¡ªchooses to stay behind. Jim is eventually found by American soldiers and placed in an orphanage, where he is reunited with his mother and father. In this film, Alex appears in almost every frame of the film and ages convincibly during the course of story in an ambitious and demanding role. Alex perfected the performance of the Christian Bale, the original actor who played Jim. The audience gave a standing ovation to the film expressing their love for the film. ............................................... Next day in the newspapers the critics praised the film as one of the best films of the year. 89% critics gave positive reviews and audience gave ''A'' in the CinemaScore. Janet Maslin from The New York Times called the film "a visual splendor, a heroic adventurousness and an immense scope that make it unforgettable." Many critics said that it was Alex''s finest performance upto date. Roger Ebert gave a positive review and wrote that Alex gave a performance worthy of an Oscar nomination. This started a discussion whether Alex could be nominated for Oscar this year. The youngest nominee for Oscar Best Actor in a Leading role isJackie Cooper for the filmSkipper(1931). If Alex was nominated he would be the second youngest. Alex was already the youngest Oscar winner in an acting role for "The Sixth Sense" for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. The weekend report and it showed that "Empire of the Sun" grossed $6.8 million in just 750 screens. Starting Monday the screens increased to 1600 and grossed $ 17.2 million in the first week and occupied #1 place in box office charts. Alex''s salary rose to $6.5 million for a film making him one of the highest paid actors in the world. Jackie Cooper in ''Skippy'' Chapter 22: Meeting Future Stars Alex was depressed both personally and professionally. Alex was now the most reliable star in the industry. He delivered six films and all are blockbusters and his least grossing film is ''Lucas'' which grossed $150 million worldwide, which would have made other studios giddy with happiness. Alex personally wrote all the scripts which makes him a successful screenwriter too. But Alex was not satisfied with it. He need a challenge right now. Though critics were saying his performance in "Empire of the Sun" was so great that it deserved an Oscar nomination but Alex knew that role was not that difficult for him. Except ''Lucas'' which gave him some problem he thought that all the roles he played until now are quite easy. Maybe it was because his soul was that of an adult that he can catch the essence of that role. Alex has a need for competition in him. He want to break his limits and want to play a wide range of roles. But the problem was his age. Most of the times it was a blessing as it gives him privilige and protection by the child actor''s bill of California but it also limits his ability to try new roles. And his personal life was in deep shit as Kim started dating an executive producer named ''Bob'' or ''Rob'' that Alex doesn''t care. Alex know that Kim hadn''t gone on a date in five years since they started living together. All her energy was invested in Alex and movies. Two weeks ago Kim''s co-star in the film Tootsie set her on a date with this Bob or Rob. Alex couldn''t demand Kim that she stop dating and he also couldn''t tell her that she wait for him to grow up. The bright side of this situation was that she had gone on three dates and she never stayed late. So, we can assume that nothing happened between then. But how long it will remain like that. Today she had again gone on a date and Alex to keep himself from moping came to a restaurant with Alfred, his bodyguard. Alex once again cursed his age as he couldn''t get a proper drink to drown his sorrows. It''s not a problem to get a drink if he really wanted to but he had his own rules. Law said that 21 is the legal age to get alcohol but it''s okay to vote at 18. Alex thinks that if a man had the right to decide the leader of a country then he had enough qualifications to get a drink at 18. He abhor drugs and doesn''t have that much interest in smoking cigarettes. So now Alex was sitting in a restaurant drinking orange juice and eating a fucking pizza. He thought to himself ''God, I''m pitiful''. "Alex, it''s a surprise to see you here ?" someone greeted Alex from his back. Alex turned to see a friend of Steven Spielberg and George Lucas and also one of the greatest directors, Francis Ford Coppola, the director of "The Godfather" series. "Hi, Francis, nice to meet you too. What are you doing here ?" Alex pulled himself out of his misery and greeted him.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Francis noticed Alex''s condition and asked "Is it a wrong time Alex? I can come some other time." Alex shook his head and said "No, sit down. God knows I need some company." Francis looked at Alex and thought it''s quite funny that seeing Alex talking like a middle-aged man. Not because it was not natural but because how natural it felt. Alex had more common with Francis'' generation than with his own. Alex with his two lifes combined lived less than 35 years but his life experience accelerated his growth. Alex then noticed that there were two young men behind him. Noticing Alex''s look Francis introduced them. "Alex, meet my nephew Nicolas Kim Coppola" referring to a tall and thin boy " and his name is Thomas Cruise he played a role in my upcoming film "The Outsiders"." introducing a handsome man. Alex knew both of them not by beforehand association but because of the stars they will become one day. Nicolas Kim Coppola aka.Nicolas Cage and Thomas Cruise aka''Tom Cruise''. Alex scrutinized Tom Cruise as he compared the present Tom to the future one. Maybe it''s the confidence brought by the success. Though most people criticised that he was cocky and arrogant and mocked his religious beliefs Alex doesn''t have bad opinion of him. A man in Tom Cruise position had the right to be arrogant and Tom never made excessive demands. If it were not because he followedScientology he still would have been the darling of the media. Tom felt somewhat uncomfortable by the scrutiny of Alex but also hopeful that Alex saw something in him that can be helpful to his career. Tom know that Alex was an Oscar winning youngest actor and screenwriter and a successful producer, which was quite amazing considering his age. Most of the people will sell their souls to be in the same position as Alex. "Yes I''ve seen Mr. Cruise in ''Taps'' and I think I''ve seen Nicolas in ''Fast Times in Ridgemont High''" Alex said casually. "Taps should have released in 1982 December but because of a ''butterfly'' it released ahead of time in August. Both Tom and Nicolas were flattered that he remember from those films. Fact is even if Alex didn''t know their future selves he would have remembered them as he had photographic memory and had seen those movies. "What are you actually doing here ?" Alex asked again. "I came here as a favour to Tom" Francis explained further "Tom''s agent arranged a meeting with the writer and producer of the film that is going to be co-produced by Geffen Film Company and Warner Bros. and I came to convice them that Tom is perfect the role." "What''s the film''s name ?" asked Alex although he guessed it. " ''White boys off the lake'' though its just a working title." Tom replied as Francis don''t know the name. Alex nodded thinking whether it''s coincidence or fate as he know the the title of the film will be changed as ''Risky Business'' the vehicle that put Tom Cruise on the map of Hollywood. Tom Cruise in 1983 Nicolas Cage in 1983 Chapter 23: Lending a Hand "Francis, would you mind if I join you, maybe I can help too ?" Alex offered his services. "Well..." Francis looked at Tom and seeing Tom''s nod he said "It''s a bonus if you can join us." Tom was not stupid he knows that Alex''s word was more precious than gold for all the studios now-a-days. And one day maybe he to can acquire that kind of power. Nicolas was not upset that he was on sidelines. He knew that today belongs to Tom Cruise and if Alex wants to support Tom he had no way to stop that. At 7:30 PM, the film''s screenwriter and director Steve Tisch arrived at the restaurant. Alex remembered the material about Steve Fischfrom his memory. Steve was an Oscar winning producer for the film "Forrest Gump" and co-owner of the NFL team NewYork Giants after he purchased 50% interest in 1991. Both Steve and Paul were quite surprised seeing him there as they were not informed. "Steve, we just met Alex and he was just interested about the film." Francis indirectly said to Steve that it was not pre-planned. Steve had some doubts but ultimately believed as Alex doesn''t have the need to lie. "Mr. Brickman, if you don''t mind could I see the script ?" Alex asked Paul Brickman politely. "Of course, I always carry a copy with me." Paul agreed as he knew the Alex''s knack for delivering phenomenal scripts. Alex started reading the script blocking out their conversation from his mind. The main character is a teenager named Joel. His family lives in a suburb on Chicago''s North Shore. It''s the sort of family that has three cars: the family station wagon, Mom''s car, and Dad''s Porsche. As the movie opens, Mom and Dad are going off on vacation to a sun-drenched consumer paradise and their only son, Joel, is being left alone at home. It''s a busy time in Joel''s life. He''s got college board exams, an interview with a Princeton admissions officer, and finals at high school. It gets to be an even busier time after his parents leave. Joel gets involved in an ascending pyramid of trouble. He calls a number in one of those sex-contact magazines and meets a young hooker who moves into the house. He runs afoul of the girl''s pimp. His mother''s expensive Steuben egg is stolen. His dad''s Porsche ends up in Lake Michigan. The family home turns into a brothel. Joel buys back the stolen stuff from the pimp using the money he earned from the party before night and Joel is accepted to Princeton. The script is same as he remembered from the movie. There is always somrthing about the film that bugged him. If some changes are made to the script then it will connect to the audience more effectively. Alex stopped reading to see that five pairs of eyes are observing him.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "I know I''m handsome but it''s uncomfortable if you all worship me like that." Alex cracked a joke. After a small laughter Paul asked " Any suggestions ?" "It''s good and it has the potential to be a hit but....." Alex hung the sentence there "But what ?" Paul''s curiosity was picked. "But how big of a hit are you expecting ?" Alex questioned. Steve and Paul looked at each other and Steve said "It''s budget will be $6 million and we are expecting box office gross in the range of $30- $35 million." Francis nodded at that as it was conservative estimation. Alex shook his head and said "My estimate is north of $60 million." Everybody was gasped at that figure. Maybe for Alex it''s normal to deliver a big hit but to not all of them. In the early 1980s if a film grossed $60 million domestically then it will be in the list top 10 grossers of the year. So, you can understand their surprise. Steve recovered from shock "Maybe you are overestimating, Alex." "Had I ever been wrong Steve ?" Steve shook his head in denial as he knew that Alex always selected the scripts for Kim Basinger and they were all hit. Inside word in Hollywood is that Alex have a ''Midas Touch''. Alex turned to Nicolas and questioned, "Nicolas you read the script right ?" Nicolas nodded in answer. "Then what do you think of Joel ?" Nicolas thought for a moment and said "He is an intelligent, smug and sex-starved teenager with serious lack of backbone. Even in the end he lacks the courage to stand upto that pimp." Alex turned to Paul and said, "Paul you wrote a story about the materialism which is a major problem in this decade. But you have to remember that we are selling a dream to the public. They want to see the hero do things that we won''t normally do. It''s not have to be a great thing but simple things like, beating up the bullies, nerd getting hot girl, a normal employee telling his boss to go fuck himself." At that line everybody laughed. "1980''s belong to teenagers and the teenagers want to lash out at everything. So, make Joel stand up to that pimp in some way and you will get the script that is the embodiment of teenage psychology." Alex stopped at that. Everybody were in silence thinking about Alex''s words. "Well anyway, what about Tom''s role ?" Alex broke the silence. Tom''s face show disappointment and Alex guessed but he still asked. Paul said in a low voice "Alex, Tom''s role in his last film "Taps" is a psychotic soldier, maybe audience won''t accept it." "Paul, ''Taps'' is a good movie but how many people had seen that movie? Moreover Tom''s going to have a complete makeover for the film anyway." Paul and Steve are still hesitant about casting Tom. Alex sensed their fear and took matters into his own hands. "Ok, listen to my offer then. If you cast Tom in this film I will owe you a favour." That''s it, the deal is done. In Hollywood the success is the best collateral. Alex put down his success as collateral to make the deal. And he gained the gratitude of a future superstar. "Alex, I don''t know how to Thank you." Tom said emotionally. "It''s nothing Tom. I thought you are apt for the role and I have absolute confidence in my decision." After saying goodbye to everyone Alex returned home. Alex had the fear of not finding Kim in the house and the agonizing thoughts of what might have happened between Kim and Bob/Rob. Steve Tisch Francis Ford Coppola Chapter 24: Kims Love Kim was bored to death hearing Robert Canning talking about the business all evening. Not that she doesn''t like listening about the new gossip about the tinsel town but she was not in the mood now. This is the fourth date with Robert Canning, young and hansome manwho is working as the executive producer in the Columbia Pictures. If it was any other girl she would have jumped with joy and would have tried to rope him. But not Kim, she had certain reputation in the industry and she Alex to support her. Kim''s mouth corners lifted in a smile as soon as she thought of Alex. The thought of Alex always puts a smile on her face. When Kim was with Alex she never misses a single thing about him as her entire world will focus only on Alex. After the dinner Robert escorted Kim to the car and kissed on her lips. He pressed his lips tightly with hers holding her close. Kim tried to find some excitement in the kiss but she couldn''t extract an ounce of excitement as hard as she may try it. Robert released her lips and sighed realizing her indifference to the kiss. Kim felt guilty but she couldn''t do anything about it. "I think it''s our goodbye kiss." Robert said with regret. Kim nodded as she knew nothing will come out of it anyway. Kim unconsciously touched the chain on her neck. It was the chain she specially ordered to be made with Alex''s photo inside it. This makes her feel as Alex was always somehow with her. Kim knew her love for Alex went beyond the line of sisterly love and she was disgusted with herself feeling that way about him.So, she started dating and it was a disaster. She couldn''t distance herself from Alex as even the thought of it make her heart ache. ..................................... Alex heard the sound of the car and his tight wound body and heart relaxed completely. It''s only 10 pm and Alex knew nothing happened. But Alex''s face tightened as soon as he saw the face of Kim. One look at her and he can tell Kim was unhappy.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. "Kim what happened ? Whay the long face ?" Alex asked with concern in his voice. Kim forced a smile and said "Nothing. Robert called it quits." Alex was burning with anger as soon as he heard that. It may be unreasonable but Alex wanted Kim to reject Robert not the other way around. "Why, does he think that you are not good enough for him." Alex kept his calm. "It''s not that. He just sensed I''m not interested in him." Kim said with a sigh. Ok. It''s great. Kim was not interested in Robert. Good news it is. "Maybe I should stop dating for the time and focus on my career." "Excellent choice. I think you should do that." Alex barely covered his excitement. Good. Wait for me Kim. It won''t be long. "By the way Kim, you are very beautiful tonight." Alex said eyeing her in the white dress she was wearing. Alex''s simple compliment gave her the excitement she wished to find in Robert''s Kiss. ''See how pathetic I am'' Kim thought to herself. ............................................. Alex was doing the tap dance on a brick wall with such a grace that even the choreographer thought ''Pity that Alex was not a professional dancer''.Everyone on the set gave a warm round of applause as soon as the dance was over. ''Go with the flow'' that''s the motto for the way Alex dances. He won''t control anything as long as the rythm was perfect his body moves on its own. Just the tap dance he performed took 5 days to choreograph to get the perfect rythm. Thank God, there weren''t many dance sequences in the film. It''s gonna take another week to complete the balance part in the movie. Meanwhile, "Empire of the Sun" in its eight weeks of release grossed $113.4 million domestically and $88.2 from other territories to the worldwide total of $201.6 million making it the second highest grossing film of 1982 as E.T. was released ahead of time. In early 1980''s international distribution was in its most primitive stage. In 1982 except for "Lucas" and "Empire of the Sun" not many films were released in international market. In the next two there were going to be many films that were going to be releasd in internationally. Kim''s film Mr. Mom grossed $95 million in it''s theatrical run earning it''s place in top 10 highest grossers of 1982. And it also outgrossed it''s original version of $65 million. Chapter 25: Fate works in mysterious ways "Indiana Jones plays no role in the outcome of the story. If he weren¡¯t in the film, it would turn out exactly the same fucking way." Alex was saying to Speilberg. "Alex......watch your words." Kim scolded him. "Pardon my French." Alex just shrugged. "What the hell are you talking about ?" Steven asked as if Alex was saying that he was not a man. "Come on think about it. If he weren¡¯t in the movie, the Nazis would have still found the ark, taken it to the island, opened it up and all died, just like they did. And Ark still would not have fallen into the hands of Nazis." Steven was about to say something but swallowed his words after thinking about that. "Come on Alex, you ruined the movie for me. Why do you have to be such a joy kill ?" George Lucas complained to Alex. "Hey just telling the facts." Alex raised his hands in defense. Today was Thanksgiving Day and Kim and Alex invited their friends. Frank Marshall, Kathleen Kennedy, Steven and George Lucas came to the dinner. Alex can see that Frank and Kathleen are dating and he also knew that if all goes well they are going to be married in 1987 and stay married until 2016, the year Alex died. George''s marriage with his wife was on rocks, so he didn''t bring her. Steve was a Jew Bachelor and he had nothing better to do on holiday anyway. As they were talking the door bell started ringing and Kim went to look who it was. After five minutes Kim brought a woman in her late 20s. " Everybody this is my friend Kathleen Capshaw, everybody calls her Kate....." Kim was introducing her to everybody. Alex almost spurt the juice in his mouth after hearing her name. He know that name. Alex loooked at Steven and saw that Steven was looking at Kate with interest. Kate Capshaw was actually Steven''s second wife married in 1991and remained to the date of Alex death. Steve''s first was Amy Irving whom he started dating in 1976 but they broke up in 1980. Eventually they get back together in 1984, married in 1985 divorced in 1989. Steven met Kate when she was cast as leading lady in ''Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom''and it was still one year away. Alex can''t even imagine how the future will be. Fate works in mysterious ways.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Alex doesn''t want to meddle in the life of Steven and bring unnecessary complications. Alex decided to keep an eye on Kate anyway. The Thanksgiving dinner went without a hitch and Kate got acquainted with everybody. She was a nice person. Everybody except Steven left to their homes and the reason was .... "Come on Kim, give me her adress or phone number.......it''s not like that........ listen, it''s professional alright......I am telling the truth, nothing but the truth...." Alex didn''t know whether laugh or cry seeing Steven groveling to Kim like that. Alex shook his head and though ''somethings are out of our control''. .................................................. Alex was listening to the financial report announced by his accountant, Christina Johnson who was working for Alex since 1977. This year Phoenix Studios made a huge profit. ''Lucas'' which cost $4 million buget and $3 million promotion cost grossed $150 million. Removing the Theatre costs, taxes ''Lucas'' made a profit of $81 million. ''Mr. Mom'' the film Alex invested minted $8 million. Alex''s share of profits from all the video casette sales of his films minte him $11 million and Alex''s other business ventures like Costco., Walmart shares, Apple shares brought him $25 million. This year Alex''s profit after paying all the taxes is a staggering $125 million. By combining the $25 million already in his account Alex''s account holds $150 million making him the youngest self-made millionaire. And this is all without counting his shares in Microsoft and Oracle which didn''t go public and he still has to collect the profits from ''Empire of the Sun''. This $150 million is pure liquid cash, not shares, not properties but pure liquid cash. ''People'' magazine wrote a coverpage article about Alex''s success and his wealth. Alex''s six films grossed over $2.5 billion worldwide making him the most successful actor without adjusting for inflation. Kate Capshaw with her husband Steven Spielberg Amy Irving with her ex-husband Steven Spielberg Chapter 26: Power 1980 Lincon Continental was crusing through the traffic. Alex was talking in his car phone to his lawyer and his investor Eric Freemont talking about a new business deal. "Did the deal go through?" Alex asked while reading the newspaper. "Yeah, from today onwards you own Smith & Wesson and the Piper Aircraft." Eric Freemont said proud of himself. Well, Eric had the qualifications to be proud after all. From the last 18 months he worked very hard on this deal and saved Alex $10 million by buying the two companies from Bangor Punta Corporation for $62 million. Smith & Wesson was fire arms manufacture company which supplies guns mainly to law enforcement. Piper Aircraft is the manufacturer of general aviation aircraft. After ening the call Alex continued his reading. "Say it Alfred." Alex suddenly said without raising his head to his chaffeur/bodyguard Alfred. Alfred was surprised "How do you know I want to ask something?" "Your curiosity was filling the car that I can cut it with a knife." Alfred smiled and asked, "Why do you need a fire arms and aircraft manufacture company? You are quite wealthy already and very popular so why?" Alex raised his head and looked directly into his eyes and asked "Alfred, how do you define a powerful man?" Alfred was caught off guard by that question but answered "A man with enough money that he can get away with anything." "Money was not enough, you need connections. Smith & Wesson has government contacts, which I need for the future. The Piper aircraft was not going to be just a general aviation aircraft manufacture. It''s going to manufacture military aircraft in the near future." Alfred confused asked, "Why go to all this trouble ?" "Its a stupid question Alfred. You know why?" "For Power." Alfred conformed it." But why do you need the power." "It''s still a stupid question but I will answer it for you." Alfred was was waiting for his answer. "Because I''m a man." Alex simply said that. Alfred didn''t understand what hell just Alex said. "Come again, Alex." "You heard it right Alfred. I desire power because I''m a man.Every man in his lifetime once in a while desires to possess enough power that he could get away with everything. But they laugh it off after realizing how ridiculous it is. I want the power to protect the people I want to protect. And also as the man''s deepest desire for the power." Alex stopped there. Alfred was digesting what Alex just said and realized what Alex said was right. Alfred quit the SEALs as he couldn''t quite agree with the higher ups. At that time he too desired the power to do what he deemed right and just but he too just laughed it off. "But do you think you can succeed?" Alfred questioned again. "You know why most people laugh it off because they just believe that it''s impossible. I just want to see how farther I can go."Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. "I too want to see how farther you can go." Alex just shrugged and started reading newspaper again. .............................................. Alex ran into Ron Miller, the president of Walt Disney Productions who was waiting for Alex. Alex just completed his dubbing for " Billy Elliot" in Walt Disney Studios. "Ron, you know Phoenix Studios was producing two new shows for television. I want to ask are you interested in it?" "What do you want me to do?" Ron questioned. Ron will now listen to anything Alex had to say now. After acquring the "Home Alone" copyright and co-operation with Alex, the pressure all around decreased for Ron. "Disney had close relations with ABC network right?" seeing Ron''s nod Alex continued, "See if they were interested. I will give you 15% share from the show profits. It''s not much but it was better than nothing. "Alex, the board of directors are interested in producing ''The Mighty Ducks'' and '' Honey I shrunk the kids''." "That''s good news ." "But they want you to play the role of Charlie Conway in it." Ron explained the issue. "Ron, can you afford me ?" Alex asked in surprise. Though his salary rose to $6.5 million but that''s the least possible amount."With my salary you can complete the film." "Alex you are underestimating, yourself. Do you know how much they want to offer you?" Ron questined with a smile but continued, "$8 million + 15% profits and if you want you can still negotiate." Alex was not surprised that much anyway. He had huge international market and there was minimum guarantee that Alex wrote the script himself. "I can''t Ron." Alex rejected right away. Ron was surprised. "Why?" "Ron, do you think it'' going to be a hit?" Ron nodded in confidence as he beieved in Alex. Alex even improved the script to cater to the critics as it held 15% score in RottenTomatoes( it has 65% positive audience rating). "If it will be successful, you will definitely develop a sequel. But my calendar was full for the next few years." Ron understood. "Then you recommend a appropriate candidate." Alex searched his memory and found the right candidate for the film. "There was a young actor ''River Phoenix'' in the CBS show ''Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, who is the most appropriate candidate for this role." Ron nodded and decided to look for this River Phoenix. Alex remembered the film done by ''River Phoenix'' which Alex decided would be his next film "Stand by Me", adapted from the Stephen King''s novella ''The Body''(1982). NOTE: I picture Alex in my mind was the mix of Marlon Brando,James Dean and River Phoenix. Marlon Brando James Dean River Phoenix NOTE: River Phoenix was the elder brother of Joaquin Phoenix( the villian in ''Gladiator''). River Phoenix (August 23, 1970 ¨C October 31, 1993) diedof combined drug intoxication on the sidewalk outside the West Hollywoodnightclub The Viper Room at the age of 23. River Phoenix Chapter 27: Once Again "Don''t be ridiculous Mrs. Barrymore. We both know that you were not interested in Christmas. So, let Drew spend holidays with us and you can do what ever you want until Christmas." Alex said and gave Drew''s mother Jaid a check. Jaid took it hesitatingly and was shocked at the amount written on it. $60,000 . It was enough for a family of five live comfortably in 2010s. Alex knew Jaid was struggling with her decision but he knew she will take the check because he knew human nature. Jaid came to L.A. to become a star but at 23 she became a mother to a daughter with an absent husband. She worked as a waitress until Drew started acting. Jaid was not a good mother and not the worse mother either just a selfish mother. She wanted live her dreams through her daughter but it will never be enough. A 10 days paid vacation was too tempting offer to reject. Jaid agreed to the arrangement but Alex told her to tell Drew that she was going to visit an ailing friend. ........................................................ "Alex, what are you doing here on Christmas Eve?" Kim asked coming into the study room. "Completing a script for Drew. Her Christmas Present." Alex was giving the finishing touches to the story. "What''s it about?" Kim was at his back and she bent to see the name of script. Her cheek touched his and he felt her smooth skin against his. The Opium scent she was wearing did nothing to cool down his temperature. Kim didn''t move and neither did Alex as they were lost in moment. It was kinda awkward really. Kim wasn''t inexperienced and neither was Alex as he had the experiences from his previous life. But they both are like a couple of teenagers now.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. "Alex, Kim where are you ?" Both of them came to their senses at the interruption of Drew. "What are you both doing?" Drew asked with curiosity. "Nothing, we are just discussing the script I wrote for you." Kim said with a slight blush on her face. "Oh, really, really. Alex, is it real?" Drew''s face lit up like a Petromax lamp. Alex just nodded and Drew stormed to his side and hugged him. "Alex, you are the greatest Big Brother in the whole world." The script he completed was the film''Matilda(1996)'' adapted from a children''s book written by Roald Dahl. But the problem was that the book published in 1988. Alex couldn''t wait that long for Drew''s sake. So, Alex in good conscience invited Roald Dahl to write the script for the film but Roald rejected. The reason was that Alex wanted re-organization power of the script, which means that Alex can make changes to the script if he didn''r like it. Alex just went on to write the script himself. In his usual way, he removed unnecessary scenes and wrote some new scenes to attract the audiences. The film is about a young genius named Matilda, who uses telekinesis to deal with her parents, who do not value education, and Agatha Trunchbull, the oppressive principal of Crunchem Hall Elementary School. Alex somewhat mellowed the underlying bitterness in the film. This is a "Disney" type of film and Alex was going to give the script to Ron to handle it. ..................................................... Golden Globe nominations came a week ago and Alex got double nominations, Best Screenplay and Best Actor-Drama for "Empire of the Sun". His Best Actor nomination made him the youngest actor to be nominated in that category. "Empire of the Sun" got 5 nominations, the other three being Best Picture-Drama, Best Director and Best Original Score. Chapter 28: MARVEL Alex''s nomination for best actor once again led to the discussion of whether he can get a nomination for Oscar. Alex had 80% assurance that he can get a nomination. Steven and Alex were using all of their connections and favours to get him a nomination. Alex was also striving to get best supporting actress Oscar nomination for Kim for "Tootsie" which missed golden globe nominations last date as it was released in November. If possible Alex wants to give Kim the Oscar award, but Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) members normally choose the winners based on the past achievements and seniority. Not that there were young and inexperienced winners but those incidents don''t happen often. But Alex''s and Steven''s Jewish lineage may help as Jews hold a considerable power in the industry and Jews always stick together. Alex helped Jews in the time of recession and Jews hold that in high regard. Jewish history of suffering in the Worldwar II made them realize the value of unity. But this award season going to be dominated by "Gandhi" and Alex have no complaints about that as he himself liked the movie. In previous life, "Gandhi" competed with "E.T." and swept away all main awards. Now "E.T." releases ahead and there was only " Empire of the Sun" in its path. Though "Empire of the Sun" was a good movie but "Gandhi" was the kind of film that the members of AMPAS favours. ........................................... Alex along with Kim and Drew went to shopping at "Fred Segal" store. For Alex and Kim after becoming the celebrities had become difficult to do shopping without surrounded by fans and paparazzi. "Fred Segal" was one of those stores where there was a celebrity section free from worries. Alex was just browsing through the store while Kim and Alex were going on a spree. Alex was not one of those guys who make jokes about women''s shopping. Most men expect women to be always attractive and be assholes about it. Alex was observing the women doing shopping and their personality based on their choice of clothing. Women made up 50% of the population and to make movies that they appreciate first we have to understand them.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Alex went to the end of the store and through the glass wall he can see the other end of the road. Alex saw the people celebrating Christmas everywhere and suddenly he saw a shop that piqued his interest. It''s a book store but its not a normal book store but Comic book store. There was nothing special about it, but it reminded Alex something he neglected. In the new millenium the comic book movies dominated the industry and "Marvel" comics were on top of their game. It''s 1982 and ''Superman'' was the only superhero on the big screen, Marvel was still inferior compared to DC comics in popularity. It was the perfect time to buy the "Marvel". It looks like the fate gave him the perfect Christmas Day present. It''s going to be the first item of business he''s going to take care tomorrow. But today is Christmas and his time belongs to his family. Eric Freemont, his financial advisor and investor would be going to have his hands full for the next few days. Though Alex invested in several business it''s all a means to end. But movies are his passion and ''Marvel'' is going to play a major part in his future plans. ................................................................ After the Christmas, Alex contacted Eric Freemont and told him to acquire the Marvel Comics from the Cadence Industries. At the same time he told Eric to inquire about the rights of "The Lord of the Rings" books by J.R.R.Tolkien. By the end of the year, "Empire of the Sun" grossed $137.5 million domestically and $105.5 million in other territories for $ 243 million worldwide. Kim''s new release "Tootsie" and it already grossed $72 million. With successive hits Kim''s salary per movie rose to $2 million which was pretty great considering this is the decade where still male actors get paid more compared to female actors. Chapter 29: Righting the Wrongs "Take good care of yourself Drew. If you are afraid of anything call me or Alex okay ?" Kim was giving instructions to Drew, who was nodding her energetically. Alex smiled seeing that scene. Kim and Drew seem like a mother and daughter. They get along very well. Alex''s car was waiting to take Drew to her house. Drew had tears welling up in her eyes. Alex doesn''t want to let her go to Jaid but it''s not the time. When time was right he will make his move. After Drew left Kim was kind of sad. Kim always loved children and having Drew in the house was great. As they got back into the house, telephone started ringing and Kim answered it. Alex sat on the couch and was looking through the scripts when Kim entered the room and Alex can see she was happy. "Alex I got the role in the ''Scarface''" "Congratulations, who told you the news ?" "That''s director Brian on the phone. He said that it was a tough choice until last minute as the producer wanted to cast another actress." Alex wrinled his brow "What''s her name?" "Michelle Pfeiffer. She was in that film ''Grease 2'' that bombed at the box office. I though she was good on it but the film is rotten. Nobody are willing to cast her in their films. I saw her audition she had great potential but your name tippled the balance to my side. Though I know it''s common in Hollywood but I still feel bad about her." Kim sighed with regret. ''Not as bad as I feel.'' Alex thought in his heart. Until now Alex changed many things. He copied others scripts but they would have been successful anyway. If not Alex remembered those names to help in the future. ''Scarface'' was Michele Pfeiffer''s breakthrough role but now she lost that role. Actresses are different from directors, screenwriters and even actors. For actresses'' to be a star they have to do that in their youth. If you question what about Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep as they were still acting well past their time then the answer is that they were stars already in their youth.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. Since he was responsible Alex decided to right the wrong he did. And the solution was right in his hands. The script in his hands was turned down repeatedly but the producer was still looking for the investment. The script name was "Splash", the star vehicle for the "Tom Hanks". Though Daryl Hannah played the mermaid role in this film, but even if she lost this chance she can play other roles as she was popular already. And Michelle was way better actress than Daryl anyway. Alex made the decision and made a call to Jeff Spencer to tell him that he can contact the producer, Brian Grazer. After the call Alex felt that slight guilt vanished. Feeling guilt is a motherfucker. ............................................................ Ron Miller, president of Walt Disney productions decided to release "Billy Elliot" in February. Ron Miller already used his connections to make Alex get nominated to Oscar and he had the confidence in the efforts of Spielberg and Alex. If he got nominated then it will be a great publicity for the film and Valentine''s day was a great occasion as most of Alex''s fans were Kids and women. Alex had no objections on the release date. Though February was a slow month for box office Alex had confidence in the film and his charm. Eric Freemont was still doing negotiations with Cadence Industries Corporation and ''Lord of the Rings'' rights were in the hands of ''United Artists''. Though it should have been bought by ''Saul Zaentz'' Company in 1976. Another butterfly effect happened there. Alex bought the LOTR and HOBBIT copyrights for $4.8 million. It was nothing compared to the future income it''s gonna bring. Michelle Pfeiffer Chapter 30: Football Alex was doing marial arts practice in the morning along with KIm. Though she missed the most important age to practice martial arts Alex still insisted that she try. Kim was doing this for four years and though her talent was below average she can deal with common thugs. But the most important reason Alex made her learn was this martial art has the effect of slowing the aging process. No, not like you read in chinese novels. And it was not that miraculous either. You couldn''t make a 60 year-old woman make look like 30 year-old but you can make her look like in her late 40s. Alex''s master Lin Hu in his late 70s look like in his early 50s but that was because he practised his whole life. But Alex improved the martial art and if Kim continued to practise like this in her 60s she may look like in her early 40s. And using modern medicine she can keep her looks. After all Alex wouldn''t want to feel inferior after they become a couple because of their age difference. ....................................................... Alex attended Harvard Boy''s School that day to submit his assignments. The school gave him special permission regarding attendance no small consolation considering that it was a very prestigious school. Alex pulled the strings with the board of directors. This was one of the few days where school was somewhat chaotic. Today was the football game between Harvard''s Wolverines and Redondo Union High School''s Sea Hawks. Wolverines football team was weak compared to Sea Hawks. The wide receivers of varsity team were just above average and one of them got into a car accident and admitted to hospital. "They are going to tear us apart coach." Ryan, captain of the team, complained to the coach. Coach didn''t say anything as he knew it''s not a movie where a few words going to inspire them and give a victory. "Coach, I know a student we can use." All the players looked at owner of the voice. It''s none other than Keith Richards one of the Alex''s school friends. Keith was halfback in the team and James was Tight end position. "Who?" Coach asked not believing. After all he would have heard about him if he was that good."Is he a freshman ?" "No, he''s a senior." James answered. "Why the hell then he wasn''t in the team." Coach still didn''t believe them.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. "He''s kinda busy coach." Keith this time. "What''s his name?" Coach was curious. "Alex." "Alex who?" "Alex King." James replied. "Oh...."Coach understood what student was that busy."But how do you that he''s any good?" "He''s fast." James explained. "Very fast." Keith added before can say anything. "But can he catch the passes?" Ryan questioned as he was the quarterback. "He has very good eye sight and he practised martial arts. Martial artists are kinda good at that type of things." "Guys, calm down. You are going ahead of yourself. Alex may not even agree. He''s a big star and he had great looks. If he had an accident it''s a bad publicity." Coach expressed his doubts. James and Keith knew that coach was okay with the idea and it''s now their job to make Alex play. .................................................. Alex without a fuss accepted as it was a new experience. As the america''s favourite sport Alex knew about football rules and player positions. The coach was satisfied with Alex''s receiving the passes. The team found suitable jersey for Alex with great difficulty as Alex was only 5''3'''' just average height of a 14 year-old. But they saw that Alex had lean muscular body without any excessive muscles or fat. The game starts at 3:00 pm and Alex invited Kim to see him play. Kim wouldn''t miss it for the world. Kim arrived at 2:30 pm and she was going to watch the game with faculty. ................................................... When the both teams entered the field the announcer said the names of each player in the speaker. "Wolverines #7, captain Ryan Jenkins." "#9, James Gilbert." "#14, Keith Richards." "#7, Alex King." At the mention of the last name the whole stadium siezed to make a sound and after a moment the audence went crazy mainly girls. As Harvard was a boys school most of the girls were from Redondo Union High School. Sea Hawks team was not happy with the situation. "Don''t let it worry you. They used Alex to make lose our focus." Captain said. Other players agreed to that. "Yeah maybe he''s just an average player." "What''s that pretty boy going to do anyway." .......................................... The player who said that regretted his words at the end of the game. Wolverines crushed Sea Hawks with 33-14 and Alex scored three touchdowns. They couldn''t catch him as Alex was fast and agile. And if they tackle him it''s like tackling a bull. They couldn''t figure out how much strength was in that short frame. Most depressing thing was that their own supporters were cheering Alex on. After the game the whole team lifted Alex on their shoulders. Kim was proud of Alex seeing like that. The journalists who came to report the game were happy that it was a great news found in an unexpected place. Chapter 31: Successful Acquisition "Alex we got a problem?" those were the first word Jeff said entering into Alex''s office. Alex raised his eyes signaling Jeff to explain. "You wanted the movie rights for Stephen King novel ''The Body'' right?" "What happened then?" "Well, other studios got the wind of the news and they sent their representatives to buy the rights." "Why''s that ?" Alex was curios. Jeff looked at Alex surprise "Alex, you know your reputation right? ''The boy that never loses''. That''s the title they have given you. If you are interested in a script then that means that it''s a sure success and everyone believes that until you face a disaster." "Well, then it''s going to be a bother." Alex said in a bored voice. He''s not worried if not this film then other he''s not short of scripts anyway."What''s the word from Stephen King." Jeff''s face filled with smile at that question. "Stephen King put a condition that made studios want to slap their own faces." Alex''s interest piqued "What''s the condition ?" "Stephen want you to play the leader of the gang and that''s non-negotiable." Jeff said taking pleasure in other''s misfortunes. Alex was somewhat surprised. Though that was the role Alex would have chosen he didn''t think that somebody agreed with his decision because this role far removed from Alex''s previous roles and image. "Alex what do you want to do." Jeff had confidence in the Alex''s decision. That is the loyalty that brought by witnessing the impossible feats done by Alex. Alex thought for a moment and said "I owe a favour to someone."This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. ....................................................... Steve Tisch was busy in the preparation to start "Risky Business". Though they had some concerns about casting Tom Cruise as the lead, their doubts were found unnecessary as Tom Cruise owned the role. Steve''s assistant informed him that Alex was on the line. Steve was surprised and took the call."Hello Alex, what''s the matter?" "Does Warner Bros. are ready to cash their favour." Alex dove straight into the topic. Steve can imagine what''s it about. He heard about the studios competing for the rights of Stephen King''s book because Alex favoured it and Stephen''s condition. "I will contact Terry Semel and inform you." Steve completed the call and immediately dialed Terry. Terry Semel was the president and COO of the Warner Bros. Terry Semel was the one who decided to cast Tom as the lead in exchange for the favour from Alex. When Terry received the call from Steve about Alex''s returning the favour, Terry knew that he made the right choice. The next day the other studios got the news that Alex and Warner Bros. are going to co-operate. So, they withdrew from the competition. Alex reduced his salary to $4.5 million for 30% share in profits. Alex will write the script and Phoenix Studios will be credited with prouction of the film. The film''s production title was "Stand by Me". The plotof "Stand by Me" is: In 1950s America, four young boys spin lies to their parents to sneak away and look for the dead body of a missing teen in a local forest. Bookish and sensitive Gordie , tough kid Chris , weirdo Teddy and puppy-fat clueless Vern embark on a journey which will see them battle past older kids, junkyard dogs, lagoons of leeches and steam trains on bridges as they face up to the transition from childhood to teenage years. Alex was set to play the role of "Chris". ............................................................ Eric Freemont atlast closed the deal of MARVEL with $42 million and Alex''s bank account dwindled to $21 million. But Alex was not depressed, he had faith in his investments. Just after settling all his businesses came the Oscar Nominations. Terry Semel Chapter 32: Crazy Auditions Due to busy schedule Alex missed this year''s Golden Globe. "Ben Kingsley" won the Best Actor Drama for "Gandhi". Alex was not disappointed as he already expected this. "Empire of the Sun" won Best Director, Original Score and Screenplay losing Best Picture to "Gandhi". Kim again won an award this year for "Tootsie" in the best supporting actress category. Right after the Golden globes in February AMPAS announced Oscar nominations. "Empire of the Sun" got nominations for: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score, Best Sound, Best Sound Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Visual Effects. With a total 10 nominations it still fell behind "Gandhi" with 11 nominations. "Tootsie" got 9 nominations, with Best Supporting actress nomination for Kim. In this Time line Dustin Hoffman didn''t get the Best Actor nomination because of Alex. Alex became the youngest actor to get Best Actor nomination creating history. Though there were some criticism but most of them okay with the academy decision. ................................................ Warner Bros. announced that they were conducting auditions for roles in "Stand by Me" and the requrements are teenage boys between 13-16 years. By the time Alex reached Warner Bros. studios, the situation there was chaotic. Atleat 10,000 boys and their parents came to audition for the role. Security was having difficulty controlling the situation.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Alex had to enter the studio through the back. "Alex, what do you think of it?" Terry Semel asked with a self-satisfying smile on his face. Alex shook his head and said "This is all for the publicity right?" Terry nodded "Tomorrow in every newspaper, there''s going to be an article about this crazy auditions." "We don''t have to sit through all the auditions right." Alex said imagining the long and tired process. "No, no, we already filtered the candidates to just above 100. We just have to announce the short list." Terry replied. After the shortlist there remained 136 candidates for three roles. ................................................ There are several names in the list that are quite familiar to Alex. Names like Anthony Michael Hall (The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, Weird Science), Matthew Perry (Friends tv series), Edward Norton, Paul Rudd, Jason Bateman, Christian Slater among others. Though they are the actors that were well known in his previous life most of them had not earned their acting chops yet. Paul Rudd was not suitable for any role and his acting still had to improve. One by one actors were failing in the auditions. Alex was quite frustrated with the entire process. Then came the turn of Matthew Perry. To tell the truth, Alex was quite fond of Matthew Perry for his role of ''Chandler Bing'' in"F.R.I.E.N.D.S" Tv series. So, Alex was waiting with some enthusiasm for his audition. Matthew Perry Chapter 33: Breaking Record Matthew Perry was auditioning fot the role of bookish and sensitive Gordie. In fact the whole story explained throught the view of Gordie and he had the most scenes with Chris played by Alex. Being the kids it''s natural for them wanting to be the center of attention. Though Matthew was delivering his lines with precision there''s something missing. After thinking a long time Alex made Matthew read the part of puppy-fat Vern. Though Alex was sure that they can find suitable actors for Gordie and Teddy he was not so sure about Vern. Vern was the most innocent and gullible of the gang thinking he was smart. Though Matthew was not happy with the change but read the lines. Alex was sure that Matthew was most suitable for the role of Vern. "Matthew, would you play the role of Vern." Alex asked Matthew in secret. "But, Vern was fat and I don''t like being fat." Matthew said with depressing expression. "Matthew, you are perfect for the part. You don''t have to be fat, make-up team will take care of it." seeing his idol requesting him like that Matthew nodded. The auditions continued until afternoon but still couldn''t find the suitable actor for Gordie and Teddy. After lunch, the auditions continued. This time it was Anthony Michael Hall. Alex remembered Anthony for his geek roles in the films in 1980s. He was everybody''s favourite geek in 1980s. Even before starting the audition Alex decided to cast Anthony in the role of "Teddy" and Anthony didn''t disappoint Alex. "Terry what do you think?" Alex asked Terry. Terry nodded in approval. Anthony already appeared in commercials and just last year he acted in the hit "Six Pack". Now the only remaining role is Gordie. Alex thought it would be the most easiest role to find an actor. Gordie was the most normal of the batch and he don''t have any quirks either. But none of the actors were quite upto the standards.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. After an entire day Alex found the actor perfect for the role. Edward Norton. He was quite talented for his age and upon further investigation found out that Edward along with his brother studied acting in the camp Pasquaney. After a tiring day the most important casting process was done. ............................................ ''Miami Vice'' and ''Who wants to be a Millionaire?'' shows were launched on ABC network and the ratings were high. Compared to NBC and CBS ABC network was weaker because they don''t have top quality shows in the prime time. Miami Vice''s music, photography and its depiction of pop culture of 80s made it popular among young audiences. Product placement cost was high compared to other shows. Though there was criticism about gloryfying the violence. People were just recovering from the recession and the show ''Who wants to be a Millionaire ?'' was perfect to attract the viewers. As long as you were smart and with a little bit of luck you can earn the amount of money, that an average american couldn''t earn in his lifetime. ABC picked up the both shows for the full season . .............................................. On February 11,1983 Alex''s new film "Billy Elliot" landed on 1,325 american theatres. February was a dump month, meaning the box office in this period was low and the movies that don''t want to face competition were dumped in this month. But "Billy Elliot" was released in this month to cash Alex''s Oscar nomination popularity. And their decision proved right "Billy Elliot" grossed $11 million breaking the February box office records. Anthony Michael Hall Edward Norton Chapter 34: Taking a break In the first week ''Billy Elliot'' grossed $19.4 million. In this week all over america there was 19% spike in the students who enrolled into ballet classes. Ballet was not a popular form of dance among average americans especially among boys. Some event think that it was for girls, weirdos and gays. So, to see that much spike in the enrollment for ballet classes was nothing to scoff about. But Alex had no time to care all about that. He and the whole production team moved to Brownsville, Oregon to shoot the film. The town was selected for its small town, 1950s ambience. The director of the film was Rob Reiner, who directed the original version. For the role of local hoodlum and gang leader ''Ace'' Merrill, Robert Downey Jr. was cast on Alex''s recommendation. "Alex you are going to make you fans disappointed by doing this film." Robert said in the leisure time. Alex gave a reluctant smile. This film contains crude language and scenes. There were scenes involving all the boys smoking cigarettes. If everything goes same as previous life it will get R: rating which means Alex will lose most of his base audience. "Its regrettable but necessary Robert. If I can''t make a transition then I will become one of those child actors who fade away with time." Robert nodded at those words. Many brilliant child stars couldn''t make successful transition to adult actors because they couldn''t break their moulds. "What''s next Alex?" Robert questionedd. Alex made a question mark face. "I mean after this, what''s your next film?" Robert explained. "Well, I am thinking of taking a break."Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. Robert was caught off-guard at that response. Alex was the busiest star in Hollywood and now he was taking a break. "Why?" "I''m kind of tired with non-stop schedules. And didn''t you notice something with me?" Robert couldn''t understand what he said and took a long careful look at Alex. Then it hit Robert. "You have hit your growth spurt." Robert said. "Yes, I grew 2 inches in the last two weeks. It took a long time to hit my growth spurt but finally it did." Alex was now 5''5" and by the way he was growing it won''t be long to reach the height normal adult male. Alex couldn''t start a new project until he stopped growing. "Well best of luck anyway." Robert smiled at that. ....................................................... It took a whole 35 days to complete the film. It''s a long time for such a small budget film but it was necessary to make it perfect. After the wrap up, Alex and Robert both went back to L.A. "Billy Elliott" in four weeks grossed $52.4 million domesticaaly and $32.6 million overseas for total $85 million globally. After returning home, Alex received an invitation for him to present an Oscar at the award ceremony. Alex chose to accept the invitation. .......................................................... "World trip." Kim was surprised."Why so sudden ?" "Because God knows when I will get time again. I think it would be a great experience." KIm was silent."How long ?" "I will return at end of the year." Kim was uncomfortable with this plan. She and Alex were never seperated that long. Even during this one month shooting Kim visited Alex two times on location. But Kim don''t want to restrict Alex. "Take Alfred with you." "But Kim, the whole point was to do it alone." Alex tried to convince her. "But...." Kim stopped herself saying anything. She knew Alex was more than capable of taking care of himself. Kim reluctantly nodded. "Kim, you''re the best." Alex hugged her tightly. Kim breathed his scent deeply so that she can never forget. Chapter 35: Italian Beauty It''s been three months since Alex started his trip. Alex left United States right after Academy Awards. At Academy Awards Alex lost both his nominations but he was not disappointed. He had his whole future ahead of him. ''Empire of the Sun'' won 5 Oscars for Best Sound, Best Sound Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Visual Effects. Kim won her first Oscar in Supporting Actress category for "Tootsie". Alex was the one who presented that award. Kim hugged him tightly with tears rolling down her eyes when she accepted that award. The next day Alex was on his way to England. For Alex the trip was an education. In every stop he visits a movie theatre and observes the audience response and locks away the observation in his memory palace. Though Alex was popular in the Europe but Alex had his ways to fit himself in the crowd. Moreover in these three months Alex grew another 3 inches. His facial features had sharp edges that hadn''t been there before making Alex look like an young man rather than a boy. And he looks quite handsome. After England Alex visited Germany, Poland and France. Now Alex was on his way to Italy. ................................................. Alex''s first stop was Milan, the most populous metropolitan area in Italy. It''s the financial and industrial centre of Italy. It is also one of the fashion centres of the Europe. You can go anywhere in Italy using city trams. Alex enjoyed these rides very much. You can still see the remnants of ancient Roman colony in the city. Alex was staying in ''Principe di Savoia'', a five-star hotel and one of the land marks of Milan. Normal couldn''t get the suite in this hotel. Alex had to expose his status to get the suite. It''s worth it anyway as the management allotted Presidential Suite for Alex.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. ................................................. "Is there a club nearby Roberto? " Alex asked his chaffeur Roberto provided by the hotel. Alex was speaking in Italian. "Si, Signore(Yes, Sir)" Roberto replied "Signore, is it really your first time in Italy?" "Yes, why?" "Your Italian is good though your pronounciation is crude." Alex smiled "Well, I have a good memory." Alex learned basic Italian in a week through the books. One of the advantages of photographic memory. The chaffeur stopped the car near a nightclub. By the looks of it, seems to be very popular as there was a long waiting line. But Roberto seems to know the bouncers as Alex entered the club without a fuss. "One of the perks of being the customer of ''Principe de Savoia''" Roberto explained. Alex understood even without Roberto''s explanation. Alex can see that it''s a very lively croud and abnormally so. Didn''t need a genius to figure out the cause. Alex heard and read about the "disappeared generation" in Italy because of the drugs. In fact, the 1980s were years of economic and social modernization, years in which the Italian society quickly got rid of the previous decades¡¯ features. As a consequence, the increased financial capacity of large segments of the population allowed a cross-cutting diffusion of drugs, in particular heroin. The middle class and professionals had newfound disposable income, and thanks to the lack of education on the drug, were using it in many cases to purchase heroin. Alex just ordered a club soda where as Roberto ordered a whiskey. Alex observed the crowd and he can tell most of them were either rich kids or models. After all Milan was the fashion hub of Europe. Suddenly Alex saw a face which looked quite familiar. And it didn''t take long to figure out who that was. She should be 18 this year. It''s none other than Italian Sex Icon "Monica Bellucci". Monica Bellucci at 18 Chapter 36: Rescue Monica was bored. She just came to Milan to participate in a fashion show and going to be on her way back home,Umbria tomorrow. So, some of her male and female colleagues brought her to the club. She had seen her fair share of problems in the fashion industry since she stared modelling at 13. Drugs, promiscuosity, catfights but she still couldn''t fully digest all this. Monica was born in a village where a girl talking to a boy meant that she slept with him. So thinking like that was normal. "Come on Monica, drink this." Marco one of her colleagues offered her a drink. Monica received it. And she knew after three minutes that there''s something wrong with the drink. She can feel herself being weak, confused. Then there were three pairs of hands leading her away from the group. She wanted to defend but there''s no strength left in her. They stopped at a cold and dark place. She can sense that her clothes were being ripped apart but she just wants to sleep. Then she heard the sound of somebody talking. "Guys, it''s not the way to behave with a lady." The voice seems to belong to a young man, someone of her own age. "Mind your own fucking business asshole." one of the guys shouted. Monica thought he was Alessandro, the egotistical guy whose advances she rejected. "See, we can do it hard way or easy way......." the voice cackled in the middle "Sorry, I always wanted to say that. But its so corny." Great, another retard, thought Monica in her groggy state. "Mother fucker, we are five while you are only one guy. Do you think you can beat us all?" Monica couldn''t figure out whose voice was that. "Well, you can come one-by-one or all at once. I win either way." The owner of the voice said with self-confidence. "Get him boys." Somebody said and there was only one holding her. All Monica heard was four ''thud'' sounds and there was moaning.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. "What are you going to do? Fight me or get them to a hospital." that strange young voice once again sounded. And the jerk holding Monica dropped her on ground to run away and she lost conciousness. ......................................................... Alex noted some guy slipping something into Monica''s drink and Alex can imagine what it was. After that three guys led her to the back alley where another two guys were waiting. Alex and them got difference in opinion and four of them were lying on the ground while one them running away as it was a Olympic games. Alex shifted her attention to the beauty lying on the ground. She was not quite matured yet that defined her beauty. Alex heard someone in the back and turned around to saw Roberto, his chaffeur. Robert took a look at the scene and understood the situation. "Contact police Roberto and also an ambulance." Roberto nodded. Alex gathered Monica into her arms and placed her on the backseat of his car. Alex doesn''t know her address so they can only wait unti tomorrow. ......................................................... Monica awoke with a severe head ache. It took her a few minutes to notice that it wasn''t her hotel room. Everything here look sophisticated, gorgeous and costly. Then she noticed a note on her bedside with a tablet and a glass of water. ''Take the tablet and meet me at the dining hall.'' These were the words written on the note. And she can see from the note that the stranger was used to giving the orders. After entering into the hall she saw the man who saved her. No, not a man but a boy of her age, maybe 18 or 19. And he looks breathtakingly handsome. In her line of work she had seen lot of good-looking men but the man infront of her was top-notch even in her profession. "Oh,Signorina. Take a seat." the stranger interrupted her thoughts. "Thank you, for saving me Mr..." "Alex, just call me Alex." Alex said casually not revealing his full name. "Mr. Alex, thank you. I am Monica Bellucci."she introduced herself. The words ''I know'' was on tip of his tongue but he stopped himself. She was not yet the star Alex knew in his previous life. Chapter 37: Unexpected Event "So, Miss Monica what do you do?" Alex said sipping the coffee. "I''m a model." Monica answered. "Are you staying in Milan?" "No, actually I should''ve been back in Umbria by now. But you know......"Monica said embarassed. Eric nodded "But you can''t go as police want you identify that bastards." Monica nodded but Alex can see that she was hesitant. "What''s the matter ?" "Marco is family friend. His family and mine go way back." Monica told the real reason. Alex didn''t say anything. In Alex''s view Marco, whoever that is, was guilty of attempted rape. And if Monica wanted to save him then it was her responsibility if it ever happens again to somebody. Monica can see the apathy in Alex''s eyes and it made her feel uncomfortable. "Marco usually wasn''t like that. Maybe they coerced him." She doesn''t know whether she was trying to convince Alex or herself. "Miss Monica, it''s your decision you don''t have to convince me. But if it happens again that would be on you." Monica was biting her lip with iindecision. "Will you come with me to the police station ?" ........................................................... Monica was feeling miserable after a long afternoon at the station. But it was an eye opener to her. It seems that it was not the first Marco and his gang did that. There were another three victims but they were not brave enough to come forward. But today because they were caught red-handed the others came forward to testify. "Feeling good." Alex asked her gently offering a water bottle. "To tell the truth I''m feeling pretty great." There was a smile on her face. "So, are you going home ?" Monica shook her head. "No, I can''t face all that drama right now. I think I will stay a while in Milan." Alex agreed with her. "Are you hungry?" "Famished." Monica smiled. "I don''t know any good restaurants." "Let me show you then." "Lead the way then."This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. ................................................................. "So, why did you chose modelling ?" Alex asked after the meal. "Well, I thought it would be fun when I started. Then I was addicted because of the glamour and attention." Monica replied eating the dessert. "So, do you plan to take modelling as your profession ?" "No, actually I want to be an actress." Monica said in a low voice. "Oh, a movie star. Italian movies ?" "No, Hollywood." Monica said with determination. "After all Hollywood was the peak of industry." Alex nodded. Maybe when she decided to move to Hollywood he will help her. "But you have to improve you english. It''s not the Hollywood standard. If you don''t correct this flaw you will never succeed." "But there were language coaches in Hollywood. I heard studios always hire them." "But that is for established foreign stars. And those stars make their debut in Hollywood in their 30s and 40s. Do you really want to wait that long?" Monica let out a long sigh hearing that. "Alex, how do you know all of this ?" "I have friends in the movie business. " Alex said without batting an eye. Only his friends are on top of Hollywood foodchain. Monica believed him as she saw the way the hotel management treated him. She always had the feeling that she saw him somewhere. But she would have remembered a man as strkingly handsome as him. Monica had to say Alex was a very exciting man and she was attracted to him. "Come on Alex, let''s have a drink." Alex wanted to reject because he was still not 18. But thought that it was ridiculuos to deny as his real age was 22+15=33 and he was not in USA.Alex accepted her invitation. ..................................................... Monica slowly opened her eyes to a very warm and comfortable feeling. She found herself lying on strong chest of Alex. Monica slowly remembered what had happened last night. They both had drunk heavily last night and even now Monica couldn''t remember how they reached Alex''s room. Blame it on the alcohol or the attraction, they both had wild sex. Monica felt her cheeks burning hot remembering the things they both did. Monica was not a virgin but not overly experenced either. She had been in two relationships and to tell the truth the sex was disappointing with both of them. Monica had to accept that Alex even in his drunken state was quite a wonderful lover. But Monica doesn''t know how to face Alex after he woke up. Monica left the bed and dressed herself. She felt slightly uncomfortable between her legs while moving making her think how well endowed Alex was. She left the bedroom in search of her belongings. And she found that day''s newspaper lying under the door. Alex arranged that way to deliver the newspaper. Monica picked it up and froze seeing the news on it. ............................................ ''Mr. Alexande King, I had to leave suddenly because of personal reasons. I apologize for my rude behaviour. Thank you for all you had done for me. -----Monica Belluci'' That was the note Alex found on his bed when he opened his eyes. Alex''s first reaction was there is something wrong with the note. After reading another time he found what was it. Alex never said his full name but she addressed him as Alexander King. Alex left the bedroom and found out immediately how she knew. In that day''s newspaper, there was news about him beating up those guys. The paparazzi uncovered his identity and it became a hot news. So hot that it was in main page. Alex was both relaxed and guilty at Monica''s departure. Relaxed because he couldn''t face her yet and guilty because of KIM. Alex was not thick skulled and he knew Kim was in love with him but was denying herself. Kim never had a sex life in the last six years and in a silly way Alex though she was waiting for him. And now this situation made him feel guilty. ''Well first things first.'' Alex regained his calm and thought about his next step. Chapter 38: Distressed Call It''s a very old but well maintained building outside of Shanghai. It''s like one of those martial arts schools in old chinese movies. Right now, Alex is fighting with a 50 year-old man. There are students there watching the fight. The fight started 15 minutes ago and there was still no result. Not because they were equals but because Alex was not fighting seriously. The oldman''s name was Qing Hu and he was considered one of the best in China. Alex was improvising copying Qing Hu''s techniques. "Stop it, the result is obvious right ?" Qing Hu said with an embarassed smile. Alex nodded with a smile. All the students thought that Alex stopped the fight because he can''t win. Alex didn''t care. He was not that petty to humiliate a master for a victory. "Thank you for sparing me from embarrasment, Mr.King." Qing Hu said when they were alone. "Oh, I thought you didn''t recognize me." Alex was surprised since American movies were not that often released in China in 1980s for that matter even in 1990s. "Normally I wouldn''t. But my granddaughter is living in America and she is a big fan of yours. But you are different from the photos." Qing Hu explained. "What can I say other than Growth Spurt ?" "And you were only 15 this year?" "Hm..Hmmm" Alex nodded. "It''s quite remarkable really. Who''s your master?" Before Alex can say anything he interrupted " Sorry, its a personal question and as a fellow martial artist you have your own secrets. But I''ve never seen this style of martial art. It''s like it was created purely for killing." And Qing Hu was right. Alex''s master said that his martial arts give up defence and focus entirely on offence. ''Best offence is the good defence'' was his master''s motto. "And most importantly I don''t have anything to instruct you. You mastered it perfectly." Qing Hu said with a look admiration.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. Alex sighed hearing those words. After a brief conversation Alex left there. ................................................................. It''s been two months since that incident in Milan,Italy. Sometimes Alex think about Monica and their night. Though he felt guilty about that but couldn''t deny that it was a pleasurable experience. Maybe they will meet again someday and that day Alex hoped that both of them will greet each other as friends. Most of the time Alex thinks about Kim. He sends a postcard from every palce he visited. Alex thinks that this distance was necessary for both of them . "Empire of the Sun" finished its run with a worldwide total of $301.4 million with $156.3 million coming from domestic market. "Billy Elliot" finished its run with $92.7 million domestically and $102.5 million from overseas for a worldwide total of $195.2 million. "Stand by me" which was released in July i.e, two months before, grossed $31.2 million domestically and $44.2 million internationally for a total $75.4 million worlwide. Analysts believe its worldwide gross will definitely touch $150 milllion mark. With eight consecutive superhits Alex established his status as the bonafide international superstar. He has the international mass appeal and each of his films grossed more internationally than domestically, which was a record in 1980s. And the films produced by Phoenix studios in 1983 "The Terminator" and "Splash" were declared as hits. Because of the increased quality brought by doubling its budget "The Terminator" was on its way to gross $100 million domestically. And so was "Splash" which was a great improvement upon its original version because of the casting of ''Michelle pfeiffer'', which proved to be a perfect choice. The profits of all these films combined with profits from TV shows and his other business interests increased his bank balance to $262.7 million after paying all the taxes and bills. .............................................................. While travelling through China Alex decided which was going to be his next film. Its hoing to be his first action film "The Karate Kid". Alex wants to mix the elements of both the 1984 and 2010 versions. It''s the best film to establish his market in China. On October 2nd, 1983, Alex got a call from Alfred , his bodyguard, saying that Kim was in trouble. With a trembling heat Alex ended his trip and was on his way to USA in the next flight. Chapter 39: Drunk Confession In the five months of Alex''s absence Kim many times wished that one could take the next flight and meet Alex. ''You are not a teenager with raging hormones Kim! Control yourself.'' these are the words she told to herself to stop doing foolish thing. The house always feels lonely even with the maids working there. Three days before Alfred''s call to Alex, Kim was reading the magazines sitting comfortably on her bed. There were articles about Alex''s new film ''Stand by Me'' and how successful it was. Kim always felt proud when others praise Alex. After finished reading the magazines, Kim hugged her knees and looked at the glass cabinet opposite the bed. Inside there were ten picture frames, in each one of them were Alex and Kim. These are her most precious moments and nobody except her will touch these picture frames. The last picture was when she won Oscar for best supporting actress. ''This is my Alex'' thought kim ''And he will soon become a man''. Then what happens? Alex can''t live with her forever. He has his own life. And Kim couldn''t even imagine life without Alex. In an instant, seven years had passed.For seven yearsthey have been constantly together, they are bound by a common fate, they encourage eachother, they never make the opposite partysad.Theybelong to......Each other. "You know Alex, I have been waiting for you to grow up!" Kim whispers. But ......will he understand her? Will heaccept her? ''Good, do not think these matters'' Kim shook her head and tried to be peaceful. "Perhaps, I should relax." Kim walked to the bar cabinet and poured herself a drink. That''s the first drink but not the last. For the next two days she was always in a drunken state. Alfres with no solution in his hands telephoned Alex. ......................................................... Alfred met Alex at the airport and drove the car straight to the home. After entering the home asked Lisa, the maid about Kim. "In her bedroom." she answered.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Alex walks towards Kim''s room. Alex knocked on the door but nobody responded. He directly entered the room and saw Kim in a half stupor. She was a mess and looks exhausted. She looks af if she was in this state for a long time. "Kim!" "Alex!" Kim turned around to look and in her pale blue eyes there was confusion. "What are you doing?" Alex was angry. "What am I doing?" Kim smiled "You want to know what am I doing?" "Why are you drinking?" Alex shook her shoulders. "You are just an illusion." Kim didn''t answer his question. "My Alex is thousands of miles away......" Alex grabbed the glass from her hand. "Kim you should rest." "Alex....did you come back really?" Kim asked with excitement. "Sure, I did." "Alex, I want to relax. I don''t want to beworried. I don''t want this pressure. Give me the drink." Kim asked in an exhaustive tone. Alex ignored her. "Kim, enough. It''s bed time, sleep now." "Alex, you don''t know anything." "So, tell me I''m listening." "Listening?" Kim gave a self-ridiculed smile."You are only a little brat, how to understand a grown woman heart." "I understand" Alex assured her. "You don''t understand! You don''t!" Kim stood suddenly but tripped and fell on top of Alex''s chest. "You have grown Alex" "I know." Alex said hugging her. "You belong to me Alex. And I belong to you." Kim''s voice was fading. "Little darling, we will talk tomorrow sleep now." Alex tried to control his excited heart. "I love you Alex. I love you more than anything else. I love y....." Kim fell asleep saying those words. Alex''s whole body froze at those last words. These were the words he always wanted hear. Alex looked at Kim who was sleeping like a cat. ''Everything will be solved tomorrow.'' Alex though with determination. Kissing her forehead Alex also went to sleep holding her tightly. Chapter 40: Trust Me Kim opened her groggy eyes to see an empty bedroom. She felt that she was forgetting something but couldn''t remember what it was. While she was trying to figure it out Alex entered the room. "Alex!" Kim then understood what she forgot. She forgot that Alex returned last night. Then suddenly the memories of last night came to her mind in pieces. Kim was shaking with fear, embarrassment and the possibly disgust from Alex''s eyes. "Kim!" Alex sat infront of her taking her hands into his. "About what you said last night....." Kim shook her hands free from his "There''s nothing to talk about. That''s just alcohol....." "Kim, I love you." Alex interrupted the sentence by raising her chin with his hand. Kim froze hearing those words. These are the words she longed to hear for years. Kimfelt her pulses skip inside her, her head becoming light, but she forced down the feeling of happiness flooding through her and controlled herself. This is not about her. "No, Alex. We couldn''t." Kim said with pain in her voice. His hand tightened on her chin.''''I love you Kim,'' he said urgently. ''''Don''t turn me away.'''' Her pulse skipped, sending shock waves running through her. But she struggled to control them. ''''What else can I do?'''' she asked huskily. ''''How can I put you through this situation? Do you think the media wouldn''t get a wind of this ?" "I can manage the situation." Alex tried to comfort her. "No, Alex. There will always be a risk. You know how it will affect our careers." Alex wrinlkled his brows "So, you want to throwaway what we could have for the sake of your career." Kim was angry "Not my career you brat. Yours. You have a great future infront of you and I don''t want a scandal to stain it." Alex sighed "So what are you planning to do Kim ?" "That...we...we should continue to live our lives as we always did." Kim stuttered. "Then what?" "What do you mean?" Kim said in cofusion. "Then what will we do? Will you start dating?" "No..no.." Kim said in denial. She couldn''t do that while knowing that Alex loved her. "Then what should I do? Can I date others ?" Alex asked intensly. "May....maybe" Kim couldn''t think straight. "So, I can bring her home to you. Kiss her infront of you." "Alex.. stop." Kim said huskily tears forming in her eyes. But Alex didn''t stop attacking "Then I move out of the house. I may fall in love with somebody else." "Stop" Kim raised her voice as if in pain. "Maybe we will marry, have kids. Know what, you should be their godmother." Alex words were like knives cutting through her. "Stop, Alex stop. Please" Kim brokedown in tears.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. Alex couldn''t see her like that. He gathered Kin in to her arms and sat in bed with Kim in his lap sitting sideways. "Oh Kim! I''m so sorry. I''m so sorry" Alex kissed away her tears with each words rocking her in his arms. "You are a bastard." Kim said huskily. "Yes. Yes, I am." Alex agreed. Alex will even agree if Kim said he was chimpanzee now. "But you are my bastard." She hugged Alex tightly burying her face in his neck. Alex raised her face and looking into her eyes said "I love you Kim. And we will face everything together. Just trust me." Kim nodded and sighed in resignation. She loved him more than anything in the world and that''s all that matters."I trust you Alex." "Good girl." Alex said in a mischievous tone by sealing her lips with his. Her mouth was so sweet, blissful, the velvet inside, her tongue. Her arousal was apparent. He could hear it in the soft little gathering cries that increased his own urgency. He stroked the silky length of her arms, drew her up so she was even closer. Body to body. She clung to him, but he could sense a kind of conflict was happening inside her body, inside her head. ¡°Do you want me to stop?¡± He feared he was already too far along. ¡°No!¡± Her whisper was fervent. ¡°It¡¯s not you, it¡¯s me. You¡¯re wonderful.¡± ¡°So are you. Surely you know that?'''' ¡°Make love to me, Alex.¡± He felt his senses reel. ¡°You know I might reach a point when I won¡¯t be able to stop? Even for you.¡± He had to warn her. ¡°You might discover you don¡¯t want me.¡± She was almost !5 yearsolder than him after all. ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen, Kim. Trust me.¡± She sighed as if she were unburdening herself of all fears and anxieties. ¡°All I want is for you to love me.¡± Love her he did! They were naked in seconds. He made her whole body bloom, her white skin turning rose with the heat of her blood. She lay on her bed, her hair spread around her body, naked except for the cool white sheet, while Alex turned her to face him. He kissed her face, her ears, her throat and her breasts, moved his mouth over her stomach, moving lower and lower, very quiet about it, while her body clenched and unclenched as only rapture followed the thrilling trail of fire. The most wonderful thing was happening to her.He was speaking very gently. She couldn¡¯t speak herself. She was lost in the multitude of sensations his mouth and hands were calling forth with absolute quiet mastery. He was tracing the contours of her breasts, his hands so strong yet so exquisitely tender as they circled towards the tightly furled nipple. She was blind. Blind to everything but pleasure. She had never experienced anything remotely like this, her body shuddering not with pain but with a sensuality so voluptuous it was consuming her. This was the kind of lovemaking that approached pure magic. ¡°Kim?¡± He brushed his lips against hers. ¡°Look at me.¡± Even though she was drifting on a great wave of sexual excitement she heard his call. He kissed her naked shoulder, looked into her open eyes. ¡°You¡¯re exquisite! So exquisite.¡± The next thing he was on top of her. ¡°You¡¯re ready for me, aren¡¯t you?¡± Her breath exhaled on a ¡°Yes!¡± She had discovered the purest kind of desire. Now all she needed to make it perfect was their union. Slowly, slowly, he entered her, holding down all momentum. He felt the fluttering in her womb, then the strong contraction to enclose him. Agony for him and yet an extravagant radiating pleasure. He wanted desperately to be gentle with her, but he didn¡¯t know how to contain the deep driving male urge that might hurl him over the edge. Love was a flame! He bore down, waited, heard her utter little moans he deduced as pleasure. The moans stretched out into a sob of wanting¡­wanting¡­ He couldn¡¯t mistake it. He began his plunge into her lovely receptive body, exultant as she met him with the most ravishing desire of her own. Instantly he was empowered. He held back no longer. And his last thought before passion controlled him was that he could never lose her. This woman held his heart in her hands. ........................................... "Well, now I''ve committed statutory rape." Kim said with a bemused expression lying down in Alex''s arms. Alex spanked her ass at those words. "Ouch.Why did you do that ?" Kim said with angry pout. "Don''t talk nonsene. You know that I''m more mature than the old fogies. So don''t question my decisions dear. Your ass will get the punishment." Alex said with a smile. "Tyrant." Kim said hitting his chest. "What will happen now?" "Nothing. Things will go on as they always have with the exception of us sleeping together." Kim hit him once again. "Trust me Kim. I will take care of everything." And she did. She don''t know how but she did. NOTE: I want to make Alex act in original films. My favourite anime is "Baccano". Claire Stanfield/Felix Walken/Rail Tracer is my favourite character. Ladd Russo is a close second. See both of them and comment what character was best for Alex . Or make Alex try both like Eddie Murphy. Watch the link below for better understanding of Claire Stanfield character: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyUzUettQ2Y&t=7s Chapter 41: "TIME" Magazine Two years later................ At the end of January, 1986 "TIME" magazine released a new issue into the market. The title page consists the image of a person, who was always in the eye of media for the past half-decade. The title says "ALEX KING- The man with the Midas Touch". The article contains pictures of all his films and their grosses. The article says: "In 1979 a phenomenon started in Hollywood that continued and dominated the first half of this decade. And this phenomenon has a name called ''Alex King''. This name has become synonym with success. As long he''s there in a film, it guaranteed a success. Starting with ''E.T.'' that shaked the entire world he continued his successe with ''Home Alone 1&2'', pyschological thriller ''The Sixth Sense'', Teen drama ''Lucas'', War epic ''Empire of the Sun'', ''Billy Elliot'' which showcased his dancing skills. "Stand by Me" was a turning point in Alex''s career. He broke his character mold and still impressed the audiences garnering him another Oscar nomination and a win for ''Best Adapted Screenplay''. He won four Oscars three for Screenplays and one Best Supporting Actor Award for ''The Sixth Sense''. In 1984, Alex showed he had the potential to be a action star with "The Karate Kid". Though its named ''The Karate Kid'' the martial art he used was a new style and Alex choreographed all his fights. Even the chinese said Alex''s movements are faster than those in chinese films. It grossed $260 million with $135 million domestically. In China it grossed $20 million, a new record for the Hollywood film. Alex''s another release in 1984 was "The Goonies" written by Steven Spielberg, about a group of teenagers in search of the treasure. The film grossed $97 million domestically and $71 million internationally for a world wide total of $168 million. This was the first year since his debut that Alex was not nominated for an Oscar.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. In 1985, Alex starred in two films "The Karate Kid II" and "The Breakfast Club". The sequel was a success grossing $280 million worlwide with $147 million coming from USA. "The Breakfast Club" was another Teen-Comedy-Drama that was praised by several critics as one of the ,if not the best high school film. Produced by "Phoenix Studis" with less than $1 million budget, written and directed by "John Hughes" it grossed $93 million domestically and $58 million internationally for a worldwide total of $151 million. Alex''s role in this film ''John Bender'', the rebel was considered was the poster child for the 1980s teenagers and became popular among them. His 12 films grossed $3.735 Billion in total making him one of the most successful actor in the cinema history. The film''s he involved as producer, screenwriter were also successful. "Honey, I shrunk the Kids" "The Mighty Ducks 1&2" "Pretty Woman" "Mr. Mom" "The Terminator" "Splash" and others. "Splash" made Tom Hanks and Michelle Pfeiffer stars overnight. Alex was also a savvy business man with investments in several companies. WallStreet estimated Alex''s net worth as $410 million making him one of the richest americans. Because of his success in every field he was called "The Man with the Midas Touch"." ...................................................................... "Alex , how much do you really worth ?" Kim asked after reading the article. She was sitting with her leaned against Alex in their bed reading morning magazines. "$620 million " Alex said casually reading the sports section. "That''s a lot." Kim said in surprise. "It''s nothing compared to what I worth after ''Oracle'' and ''Microsoft'' will go IPO. I expect to cross $1 billion mark this year." Alex said looking down to her. Kim always felt amazed by Alex. They were in the relationship for the past two years secretly and she still felt that he was mysterious. "You know what, I think I shall have morning sex." Alex said suddenly and in the next minute he was on the top of Kim. "Alex, we just did that one hour ago." Kim said laughing. Kim was happy that Alex didn''t lose interest in her even after two years. "Well, it''s still morning right." Alex kissed her ear saying that. "You Sex maniac." "Only for you, Kim. Only for you." .............................................................................. Chapter 42: Great Opportunity "Ferris Bueller''s Day Off" is a classic film. It made a significant impact in the popular culture and was considered as one of the best films made about teens along with "The Breakfast Club". Both films were written and directed by ''John Hughes'', the original writer of ''Home Alone 1 & 1''. John Hughes contacted Phoenix Studios last year for the investmest to his film ''The Breakfast Club''. Alex readily agreed to all of his conditions. It was Alex''s way of compensation for stealing his idea. With the success of ''The Breakfast Club'' John Hughes became a hot commodity and all the studios are interested to produce his next film. But he gave the preference to Phoenix studios to express his gratitude. John also knows that casting Alex as Ferris will increase the commercial factor for the film. But Alex was not naive to think that he can compete with the ''Big Seven'' studios consisting Warner Bros., Universal, Paramount, 20th Century Fox, Columbia, MGM and The Walt Disney Company. So, Alex co-operates with Disney, Paramount and Warner Bros. mainly in exchange for their support in distributing his films in overseas and their connections. ''Ferris Bueller''s Day Off'' is the joint production of Paramount and Phoenix Studios. Dawn Steel, the one who contacted Alex for ''Home Alone'' is now the president of production at Paramount. Because of her association with Alex, she was considered as valuable asset in Paramount. "Alex, if this script was made into film , we can face severe backlash from feminists." Dawn ''Leslie'' Steel said after finished reading the script. "Leslie, I don''t care about feminists. And if there was a backlash its a free publicity anyway. If you are not interested Phoenix Studios will produce it independently." Alex said coolly. Alex knew she won''t reject it. Nobody in Hollywood is a fool to reject the script written by Alex. The script Alex referred to is "The Fatal Attraction". It is based on a short film written by ''James Dearden'' for British Television. In original timeline James Dearden wrote the script for the film as well. But Alex purchased the movie rights from him and reaorganized the script to the movie version. For the role of the Iconic Villain role''Alexanda ''Alex'' Forrest'' Alex already chose Kim Basinger. Alex''s idea is to make Kim win the Oscar Best actress with this role. Dawn Steel without hesitation agreed to produce this film. But it won''t go into the production until September which is fine with Alex as Kim has yet to finish her other commitments. She is starring in "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home" as the love interset of Captain James T. Kirk. and the title role in the "Peggy Sue got married". ................................................................... The main cast of the "Ferris Bueller''s Day Off" was changed from the original version. Alex is playing the role of Ferris . Many young actors auditioned for the role of his bestfriend but none of them satisfied John Hughes. On the Alex''s suggestion Robert Downey Jr. auditioned for the role and got the part.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. ''Mia Sara'' was casted in the role of Ferris''s girlfriend and ''Jennifer Grey'' in the role of Ferris''s sister as in the original version. 1961 Ferrari GT Alex''s paycheck for a film has increased to $9 million which most of the studios were happy to pay. But "Ferris Bueller''s Day Off" was a joint production and his salary exceeds the production budget. Alex couldn''t reduce his paycheck because it is not a independent project of Phoenix Studios. So both studios had to pay $4.5 million each to Alex. To reduce costs Alex made a deal with Ferrari as a product placement in the film for $1 million. In the place of $4.5 million paycheck Alex got 10% profits from Paramount. ................................................... Alex and Robert Downey are talking in the shooting break when Alex got a call from ''Tom Cruise'' about a role. Alex agreed to meet him for a coffee after the completio of day''s work. "Who''s that?" Robert assked curiosly. "Tom Cruise. You should have heard about him." Alex said preparing for the next shot. "Yes, I''ve heard of him. I think it was you who recommended him for that film ''Risky Business'' right?" Alex nodded in affirmation. It grossed just above $90 million dollars making Tom''s career. But he still need another hit to establish his status as a star. The film that made Tom Cruise a Super Star was ''Top Gun''... Alex''s thoughts froze at the ''Top Gun''. Its original release is in 1986 and Alex didn''t hear a single news about ''Top Gun''. What happened? Alex tried to remember the history of ''Top Gun''. The primary inspiration for the film was the article "Top Guns" by Ehud Yonay, from the May 1983 issue of California magazine. Jerry Bruckheimer and Don Simpson, the producers of the film, reading the article wanted to make a film about the life of fighter pilots. Looks like somebody didn''t read the article. Its a great opporunity and Alex already started making plans for this film. But it will take atleast two years as Alex''s age was not suitable for the role. As for Tom Cruise, Alex will make sure that he becomes a superstar. Mia Sara Jennifer Grey Chapter 43: Platoon 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.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. "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. Paula Wagner Chapter 44: Meeting an Old Friend John Daly is feeling nervous as he sat across Alex. They met at John Daly''s office to dicuss about Tom''s role in ''Platoon''. The film''s director ''Oliver Stone'' may prove to be a problem but John Daly still agreed to cast Tom Cruise in the lead role. But there is a condition. Alex has to star in one of their films. So, here they are now , with Alex going through the scripts and John Daly looking nervously at him. After a long time Alex raised his head and said "When does this film going on the floors ?" John Daly looked at title of the script and his brows tightened. Its a sports film called "Hoosiers" about a small town basketball team going on to win the state championship. Its a low budget film and there is no suitable role for a star like Alex, even though its about a highschool basketball team. John was hoping to use this opportunity to elevate the status of Hemdale Pictures but he still kept his thoughts to himself and answered, "Just waiting for a suitable actor to play the ace player in the movie." Alex remembered that the shooting of this film should have completed by now. But seems like this time it got delayed. Alex watched this film "Hoosiers". It is often considered as one of the best sports films. Americn Film Institute (AFI) listed the film as But Alex always felt that there was something lacking in the film. Alex looked at John and said, "Is it possible to make changes to the script ?" John Daly looked worried "Is it that bad ?" "No, no. It''s good. Very good. Critics are going to love it." John is confused now "Then why change it?" "But we are not making the movies for critics." Alex is the type of person who thinks that the movie which gains more popularity among the common audience is a good movie. Though there were sometimes that a bad movie gets good box office results but it will be forgotten by audience in the flow of time. Though "Hoosiers" was a good movie but it was just a moderate success. "The relations between coach and the players is not shown as strong enough. And the star player Jimmy Chitwood stops playing because the former coach who died was like a father figure to him. We can establish that relation between the new coach and Jimmy by adding some scenes." John Daly is listening with utmost attention. John heard rumours that Alex had a knack for improvising the scripts and now he is noting every suggestion to discuss it with the writer ''Angelo Pizzo''. "Audience love the intense drama and we have to deliver it. It is written here that the coach moved to small town because he struck one of his star players and lost his coaching job. Make it possible that finals of State Championship is between the coach''s former team and the present team. It makes the stakes seem high to the audience." John heard all his suggestions and thought that even without Alex starring in it had the chance to be a big hit. "Even if the writer would''t agree to change the script, I will still honor our agreement. Just contact my lawyer Ethan Crane for the details." Alex said raising from the chair. John is happy that Alex agreed star in the film but suddenly remembered Alex''s salary and his spirits were down. $9.5 million was not a small amount. Alex saw John''s expression and laughed out loud. "Don''t worry. I don''t need salary but I''ll take 25% profits." John was okay with that condition and dialled his lawyer to draw a contract. .............................................. Alex returned to shooting of "Ferris Bueller''s Day Off" after signing the contract. The filming shifted to Chicago as director John Hughes said in his own words: ''A lot ofFerris is my love letter to the city of Chicago.'' Though Alex is friendly with all the members in the shooting he always felt that they are wary of him. Alex and Robert Downey discussed this matter in a club after a day of shooting. "Ofcourse, they will be afraid of you. Your kindness is a privilige that you are giving it to them. But for them its a luxury to accept that privilige. With a simple word you can make them fired. Powerful men can only be friends with their equals or the madmen." Alex laughed at that but agreed with Downey in his heart. They are sitting in the VIP section of the club observing the dancing crowd. Alex then suddenly saw an old friend. Alex''s pulse quickened seeing this friend. It''s been three years and she is still as beautiful as ever. "Monica Bellucci". Monica Bellucci Chapter 45: Be Friends Again "You know Monica, we could get away from here if you are not comfortable ?" a young man offered to Monica. Monica looked at him with an expression as if she was searching something in him. He was handsome. Fairly successful actor compared to Monica who just entered Hollywood. Most women would have jumped at his offer but not Monica. She is neither interested in entering a relationship now nor energy to spend. And there''s always a shadow in back of her mind that makes her compare all men to him. "Not interested Rob." she replied with a dead pan expression. The guy is persitent. "Come on, Monica. You know I like you. And I know you are attracted to me. Give us a chance." Monica almost spurt the drink in her mouth. Monica had the impulsion to laugh at his comment of she being attracted to him. When she was about to counter him Monica heard a voice saying, "It''s been a long time Monica." Monica froze at the voice of a man, no a "boy", that haunted her dreams for almost 3 years. The guy named ''Rob'' saw the expression of Monica and misunderstood as fear. He looked at the guy who just spoke but in the night club lighting couldn''t see his face clearly. "Dude, who ever you are, back off?" Rob warned the sranger. The stranger looked at him for a second and looked back at Monica disregarding him. "How are you ?" asked Monica again. Monica is still trying to calm her nerves that are in disarray. Rob angry at being disregarded came between the stranger and Monica as if he is trying to protect her. "I''m saying once again dude, back off." Rob gave another warning. "I think you should need to cool down before you do something you regret." the stranger said in a patronizing voice. "You shit..."Rob took a swing at the stranger. Rob don''t know why but felt a strong animosity towards him as if the man infront of him was a great wall that he couldn''t cross. And being a hot-blooded male Rob wants to break that wall. Rob found himself lying on the floor the next moment after he took a shot at stranger. And found himself lifted up by his collar single handedly as if he weighed nothing.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. "Sorry for excessive use of force but never take a shot at me ever again." the stranger released his collar. Rob was about to say something but Monica interrupted him saying, "How are you Alex ?" Alex looked at her and smiled "Can''t complain about anything. I''m fabulous." Monica observed Rob''s expression and introduced them. "Alex it''s Rob Lowe, my co-star. Rob he''s Alex King." Rob is scared as shit at hearing that name. In this country who doesn''t know that name? If Alex really wanted Rob''s career would take anose dive into the shit. But thankfully Alex doesn''t seem to care about him and Rob took the chance to get away from them. Alex noticed Rob Lowe''s plight but disregarded him. "Thank you." Monica is surprised hearing those words "For what ?" ''''For leaving without waking me up those years ago. I really couldn''t have handled that situation." Alex is embarrassed. "And you should have told me that you were a boy." Monica is slightly angry at his response to her leaving. It hurt slightly. Alex took her hand into both his hands "Sorry." said with utmost sincerity. Monica was excited at that simple touch. And it was the first time in two-and-a-half years. Monica couldn''t stay angry after his sincere apology. After that they discussed about what happened after their time in Milan. Monica took Alex''s device and joined in both acting and english classes. After two years, she can speak english as proficiently as any American. Her manager got her a audition in L.A. six months ago for a movie called "About Last Night..........." She got the role beating the competition from Demi Moore. In another timeline it was Demi Moore who played that role. "So, what''s with that guy Rob Lowe?" Alex asked her. "Nothing. Just trying to sleep with me." Monica said with a ridiculed expression. "You can''t blame him. You are one of the most beautiful women I have seen." Monica know that Alex is not flattering her. Alex just said as if it was a simple fact. Alex loves Kim very much but he is clear headed enough to know that Kim is beautiful but not in the league of ''the most beautiful''. But Monica is in that league. And when someone is that beautiful then she will be objectified for her beauty even if she had other virtues. Men doesn''t care about she loving them. They just need to be feel needed. Alex and Monica exchanged numbers as they both were going to be in Chicago for the next few days. Rob Lowe My apologies for delay....... I got Typhoid and was in the hospital for the whole month. I just got home today. In this week I will publish the next chapters and frequently. Once again my apologies.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.