Chapter 409: Collective Opposition

Over the following week, Matthew immersed himself in the preparations for "300 Spartans." He primarily focused on leading and supervising the actors playing Spartan warriors in their fitness and swordsmanship training. Occasionally, he also communicated with the stunt coordination team to fine-tune the action scenes for Leonidas.

At the beginning of February, Akiva Goldsman relayed the news that he and Warner Bros. had chosen Francis Lawrence as the director for "I Am Legend."

Matthew had Helen Herman gather information about Francis Lawrence. Like Zack Snyder, Lawrence had a background in directing advertisements and music videos, having worked with stars like Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, and Beyoncé. In terms of films, he had directed only one: "Constantine," which Warner Bros. released based on the DC Comics character.

That was the Keanu Reeves movie from last year.

The film had a production budget of $100 million, grossing over $70 million domestically and $230 million worldwide. From a box office perspective, it wasn't considered particularly successful.

Matthew didn't remember who directed the version of "I Am Legend" starring Will Smith. He had been drawn to the film by the premise of a man and his dog, not paying attention to the director's name.

He called Keanu Reeves, who, despite their strained relationship, spoke highly of Francis Lawrence, describing him as a diligent and talented director.

Zack Snyder, also from the music video and advertising world, knew Lawrence and echoed this sentiment, affirming his capability.

Akiva Goldsman and Warner Bros. likely had their reasons for choosing Francis Lawrence, reportedly impressed by his comprehensive plan for the film.

As an actor, it was challenging to influence director choices, even for a top-tier star like Matthew. Unless he initiated a project or was indispensable as the lead, his say was limited.

Goldsman and Warner Bros. were keen on having him as the lead but not at all costs.

If Matthew were dissatisfied with the director choice, he could discuss it with Goldsman and Warner Bros., and if the disagreement was too significant, he could always withdraw.

Matthew had no issues with Lawrence, aside from concerns about the moderate box office success of "Constantine." He had Helen Herman continue negotiations with Goldsman. "I Am Legend" was still in the early stages of preparation, far from finalizing the cast.

Although Helen Herman's negotiations with the production were just beginning, Matthew had already considered the role extensively.

"I Am Legend" was essentially a solo performance. Reflecting on it now, he realized that Will Smith's charisma carried the entire film.

A solo performance demanded more from an actor. If it were an art film, Matthew would decline, knowing his acting skills weren't up to that standard. But in a commercial film, personal charisma and star power were more crucial than acting prowess. After years of honing his skills, he felt he was up to the challenge.

While his acting might not be exceptional, even after starring in several films, it was about average in Hollywood terms.

Will Smith's acting wasn't particularly exceptional either.

Despite an Oscar nomination for "Ali," everyone knew that Oscar acting awards didn't always reflect true talent. Smith was recognized as a commercial superstar, much like Matthew's own trajectory.

Even critics would likely rate Smith's acting only slightly above Matthew's.

In other aspects, Matthew believed he was on par with or better than Smith. With five consecutive blockbuster hits, he was among the highest commercial value stars, with a distinctive style and a substantial fan base.

His only potential disadvantage was not being as politically correct as Smith.

However, the notion of political correctness in Hollywood had its downsides. Many states in the Southern USA were still not favorable toward black actors.

With Hollywood's current trend toward political correctness, it wouldn't be surprising if someone suggested to Goldsman and Warner Bros. to cast a black lead.

Compared to his role in "I Am Legend," Matthew had more influence in "300 Spartans," where he was not only the lead but also a producer.

Post-9/11 Hollywood's push for political correctness had affected the "300 Spartans" crew as well.

"This is the current situation..." Bearded Jack explained with a hint of resignation in Warner Studios' office. "Most commercial films now include a significant positive black character."

Zack Snyder frowned, and David Ellison remained silent. Matthew stayed quiet too.

Bearded Jack continued, "For example, Maximus' black companion in 'Gladiator' was specifically created as a black character, which is why his role diminished later in the film, feeling disconnected from the protagonist."

Screenwriter Kurt Johnstad chimed in, "Jack's right. Even Ridley Scott compromised. One of the strongest and leading Jedi in the Star Wars prequel trilogy is also black."

With the screenwriter's support, Matthew couldn't help but speak up. "This doesn't seem appropriate."

He glanced at Zack Snyder, then said, "I haven't studied this extensively or had formal historical education. I just want to ask, are there historical records of ancient Greek city-states having black warriors?"

Bearded Jack wasn't proposing adding black characters among the Spartans but among the Thespians who aided them.

Zack Snyder, understanding the situation, immediately replied, "No! There's no such record!"

"Then it's simple," Matthew said logically. "If historical records don't support it, why add such characters?"

Bearded Jack sighed. "It's a precaution. The black actor and director community is increasingly vocal, often citing the absence of significant black roles to highlight their presence."

Matthew restrained himself from blaming Jack for this trend. Instead, he said, "We have Frank Miller's graphic novel as our basis, giving us a solid excuse."

Snyder added, "There's no need to add such a character."

With the project initiators opposing, David Ellison said, "I agree with Matthew and Zack."

Bearded Jack, recognizing their collective opposition, conceded after some thought. "Alright, we won't consider this suggestion."

The meeting ended, and Matthew and Zack Snyder left the office, heading towards the sound stages.

"Jack meant well," Matthew said to Snyder as they walked. "Don't take it to heart."

Snyder smiled. "I know." He sighed. "At this rate, black actors will start seeing themselves as a special group."

Matthew shrugged. "Who knows what people in the industry think, especially those leading Hollywood's values. Have those privileged old white men suddenly found their conscience after decades?"

"Who knows." Snyder shrugged. "Their political correctness comes at others' expense."

Matthew lightly patted Snyder's arm. "One day, they'll face the consequences."

Snyder suddenly remembered, "By the way, have you signed with the 'I Am Legend' team?"

"Not yet." Matthew shook his head. "Helen Herman is still negotiating with Goldsman. I asked for a high salary, so it'll take time."

"Just a heads up," Snyder said, considering Matthew a confidant. "You asked me about Francis Lawrence before, right? He's the director for that project."

Seeing Matthew nod, he continued, "Lawrence is a strong supporter of this kind of political correctness. It's best not to mention avoiding black actors around him."

"Got it." Matthew wasn't naive. "I'll be careful."

His earlier comments hadn't involved sensitive terms or topics, strictly discussing historical accuracy.

While curious about Lawrence's stance, Matthew wasn't entirely surprised. Hollywood's political correctness wasn't just shaped by societal trends; many in the industry genuinely sympathized with and supported black actors.

In the peculiar landscape of America and the fantastical world of Hollywood, white hypocrisy was not uncommon.

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