Chapter 522: New Conditions

After Bill-Rossis and Diego-Harris met, they quickly informed Murphy. After a brief consideration, Murphy agreed to meet Diego-Harris.

There was no fundamental conflict of interest between him and Warner Bros., nor any irreconcilable contradictions. Their parting ways initially stemmed from a disagreement over compensation. As long as Warner Bros. offered an attractive remuneration, he could choose to continue working with them on the DC superhero series.

The two sides met in a meeting room at CAA.

"Warner Bros. and DC Comics feel that 'Batman v Superman' didn't reach the heights of 'Man of Steel.'"

Upon seeing Murphy, Diego-Harris skipped the pleasantries. They had collaborated before and knew each other to some extent. "Murphy, without you, the DC superhero series has lost its direction."

"I don't deserve such praise," Murphy smiled modestly.

Diego-Harris could hear the humility but also the underlying meaning in Murphy's words. He continued, "Your contribution to the success of the DC superhero movies is evident to all. That's why I'm inviting you to continue our collaboration."

He emphasized, "Warner Bros. and DC Comics are very sincere."

Murphy lightly tapped the armrest of the sofa with his fingers but didn't immediately respond. After thinking for a moment, he said, "My original plan was to proceed step by step, using the end of Superman to lead into a new Batman movie, and then build the entire DC superhero universe one film at a time."

"We think so too," Diego-Harris said.

He knew very well that Warner Bros. and DC Comics were too hasty and did not follow Murphy's methodical strategy.

"I also really like DC's comic heroes. They have a unique charm," Murphy glanced at Bill-Rossis beside him and continued, "I would love to continue directing this series, but the appearance of 'Batman v Superman' disrupted my original plan."

Murphy shook his head. "To complain, Diego, I'm powerless."

"This..." Diego-Harris frowned tightly. "Murphy, we believe you have the ability to make the necessary adjustments."

Murphy smiled again and shook his head.

Diego-Harris understood that empty words wouldn't help now. Murphy-Stanton was a visionary when directing films but a realist when discussing business.

"Warner Bros. and DC Comics are very sincere," he said sincerely. "In addition to the basic remuneration, we can pay you 25% of the total revenue of the film as your personal bonus!"

"Oh?" Murphy showed some interest. "What's your next film?"

"Suicide Squad." Diego-Harris immediately realized that Murphy was willing to negotiate and quickly said, "A movie featuring a group of villains as the main characters. If you're interested..."

Murphy raised his hand to interrupt him. "I'm not interested. But a friend of mine is very interested in the character Harley Quinn."

"No problem!" Diego-Harris didn't hesitate. "Have her contact me for an audition, as long as she meets the requirements."

"Thank you." Murphy nodded slightly.

This was already a significant promise. He knew Diego-Harris wouldn't be foolish enough to agree directly. For a big-budget production exceeding $100 million, selecting the female lead was never a simple matter.

Diego-Harris looked at Murphy and asked, "Are you willing to direct this film?"

"No, it's not suitable for me," Murphy rejected outright.

There were too many characters in Suicide Squad. To make it acceptable to the general audience, their backgrounds needed to be introduced. But with the limited runtime, it would be hard to elaborate on their stories. Without detailed introductions, the film would become a purely fan-based movie, incomprehensible to the general audience.

You couldn't expect the wider audience to read the comics for background knowledge before watching the movie. If that were the case, the film would be dismissed by most of the general audience.

"What about the new Batman?" Diego-Harris asked again.

"You already have Ben Affleck, don't you?" Murphy replied.

Before the release of 'Batman v Superman,' Warner Bros. and DC Comics had announced that they would reboot the Batman series, starring and produced by Ben Affleck.

Frankly, Murphy didn't like Ben Affleck's version of Batman. With preconceived notions, cooperation would only lead to conflict.

Instead of that, it was better not to cooperate.

Diego-Harris sensed that Murphy wasn't opposed to continuing to work with Warner Bros. and DC Comics, but he couldn't figure out what Murphy was really thinking.

Could it be the new Superman sequel?

Thinking of Superman, Diego-Harris suddenly realized he had overlooked an important character: the Wonder Woman, Princess Diana Prince, who had amazed the world in 'Man of Steel'!

The actress playing Diana Prince was Gal Gadot, Murphy-Stanton's girlfriend!

Diego-Harris glanced at Murphy, who showed no intention of speaking.

Actually, Murphy's thoughts were simple and had been discussed with Gal Gadot long ago. Gal Gadot aimed to become a producer and wasn't very interested in acting roles. However, as long as he continued to direct related films, she would continue to play Wonder Woman.

Why did Gal Gadot attract him in the first place, prompting him, a novice in love, to pursue her? Murphy wouldn't claim any grand or noble reason—the allure of Wonder Woman was the main factor!

So, deep down, he didn't want Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman to disappear. When they were intimate, their favorite way to spice things up was to play various Wonder Woman-themed games.

But he wouldn't speak up first. Speaking up would mean losing some bargaining power in the negotiation. The initiative was entirely in his hands now, and there was no need to speak first. As long as Diego-Harris had any sense, he would soon think of Wonder Woman.

Sure enough, Diego-Harris continued, "What about 'Wonder Woman,' Murphy? You could direct a standalone 'Wonder Woman' film."

Although it wasn't the best choice, getting Murphy-Stanton back to the DC superhero series was a success. 'Suicide Squad' had little connection to the Justice League series. As long as it didn't face major issues like 'Batman v Superman,' it wouldn't severely impact the series. Once Murphy-Stanton's 'Wonder Woman' was released, it could regain the points lost by the DC superhero series in 'Batman v Superman' and even add more points!

Although this film was still in the planning stages, Diego-Harris had enough confidence in Murphy. He believed that the man who once elevated DC superhero movies to their peak could correct the current deviation and bring even greater glory.

If Murphy-Stanton couldn't achieve this, who in Hollywood could?

"Wonder Woman..." Murphy deliberately pondered for a while. "With the rise of the feminist movement, a superhero movie with a female lead fits the trends of the coming years."

Hearing this, Diego-Harris nodded, agreeing entirely with Murphy.

If it were five years ago, Warner Bros. and DC Comics would never have considered making a female superhero movie. But times have changed, and the social environment has evolved.

"So," Diego-Harris smiled, "this film is very suitable for you."

He had decided that as long as he could secure Murphy, he would push this project forward with Bruce Rosenblum as soon as possible.

"I've never been opposed to working with Warner Bros. and DC Comics," Murphy said calmly. "I've always said I'm a loyal DC Comics and superhero fan."

Someone who hadn't read more than a few Superman comics would be a DC Comics fan? Diego-Harris thought skeptically but didn't say it out loud. Instead, he smiled warmly, "The whole world knows that, otherwise there wouldn't be the great 'Man of Steel.'"

"That's too much praise," Murphy looked at his watch and said, "I have something to do later. Diego, you can continue the discussion with Bill."

Diego-Harris nodded. He knew the remaining matters were about conditions, typically handled by agents.

Before leaving, Murphy glanced at Bill-Rossis, who nodded slightly. They had enough communication, and he knew Murphy's conditions.

Opening the door of the meeting room, Murphy walked down the corridor to the elevator. When the elevator doors opened, he found Jessica Chastain, another CAA client, inside.

"Hi, Murphy," Jessica Chastain greeted him.

Murphy smiled and nodded, "Hi, Jessica."

Jessica Chastain, with gratitude, said, "Thank you for recommending me to Megan Ellison."

"You're welcome," Murphy asked with concern, "Has she started preparing for the new project?"

"Yes, an independent film," Jessica Chastain said directly. "She has confirmed me as the lead actress."

The elevator quickly reached the first floor. The two parted ways after leaving the building. Jessica Chastain, however, stayed in front of the building for a while, watching Murphy's back. Perhaps this person had poor character, but his credibility was excellent...

Meanwhile, in the CAA meeting room, Bill-Rossis and Diego-Harris exchanged a few pleasantries before diving into the negotiation. But Bill-Rossis's first condition greatly surprised Diego-Harris.

Having accepted Warner Bros.' invitation, Murphy certainly wouldn't miss the North American premiere of "Batman v Superman," held in New York. Since the disagreement with Warner Bros. over remuneration, Murphy knew Zack Snyder was chosen to helm the DC series but hadn't followed up much. Hearing Warner Bros. chose "Batman v Superman," he sighed inwardly, recognizing they stubbornly returned to their old ways.

Murphy couldn't understand why DC, starting almost simultaneously with Marvel, felt the need to rush. Perhaps Warner Bros. and DC Comics wanted to prove they could achieve unparalleled success without Murphy Stanton.

This was mere speculation on Murphy's part and not definitive, but Warner Bros. and DC Comics abandoning his step-by-step plan was a fact.

Busy with the Oscars and then preparing a new project, Murphy didn't attend the "Batman v Superman" screening. However, initial reports suggested the screening had received positive feedback. Rotten Tomatoes had a 100% fresh rating, all seven participating media outlets gave positive reviews, and IMDb had a temporary score of 9.4.

Warner Bros. even touted the film as having zero negative reviews.

All this was eerily reminiscent of the situation before the release of the previous "Batman v Superman" film Murphy remembered. The pre-release hype was phenomenal, with fans giving zero negative reviews during screenings. But the outcome?

Before heading to the Lincoln Center, Murphy watched the trailer for "Batman v Superman." Influenced by his involvement, the film bore Zack Snyder's typical style. Despite lacking Wonder Woman, resulting in many changes, Snyder's deep-rooted personal style was unmistakable.

For hardcore comic fans, Snyder was always the best adaptation director, but for casual viewers, his adaptations were less friendly.

Upon arriving at the Lincoln Center, Murphy walked the red carpet. The premiere was grand, with an electric atmosphere. After all, it was a movie featuring Superman and Batman, naturally drawing attention.

Knowing he wasn't the main attraction tonight, Murphy quickly walked the carpet and saw Chris Evans and Ben Affleck, reprising their roles as Superman and Batman.

Before entering the theater, Murphy had to pass through the media zone set up in front, where reporters wouldn't miss a chance to question him.

A reporter shouted, "Director Stanton, why did you leave the DC superhero series?"

Murphy shrugged slightly, "I had other films to make."

Another reporter asked, "What do you think about Zack Snyder taking over the series?"

"Zack Snyder is a great director," Murphy replied diplomatically. "I'm sure he'll deliver an exciting superhero film."

Ignoring further questions, he headed toward the theater. Just before reaching the entrance, he heard the clicking of high heels behind him, someone seemingly hurrying to catch up.

"Hey, Murphy."

Recognizing the familiar voice, Murphy turned to see Margot Robbie in a yellow evening dress approaching.

As a friend and close confidante of Gal Gadot, Murphy nodded and smiled, "Didn't expect to see you here, Margot."

Linking her arm with Murphy's, Margot Robbie explained, "Didn't you hear? Warner Bros. and DC are planning to greenlight 'Suicide Squad.'"

"Interested in the project?" Murphy immediately understood her implication.

"Yes," Margot Robbie nodded. "My agent suggested I go for the role of Harley Quinn."

Murphy glanced at her, "You'd be perfect for it."

Entering the theater foyer, Margot Robbie suddenly remembered to ask, "Is Gal back yet?"

"She came back briefly in February but returned," Murphy said briefly. "She has family matters to deal with and will be in Israel for a while."

Margot Robbie, aware of Gal Gadot's situation, asked, "Not her parents trying to keep her in Tel Aviv?"

"No," Murphy shook his head, "Business matters."

As they conversed, Bruce Rosenblum, Warner Bros.' CEO, approached and greeted Murphy, "Hello, Murphy. Long time no see."

"Hello, Bruce," Murphy shook his hand. "Indeed, it's been a while."

Thinking of Margot Robbie's ambition to play Harley Quinn, Murphy introduced her, "This is my friend, Margot Robbie."

"Hello, Miss Robbie," Bruce Rosenblum shook her hand lightly. "Your performance as Sansa Stark was impressive."

Margot Robbie feigned surprise, "Thank you. It's an honor that you watched the show."

Rosenblum, courteous due to Murphy, turned back to him, "Your 'Man of Steel' set a great precedent for us. Zack Snyder's film nearly seamlessly follows it."

"Really?" Murphy replied nonchalantly. "I'll be sure to watch it closely."

"Feel free to watch it as many times as you like," Rosenblum said proudly. "Warner Bros. can give you free tickets."

Murphy shook his head, "That won't be necessary."

Rosenblum pointed to the theater entrance, "I have others to greet. Enjoy."

Seeing Murphy nod, he turned to leave, glancing back to see Murphy chatting with Margot Robbie, feeling somewhat disappointed.

Warner Bros. initially wanted Murphy Stanton as their partner, but his asking price was too high—25% of total film revenue. That was exorbitant, nearly half the profits. No one in Hollywood would pay such a high price for a director. So, they opted for a cheaper alternative, Zack Snyder, whose style closely resembled Murphy's.

So far, Snyder had done well. Warner Bros. had a test screening with nearly a thousand die-hard DC fans, receiving no negative feedback, raising high expectations for "Batman v Superman."

If successful, the film could pull the entire DC superhero series out of Murphy Stanton and "Man of Steel"'s shadow, proving their choice right.

As long as the film exploded at the box office and received praise, it wouldn't be an issue.

After greeting familiar faces, Murphy entered the theater, with Margot Robbie following. She even swapped seats to sit next to him.

"Murphy."

Before the film started, Margot Robbie asked, "What do you think of the film?"

"How would I know?" Murphy spread his hands. "I didn't attend Warner Bros.' screening. How could I know if it's good or bad without watching?"

Margot Robbie shrugged, "I thought you had seen it."

Soon, the movie began. Like in his memory, it opened from Batman's perspective, relegating Superman to a supporting role. This wasn't inherently a problem, but after watching for a while, Murphy could only shake his head.

"Batman v Superman" wasn't a bad film, far from a Hollywood disaster. However, like its predecessor, Snyder's version was a film for DC comic fans.

It wasn't a mainstream, diverse commercial film, nor an accessible one. Despite cuts, it was still overloaded with information. Even Murphy, somewhat familiar with the comics, found himself confused at times.

Films are inherently subjective. Snyder always had his distinct style, which die-hard fans might find perfect, capturing the dark tones just right.

But as an early installment laying the foundation for a series, shouldn't it aim to attract new fans rather than only please existing ones?

Moreover, the film's pace was too slow and its plot too lengthy. In today's fast-paced world, this nearly guarantees many viewers will find it hard to accept.

"Pff..."

As the final battle between Batman and Superman unfolded, Margot Robbie couldn't hold back her laughter. Soon, exaggerated laughter echoed throughout the theater.

In such a dark, serious film with no comedic elements, causing laughter meant something was seriously wrong.

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