First Steps in Hollywood

The deal with Spielberg had changed everything. James was no longer just a wealthy investor— he was now directly involved in one of the most anticipated films of the decade. His access to the E.T. production and his upcoming visit to the Blade Runner set gave him an unprecedented opportunity to learn from Hollywood's best.

Before diving into these experiences, James took time to solidify his position in the industry. He needed to make sure that Stargate Entertainment remained a legitimate entity, even if it wouldn't actively produce movies yet. He decided it would function primarily as a holding company for intellectual property — namely, the books and scripts he was about to start writing.

James knew that securing copyrights to future bestsellers would be one of the smartest moves he could make. He planned to write under a pseudonym, ensuring that the rights belonged to Stargate Entertainment rather than an easily recognizable child. The goal was to position himself for future film adaptations that he could produce himself.

With this in mind, he began outlining his first major works — fiction novels that would later be adapted into movies. He focused on timeless concepts, taking inspiration from future hits and crafting stories that would stand the test of time.

At the same time, he worked closely with his mother, refining her role as his business manager. With her background in law and business steadily growing, she was becoming a formidable asset in negotiations. Together, they structured contracts, ensured that his E.T. deal was ironclad, and strategized his future moves.

In early 1981, James received a personal invitation from Spielberg to visit the Blade Runner set. The film, directed by Ridley Scott, was shaping up to be a groundbreaking sci-fi epic. James arrived on set with his mother, where he was introduced to some of the most talented professionals in the industry.

The moment he stepped onto the dimly lit, neon-drenched set, he felt an eerie sense of wonder. The towering buildings, smoke machines filling the air with artificial fog, and the endless streams of rain made it look as if they had truly stepped into a dystopian future. Crew members moved like clockwork, adjusting lights, setting up scenes, and testing practical effects that would later become legendary.

James was utterly mesmerized. This wasn't just filmmaking—it was world-building on a level he had never imagined. Every detail mattered. Every shadow, every neon reflection, every sound effect was carefully orchestrated to create the perfect atmosphere.

As he walked through the set, he watched Ridley Scott work with absolute precision, adjusting every minor detail to fit his vision. Scott wasn't just a director; he was an architect of storytelling, sculpting the mood of an entire world.

At one point, Scott himself took notice of the young observer. "You've been watching like a hawk all day," he remarked, raising an eyebrow. "What's your interest in all this?"

James hesitated for a moment, knowing this was his chance to make an impression. "I plan to direct one day," he answered honestly. "I want to understand the craft before I step behind the camera."

Scott smirked. "Smart. Most people think they can just show up and call the shots. But real directors? They know the process inside and out. Keep watching, kid. Maybe one day, I'll be watching your movies."

James felt a surge of determination. Hollywood wasn't just about money — it was about skill, vision, and reputation. He had secured his first investment, but now he needed to prove that he belonged among the greats.

After returning from the Blade Runner set, James was more motivated than ever. Seeing a high-budget production unfold before his eyes had reaffirmed his belief that preparation was key. He couldn't simply rely on his financial resources — he needed to develop his own creative instincts.

He spent hours reading books on cinematography, lighting, and screenplay structure. He broke down classic movies, analyzing what made them great. He even started experimenting with short scripts, learning how to construct compelling dialogue and character arcs.

At the same time, he began making more connections within the industry. Through his financial advisor and Spielberg's recommendation, he managed to secure brief meetings with lower-level producers, cinematographers, and writers. He asked intelligent questions, making an impression on those who would one day recognize his name.

His mother, who was quickly becoming more adept at business negotiations, made sure he stayed protected. "You have talent, James," she told him one evening. "But talent isn't enough in Hollywood. You need leverage, and that's exactly what we're building."

James nodded. "I don't just want to be a filmmaker. I want to own my projects. Control them from start to finish. That's why Stargate Entertainment exists."

His mother smirked. "Then we need to make sure your name carries weight. Let's keep working."

With every passing day, James was getting closer to his dream. He had made his first investment, secured key connections, and had begun his deep dive into the art of filmmaking.