Chapter 150: The Girl

[Chapter 150: The Girl]

Link had spent over an hour in the audition office, watching the audition processes of seven actors. Among them, Edward Norton, Joaquin Phoenix, Ryan Phillippe, and Matt Damon stood out, while the performances of others were just average, showing some issues. Some candidates either seemed too mature or too young for the roles of high school students.

For instance, Ben Affleck and Paul Walker looked good but had a more mature vibe that made them unsuitable for playing high schoolers. Leonardo DiCaprio, at 19, appeared rather youthful, like a boy of 14 or 15, and didn't fit in with the others, making it impossible for him to take on a leading role.

After filtering out the unsuitable candidates, the remaining ones were rearranged and combined into the most fitting roles. The specific arrangements were left to the audition committee; if Link was unsatisfied with the results, he could always make adjustments.

...

"Link? Good afternoon, Director Link!" As he left the audition office and prepared to take the elevator back to his office, the doors opened. A sweet-faced, slightly plump blonde girl stepped out of the elevator, immediately nodding and greeting him. However, as she stood at the elevator entrance, she forgot to move aside when the doors began to close, nearly getting her shoulder caught.

"Hi there!" Link extended his hand to block the elevator door. The girl blushed and stepped out.

She appeared to be in her early twenties, with a nice figure and an attractive face, sporting a golden ponytail and half bangs. Her lips naturally curled up with a hint of charm, and she bore a striking resemblance to Jennifer Aniston.

As it turned out, it was indeed Jennifer Aniston, one of the finalists for the third round of auditions. With her lovely looks, golden hair, and fitted t-shirt, she aligned closely with the role of the female lead. However, the strong impression she had left as Rachel made it feel a bit off to cast her in the leading role.

"Director Link, what are you doing here? No, I mean, I'm really glad to see you," Jennifer stammered slightly.

"Ms. Aniston, it's a pleasure to see you as well. Are you here for the audition? The female lead auditions start at two this afternoon."

"Do you know me, Director Link?"

Jennifer's eyes widened in excitement as she spoke, "I came early because I live far away."

"Well, good luck," Link smiled and said as he stepped into the elevator.

As the doors slowly closed, a hand suddenly reached in. Jennifer stood at the entrance, nervously looking at him.

"Ms. Aniston, is there something you need?"

"Director Link, I'm a big fan. Could I have your autograph?" Jennifer asked, her cheeks flushed.

"Sure! Do you prefer my movies or my book?"

"I love them both!"

"Alright!"

Link took out a pen and autographed her notebook, also scribbling down a phone number before handing it back to her. Jennifer quickly expressed her gratitude. Once the elevator moved away, she patted her ample chest, astonished at her boldness for stopping Link's elevator. Looking back, she found the whole situation unbelievable.

However, the effort paid off. As she gazed at the signature and phone number, a sweet smile spread across her face.

---

The third round of auditions for Final Destination lasted over three days. Ultimately, the main cast selected included Ryan Phillippe as the lead Alex, Liv Tyler as the female lead, Edward Norton as the secondary male role Carter, Joaquin Phoenix as Tod, Renee Russo as the teacher Valerie Newton, Angelina Jolie as the third female role Terry, and Ben Affleck as the fourth male role Billy.

Matt Damon, Paul Walker, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jennifer Aniston, Renee Zellweger, Sandra Bullock, and Leonardo DiCaprio played minor roles in the film.

The selection was based on careful comparisons made by the casting team, which carefully picked the most suitable group from three sets of actors. It was like putting together a puzzle -- these particular actors worked best together, while the other two groups didn't quite fit.

...

"Really?" Link picked up Edward Norton's photo. "Is Norton really arrogant, impulsive, and hot-headed enough to play Carter?"

Sofia chuckled, "Do you remember what I said when we first met? Many men appear gentle on the outside, but they can be quite volatile inside. Their gentleness often comes from suppressing intense emotions. The more they suppress, the gentler they seem. Victoria Thomas told me Edward Norton is one of those people. If you can dig deep enough during filming, he'll do just fine in this role."

Link nodded, feeling that made some sense.

In the future, there would be a film called Fight Club, starring Edward Norton and Brad Pitt, where Norton's character gradually transformed from a meek individual into a wild, hysterical one, showcasing a significant difference from his outward appearance. Edward did a commendable job in that film, undoubtedly having much to offer.

"Why did you choose Angelina Jolie for the third female role? I thought you were leaning toward Drew Barrymore." Link picked up Angelina Jolie's file.

This future sex symbol was only 18 and had run bit parts in productions when she was younger. Last year, she had a supporting role in the sci-fi film Cyborg 2, which had yet to be released.

Angelina was a relative newcomer.

"What's wrong? Do you have a soft spot for Drew? Want me to help you set something up with her?" Sofia teased.

Link shook his head. "The last time you suggested Drew for the third role, I thought you two were closer."

"Of course not! I just know Drew and Angelina, but we don't share much. No favoritism in casting. We chose Angelina Jolie because she matches Terry's non-mainstream vibe. Her style and demeanor really capture that essence. Drew used to fit that mold but has transformed into more conventional roles over the last couple of years, mainly good girl or sexy roles, lacking the same vibe. Angelina is just more suited for this character."

Sofia tapped on the desk. "Any other questions?"

"The fourth male role, Billy, needs someone who appears dopey. Ben Affleck has a striking appearance, making it hard not to notice him. He might overshadow other characters."

"When we decided on the casting, I brought this up with Victoria Thomas as well. She said Ben looks pretty daft. If he cuts his hair short, he could appear more foolish. If he gains a bit of weight, he'd be a much better match for the character. If you're not convinced about Ben, here's another option."

Sofia handed over the file of another actor.

Link looked it over and recognized the name -- Matt LeBlanc, the third lead on Friends, who had auditioned for the lead role in Paranormal Activity. Remembering Matt's goofy performance on Friends, he thought he might be a better fit than Ben Affleck.

"Matt LeBlanc sounds good; let's have him try out."

"Alright, your call. Any other thoughts?"

Sofia leaned back in her chair, smiling.

Link sifted through the stack of audition files, reflecting on the few budding young stars who would one day become major celebrities. He regretted not being able to play a crucial part at the start of their careers.

Link decided to pass the information to United Talent Agency (UTA), hoping they could reach out to see if any were interested in signing. Should they become stars, he could enjoy a little extra dividend as a shareholder.

"Nothing else. Just hand it to the production team -- tell them to proceed with the contracts. We start filming next week."

"Okay!"

Sofia gathered her files and left.

...

Link picked up the phone and called UTA's president, Marty Bauer, to inform him about the promising young actors he had noticed at auditions, requesting them to arrange for talent scouts to reach out.

As a stakeholder and board member at UTA, although he didn't directly intervene in its management, he had enough influence to recommend a few newcomers.

...

While on the call, Sofia returned and locked the office door behind her.

"What are you doing?" Link asked, putting down the phone.

"After all the busyness, it finally feels relaxed. Don't you want to get a little cozy?"

Sofia leaned closer, wrapping her arms around his neck with a playful smile.

"At this time? Here?"

"Are you saying you can't?"

Before she could finish, Link laid Sofia down on the desk, lifting her skirt.

The desk transformed into a makeshift love nest as the Los Angeles sun shone brightly outside.

*****

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