My Hollywood System

Chapter 5:

For more than an hour, Benjamin kept reading the script of [17 again]. From time to time, he would ask questions related to the story and Will would answer it.

After reading through more than half of the script, Benjamin rubbed his forehead and smiled towards the script in his hand.

He has more appointments today and it would take too long if he just kept reading the script. Anyway, he has already ensured that the script was not bad at all.

In fact, it was really great.

Unlike most scripts going around Hollywood, [17 again] seemed like a fully revised one. There was a major difference in the first draft and a revised version of a script.

Normally, studios would only keep the basic plot of the script and change a lot of stuff, mainly to make it a better screen experience as most first drafts just can’t be used as the final script of a movie.

But it was quite different with [17 again].

The story seemed fleshed out and the characters looked nice. Although some dialogues need revisions, most of them were on point.

‘It can definitely be used.’

Benjamin thought and after gathering his words finally opened his mouth after a long time.

“Will, how long are you writing this script for?”

“Around half a year. I was planning this for my first movie after finishing college. But now that things have come to this, I decided to sell it.”

Will lied, making up a made up story but his uncle believed it without being suspicious.

It was because Will was a talented person in his eyes who had gotten into EUC, one of the best cinematic schools in Los Angeles and even America.

Many of the aluminis of it are already popular directors.

Just he didn’t know that Will also has a talent in scriptwriting. It was a surprise but definitely a good one.

“This script of yours is really interesting. As you are family, I won’t try to go round and round with words with you. I’m interested in signing a contract for the rights for [17 again].”

Will flashed a smile hearing it.

He was just taking a chance by meeting Benjamin but it has worked out really well for him. It looks like luck was really on his side.

“Then, Uncle, we need to discuss the contract.”

“Yes, but first, I should tell you some things. Even if everything goes well with [17 again] and it begins pre-production, you won’t have too much power on the casting and the director and the investors can even make changes to it. Do you understand?”

Benjamin asked and Will nodded his head.

He knew that these types of things were just too common in Hollywood. Scriptwriters never truly have much power unless one is a really big name.

If he didn’t need money and had a bit of power, he would try to negotiate but currently other than money, he has no conditions he wanted to negotiate about.

[17 again] was just a fast way for him to get a good amount of money.

“I understand that, Uncle Charles.”

“Then, okay. I was actually thinking that maybe you could sign with MCA as a screenwriter. Though, it’s rare, we do sign them and in my eyes, you are a talent.”

Benjamin proposed with genuine words.

If he could recruit a talented and young screenwriter like Will, the agency would surely take good care of him and he would even be able to give him a better share in the profits of [17 again].

But unfortunately for him, Will shook his head.

“Sorry, uncle. I don’t really plan to be a screenwriter or even be tied down to an agency.”

“What are you going to do then?” Benjamin asked, confused.

“You know me. I always wanted to be a director and I still want to do that. I’m currently thinking of directing an independent movie and writing more scripts on the side.”

Benjamin frowned hearing that and thought that Will was being too impatient and his lack of experience was coming in his way.

“Will, even if you direct a movie currently, I don’t think it will earn a lot. Even if it’s good, it can only make a splash in some film festivals but it’s almost impossible to pull this out. Even the most talented writers are over 30 when they start on their project.”

Will just smiled lightly at Benjamin’s concern. He knew where he was coming from and didn’t take it as Benjamin was looking down on him. He was just seriously worried that Will would do something foolish with the money he earns from the script, so he was trying to persuade him.

“Don’t worry Uncle Charles, I’m not going to spend all the money I get from the script on a fool’s errand. I would make sure to use it wisely. Just trust me on this one.”

Benjamin sighed again as he shook his head. There was no use trying to pursue these hot blooded young men, as he was someone who has gone through this age too.

He just hoped that whatever Will was planning would succeed, although he didn’t have much hope.

“Okay then. I’ve other appointments that have been delayed already. Let’s discuss the details of the contract in our next meeting. I would need to discuss this with higher ups too. So give me some time, I’ll contact you in a few days.”

Will understood that Benjamin was already doing way more than he expected when he came here, so he wouldn’t make things difficult for him.

Will left Benjamin’s office, but not before Benjamin reminded him to call him at any time he needed help. Will felt extremely grateful to Benjamin for everything he did so far, including checking up on him while not many people remembered him.

Since that was aside, Will planned to go home and start typing down the script for ‘The Blair Witch Project’. Although he wasn’t sure how long the shooting would take, how he would gather a crew for shooting and how much the movie will earn, he was sure that it’ll be a hit nevertheless.

With a soft smile and a beaming heart, Will walked out of Benjamin’s office.

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