Actor in Hollywood

Despite probing, Edgar used a self-deprecating manner, showcasing his skill and once again impressing Steven:

Why had William Morris never heard of this agent before?

Tom, however, disliked this kind of confrontation, full of calculations and pretense.

Of course, Tom knew this was part of the industry, and even he couldn't avoid it; but he still tried to be more straightforward and sincere whenever possible.

For instance, Tom was now undeniably a member of the "20 Million Club." So far, none of his projects had actually required a $20 million paycheck, but his fame and status were still evident.

Right now was a perfect example.

Even though both sides had already reached a consensus, they were still pulling and pushing.

Tom had a mischievous urge. "Your information is correct, the decision has been made. Anson will play young Frank Abagnale, the male lead. Of course, the premise is that you all agree on the payment. Next, you can sit down with him to discuss the pay."

Steven looked helpless. Although he didn't like these games either, revealing everything so directly made it less interesting. However, he wasn't angry. He gave Tom a speechless glance and then looked at Edgar.

"Yes, that's right."

In all seriousness, Steven stopped beating around the bush and laid everything out, formally extending a collaborative invitation.

"I'm preparing to shoot a project tentatively titled 'Catch Me If You Can,' adapted from the autobiography of young Frank Abagnale. One of the reasons I came to Paris was to meet Anson."

"I think Anson is perfect for the role, and I hope to collaborate with him, looking forward to seeing him bring his magic to the set, just like he surprised us today on the runway."

"Of course, the premise is that you won't demand a $20 million salary, because the gentleman next to you has already taken up the bulk of the budget. We have limited resources now, and none of us want the project to face financial difficulties."

A joke, and Tom was hit.

Tom said, "Hey! Don't you know actor salaries are a trade secret?"

Edgar was thrilled, very, very thrilled. This was undoubtedly a major turning point, but he controlled himself, even though he wanted to pump his fist in celebration. However, his rational side kept him calm.

Joy was only temporary.

Edgar immediately noticed the tacit understanding between the two big shots in front of him—

This banter was clearly a way to make Edgar cautious when discussing Anson's pay.

Was this... an attempt to lower Anson's salary?

Some might think, how could that be!

"Catch Me If You Can" is a collaboration between industry giants Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks; how could they lack investment funds? How could they even think of cutting a newcomer's pay?

Ridiculous, laughable, unreasonable.

But the truth is different.

"Catch Me If You Can" was financed by DreamWorks, and Steven was one of DreamWorks' three partners. He wasn't just the director but also a producer and a studio owner. Controlling costs was a necessary responsibility.

Since its founding in 1994, DreamWorks had rapidly grown within seven years, now firmly establishing itself among Hollywood's seven major studios. One box office success after another even made Paramount and Universal look unusually shabby.

However, behind this glamorous facade, the company faced severe operational challenges.

There were two main reasons.

Firstly, DreamWorks doesn't have its own distribution channels. They haven't signed any agreements with theaters, so all their releases have to be done in collaboration with other companies. This means that they must share their profits with the distribution companies.

Secondly, there's the issue of cost control. From its inception, DreamWorks had an idealistic vision, allowing directors the freedom to pursue their projects as they saw fit. This willingness to break the mold and defy industry conventions gave rise to classics like "Shrek," "Gladiator," and "American Beauty." However, it also led to uncontrolled spending, resulting in losses when films like "The Prince of Egypt," "The Peacemaker," and "The Trigger Effect" failed to meet expectations.

Unlike the six major Hollywood studios, DreamWorks doesn't have a powerful backer. Their financial chain is unstable, so losses that might be insignificant to others could cause significant damage to them.

Currently, they're facing a severe cash flow issue.

Naturally, Steven also needs to control costs.

So, how should Edgar respond?

Certainly, this collaboration is a rare opportunity. Even if it means lowering the salary, he should seize it. After all, this is Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks; looking at the bigger picture, there's no need to focus on immediate gains. However, that doesn't mean he shouldn't fight for what he deserves. At the very least, he needs to make a stance.

Even if they eventually agree to take the role for less pay, Steven and Tom need to be aware of the concession. Edgar can't just quietly join the cast without leaving a mark—

Charity is charity, and goodwill is goodwill, but recognition is still essential.

As Steven and Tom joked, Edgar responded with a joke of his own, "Haha, I can assure you, we're not at Leonardo's level yet."

That one line was enough.

Steven and Tom exchanged glances and then both burst out laughing.

The conversation had served its purpose, and the details of the salary would be discussed in another meeting, where both sides would show their sincerity and negotiate their positions.

Rounding a corner, the view opened up, and Edgar led the two men backstage.

The place was packed.

Even without getting close, Steven could spot Anson right away.

Although Anson's height didn't stand out among the models, his handsome face made him easy to find in the crowd.

Because at that moment, Anson was the center of attention—

The star surrounded by admirers.

All the major figures in the fashion world were gathered around Anson, and the throng of people surging toward the backstage area was there for him.

No exceptions, including Karl Lagerfeld.

With his sleek white hair tied casually into a ponytail, Karl wore his signature Chanel black suit jacket, and even indoors, he sported his iconic sunglasses. His presence naturally commanded respect, and those around him instinctively gave him space.

While no one could see Karl's eyes behind his sunglasses, the angle of his head and the direction of his conversation made it clear that he was having a friendly exchange with Anson.

Even Anna and Eddie had to step aside slightly.

The crowd behind them was still pushing forward, but no one dared to interrupt Karl.

Who would have thought that in such a setting, the person shining like the sun and becoming the center of attention would be an outsider?

Some might have expected Eddie to feel disappointed since this was supposed to be his moment to shine. But a glance at Eddie showed him standing off to the side, completely at ease, quietly listening in with a relaxed expression. This unexpected reaction left many surprised.

Edgar was about to lead Steven and Tom forward, but Steven stopped him. "No, let's not. We two outsiders shouldn't disrupt the scene. Let's save it for another day. This isn't our arena."