[Chapter 235: Go Voice a Penguin]
Daniel fell silent for a moment.
Commercial films didn't really need depth; they just needed a good story. But in 2005 Hollywood, though there were plenty of blockbusters, projects that could truly elevate an actress's status while preserving a strong reputation simply weren't available. Not just this year, next year looked just as sparse.
For example, The Da Vinci Code was considered a massive hit. But Columbia had already purchased the rights back in 2003, and filming was well underway. Daniel didn't even have a chance to get involved.
Other projects either had unsuitable age requirements, or if the age was right, they didn't match their current star status. Forcing them in wouldn't help their careers at all, and letting them join mediocre action movies would be a waste of time, and largely meaningless.
Daniel stared at the ceiling for a moment before slowly saying, "Tell them not to take any live-action movies for now."
Chris was stunned. "Then what are they supposed to do? They can't just sit idle at home. Hollywood's memory is short."
"Go do voice work for animated films," Daniel said coolly. "I remember a few good projects looking for voice actors."
Chris quickly searched online. "Voice acting? Master, won't this hurt their visibility?"
"Look at the big picture." Daniel took a sip of tea. "The global box office for Pixar and DreamWorks animated films won't be any lower than Fantastic Four. Besides, voice work is easier, doesn't require as much energy to develop a character, and is perfect for a transition period."
Several animated blockbusters that were about to be greenlit or already in production came to mind -- Cars, Happy Feet, and Over the Hedge. In another world, these three films were not just box office hits; some even won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature.
Daniel looked at the screen. "Amanda has released a solo album and has a strong singing foundation; have her reach out to Happy Feet. There are plenty of musical elements that would fit her voice perfectly."
Chris made notes quickly. "What about Jessica?"
"Jessica showed off her singing voice in Honey. She can also audition for a role in Happy Feet. And if there's time, keep an eye on projects like Cars and Over the Hedge. If there are parts that fit them, try to land those roles."
In Daniel's memory, Cars was a major property that could be milked for years. Over the Hedge had won an Annie Award -- the animation world's equivalent of an Oscar -- and Happy Feet won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. All three were outstanding projects.
If Amanda and Jessica could land important roles, their careers would definitely make significant progress.
Chris's eyes lit up. "I get it. These family-friendly animated films will really boost their 'national popularity' and 'relatability.' It can erase the 'too sexy' labels attached to them and open up more diverse acting roles."
"Exactly." Daniel set down his cup. "Have their agents reach out. Just say these are projects I'm optimistic about."
...
Half an hour later, Amanda was the first to call.
"Daniel, are you seriously making me voice a penguin?" Her voice carried obvious doubt.
Daniel's tone was flat. "That's Warner Bros.' big highlight for next year, directed by George Miller. Trust my vision, this movie will sweep awards worldwide. It's not just penguins; there are cars and other animals too."
"Okay." She agreed without hesitation. "If you say so, I'll do it."
...
Next, Jessica called.
Compared to Amanda, Jessica sounded even more excited.
"I just got the message -- Do you want me to try animation voice acting? Daniel, do you think my acting still needs more polishing, so you're starting me with voice work first?"
Daniel smiled. "You're overthinking it. This project will be very helpful."
"I'll trust you."
Jessica's voice softened. "Tonight... can you come over? I want to thank you in person for the advice."
Daniel laughed. "Alright."
---
Three days later, at the Beverly Hills villa.
Daniel sat in his study, staring at an email on his computer screen. It was from Chris Gardner.
[Mr. Cross, my autobiography, The Pursuit of Happyness, has completed final proofreading. The publisher plans to release it officially next week. Thank you again for your support. Per our contract, it's your turn now.]
After reading the email, Daniel tapped his fingers lightly on the desk.
"Chris."
The phone screen lit up, and the succubus's image appeared. Today, she was dressed in a sharp gray suit, like a shrewd executive.
"Master, I'm here."
Daniel pointed at the screen. "The book is about to be released. Contact that marketing company called Pioneer Media. Tell them I want this book to break into the top three of the New York Times Bestseller list within two weeks."
Chris's fingers flew across the screen. "Understood. I will transfer a three-million-dollar marketing budget to them through an offshore account. Have you chosen the main selling point?"
Daniel said coolly, "Sell the struggle. Focus the promotion on the story of the single father taking his son to sleep in the subway station bathrooms. Tell everyone this is the most authentic 'American Dream.' People love that kind of thing."
"No problem, I'm on it." Chris's figure faded...
...
Two weeks later, at major bookstores across America.
The inspirational books section, which had previously been ignored, was now dominated by a bright orange cover.
Under the aggressive marketing campaign, numerous newspapers began serializing Chris Gardner's story. Morning news shows invited him for exclusive interviews. Even the queen of talk shows, Oprah, publicly called it, "The most heartbreaking and inspiring story I've read this year."
The Pursuit of Happyness was a hit.
The buzz spread from the East Coast to the West Coast. In just ten days, it had been reprinted three times, with sales exceeding eight hundred thousand copies.
...
Sony Pictures, executive conference room.
Producer Amy Pascal slammed a book down on the table and looked around.
"Look at this: a single father, from sleeping on the streets to becoming a wealthy investment tycoon. This is exactly the kind of Oscar bait we want. Get me Chris Gardner. No matter what it costs, I want to buy the film adaptation rights."
Her assistant agreed and left. But before long, she returned, looking troubled.
"Amy, we're too late."
Amy frowned. "What do you mean? Did Warner Bros. move first? Or Universal?"
The assistant shook her head, a strange expression on her face. "Neither. Mr. Gardner said that six months ago, before his book was even finished, the rights were already sold."
"Who bought them?" Amy raised her voice. "Which producer has such sharp eyes?"
*****
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