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Chapter 179: The Interview Drama
🕑 Added 2025-01-01 10:02:54 +0000 UTCThe Sixth Sense began its pre-production phase, but Gilbert still needed a reliable assistant director. He asked his assistant Anna to put up a job notice.
Gilbert's assistant director position had become one of the most sought-after roles in Hollywood, attracting many film industry professionals waiting for their chance, even directors from the advertising world.
Outside the interview hall, James Gunn waited nervously. After several rounds of interviews, he had finally reached the final stage.
At the moment, James Gunn was working at Troma Entertainment, a company known for producing absurd, ultra-low-budget indie films. However, James Gunn was determined to break into the mainstream film industry, and this was his opportunity.
"James Gunn? James Gunn?" Anna called his name twice.
The tense James Gunn immediately responded, "That's me!"
"Come with me. It's your turn," Anna said.
"Alright," James Gunn hurriedly grabbed his belongings. In his panic, he dropped several items, quickly squatting down to pick them up.
However, his suit pants were so tight that the seam in the crotch tore wide open.
The people waiting for their turn noticed and couldn't hold back their laughter, which quickly turned into an uproar.
James Gunn was embarrassed and, clutching his screenplay, asked Anna, "Can I go back and change my pants?"
Anna rolled her eyes. Assuming that someone so clumsy wouldn't be chosen by Gilbert, she said, "It wouldn't be polite to go in like that, but if you leave now, you'll miss your chance."
"What?" Hearing that he might lose the opportunity, James Gunn panicked and rushed inside.
Anna had no time to stop him. Watching him storm into the interview room, she stomped her foot in frustration and followed quickly, worried that Gilbert might blame her.
The other candidates were left speechless. After a while, someone asked, "Do you think he'll succeed?"
"Succeed? He'll probably be thrown out..."
Everyone nodded in agreement. Going into an interview with torn pants—what would Gilbert think?
At least one less competitor for the rest of them.
Inside the interview hall, James Gunn burst in. Gilbert, who was chatting with assistant director Annie, looked up in surprise. "What's going on?" he asked.
Anna rushed in behind him, quickly apologizing, "Sorry, boss. I couldn't stop him."
Gilbert frowned. "What's the matter?"
Anna hesitated, glancing at James Gunn's pants but couldn't bring herself to explain.
James Gunn, however, didn't care. Holding his short film tapes and screenplay, he placed them on the table, clenching his thighs tightly, and introduced himself:
"Director Gilbert, hello. I'm James Gunn, a graduate of Saint Louis University. I pursued further studies in creative writing at Columbia University, earning a master's degree in literature.
Here's a short film I directed and a science fiction screenplay I wrote. Please have a look."
James Gunn? Gilbert immediately recognized the name. This was "Gunn," the future renowned director! But why was he in such an embarrassing situation? Was he trying to stand out by dressing like this? If so, Gilbert would never hire him—that would be absurd.
Curious, Gilbert asked, "What happened to your pants?"
James Gunn scratched his head. "I was too nervous, and the pants were too tight, so they ripped."
Hearing this, even Annie Burton, who rarely smiled, couldn't help but chuckle.
Gilbert couldn't suppress his amusement either. Smiling, he instructed Anna, "Take Mr. Gunn to change into a pair of pants. I think we have some performance costumes in the studio wardrobe."
Anna was surprised; she thought Gilbert would throw James Gunn out. But she didn't ask further questions—an assistant's job was to follow instructions, not to speculate on her boss's decisions.
After changing into a new outfit, James Gunn appeared much more composed. During this time, Gilbert skimmed through his screenplay.
The script was a sci-fi horror story. Its plot wasn't particularly innovative, but it featured plenty of gory scenes that could be quite frightening on screen. If made into a film, it wouldn't be a blockbuster but likely wouldn't lose money either.
However, Gilbert wasn't fond of producing films heavy on gore—it was bad for public perception.
The short film was different. It was a psychological horror piece, somewhat reminiscent of Final Destination. Though still a bit immature, the screenplay and cinematography showed potential.
When James Gunn returned, Gilbert tested him with a few questions. James Gunn answered fluently and offered unique insights.
When the interview ended, Gilbert told him, "Go back and wait for our decision. We'll contact you if there's any progress."
He signaled for Anna to escort James Gunn out.
Anna handed James his torn suit and said, "Make sure to return the pants."
"I will. I'll bring them back tomorrow," James Gunn promised.
Anna rolled her eyes. She had no patience for someone as brazen as James Gunn and turned her attention to the next candidate.
The remaining candidates were baffled by James Gunn's cheerful demeanor and his new outfit as he left the room.
Was tearing your pants some kind of strategy to impress Gilbert? Could it really increase the chances of success?
One indie filmmaker suddenly had an idea. He took off his jacket, leaving himself shirtless in just his boxers, and stormed into the room, drawing everyone's astonished gazes.
But moments later, they saw the shirtless man being dragged out by two security guards.
He looked aggrieved, shouting, "Why was the guy with ripped pants allowed in, but not me?"
Anna stepped out and coldly addressed the remaining candidates. "If anyone else dares to show up inappropriately dressed, they won't even be allowed into the room."
The candidates exchanged nervous glances, not daring to speak. But they were curious: did James Gunn have some secret connection to Gilbert?
After the interviews, Gilbert discussed the candidates with Annie Burton. "Who do you think is the most suitable?"
Annie thought for a moment and replied, "I think James Gunn is the best choice. He's talented and creative."
Gilbert turned to Anna. "What about you?"
Anna hesitated but answered honestly, "James Gunn is indeed capable, but his behavior was inappropriate. Even though it was an accident, it showed a lack of respect for you and the interview process."
Gilbert shrugged. "At least he wasn't like the guy in boxers—he wasn't trying to be funny."
Ultimately, the decision was Gilbert's. After some consideration, he told Anna, "We're not hiring someone for their etiquette but for their skills. It was just an accident, not intentional, and his abilities are evident. Let's hire him. Inform him right away."
Although Anna had her reservations, she didn't argue and went to call James Gunn.
Elsewhere, Gilbert spoke to Annie Burton about casting a child actor for the film. "Annie, we need to hold a large-scale audition to find the right actor for this role."
"I've already sent the audition requirements to the actors' union. They've recommended a group of suitable candidates who can start auditioning anytime," Annie replied. Then she suggested, "Director, I think Scarlett should audition too."
"Scarlett?" Gilbert raised an eyebrow. "We're looking for a young boy. Scarlett isn't suitable—and she looks a bit old for the role."
Annie smiled. "Scarlett hasn't grown much. Even though she's almost twelve, she still looks like an eight- or nine-year-old. Plus, her acting has greatly improved after several films. I think she's a good fit."
Gilbert thought it over and finally agreed. "Alright, let her audition. We'll see how she performs before deciding."
Meanwhile, James Gunn anxiously awaited the results. He had quit his job at Troma Entertainment to fully commit to this opportunity.
When the phone rang, he picked it up immediately. Anna informed him, "Mr. Gunn, congratulations. You've been hired. Please report to the studio as soon as possible."
"Yes!" James Gunn punched the air in celebration. "Thank you, Miss Singer."
"Don't thank me. Thank the boss—he made the decision."
"Of course. I'll work hard to prove myself and repay his trust," James Gunn promised.
And so, James Gunn officially joined Gilbert's team as the second assistant director, beginning his Hollywood journey.
Gilbert also called Scarlett. "Scarlett, get ready. You'll be auditioning."
"For what role?" Scarlett asked excitedly.
"Come on, silly. If it were for a small role, I'd just cast you. Do you need to audition for that? It's for the lead role," Gilbert laughed.
Scarlett cheered on the other end of the line.
But Gilbert warned her, "There will be many excellent young actors auditioning. If you don't perform well, I won't choose you."
"Don't worry," Scarlett assured him. "I'll work hard and do my best. I won't waste this opportunity."
"You'd better. Good luck!" Gilbert said before hanging up.
Before the audition begins, Gilbert Jr. needs to go to Mexico to meet with James Cameron. The Titanic is currently under intense production.
