[Chapter 288: Here Comes the Dirt, Link!]
After facing numerous obstacles and spending a significant amount of money, Michael Ovitz finally released a slew of negative information about Link.
Known as Hollywood's infamous playboy since 1992, Link's scandalous reputation preceded him. The stars involved in this latest round of gossip were mostly familiar faces, which initially didn't attract much attention.
However, Michael Ovitz was not satisfied; he personally contacted the media companies behind the major studios. He wanted them to collaborate on creating a sensational narrative to undermine Link's reputation in the entertainment industry. Link was the heart and soul of Guess Pictures, and to tarnish his image would be a crucial step in bringing down the studio itself.
After some consideration, the executives of the media group agreed with his perspective and provided ample resources to assist in promoting Link's dirty laundry.
With the media on board, the juicy gossip suddenly gained traction. Major publications like the New York Post and the Los Angeles Times splashed Link's "exclusive revelations" across their entertainment sections.
Reports detailed his alleged affairs with over a dozen actresses, complete with timelines, whisperings of scandal, and several blurred paparazzi photos that painted the influential director as "Hollywood's most notorious playboy," likening him to "Warren Beatty the Second."
Entertainment Weekly went all out, not only exposing his chaotic private life but also accusing Link of serious impropriety in his casting practices. The magazine claimed that many of the actors close to him had secured key roles through underhanded means, while more deserving talents were shut out. The publication called for the industry to boycott Link's films to ensure fair competition in Hollywood.
The most sensational accusations came from World News Weekly: According to "insiders," Link's mansion in Beverly Hills resembled a lavish "modern-day bacchanal," with his pool filled with Bordeaux and his garden adorned with Swarovski crystals. His garage was reported to house over twenty luxury cars, frequently inviting actresses and models to spend the night at his villa. The magazine dedicated fifteen pages to portraying Link as a man whose private life was a chaotic mess.
...
"Look at this; I really can't understand how a lecherous character like Link became a renowned director," Tom Cruise scoffed at the bar, a smirk of disdain on his handsome face. Yet, a hint of jealousy lurked beneath his bravado.
"Being a director only requires skill; character doesn't matter," remarked Michael Douglas, a top Hollywood star and producer who won an Oscar for Wall Street in 1988. He had recently regained popularity with films like Basic Instinct, Falling Down, and this year's Disclosure.
Tom nodded in agreement before turning to Dustin Hoffman. "With the major studios uniting against Guess Pictures, Link's not going to come out of this unscathed. Once he's ruined, you could return to making films."
Dustin's face fell, drawing his brows together in concern. Ever since last year's scandal, his career had taken a significant hit. His roles had been recast, and work offers dwindled, leading to a sharp drop in his income -- from tens of millions annually to nothing. His reputation in the industry was plummeted, risking his status as a seasoned actor.
What troubled him most was watching Link grow wealthier and more famous while he struggled. Every time he heard news of Link's successes, he nearly seethed with anger. Now, hearing that Link was facing trouble, he felt a renewed sense of hope and ventured out to reconnect with old friends in preparation for a comeback.
"I'm curious; Link is a billionaire and the most successful blockbuster director right now. Can all this really impact his reputation and status?" Nicole Kidman, reclining on the sofa with an entertainment magazine, spoke up as she overheard the others discussing Link.
"Hmph!" Tom Cruise frowned at Nicole's interruption. "There are plenty of directors in this industry who are far superior to him. His success is mostly down to luck and savvy marketing. Now that the major studios and media are working together against him, he has no chance of winning."
Michael Douglas nodded in agreement. "Link makes films primarily for his own profit, not for Guess Pictures or the entertainment industry. He may be box office gold for Guess, but he's a poison pill for the major studios. Destroying him and turning him into a mere film machine serves their interests. With these negative news stories, it's clear that the media group is serious about this."
"Exactly," Dustin Hoffman added, fixing his gaze on Nicole Kidman. "Nicole, don't be fooled by Link's fame in Hollywood or the money he's made. His star status and the wealth he's accrued are all products of the entertainment system supporting him. It's like raising fish; now that they're fattened, the entertainment industry wants to feast, but Link won't let go. He foolishly believes it's all his achievement -- such greed will lead to his downfall."
"Seems like a serious situation, but the magazine says this bastard is vacationing in Hawaii, acting like he couldn't care less. Can he really not see the big picture?" Nicole swung her leg playfully.
Dustin Hoffman cast a hidden glance at her long and shapely leg, swallowing hard as he replied, "That shows just how foolish he is; the news proves it."
"Nicole, I heard you're going to be the star of Link's next film. That's a dangerous choice," Michael Douglas said as he took a drag from his cigarette.
Tom's demeanor shifted, feeling somewhat humiliated. Just as he was about to urge Nicole to reconsider the role, he recalled Michael Ovitz's plot. He clenched his fist and chose to stay silent.
"This role was secured for me by Mr. Jay Moloney," Nicole explained. "When I accepted it, the major studios hadn't yet started to target Link. Plus, Warner Bros. is producing the film. My collaboration is with them, not Link, so I should be fine."
Nicole brushed a strand of golden hair behind her ear.
"Link is quite the lecher and has a habit of preying on actresses. Just be careful while filming; don't let him take advantage of you. If he dares, come find me, Tom, or Dustin; we'd make sure he gets a real lesson and ruin him," Dustin said, eyeing Nicole's striking features with obvious interest, his mouth watering slightly.
Nicole's blue eyes flickered with disdain as she lazily replied, "Got it," before returning her attention to the magazine, disengaging from the conversation.
*****
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