Eric had finished reading the script for Dragon Ball. It truly followed his request, with no fabricated or exaggerated elements, avoiding the transformation into a melodramatic school romance.
Many lines also referenced and paid homage to the manga, indicating the screenwriter's dedication.
The plot concludes with the defeat of Piccolo in the first arc, essentially covering the main story of the first part and setting the stage for the Saiyan Saga in the second part.
Of course, there were some deletions and changes. Goku's childhood scenes were significantly cut, for example, Launch's storyline was completely removed.
His first participation in the World Martial Arts Tournament was also briefly mentioned, with the focus remaining on depicting the characters in their adult forms.
After all, hundreds of episodes of content cannot be fully presented in two hours, even if extended to three or three and a half hours like the lord of the rings.
As long as the choices are appropriate, most fans and audiences will surely approve.
He had already decided on several actors, including Samuel L. Jackson, Arnold Vosloo, and Norio Wakamoto.
For the two most important female roles, Chi-Chi's appearance is a bit late, but she is a genuine Eastern-blooded face.
Her attire also embodies a very traditional Eastern charm, somewhat reminiscent of Ranma's Akane, making Liu Yifei a suitable choice.
Her chest size doesn't matter; giving her more screen time, especially more action scenes, will definitely win her a large number of fans and elevate her global popularity by an order of magnitude.
Bulma appears earliest and has a more Western facial appearance, so a European actress could be found.
However, Dragon Ball is essentially a hot-blooded shonen manga for men, and Bulma's role isn't actually that extensive; she usually disappears once the combat storyline begins.
No need to think, he must use his own woman.
Nicole and Theron are not suitable; their personalities and temperaments cannot convey Bulma's vivaciousness. Gadot already has transformers and the hunger games, so she's not needed.
Ashley and Mary won't work either; their heights are simply too short, and standing next to the warriors would look awkward.
Little Elizabeth is even less of a consideration; she hasn't fully matured yet, with a youthful baby fat on her face.
However, with Eric's cultivation and nurturing, she will surely grow rapidly.
After much deliberation, only Daddario seemed suitable. She is naturally well-suited for carefree, outspoken characters, and her figure is quite explosive, which aligns with Bulma's character design. Her age is also relatively appropriate.
As for Bulma's scientific temperament, it only truly emerges in the Saiyan Saga. Daddario will need to catch up in this area, but there is still plenty of time to guide her.
Recently, the girl has been serving him very comfortably, but the fallout script hasn't been written yet, and she hasn't found a new job, so why not give her a big one?
Once the harem is completely stable, he'll find an opportunity to bring her into the villa.
Oh, and Little Liu. This is a good opportunity for the two of them to get acquainted, reducing awkwardness when they eventually share a bed.
As for the most crucial character, Goku, Eric couldn't find a truly suitable candidate in his mind. He had considered Ludi Lin, but his face leaned a bit too much towards a childish and effeminate handsomeness, which wasn't right for Goku.
Early Goku was a kind of goofy handsome, a very simple character. Using actors like Tony Leung or Jude Law, who immediately convey a sense of having a'story' in their faces, would give a feeling of mismatch.
Only after transforming into a Golden Super Saiyan did Goku's temperament shift towards a profound handsomeness, especially during the climax of battles, often exhibiting a hint of divinity, which is difficult for ordinary actors to portray.
After much thought, still unable to imagine a suitable candidate, Eric slapped his hand down with a bang, startling Carol into the room.
She rushed in, "Boss, what's wrong? Is something the matter?"
"Nothing. Issue an announcement, publicly auditioning for important roles in Dragon Ball, including the male lead Son Goku, requiring two actors, one adult and one child, to portray different periods."
"Contact Akira Toriyama in Japan and send him my revised script for his review."
"Hmm? Does the script still need his opinion?"
Eric could tell what she was thinking without even looking.
"Carol, don't look down on people with arrogance. Hollywood always likes to act superior. No, I should say the entire global film industry tends to look down on the novel and comic industries, leading to arbitrary changes in others' works."
"Works that are adapted have already proven their excellence. You can modify details to better suit the big screen, but don't arbitrarily alter the framework and let the story become unrecognizable."
"Moreover, Akira Toriyama is a manga master, a world-class manga giant. I respect him greatly."
Carol nodded humbly, offering her obedient emotional value: "Understood, boss. I will always keep your words in mind."
"Also, officially assemble the crew. I demand the project to start within two months."
"Okay, then who has been chosen as the director?"
"Me!"
"You, personally?"
"What's wrong? Is it not suitable?"
"No, I think fans will be very happy, but are you not planning to direct the sequels? Like house of cards Season 2."
"I will serve as producer and screenwriter, overseeing the general direction. James Foley will take over; he is a very experienced veteran director."
When the news of Dragon Ball's open auditions was announced, it undoubtedly caused a stir in the industry.
Male actors were all abuzz, especially the young rising stars, whose blood was boiling with excitement.
It was 2004, exactly twenty years since Dragon Ball first aired on TV in 1984. This incredibly popular hot-blooded manga had long since swept the world.
From every angle—merchandise, licensing, game development, movies, and all other aspects—Dragon Ball was undeniably the world's number one.
Although later its manga sales were surpassed by one piece, in terms of global influence, one piece is still quite far from Dragon Ball.
This is because about 70% of one piece's manga sales are in Japan, while Dragon Ball's manga sales in Japan account for only over 20%, with nearly 80% worldwide.
This can be seen from the continuous tributes to Dragon Ball from various countries around the world; no other anime has this kind of dominance.
Even for the Tokyo Olympics' mascot, after a vote, Goku emerged victorious over popular contenders like Naruto, Sailor Moon, Doraemon, and Luffy, the reason being Son Goku's more global renown.
Anyone who has watched Dragon Ball, who hasn't, in their youth, excitedly shouted "Kamehameha!"?
And you had to assume a horse stance, making the gesture of charging a ki blast for it to be perfect.
For male actors, this role was like a dream come true, and the director's column clearly stated Eric Cooper.
What does that mean?
Was transformers good? Was it cool? Was it awesome? Was the box office high?
blue is the warmest color launched a Golden Globe Best Actress, successfully transformed the Olsen Sisters, and won countless awards domestically and internationally, serving as a model for art-house films.
house of cards played with political thrillers and black humor, with explosive word-of-mouth.
Even as a screenwriter for get out and frozen, he still raked in massive box office and awards.
Undoubtedly, this is an amazing director who can handle any style, possesses an extremely keen market sense, and has a knack for training and discovering actors. The scripts and variety shows he participates in are also highly popular.
His personal involvement already represents MGM's attitude: it will undoubtedly be an A-list, big-budget production.
Seizing this opportunity would be a guaranteed path to success!
And so, Eric began receiving all sorts of calls, messages, and invitations; all the troubles his father once had now converged on him.
Brad Pitt: "Eric, I noticed MGM is making Dragon Ball. I was wondering if there's a role for me?"
"Pitt, you're not seriously thinking of playing Son Goku, are you?"
"Heh heh. I can tell from your tone that it's not suitable. I'm not looking for a lead role; a cameo would be fine, actually."
"No problem then, a martial artist, but you might have to be prepared to be killed off."
"No problem, tell me when filming starts. Thanks!"
Leonardo DiCaprio: "Eric, I'm only 30 this year. Actually, with some makeup, I could probably play adult Goku."
"Brother, you're not serious, are you?"
"Uh, ha ha ha, just kidding."
"Leo, the role of Goku isn't suitable for you, but I think Trunks, specifically Future Trunks, that role has a high compatibility with you."
"Moreover, the character has very profound depth, a rarity in Dragon Ball, and would allow you to showcase your acting skills."
"Trunks? Doesn't he only appear in the Cell Saga?"
"Yes, that's why I hope you can maintain your physique. The most essential part of the Cell Saga is the future world, which could easily be made into an independent movie, and you would be the lead."
"And you won't have to wait too long, at most three years, the project will definitely start."
"Alright, then I'll await your good news. Come to my place if you have time; there's a big party this Friday night."
Tobey Maguire: "Director, do you think I'm suitable for Son Goku?"
"Toby, you're a bit too scrawny."
"I can work out and gain muscle; I'm very diligent."
"But the project will start in at most two months; I can't give you much time."
"Alright then, give me a cameo role. No lines are fine too."
"No problem."
Chris Evans: "Boss, my muscles are back. Let me play Son Goku."
"Your captain america and transformers aren't finished filming yet. Get your ass back there immediately. Actors should be dedicated to their work, not half-hearted."
Robert Downey Jr.: "Director, put some makeup on me, I can play Master Roshi."
"You're dreaming!"
Jake Gyllenhaal: "I can portray a unique Goku."
Dwayne Johnson: "Look at my bald head, let me play Krillin, Director. What? Nappa!"
The Family Man: "Mr. Cooper, has the role of Tien Shinhan been cast yet?"
Ryan Reynolds even directly sent a video. He set up the camera in his living room, then stepped back a few paces.
"Next, you're going to see the most explosive transformation ever. Don't blink."
After saying that, he began clenching his fists and roaring wildly, a continuous, breathless scream, his eyes rolling back as if he was truly transforming into a Super Saiyan.
Suddenly, with a ripping sound, Ryan's upper body clothes were torn apart by invisible hands from both sides, revealing a fake muscular suit underneath.
He pretended to pant, saying, "Now, standing before you is the legendary Super Saiyan, Supa Saiyajin!"
This overly explosive and abstract performance left Eric speechless, and he then uploaded it to YouTube.
Whether you can play Goku or not, let the audience judge.
At Los Angeles International Airport, Eric parked his newly bought Hummer at the exit.
Fame brings trouble; to avoid paparazzi, he had to change cars every now and then.
Soon, Liu Yifei walked out wearing large sunglasses. Her fame in the US wasn't yet widespread enough, so there were no paparazzi following her.
Bang!
The door closed, and the car started.
"Where's your mother?"
"Mom and the assistant are traveling together; they're going back to the hotel first to adjust to the time difference and rest."
"She's not supervising you this time? She doesn't object to you getting in my car?"
"Hehe. I told her, but Mom didn't say anything. Maybe it's tacit approval."
Liu Yifei then asked somewhat curiously, "Eric, ever since that time my mom found us in the hotel, she seems to have become, how should I put it?"
"More understanding?"
"Yes, she's become much easier to talk to. What did you two talk about that day? My mom was actually convinced by you!"
Eric chuckled, thinking that it was indeed'slept into submission.' When you weren't aware, I've lost count of how many times I've slept with her.
Every time, I had to spank her hard. After a while, she wouldn't feel comfortable if I didn't spank her. Next time, I'll put handcuffs and ankle restraints on her.
"My eloquence has always been excellent, and your mom is just too concerned about you; she doesn't have bad intentions."
"Mm, I know. I immigrated to the US with her when I was very young. It hasn't been easy for her, actually."
Liu Yifei seemed to recall her childhood experiences and suddenly fell silent.
"Eric, I have something to ask of you. I wonder if you're willing to help?"
"Tell me. Your business is my business."
Seeing his straightforward attitude, Liu Yifei immediately leaned over excitedly, and the two engaged in a battle of tongues.
Mmm.
After kissing for a while, the temperature in the car had risen by several degrees before Little Liu finally let go.
She said breathlessly, "Actually, when I went back to China to film chinese paladin this time, my work finished last month, but some things delayed me, so I haven't returned yet."
"What things?"
"One is Zhang Jizhong, the director of demi-gods and semi-devils. He invited me to film another wuxia TV series, the return of the condor heroes, and it's still for the female lead role."
"Hmm, I have some impression of that. Wuxia is a unique romantic genre belonging to the Chinese people; it's very beautiful, very great!"
"The other is Chen Jinfei. Do you know him?"
Eric's expression became serious: "Your mother mentioned him, but she only brought him up briefly. I'm not clear on the specific details. What's wrong?"
Liu Yifei hesitated for a moment but decided to tell the truth.
"Actually, Chen Jinfei is my godfather. You can roughly understand 'godfather' as 'patron.' The reason I could get good resources as soon as I returned to China was because he was working behind the scenes."
"Including Zhang Jizhong, he also joined the entertainment company he founded. The company actually only has one artist, and that's me."
"But since last year, after I met you, I started developing in Hollywood, and our relationship has become increasingly distant."
"Now he wants me to take on the return of the condor heroes. What do you think I should do?"