Page 7 of Cinematic Destinies
“Missed you more,” she said, tousling his hair.
“Hey,” he protested, fixing his hair.
“We better go. They’re waiting for us. Don’t worry, if you feel like being quiet, I’ll cover for you. I have oodles to tell everyone about my new movie. Come on,” she said, tugging his hand.
“DAD, DID YOU READ THE TRADES?”Georgia asked as she helped herself to a piece of grilled chicken.
“I did. You’re making quite the splash, little peach,” he replied.
She beamed. “Everyone’s predicting this will be my big breakout role. That nothing will ever be the same again.”
“You’re very talented. Just remember what I’ve always told you, what Grandma used to tell me. Be truthful in your performances. People need their stories told. And never forget it’s a privilege to be an artist.” He glanced over at Albert and said, “That applies to you too, with your visual art. You’re also very talented.”
Albert smiled bashfully and Georgia jumped back in, “I know, Dad. I love getting lost in the stories.”
“You’re in for quite an education. Being in a Jean Mercier film is a singular experience. No one works the way he does.Be prepared. No rehearsals, no blocking. Half the time, no damn clue what’s going on,” he said with a chuckle.
Georgia nodded. “I know. His style is legendary. I think it will be perfect for me. I never overprepare. I always try to find the moment. Let it happen naturally.”
“He wouldn’t have cast you if he didn’t think you’d be exceptional. He’s got a knack for these things. You’ll grow a lot on this job. It will be good for you in more ways than you can imagine.” Finn let out a puff and continued, “Hell, my first Mercier film changed my whole life. It’s where I met your mother.”
Finn and Ella stared at each other from opposite ends of the table.
“Uh, hello. Not to mention you snagged an Oscar,” Georgia said.
Finn laughed. “Trust me, the gold I scored on that set was your mother.”
“So true,” Ella said matter-of-factly. She giggled in her husband’s direction and then looked at Georgia and asked, “So, are you going to tell us what the film is about?”
“It’s all top secret, so you have to promise not to say a word,” Georgia instructed.
“It will be hard to resist calling the tabloids. You know, when I have time in between facilitating the miracle of life,” Betty joked.
Albert laughed, covering his mouth.
Georgia stared her down.
“Just teasing. Scout’s honor,” Betty said.
Georgia rolled her eyes. “It’s calledBeauty. We’re filming in a remote location in Iceland. The script is pretty sparse. Some kind of metaphor or something.”
“Yeah, that’s how Jean works,” Finn remarked.
“Basically, two men fall in love with my character. An old guy, and one who’s more my age,” Georgia explained.
“Please tell me you don’t have any sex scenes with Michael. I don’t think I can handle it,” Finn lamented.
“Dad!” Georgia whined.
“I’m serious,” he said.
“Don’t worry. Nothing like that,” she assured him.
“He better not hit on you for real either,” Finn added.
“Dad! Gross! He’s old like you.”
Finn and Ella burst into laughter.
