Henry leaned back in the plush chair of Columbia Pictures' conference room, feeling a buzz of anticipation. Sunlight spilled across the polished mahogany table where executives and agents had gathered. Across from him, Jeff, his agent, fidgeted slightly, clipboard in hand.
"This is it," Jeff muttered. "Zombieland. Lead role for Columbus."
Henry nodded, though his leg bounced under the table. Between the auditions and everything else happening, it felt surreal.
The door opened, and two Columbia executives walked in, professional but approachable. They shook hands with Henry Stein and Andy, then gestured for them to sit.
"Mr. Stein," said the senior executive, "we're impressed with your auditions. Before we proceed, we need to discuss terms — contracts, schedule, and compensation."
Jeff spoke first. "We want a fair deal, considering Henry's growing profile. Flexibility in filming and some performance-based bonuses would be ideal."
The executives nodded. One slid a contract across the table.
Salary: $100,000 upfront. Possible bonus: $20,000 if domestic box office exceeds $50 million. Principal photography: February–March 2009.
Jeff raised an eyebrow. "For a lead role, especially Columbus, this is a little low. Can we discuss a small bonus structure based on performance?"
The executive leaned in. "We understand. Budget constraints are tight — it's an ensemble comedy-horror. Salaries among leads are balanced carefully."
Henry cleared his throat. "I just want to confirm that the filming schedule won't conflict with other obligations in early 2009. That could justify a minor bonus adjustment."
The executives exchanged glances. "We can accommodate scheduling requests," said the senior executive.
Jeff seized the moment. "So, $100,000 upfront, plus a $20,000 bonus if the box office performs well. Filming will start in February 2009, as planned, and finish in March. Standard perks apply — wardrobe, travel, accommodations."
The senior executive nodded. "Agreed. We'll draft the revised contracts accordingly."
Henry exhaled quietly. Sitting here, negotiating a major Hollywood film while preparing for a lead role felt surreal.
He looked out at the Los Angeles skyline. Negotiations, schedules, co-stars yet to be cast, and bonuses — it was a complex dance. But he was ready.
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Once the executives left, Henry and Jeff walked down the hallway toward the elevator. The hum of the building, the distant clatter of a coffee cart, and the occasional ring of a phone filled the space.
"Not bad," Jeff said, leaning against the wall. "You kept your cool. That's what I like to see."
Henry shrugged. "I wasn't sure at first. $100,000 seems… modest for a lead. But the bonus and schedule flexibility make it reasonable."
Jeff chuckled. "Welcome to Hollywood, Stein. You get the money you negotiate, not the money you deserve."
Henry laughed. "Easy for you to say. You're the pro."
"True," Jeff admitted. "But remember, the bonus isn't guaranteed. That $20k depends on box office performance. It's small, but it's a foot in the door. And the experience? Priceless. This role could define your career if you play it right."
Henry nodded, thinking about the months ahead. Filming, rehearsals, learning the quirks of the character Columbus, and navigating the fast-moving set of a studio production — it was a lot to take in.
"You ever get used to it?" he asked, kicking the edge of the elevator.
"Used to it?" Jeff smirked. "No. But you learn how to survive. You learn who to trust, when to push, and when to stay quiet. Today, you pushed smart. That counts."
Henry smiled faintly. "I hope the director likes me as much as the executives did."
Jeff patted him on the shoulder. "He will. Just remember, this is the start, not the finish line. You're Columbus now, but don't let the role define you too early. Stay sharp, stay humble, and give them something unexpected. That's how you make Hollywood notice."
Henry glanced out of the window once more, seeing the city shimmer in the late afternoon sun. "You told me that exact same line with The Pacific, and with 500 days."
"Exactly," Jeff said, smiling. "Now let's get out of here and grab a coffee. You've earned it — but don't get used to free afternoons."
They walked toward the street together, the hum of LA traffic below them, Henry's mind already racing with thoughts of February, of scripts, of the character he was about to bring to life. For the first time, the possibilities felt real, but manageable — just barely. And that was enough