216: male lead

Antonio looked down and smiled. "Thank you for the compliment."

Antonio accepted the praise but did not continue the conversation with Donnie. Donnie felt a bit awkward, knowing he had to take the initiative, so he said:

"Hello, Mr. Antonio, I'm Donnie. I know your company is about to start a film project, and I was wondering if there are any roles in this movie that I might be suitable for. I admire you very much, Mr. Antonio, and if we could collaborate, I'm willing to cut my salary in half."

Antonio sized Donnie up. If this were back when Donnie was at the height of his fame, he would have been eager to work with him, but now, not necessarily.

Antonio spoke slowly, "I'm sorry, but all the staff and cast for my movie have already been finalized."

Donnie had researched this movie beforehand; the casting call had only been sent out yesterday, so there was no way it could be filled so quickly.

Antonio's words were a clear rejection. Donnie paused, feeling his throat go dry.

"Mr. Antonio, if you're unwilling to use me because of my past reckless behavior, I understand. But I would still like to plead for a chance; I won't be like I was before."

Antonio shook his head. No one would believe a gambler could quit, and naturally, no one believed Donnie would turn over a new leaf.

Another Producer standing beside Antonio suddenly stepped forward and draped an arm around Donnie's shoulder.

"Oh, if it isn't Donnie."

Donnie subconsciously frowned. The banquet had started less than twenty minutes ago, yet this man already reeked of alcohol, clearly drunk.

This man was named Dino, and he had intentionally lunged at Donnie. When Donnie was a superstar, Dino had invited him to star in his movie but was rejected. Seeing Donnie's downfall now, he couldn't resist stepping in to kick him while he was down.

"What, does Mr. Donnie need film resources? How coincidental, I have some here. Why don't you have a few drinks with me? My latest movie is short a couple of extras. If I just say the word, I can definitely get Mr. Donnie in."

Donnie pushed the arm off his shoulder. Dino's company's movies were always used to promote his personal favorites; their films couldn't even be described as merely 'trash' anymore.

"Thank you for the kind offer, Mr. Dino, but I'll pass for now."

Dino was rarely rejected. He had held a grudge since Donnie's previous refusal, and being rejected again now, Dino poured an entire glass of wine over Donnie's face.

This was something Dino had wanted to do for a long time.

The clear liquid trickled down from his bangs, and Donnie froze in place.

"What are you acting for? Your foul reputation has already spread throughout the industry. Do you think you can still get a lead role? I'm the only one being merciful enough to offer you an opportunity, and you actually reject me? You really don't know what's good for you."

Dino's voice caused everyone in the banquet hall to look over, and Donnie immediately felt his face flush with heat.

He didn't argue with Dino but turned to leave. However, Dino was right; there probably wasn't a single director left who was willing to let him play the male lead again.

In fact, Donnie didn't necessarily have to play the lead. He just wanted to be involved in well-produced, high-quality scripts. Even if he had to be an extra, he was willing. This was his pursuit of art.

But because of his previous breach of trust, he seemed to have been blacklisted by that circle.

Donnie walked outside the banquet hall to get some fresh air. He knew he wouldn't get any good resources today. After taking a moment to compose himself, he prepared to leave.

Just then, someone suddenly blocked his path:

"Hello, Mr. Donnie. I am the President of Magic Paradise. I would like to invite you to be the male lead in my new movie. I wonder if you are interested."