When someone witnesses the success of a film, they can either embrace or reject a role. Titanic is magnificent, but many movies receive similar responses and criticisms. It's obvious that, in every case, actors are constantly seeking out projects like this. Take the Star Wars saga from the 1970s—it was a massive success that skyrocketed the fame of its original cast. Or Pretty Woman for Julia Roberts, who became an icon—the sweetheart of Hollywood—radiating a charm that laid the foundation for her career in the years to follow. That kind of opportunity, backed by real talent, can guarantee a lasting career.
For many, it marked the moment when Leonardo began choosing the roles he wanted. Playing Jack gave him the power to pick and shape his own path, making that character the springboard for countless future performances that would go down in cinematic history.
Billy Carson:
Drawing: 38.9090
Literature: 37.4560
Acting: 39.0500
Score: [11450]
…
The pressure was hanging by a thread. It was almost certainly a burden for everyone involved to witness how things unfolded. A success like this—and with it, Billy would no longer need to pitch or produce under Lux Films. That first step toward becoming a true actor was already part of his game. All he had to do was wait for major films to come his way—projects where he could play a larger role in the cinematic market. Regardless of how, the next strike would come in the form of two iconic franchises: Star Wars and The Matrix.
…
Monica touched up her lashes, mascara smudged from the tears shed over the love story between two young souls. She'd been deeply moved. The emotional impact of watching Billy's performance filled her with pride—a rare and overwhelming joy.
They stepped out together, walking side by side. A few people shook Billy's hand, impressed by the film, though unaware of the full implications. Less than a year ago, The English Patient had left a similar mark—another tragic love story. While it didn't have the same commercial credit, it earned substantial artistic acclaim.
–Congratulations!– someone said to Billy, as the translucent figure of success hovered ever closer.
–You saw something others did too, but you made it clearer,– another remarked, this time to James Cameron. Even those not in the spotlight—supporting actors and humble crew members—were suddenly seen as potential hires for future roles, though to a lesser degree.
Billy turned to Monica.
–We've got a small gathering with the team. Going will help us a lot,– Billy said, wrapping his arms around the Italian, who gladly melted into his embrace, letting his hand drift across her waist, her eyes sparkling as she got lost in the celebration that hinted at even greater things ahead.
–Where are we going?– she asked.
–They rented out a restaurant. And yes, we've got a few big names coming—some more influential than others in the industry,– Billy said, already eyeing a few producers who weren't just tied to Fox. They were mouthpieces for major television networks, operating as discreetly as an accountant in a company or an ER doctor in a hospital.
–And Jon Landau will be there—a producer from Lightstorm. He's got a solid vision on how to integrate technology, working alongside makeup artists, model makers, and set designers,– Billy added.
–I know, darling,– Monica replied, sensing Billy might need to deal with a few matters. Her gaze wandered toward a tight circle of stunning women—like a steel-clad group, distant and untouched by the void and bustle of the space.
–It won't be long, love,– Billy assured her. –We'll have time for whatever you want. We haven't tried those bath salts you brought from San José… I could use a good soak after a day like this.–
Billy crossed the theater lobby toward the exit, Monica at his side. They climbed into a black SUV and were driven in a small caravan to their next destination: a party at a rented restaurant to help strengthen ties with the touring team. Winona rode along, her white teeth flashing with warmth, her large, endearing canines peeking through her smile.
Lawrence Gordon, Joseph Singer, Peter Chernin, and Gale Anne Hurd were all part of the quiet power circle growing between them. Each of them—a CEO, executive, or president—had signed off in some form, whether approving the budget, securing distribution, or providing financial backing. They had raised the flags of production across 1996, the year of filming, and even earlier in 1995, the year of pre-production—the phase they referred to as "shipbuilding."
–I love when you're this sweet– Monica whispered.
Billy, now sitting beside her, gently massaged her feet, free from the high heels she'd worn all evening.
–What a lovely couple,– Winona commented.
–Couples,– Monica whispered back.
***
The reviews from the West Coast came in by morning. Every one of them had committed to writing at least a short review ahead of time. The critics' responses were unanimous—nothing less than resounding. The media found little else to compare it to, aside from Terminator-level productions.
–What can people do when all causes defy reason—either too simple or too foolish?– Angus remarked with a soft sigh, a veteran of the field.
New York Daily News
Dreifus Ebert:
"It's relentlessly crafted, smartly constructed, superbly acted, and completely captivating."
Chicago Sun-Times
Dave Kelly:
"It leaves the port of commerce to reach the shores of art."
The New York Times
Elvis M. Clark:
"A thrilling experience, whose beauty and sadness inevitably pull the viewer in."
USA Today INC
Mike Clark:
"James Cameron's film may not be perfect, but visually and viscerally, it's a triumph."
L.A. Post
Thomas Schneider:
"The well-known tragedy of the Titanic is less surprising than the astonishing balance Cameron achieves between reality and fiction, spectacle and drama."
...