Mike, however, was very encouraging during the four months of endless writing. Sometimes I’d stay up the whole night at the computer, completely forgetting to go to bed. And I’d be so exhausted the next day I wouldn’t be able to meet him. But he never complained. Not once. And he patiently read the manuscript as I wrote. And thankfully never asked who Adam was.
I wasn’t sure if the novel was any good but was determined to keep writing until I reached THE END. I just had to see if I could do it. Once finished, I posted the script to several publishers. That was followed by a nerve-wracking fortnight peeping out at the postman through the crack of the bedroom curtains.
Nothing happened for ages, and I kind of gave up hope as the weeks passed but then one day the phone rang. An editor asked to see the rest of the manuscript. I’ll never forget that moment. I suppose I never actually dreamed that anybody would ever take my writing seriously after the ‘depressing script’ disaster. But this time it wasn’t a dream. And the woman at the other end of the phone wasn’t joking.
Yes, the novel was finished, I told her. So she recommended I get myself an agent. Fast. Within one week I had a publishing contract.
Of course, as I said, I never did see Adam Kirrane again but his face continued to pop up regularly in the papers. It doesn’t so much anymore. You see, they decided to scrap DreamBoat a few months ago due to a decline in viewers, and the last I heard of him, he was on a TV morning show explaining how he was looking for his big movie break. Still waiting. For the right part to come along . . . mmm . . . the right part . . .
Funny that he should mention that.
Because I happen to know of a very big part coming up soon.
Yes. Let me explain. You’re probably not even going to believe this ’cos I can hardly believe it myself, but about six weeks ago my new agent phoned out of the blue. Some Hollywood bigwigs had expressed an interest in making The Mile High Guy into a movie. Was I interested? Interested? I nearly dropped the phone! Was I what?
It’s hard to believe that just a year ago I was plodding along merrily on the road to nowhere. Now I’m engaged to a man I love. I’m expecting a baby, and my first book, which was published last week, hopped into the top five, which isn’t bad going for a newcomer.
Yesterday my agent sold the film rights to The Mile High Guy. Not for millions or anything like that but for the same amount of money I’d get for almost two years working as an air hostess. It’s not enough for me to retire for the rest of my life, but it isn’t half bad either. Anyway I couldn’t possibly retire now. A writer can’t hide away and just write forever. Writers must write about real life. If you just hid away, then what on earth would you write about? But at least I’ve the option of working part-time.
But back to the script for a minute. I ended up selling the rights of The Mile High Guy under one condition. I wanted a say in who played the male lead. The film company thought it was a weird request, but I insisted. Take it or leave it, I told my agent to tell them. And I meant it.
They took it. Thanks be to God! I mean I was very worried that they’d just tell me to hump off. Like who was I to be making such diva-like requests? A first-time novelist should be punching the air with joy to have her book even considered, not making demands. But they obviously liked my story enough to comply. And filming starts some time next year in the States, apparently.
It hasn’t quite sunk in yet of course. Everything’s been happening so fast. But I’m dying to see who gets to play the lead. Maybe Matt Damon will consider. That’d be great, wouldn’t it? I’ve always had a thing for Matt. I wouldn’t mind Brad either, or Ed Burns. Johnny Depp might like to try out for the part too. Hell, why not cast them all!
But seriously though, I’m not that fussy. I suppose I’m just grateful that somebody liked the story enough to do something with it. So they can cast Popeye if they wish. Or Mr Bean. Or Ronald McDonald.
You see, I don’t particularly care who plays it.
I couldn’t give a hoot actually.
Just as long as it’s not Adam Kirrane.
That’s right.
Just as long as it’s not him.
His time seems to be up unfortunately. I hope he enjoyed the ride. I know I did, although it was turbulent at times. Very turbulent. But the skies are clear now and the winds have eased. So listen up folks, the ‘fasten seatbelt’ sign has come on. We’re heading towards the runway. Thank you for your company. And do please let me take this opportunity to wish you a safe onwards journey. We’ll meet again soon . . .
THE END
Find out more about Marisa and her other books on www.marisamackle.ie
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