Adulation Under the Flashbulbs

Every Presidential election year was a time of fierce competition among the television networks. Campaign advertisements from the candidates, countless scandals, dramatic moments, and controversial remarks were all guaranteed to draw viewers' attention;

As mainstream media outlets, ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, and FOX competed even more intensely in their coverage, racking their brains to boost ratings.

At present, although the primaries of the Democratic Party and Republican Party had yet to conclude, George W. Bush, representing the Republican Party, and incumbent Vice President Al Gore, representing the Democratic Party, were both leading within their respective parties;

As for Hollywood, most people supported the Democratic Party—Barbra Streisand, Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, Kevin Costner, and so on.

With the successful conclusion of the 72nd Academy Awards ceremony, films such as American Beauty and Shakespeare in Love saw a surge at the Box Office;

Shakespeare in Love had surpassed 90 million US dollars at the North American box office, while its overseas gross had already exceeded 150 million;

American Beauty had likewise surpassed 110 million dollars in North America and 200 million dollars overseas.

At the same time, Universal's biographical film Erin Brockovich opened in theaters, earning 28 million dollars in its opening weekend!

In the film, Nicole Kidman portrayed the protagonist brilliantly, leading audiences through a genuine journey of human exploration and growth;

Many critics considered the film powerful, entertaining, and deeply emotional.

"Erin Brockovich is the perfect role for actress Nicole Kidman. Not only can we admire her complex acting talent on screen, but we can also enjoy her peerless beauty and arrogantly sexy charm!"

At a seaside villa in Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Aaron smiled and set down the newspaper in his hand.

"Nicole, your performance in Erin Brockovich has received tremendous praise—it's even better than Ghost."

Fair-skinned, gorgeous, and