Following the positive reception of his performance as Dylan, Alex began to secure guest roles in various television series. These were often smaller parts, one-episode appearances as a teenage character that offered him more experience and exposure. However, the role that truly marked a significant step forward was his lead in an episode of the acclaimed ABC After School Special titled "Seven Wishes of a Rich Kid."
In this episode, Alex portrayed Calvin Brundage, a wealthy yet lonely teenager. The story revolved around Calvin unexpectedly being granted seven wishes by a genie. Driven by the typical teenage desire to fit in and impress the most popular girl in school, Melanie Gamble, Calvin unwisely used his first five wishes in attempts to magically win her over. However, his efforts backfired and things didn't unfold as he had hoped. For his sixth wish, Calvin sought advice from the genie on how to genuinely impress girls. This wish led to a heartwarming moment where Calvin, despite the magical guidance, connected with his father, fostering a closer relationship and ultimately gaining the courage to approach Melanie authentically, without relying on any supernatural assistance. To his surprise and delight, his genuine self was what truly impressed her. Finally, for his seventh and last wish, Calvin wished for his workaholic father to enjoy life more. This final wish was unique as it came true without any of the usual unexpected side effects that had plagued his previous attempts at using magic.
Alex garnered particularly good reviews for his humorous portrayal of Calvin, showcasing a knack for comedic timing that added another dimension to his growing talent.
June arrived, bringing with it the promise of summer and, for Alex, the buzz of continued auditions. One afternoon, he found himself sitting in a comfortably appointed office at Creative Artists Agency. Aunt Nancy was beside him, and across the large wooden desk sat Bill, a seasoned agent with a calm and confident demeanor. This particular audition wasn't one that usually required Bill's direct involvement, but the prestige of the project had warranted his presence.
"So, Alex," Bill began, leaning back in his chair, his eyes crinkling at the corners, "this is quite an opportunity. A two-part television miniseries of 'Salem's Lot.' Budgeted at around four million dollars, which, as you can imagine, is substantial for a TV project."
Nancy nodded in agreement. "Very."
Alex leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Wow, four million for a TV series? That sounds… huge."
Bill chuckled. "It is, Alex. It speaks to the scale and ambition of this adaptation." He continued, "And we're talking about James Mason in a starring role. A real legend." James Mason was a distinguished English actor who had achieved stardom in both British and American cinema. With a career spanning several decades, he was known for his captivating voice and portrayals of complex characters in films like "The Desert Fox," "A Star Is Born," "Lolita," and "North by Northwest." His presence in "Salem's Lot" would undoubtedly lend a significant gravitas to the production. Bill paused for effect. "Warner Bros. Television is producing, so it's a top-tier production all the way."
"And I have an audition for Mark Petrie?" Alex asked, wanting to make sure he had all the details correct.
"That's right," Nancy confirmed, turning to Bill. "Bill feels this could be a significant role for Alex."
"Absolutely," Bill said, looking at Alex. "Mark is a very interesting character. A teenager, a bit of a horror movie enthusiast, who becomes quite instrumental in fighting off… well, vampires." He gave a wry smile.
Alex's eyes widened. "Vampires? That's amazing! I love those kinds of movies."
Bill smiled. "Good. That enthusiasm will serve you well. Mark is a smart kid, resourceful. He knows his monsters."
"We really think this could be a fantastic role for you, Alex," Nancy added encouragingly.
Bill nodded emphatically. "Absolutely. A project like this, with the talent involved and the backing of Warner Bros., it's prestigious. If Alex clicks with them, if he nails this audition, I wouldn't be surprised if we start seeing offers for his first feature film role coming in soon after. This could be the stepping stone to bigger things, Alex."
Alex understood what's Bill talking about. For CAA, while being the third-largest agency, their real strength had traditionally been in television, and Michael Ovitz, one of the agency's five founders along with Ron Meyer, Bill Haber, Rowland Perkins, and Mike Rosenfeld, who served as its chairman, was making a big push to change that and establish CAA as a major force in the movie business. Landing Alex a role in a prestigious project like this could be a significant win for everyone involved.
"You're right, Alex," Bill affirmed, sensing the young actor's understanding. "Television is a great training ground and a significant part of this industry, but it's the movie business where many feel the real prestige lies. A strong performance in 'Salem's Lot,' given its cinematic scope and the talent attached, could definitely open doors to film roles for you down the line. That's the real prize we're aiming for here."
Alex nodded, a newfound determination hardening his gaze. He understood the significance of this opportunity. "I'm going to do my best," he said firmly, looking at both Bill and Nancy. "Looks like I've got a lot of studying to do. Damn, I just finished my freshman year!"
And study Alex did. He devoured Stephen King's "Salem's Lot," finding himself engrossed in the eerie tale of vampires taking over a small town.
"Salem's Lot" tells the story of Ben Mears, a writer who returns to his childhood hometown of Jerusalem's Lot, Maine, only to find it slowly being overrun by vampires led by the ancient and powerful Kurt Barlow. As the town's residents begin to disappear and reappear as creatures of the night, Ben, along with a group of fellow townsfolk, including the young horror enthusiast Mark Petrie, must band together to fight the evil that has taken root in their once peaceful community. Mark, with his knowledge of vampire lore and his bravery, becomes a crucial ally in their desperate battle for survival.
*******
The day of the audition arrived, a nervous energy thrumming beneath Alex's calm exterior. He walked into the audition room, Aunt Nancy offering a reassuring squeeze on his shoulder before he stepped forward. Seated behind a table were three individuals: Tobe Hooper, who Alex recognized as the director of horror film "Texas Chain Saw Massacre", Richard Kobritz, a man with a keen gaze who he assumed was the producer, and Stirling Silliphant, who seemed to be an executive producer. The air felt charged with anticipation.
"Alex Hayes?" Tobe Hooper asked, his voice calm and encouraging. "Welcome. We're glad you're here. We'd like you to read a few scenes for us today."
Alex nodded, his heart pounding a steady rhythm against his ribs.
"First, we'd like to see the scene at the window," Tobe Hooper continued. "Mark has woken up and hears his friend calling him."
Alex took his position, imagining his bedroom in the dead of night. He slowly sat up in his mind's bed, a furrow in his brow as he heard a familiar voice calling his name. He looked towards an imaginary mirror, picturing Danny's face – a face now gaunt and pale, the eyes glowing with an unnatural light. The realization of what Danny had become washed over him. He knew the lore, knew Danny couldn't enter unless invited. Tears welled in Alex's eyes as he mouthed a silent, choked "Go away," his performance capturing the pain of losing his friend and the sheer absurdity of the horrifying situation. He then mimicked reaching for an unseen cross, holding it up as if to ward off the creature in the mirror, his silent plea echoing the whispered lines, "Go away…" until the image faded from his mind.
"Excellent, Alex," Tobe Hooper said, leaning forward with interest. "Very effective."
"Next," Richard Kobritz interjected, "we have a scene where Mark is injured and trying to escape."
Alex limped convincingly, imagining a sprained ankle hindering his movements. He reached an imaginary door, his breath coming in short, sharp gasps. He strained, pushing the door shut just as unseen figures pounded on the other side. His face contorted with effort and determination, a silent promise that he wouldn't let them in. The focus in his eyes conveyed Mark's desperate fight for survival despite his injury.
"That showed real grit," Stirling Silliphant commented, nodding his approval.
"Finally," Tobe Hooper announced, his gaze intense, "we want to see Mark after… after his parents…" He trailed off, letting Alex fill in the devastating blank.
A raw, visceral rage contorted Alex's face. He let out a guttural scream, a sound filled with the unbearable pain of loss and a burning desire for revenge. He lunged forward, towards the space where he envisioned the head vampire standing, his fists clenched, every muscle in his body tense with fury. The anguish and unadulterated rage were palpable, leaving no doubt about Mark's state of mind.
The room remained silent for a moment after Alex's powerful performance. Tobe Hooper exchanged impressed glances with Richard Kobritz and Stirling Silliphant.
"Alex," Tobe Hooper said, a slow smile spreading across his face, "that was… remarkable. You truly embodied Mark Petrie." Richard Kobritz nodded in agreement, a similar look of satisfaction on his face.
As Alex waited, his heart still racing, he couldn't help but feel a surge of hope. Their reactions seemed genuine, incredibly positive.
"We'll be in touch through your agent, Alex," Tobe Hooper said, his tone encouraging. Richard Kobritz and Stirling Silliphant echoed his sentiments with nods and smiles. Alex left the audition room feeling a surge of hope.
Once Alex and Nancy had left the Warner Bros. Television building, the director turned to the producers. "He's good. Really good. He captured that blend of fear and burgeoning bravery that Mark needs."
"He did a great job with the scenes," Richard Kobritz agreed. "Especially the raw emotion at the end."
Stirling Silliphant, however, voiced a slight concern. "He's a little… short, isn't he? About five-four?"
Tobe Hooper waved a dismissive hand. "Five-five, I think. But it doesn't matter. He's got the right look in his eyes, that intelligence. He is Mark Petrie. We can work with the height; it's not an issue. He's perfect."
The very next day, Alex was at home with Janet, who was diligently working on a drawing at the kitchen table. The house was filled with a comfortable afternoon quiet when the phone rang. Janet answered it, then called out, "Alex, it's Aunt Nancy!"
He picked up the receiver, a sense of anticipation fluttering in his chest. "Hi, Aunt Nancy."
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"Alex, congratulations!" Nancy's voice was brimming with excitement. "You got it! They loved you. You're going to be Mark Petrie in 'Salem's Lot'! And guess what your salary is going to be... twenty thousand dollars!"
A huge grin spread across Alex's face. "That's fantastic! Thank you!"
"They mentioned that there was a slight initial concern about your height," Nancy continued, "but the director was adamant. They really loved your audition."
Alex made a playful face, rolling his eyes at Janet who was watching him curiously. "Height, huh? Well, we Hayes men are late bloomers. My dad was just five-four at my age, and by the time he was twenty, he was a full six feet!" He threw his hands up with a confident shrug. "Just you wait and see!"