THE FIVE TOWNS In Hollywood, a town not known for subtlety, there’s no limit to how far a talent representative will go in order to poach – er, acquire – a new client, especially if that client is already represented elsewhere. From Rolexes to Bentleys, no gift is too grand if it will boost a tenpercentary’s bottom line. Whether it’s taught or simply an innate skill, the ability to sniff out someone else’s unhappy client like a shark senses blood is a precious skill – and a badge of pride – in the agency biz. The process starts with a weekly call just to “check in” – and, of course, remind the mark how much better his life would be if the rep were in it twenty-four/seven. “You didn’t get the latest Judd Apatow script? It’ll be there before we hang up.” “You’re starting production on Monday? I’ll send over a bottle of Taittinger, and drop by the set next week to say hello.” But coercion isn’t always necessary, as actors, writers and directors have shown a migratory streak by following their reps when they defect to rival companies. In response to this revolving door of constant rep-hopping, Fade In decided it was time to finally start keeping score. So throughout the rest of 2008, follow the fun as we track the latest and greatest agency signs and steals.