HWI 113

Hollywood What If Chapter 113

For a recently rising director like Kazir Grey, it was already a privilege that three big shots from the big six showed up to watch the screen. 

This time, they were invited to watch the small screening of Taken in Grey Pictures. Grey Pictures was a studio company so they have equipment related to filming such as cameras and lighting. The studio also had a small studio where about 30 people could watch movies. 

Even though his first intention for Grey Pictures was for tax incentives only, Kazir felt like he had to invest to make sure that the studio had equipment for movie-related things. 

The projector was already set up and Kazir Grey was standing and greeting each guest. Even though he didn't know most of them, he still greet them with a smile. 

'I guess Salvatore is really working hard.'

He glanced at his agent and chuckled when he saw that Salvatore Barlowe had dark circles under his eyes... Well, Kazir had dark circles under his eyes too. Just like Salvatore, Kazir was working tirelessly. He didn't have enough sleep these past few days. 

Out of all of the cast, only Enzo Park showed up. Scarlett Johansson was not allowed to watch the movie without her parents. She was still 12 years old after all. 

PG-13 means that kids under 13 need the presence of their parents to watch the movie. 

As for Liam Neeson, the man was taking a rest after months of filming. Action movies were definitely. Liam Neeson spent months just to have a positive physique. So he was taking his time resting. 

Actors didn't have authority over post-production, only superstars could affect the director's decision. So far, Kazir never worked with a superstar so he didn't have a clear understanding of their behavior. 

He knew some superstars who have absurd conditions on their contracts. 

'Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, and Jason Statham. It stated that these people are not allowed to lose in a fight. It's written on their contracts. Furthermore, they are only allowed to get punched a few times. I can understand why they have specific things like that written in the contracts.'

Actors have to maintain their appearances. Getting beat up in a movie might cause irreparable damage over their career. So they didn't want to lose in a fight... Even if it's just acting. 

"Kazir, it's nice to meet you again. I heard that you're busy these days."

Terry Semel shook hands and greeted Kazir.

"You're still hard-working as ever. Haha, don't forget to read the revises we did in the script of The Hangover 2."

Terry Semel didn't forget to tell him about it. Kazir already finished writing the script of The Hangover 2 a year ago. He already gave the script to Warner Bros. 

Just like a normal film company, Warner Bros was skeptical about the context of the script so they decided to write a backup script just in case. Although they immediately chose his script after the release of Napoleon Dynamite II. 

They even hired many writers to polish the script. However, they felt like this was not enough. Kazir's presence was important. Warner Bros believes that Kazir Grey had to read the script before giving it a go signal. 

They believe in his capability in making a script. Of course, they would pay him money equal to his work. 

"Don't worry Terry, I'll make sure to attend at least one script writing this month."

"That's assuring to hear."

The pre-production of The Hangover started. Warner Bros didn't have a choice but to raise their budget now that Ed Helms and Pedro Pascal solidify their names. 

Their agents were asking for a salary increase! Which was understandable, anyway. 

'If there is only one problem, that is...' 

"Kazir, are you sure you're not interested in directing The Hangover 2? I can give you a better condition if you want."

Terry Semel said. The importance of a talented director in making a successful movie was obvious. Everyone in Hollywood believes that Kazir Grey could produce another successful comedy movie. For that, Warner Bros was ready to accept any conditions, as long as possible. 

If Kazir wanted a 15% box office share, Warner Bros would say yes. If he wanted 20%, then Warner Bros would nod his head. 

Kazir as the director of The Hangover 2 was the best assurance that they could get. 

"Terry, I have to be honest, my schedule is already filled for the next five years. I'm going to be busy."

"What?"

Terry Semel tilted his head in confusion. 

'Did he sign a contract with the other film companies? Why did I never hear of it?' He thought. 

"... Is it because of the Cinematic Universe that you're talking about?"

"That's right." 

Kazir didn't deny it. Terry Semel read the script of Taken and he had a glimpse of John Wick too. Kazir was trying to create a bunch of movies connected to each other. 

"I see... Well, if you're having trouble, you can contact Warner Bros.'

As long as Kazir Grey was profitable, film companies would try their best to cooperate with him. 

However, Taken was a different thing. To be honest, Terry Semel felt like the movie didn't have any X-factor. The plot was dark and the action sequences had too much hand-to-hand combat. It was quite brutal too. 

On top of that, Kazir was just a newbie regarding action movies. He didn't have enough experience. 

Still, Terry Semel would never say it in front of Kazir. He still needed the man to continue The Hangover franchise. Although The Hangover might only be a trilogy. Considering that the salary of the cast was increasing. 

Kazir greeted Tom Rothman and Michael Ovitz too. Just like Terry Semel, the two big shots wanted to form a connection with the rising director. 

Just like that, the small screening of Taken started with only 23 guests watching it.