HWI 39

Hollywood What If Chapter 39

[I realized that we are close to reaching our goal. Just like I promised, I will add three more chapters for tier 5$. As for tier 10$, I will write 4 chapters every day (not sure) instead so that you guys can read more. So it's going to be 9 chapters of TOFD, HWI, and RDD every week. Of course, I can't promise that I can write 4 chapters every day, but I'll try to do my best.]

While the other companies were busy contacting Kazir, the man in question was currently facing a reporter.

"So Director Grey. I heard that you didn't give your actors any explanation when they audition, you just order them around."

"Yes," Kazir answered in the middle.

"Can you explain why is that?"

"Well, when we were holding the audition, we already have an idea of what actors we will hire. So when I found Ed Helms and Pedro Pascal, I know that they pass the audition. So I decided to give the part of the script that, the lines specifically, will bring laughter to the audience."

"Hm. Is that the reason why you asked Ed Helms to say idiot so many times?"

"Yes, that's right. If you watched the movie, Napoleon Dynamite says idiot more than five days."

"Indeed."

Because Napoleon Dynamite had a successful result in North American, Fox Searchlight Pictures started strong publicity. The company invited the actors and Kazir to promote the movie in different parts of North America.

This was all part of the contract that Kazir had signed up when he accepted the $2.3 million.

Of course, the actors of Napoleon Dynamite took this chance to strengthen their fame as well.

Unfortunately, Reese Witherspoon was in Texas while Kazir was in New York. They didn't have any 'connection' these days.

"Thanks for the interview, Director Grey."

"The honor is mine."

The reporter giggled. She was just a small-time reporter yet Kazir showed her respect. He was a good person. Perhaps he was still not affected by the so-called 'famous people mentality'.

"Salvatore, how's my schedule for today?"

"It's all good Kazir, you can take a rest now. We will return to Los Angeles next week."

As his biggest client so far, Salvatore Barlowe was taking  Kazir's timetable seriously. Especially now that many people were looking for him.

"Yeah. Keep your contact with the film companies. If they are interested in my script, you can set up a meeting with them."

"I understand."

"Then, I'll take my leave."

"Have a safe trip."

Kazir specifically chose New York to promote Napoleon Dynamite because he wanted to meet his brother.

Aaron wanted to propose to his girlfriend tomorrow and he invited his friends for a formal party.

Tonight, Aaron invited him to his apartment to talk about life.

It was already December 22, 1995, and Napoleon Dynamite already have $117 million at the box office.

Just like other movies, Napoleon Dynamite lost its freshness after months. In 14 days, it only earned $11 million.

But Kazir was not bitter. In his opinion, Napoleon Dynamite didn't have to prove itself to anyone, not anymore.

Only a few movies had $100 million in North America this year and Napoleon Dynamite was part of the list. That was a great feat.

Kazir talked to Fox Searchlight Pictures and they were interested in the Overseas and videotape distributions of Napoleon Dynamite. Heck, they want it all.

If a movie proves its profitability in North America, it usually has a strong trend overseas as well. Even if Napoleon Dynamite has American humor, foreigners would still appreciate it.

To be precise, the main target of Fox Searchlight Pictures was the videotape distribution and sequels of Napoleon Dynamite.

"Aaron!"

"Kazir!"

The two brothers greeted each other with a big hug. They smiled and laughed like young kids.

"I'm excited to meet you again! Bro, I can't believe that you will multiply my money, haha!"

Because Aaron was the sole investor of Napoleon Dynamite,  Kazir promised him 50% of the profit.

This kind of contract was actually outrageous. Only an insane person would agree.

In the others' view, Kazir lost a lot of money by signing this kind of contract.

However, Kazir had the opposite opinion. This 50% was his sincerity. He would never cheat on his brother. He deserves half.

"Bro, I still have received the 5% box office share so don't celebrate yet."

"Haha, that's right."

As of now, Napoleon Dynamite has $117 million. 5% of that amount would be $5.85 million. A big amount of money and Aaron would receive half of that!

Of course he was happy.

"Film companies will usually pay once the movie is close to being released out of the cinemas."

"I understand, I understand."

The two brothers entered the house. Housing in New York was expensive and Aaron's house has a normal size. Yet this kind of house was super expensive in New York.

While talking, the two brothers heard the sound of the doorbell.

"Aaron, do you have another visitor tonight?" Kazir was clueless.

"Actually, Kazir... I want you to meet someone."

Aaron scratched his head. He was not when Kazir would meet their father so he decided to plan this meeting.

"..."

Kazir didn't know what to say when he saw his brother fidgeting.

Aaron opened the door.

"... Dad."

"Kazir?"

Victor Grey, Kazir's father, was confused when he saw his youngest son. He didn't expect that he would meet him tonight.

"..."

"..."

The two men had an awkward first meeting after so many years. They didn't know what to say.

Victor sighed and approached Kazir. He tapped his shoulder and said, "I'm proud of you son. Napoleon Dynamite is a masterpiece."

Victor regretted that he didn't support his son. As his father, he should have been there for him. Perhaps he was too immature back then. He wanted Kazir to take over the family business and help his brother.

But now, Victor was happy as long as his sons are happy. They are his pride.

In fact, he wanted to contact Kazir but he was afraid. He didn't know what will happen if he shows himself.

But this meeting was once in a lifetime and Victor didn't let it slip.

They are family.

"Dad... I'm sorry..."

Hearing that simple appreciation, Kazir burst into tears and hugged his father.

He was usually a calm man. He rarely cries, but Kazir was showing manly tears right now.

In fact, even Aaron was crying the whole time.

The whole family meet again and their first night together was wholesome. Victor started talking about business. Kazir and Aaron spoke about their lives as well.

The day after, Aaron propose to his long-time girlfriend and she said yes. They celebrate to the point of being drunkards.

Even their Christmas was celebrated with booze as well. They were dead drunk these days.

After he reconciled with his family, Kazir returned to Los Angeles in a good mood.