HWI 32

Hollywood What If Chapter 32

The next day arrived and the intensity of the competition became fierce.

In the end, Kazir decided to keep the Global and videotape distributions. He could use these chips to negotiate with Hollywood companies later.

Obviously, they didn't agree with New Line Cinema's offer to buy the complete copyrights(global and videotape distributions) of Napoleon Dynamite for such a minuscule amount of $2.3 million.

Kazir received a call from Salvatore Barlowe. It seemed that Orion Pictures was interested in his movie.

Kazir nodded and accepted the meeting. They would meet in the Orion Pictures building to negotiate.

On the other side, Tom Rothman was having a conversation with Nancy Utley regarding Napoleon Dynamite.

"So you're saying that the movie is funny? And it's not a vulgar comedy, even kids under 13 can watch it?"

"Yes. If the movie is rated by MPAA, I'm sure it will receive a PG-13 rating."

"That's good to hear."

Tom Rothman found that most people who attended the screening had good opinions on Napoleon Dynamite. At least everyone understands that the movie would have a good reception in theaters. Once they did it right, they might have a chance to earn money with the movie.

"..."

Tom Rothman pinched his chin. Then, he decided to read the information he got regarding Kazir Grey.

"Kazir Grey, born on September 9, 1968. He recently divorced his wife because his wife cheated... The wife got the house."

The latter was a bit concerning because Kazir clearly didn't fight for his property. But Tom Rothman would never judge a person, at least Kazir had the upper hand in terms of moral standards.

Anyway, Tom Rothman knew most of Kazir's life within his 7 years in Hollywood. This kind of information could be found once you pay enough money.

Nancy Utley was sitting across the table. She didn't know why Tom Rothman was silent.

"Wait a minute..."

Tom Rothman found something interesting. He glanced at Nancy Utley.

"Do you have any idea what amount the other companies offered to Kazir?"

"Sir. I found that New Line Cinema wants to buy the complete copyrights of Napoleon Dynamite for $2.3 million. As for Miramax, it's 1.5 but with a 5% cut in the North American box office revenue."

Tom Rothman chuckled when he heard New Line Cinema's offer. It seemed that they wanted to squeeze Kazir to death with that kind of offer.

"... Contact Kazir or his manager. Tell him that I want to watch the movie."

"Yes sir."

For a CEO of a giant company, it was a surprise for Tom Rothman to be interested in a small-budget film.

'Perhaps Kazir Grey left a big impression after I met him personally.'

In his opinion, Kazir Grey was a starving wolf. He didn't know how to explain but he could see that Kazir was hungry for recognition. However, he kept his sanity and he could think better than anyone. At least that was how Tom Rothman saw him.

'If I know that I will be so much interested in him, I should have invested in his film.' He sighed.

Well, the situation last time was not that simple. Even though Tom Rothman held the position of CEO, he could not decide something important especially when Fox Searchlight Pictures was just starting.

One wrong move and the shareholders would berate him, perhaps even the Murdoch family would kick him out of the company. Note that Rupert Murdoch held the biggest share of 20th Century Fox.

If his intuition was right, Kazir Grey definitely had the plan to create a sequel. If Napoleon Dynamite was a success, then Tom Rothman would never lose a thing.

"Mister Grey, it's nice to meet you."

Brad Krevoy shook hands with Kazir Grey. Orion Pictures just recently survived another bankruptcy and they were trying to find another way to rise up.

'I heard that MGM wants to acquire Orion Pictures this year.'

Knowing the future, Kazir Grey that MGM would successfully buy Orion Pictures around 1997. As for further information, Kazir was clueless.

Orion Pictures were known for producing Pulp Fiction, The Silence of The Lambs, Dances with the Wolves, and The Adams Family.

They have a strong influence back in the 1980s. However, just like most film companies, they became bankrupt as well. Even now, Orion Pictures was still trying to survive.

When Brad Krevoy heard that Kazir had another film, he knew he had to watch it. When he saw the movie, he learned that it would never be easy to acquire it.

However, Brad Krevoy didn't lose hope. As of now, it seemed that Kazir was still not selling the copyright of Napoleon Dynamite. This meant that Brad Krevoy still had a chance.

They started talking about Napoleon Dynamite. The two knew the purpose of this meeting so there was no reason to dillydally.

"Kazir, I want to buy the North American distribution of Napoleon Dynamite for $2.8 million."

"I'm glad to hear that Orion Pictures is sincere." Kazir nodded and smiled.

"Then..." Brad Krevoy was a bit disappointed that Kazir didn't show any excitement. As if he already expected the offer.

"Kazir, if you have anything to say, I'm free to listen. If it's viable, maybe I can agree with it."

Since his first bait was not enough to catch the fish, how about a bigger bait?

"Brad. If possible, I want a box office share."

"This..." Brad almost bit his tongue.

He stared at Kazir. He was confused because he could not see any arrogance in his eyes.

'He thinks that he deserves a box office share... What a clueless arrogant frick.'

Indeed. This kind of thing might be possible for superstar directors but Kazir didn't have that status.

"I will think about it."

Of course, Brad Krevoy would never show any dislike. He kept his smile and their first meeting ended peacefully.

However, both of them understand that this meeting might be fruitless.

'I guess I have to find another company...'

Kazir knew that his condition was too much. But he felt like he would regret it if he didn't fight for the best options.

"Kazir, Nancy Utley from Fox Searchlight Pictures call us. She said that Tom Rothman want to watch the movie."

Salvatore whispered next to him after the meeting ended.

"I see. Tell her that we can set up the screening today if they have time."

"Okay."