Chapter 200: Initial Success
As the film drew to a close, the audience, regardless of whether they were satisfied or dissatisfied with the ending, rose to their feet in applause.
Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times, along with other critics, initially dismissed "Like Crazy" as merely another film akin to "Blue Valentine." However, they soon discovered that it offered a depth and intrigue surpassing that of "Blue Valentine."
The cast's performances were notably impressive, with Lucas, in the role of Jacob, standing out. He delivered a captivating performance, particularly with his renditions of the film's songs. Kenneth Turan admitted that the melodies Lucas performed as Jacob lingered in his mind long after the film ended, finding them irresistibly memorable.
In his review, Turan expressed a predominantly positive opinion, a sentiment echoed by the majority of critics who had seen the film, though a few offered dissenting views.
Another journalist who had the opportunity to see the film also started to realize that the widely circulated photographs of Lucas kissing Jennifer or Felicity were indeed authentic scenes from the movie.
As the applause filled the air, Lucas exchanged warm smiles with Jennifer and Felicity. Together with the cast and director, they left the theater, stepping into the buzz of journalists from various media outlets eager for another round of interviews. Lucas, alongside his fellow cast members, fielded questions with ease, his smile never wavering.
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Sundance 2011 rolled on, showcasing a mix of competing and non-competing films. Amidst this cinematic feast, "Like Crazy" began to capture the audience's imagination, its poignant story of Jacob and Anna striking a chord. The film's acclaim peaked when it was awarded the Grand Jury Prize, sparking immediate interest among distributors present at Sundance.
In a cozy café, Drake found himself in conversation with Davy Parks from Sony Pictures.
Davy, leaning in, shared his enthusiasm. "Drake, we're really interested in acquiring 'Like Crazy'. The buzz around it is incredible."
Drake paused, stirring his coffee. "I appreciate that, Davy. But before we go any further, I need to discuss this with Lucas."
Davy blinked, perplexed. "Lucas? The actor? Why would the acquisition need his approval?"
Drake set his cup down, meeting Davy's gaze. "Well, Lucas isn't just the lead actor. He actually funded the film with $380,000 of his own money."
Davy's eyebrows shot up, a mix of surprise and respect coloring his features. "That's impressive for such a young actor. Alright then, I understand. Take the time you need to talk it over with him."
Drake excused himself from the table, stepping out of the café into the crisp air. He let out a sigh, a mix of relief and fatigue washing over him. The day had been a marathon of discussions with representatives from various distributors, each conversation as draining as it was exciting.
He made his way to the hotel where Lucas was staying, his mind racing with the details of the offers he needed to discuss.
Upon meeting Lucas, Drake wasted no time diving into the details.
"Lucas, we've got some serious interest for 'Like Crazy.' Sony Pictures, Lionsgate, and Paramount have all approached me about acquiring the film," Drake began, his voice carrying a mix of excitement and gravity.
Lucas, leaning forward, asked, "What kind of offers are we talking about from each of them?"
Drake nodded, pulling out a notepad with the figures scribbled down. "Sony Pictures and Paramount have put forward the most tempting offers. Sony is offering us $1 million upfront, with a commitment to a wide release. Paramount's deal is slightly different; they're offering $850,000 upfront but with a higher percentage of the back-end profits. As for Lionsgate, their offer is more conservative, at $600,000 upfront with a moderate commitment to marketing."
Lucas shook his head slightly at the mention of Lionsgate's offer. "Given that we're already in for $630K on the budget, Lionsgate's offer doesn't cut it for us," he stated matter-of-factly.
Turning his attention back to the more promising prospects, Lucas continued, "Can you try to push Sony Pictures to increase their upfront offer? I trust your judgment on this, Drake."
Drake nodded, taking in Lucas's request. "I'll do my best. What are you thinking for yourself out of this deal?"
Lucas leaned back, his thoughts clear. "For me, I'd be looking at an 8 percent profit share and $100K upfront. As for you and the crew, I'll leave that negotiation in your hands. See what you can work out with Sony for a fair share for the rest of us."
Drake jotted down the numbers, his resolve firming. "Alright, Lucas. I'll get on it. We want to make sure everyone involved feels valued for their contributions. I'll start the conversation with Sony along those lines."
Lucas offered a warm smile, raising his glass in a gesture of celebration. "Drake, congratulations on the success of 'Like Crazy.' It's really taken off, hasn't it?"
Drake, with a smile mirroring Lucas's, clinked his glass against Lucas's. "Thank you, Lucas. But honestly, it's you who deserves a huge part of the credit. Without your funding, your invaluable suggestions, and your outstanding performance as Jacob—let alone those unforgettable songs—you know this film wouldn't have reached the heights it has."
Lucas just smiled, a modest tilt of his head acknowledging Drake's words. "It was a team effort, through and through." he said, the glasses chiming softly as they toasted to the shared success.
As they savored their wine, Drake glanced over at Lucas with a knowing smile. "Oh, and let's not forget your Grammy nomination for 2011. Congratulations, Lucas! That's no small feat."
Lucas, his smile unfading, responded with a humble nod. "Thank you, Drake. It still feels surreal, to be honest."
The Grammy nominations were unveiled in December 2010, and Lucas's nomination came as no surprise to his fans. Thanks to his album and its standout tracks, his name was already buzzing in music circles.
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