Chapter 31: Chapter 31: Statement
[Chapter 31: Statement]
Eric straightened slightly in his seat and said, "Mr. Eisner, please go ahead."
Michael Eisner, preparing to speak, hesitated for a moment. During their recent conversation, Eric had made a strong impression on him; similarly, Eisner felt that he was not talking to an inexperienced youth but rather to a peer.
Recalling Eric's astounding accomplishments in such a short time, Eisner began to doubt whether accepting Columbia's terms and attempting to undermine Eric was really such a good idea. At only eighteen, Eric's future seemed limitless. If this situation led to animosity between them, the chances of future collaboration would undoubtedly be slim.
As a rising executive, Eisner was known for making decisive choices. Considering the demands made by Cohen Blount, he reinforced his resolve.
'The success of Home Alone was quite exceptional,' he thought. 'Whether this young man can achieve such dazzling success again remains to be seen.' Even if he continues to excel, Eisner believed that when significant profits were at stake, cooperation was still very likely. After all, many previous rivals had reconciled; and the real antagonist in undermining Eric was still Columbia.
"Eric, Disney is very interested in the overseas distribution rights for Home Alone. Disney's market focus is on teen movies, and we have more advantages than other companies in distributing films of this genre. If you hand Home Alone's distribution over to Disney, I believe it could perform even better abroad than it has in North America."
Eric calmly inquired, "Mr. Eisner, may I know Disney's offer?"
"12% of the overseas box office. What do you think about that?"
Eric's expression shifted slightly as he responded, "Isn't Disney interested in a buyout?"
Eisner shook his head, smiling as he said, "Eric, you'd rather sign a bet agreement with Columbia than accept a buyout. So I won't waste time on that."
Eric nodded, stating, "If that's the case, the offer is indeed quite reasonable. Columbia has only proposed an 8% overseas share."
"So, you see, Disney is keen to collaborate and hopes we can work together in the future," Eisner continued, smiling. "Now, Eric, if you agree, I'd like to sign the authorization agreement as soon as possible. Overseas releases are not as straightforward as they are in North America; once we sign the agreement, it could take at least a week to get the film in theaters abroad. Given how hot Home Alone is right now, delaying a single day could cost millions in total revenue."
Listening quietly to Eisner's persuasion, Eric quickly processed the series of clues in his mind. A knowing smile suddenly crossed his lips. He grew increasingly aware of Columbia's tricks; though not particularly sophisticated, they were quite effective, and one could easily fall into the trap if not careful.
Having figured these things out, Eric finally relaxed. He picked up his coffee cup and gently caressed the fine ceramic before looking up at Eisner and asking, "Mr. Eisner, if I agree, when can we sign the contract?"
Although Eisner noticed Eric's shifted demeanor, he still felt a rush of relief upon hearing Eric's question. "Of course, the sooner, the better. I'll have someone draft the agreement as quickly as possible. We could sign it this afternoon," he replied.
Setting down the coffee cup, Eric fixed his gaze on Eisner and said, "So, Mr. Eisner, would you say the situation is this way?"
"Hmm?" Eisner looked perplexed.
Eric explained, "Columbia, unwilling to let go of the bet agreement, approached you with certain terms you couldn't refuse. Perhaps it was due to financial incentives, or maybe it was because you and Cohen Blount are good friends, which led you to agree. However, uncertain how to persuade me, Columbia has reduced the number of screens for the next week's release to 1,500, even agreeing to pay an extra 100 screens for the subsequent release period."
Eisner began to process Eric's words, initially stunned, then letting out a wry smile; he had indeed underestimated the young man before him.
Satisfied with Eisner's reaction, Eric continued, "The reason Columbia is willing to pay such a price is to delay the box office reaching $50 million for Home Alone, buying you more time for persuasion. Because in our bet contract, if the final revenue is below $50 million, all rights to Home Alone revert to Columbia. The current box office is still shy of that $50 million mark. The other rights associated with Home Alone still fall under the betting terms. If I rashly sign the authorization agreement with Disney, it would mean I would be the first to breach the contract. Columbia could then justifiably use my breach as grounds to invalidate the bet agreement. Would you agree with my assessment?"
If the entire matter had not concerned him, Eisner, with his disposition, would surely have applauded Eric's brilliant analysis. But now, he could only muster a somewhat awkward smile.
Eric stood up. "I think we don't need to discuss this further, do we, Mr. Eisner?"
Eisner rose as well. "Indeed, there's no need, Eric. But I still want to say I enjoyed our conversation earlier. I hope we can have a chance to collaborate in the future."
"Perhaps," Eric nodded, deciding that since Eisner hadn't outmaneuvered him, he wouldn't confront a movie giant face-to-face. "Mr. Eisner, could you tell me what terms Columbia proposed to you?"
Eisner shook his head, responding, "Eric, that's a business secret."
Eric, not disputing this, remarked, "Then, Mr. Eisner, could you have the driver take me back?"
"Of course, no problem," Eisner signaled to his assistant nearby and exchanged a few brief words.
...
As Eric stepped out of the Hilton, a pack of reporters quickly encircled him. They had learned through various channels that Eric had just met with Disney president Michael Eisner and were eager to capture the details of their meeting.
Upon seeing the reporters rush over, the Hilton's security swiftly moved to protect Eric, while Eisner's driver prepared to escort him toward the parking lot. But Eric suddenly stopped.
Kept at bay by security, the reporters initially felt disappointed, thinking Eric would slip away silently again. Instead, Eric halted in his tracks, prompting the reporters to quickly raise their cameras and microphones.
"Eric, can you tell us what you discussed with Mr. Michael Eisner?"
"Was it about Home Alone?"
"Eric, both of your current films target a young audience, aligning well with Disney's business strategy. Are you planning to join Disney?"
"Eric..."
"..."
Eric held up his hands for silence, saying, "Can I have a moment to speak, everyone?"
Since Eric had voluntarily stepped forward, the reporters quickly quieted down.
"Mr. Eisner just treated me to a meal, and we did discuss some matters. As for the specifics, it's not convenient for me to disclose that here. However, we had a pleasant discussion and perhaps there is a possibility of future collaboration."
Seeing the reporters weren't satisfied, becoming restless again, Eric quickly added, "Everyone, please don't rush. Actually, I want to take this opportunity to make a statement."
The reporters showed confusion, but a few perceptive ones sensed that Eric was about to deliver a significant piece of news and quickly readied their recording devices.
"First, I want to thank Columbia Pictures for helping to distribute my film Home Alone. However..."
Eric's expression turned serious. "I want to say that due to the previous bet contract, my expected share will far exceed what Columbia is receiving. That is what I am rightfully entitled to, and I have a clear conscience. Moreover, should the agreement be honored properly, Columbia would still earn nearly $50 million from the North American box office. This accomplishment, which represents half of Columbia's annual box office profits, is enviable to many. So I must sternly warn certain individuals to rein in your greed and refrain from using petty tactics to attempt to tear up the bet agreement. Please continue to distribute Home Alone as per the contract. If Columbia violates the bet agreement again, I wouldn't hesitate to see you all in court. Though you may see me as small and weak, I believe we are equal in the eyes of federal law. If you think the successes of Home Alone and 17 Again aren"t proof enough, then we shall see what our next film brings. You've been warned."
As soon as Eric finished speaking, the surrounding reporters erupted in a frenzy.
"Eric, could you be a bit more specific?"
"Eric, do you already have plans for your next film? Can you share the theme?"
"Eric, was your meeting with Mr. Michael Eisner related to Columbia's attempt to breach the agreement?"
"Eric..."
"..."
After saying this, Eric silently moved through the crowd with the security's escort directly to the parking lot, getting into the car.
*****
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