Bab 75: Celebration
"So, what is the current relationship between you two?" Richard whispered to Christian while glancing at the blond girl who was chatting with Annika not far away.
"What kind of relationship?" Christian replied, thinking about his agreement with Charlize. He couldn't help but smile bitterly, recalling the emotions that followed.
"Well, at least she's much better than the girls you used to pick up at the bar," the old-fashioned Old Gun said, unsure of what else to say. He patted Christian on the shoulder.
Today, "Wrong Turn" has been officially released for over a week. While the box office had slightly declined due to the horror genre's characteristics, it had still surpassed $40 million in cumulative earnings. This was a major milestone because, according to the 1/3 profit-sharing model, the film had recouped all costs, including promotional expenses. Now, it was all about the net profit for the investors.
The producer, Westwood, had promised a celebration banquet, and it was held as planned. Old Gun looked at Tony, the man with a lively disposition, talking with a group of investors, his scalp exposed due to a collapsing roof.
"Tony's energy seems boundless," the producer said, curling his lips. "Is he even thinking of early retirement?"
Christian shared her discontent with Tony's increasing ambition. "I don't know, but if you want to see him sick, just show him the box office report since 'Wrong Turn' was released," he suggested, recalling the times when Westwood anxiously reviewed the report, clutching his chest.
Speaking of the celebration party's location at USC, Old Gun raised an interesting point, "Do you know why Tony chose USC for the celebration?"
Christian, curious about the choice, looked at the old gun. Did he know something she didn't?
"It's quite simple. Those who've known him for a while are aware that he graduated from USC," Old Gun explained with a champagne glass in hand.
Christian nodded in understanding. Returning to one's alma mater in style was a common practice among successful individuals in modern times, especially if one's former teachers were still around.
Even though it might involve donating in the end, everyone moved forward. After all, no one wanted to end up a mere spectator in their own life.
Mr. Westwood was not content with that fate.
"But is it even allowed to hold a celebration party on campus at USC?" Christian questioned.
"I don't see any issue with it," Old Gun responded nonchalantly, dismissing Christian's skepticism.
"Don't say anything else; if a film crew considers shooting in there, many universities will support it. After all, it can play a role in their publicity," Richard reasoned.
"You're right," Christian concurred, seeing no issue with Old Gun's theory.
In fact, with the upcoming US Independence Day release, "Forrest Gump" had been filmed at USC. This context made it seem less unusual for the Wrong Turn's crew to host their celebration party here.
This party wasn't open to the media, so aside from crew members, a few celebrities interested in the movie attended. Some of them Christian recognized.
"Why is the real estate tycoon here? Isn't he supposed to be selling his house in New York?" Christian wondered, observing a man with wild blond hair.
"Oh him! I heard he's on the brink of bankruptcy, and he might end up on the street someday," Old Gun replied, seeming unaware of the adage.
He turned his gaze back to Christian and asked seriously, "Seeing how profitable this film is, do you regret your initial decision?"
Christian understood what he meant and shrugged. "If it weren't for that enticing carrot dangling in front of me, do you think my qualifications alone would have convinced these folks to invest?"
"Right."
"And the money isn't all that much, especially when divided among everyone. Not to mention the ongoing issues with the Newline..."
"You mean"
Richard suddenly grasped the situation, his face growing grim. "Are you certain?"
"When I discussed the initial money distribution with Westwood, he suggested I not worry about it and mentioned that he was going to leave the Newline..."
"That sounds about right. Tony can be a bit slippery, but in many cases, he's still a decent guy. Now that you mention it, that company – is going to cause trouble again."
"They often fall behind on payments, and delaying deliveries and shares is their usual tactic," Christian added.
For Christian, hailing from a future where he knew the Newline, which produced "The Lord of the Rings" series, this was not unfamiliar territory. The company excelled in producing low-budget horror movies and was notorious for concealing income and defaulting on shares, even if it led to lawsuits. This had even affected Peter Jackson, the director of "The Lord of the Rings," driving him nearly to his wit's end. Given Christian's deep affection for the "Middle-earth" franchise, he couldn't forget such matters.
"When I found out that the producer of 'Wrong Turn' was New Line, I anticipated this day would come."
"So you're not concerned about the shares they promised?" Old Gun inquired.
"Not entirely. While New Line might default on shares, with some effort, you can eventually get what's owed. The main issue is what you just mentioned – only at this price can we make the movie."
Christian gestured toward himself.
"For me, the first film's success is more vital than immediate profits. As long as investors and major producers have faith in me as a director, this small sum can be recouped in due course. After all, Old Gun, you know..."
Christian blinked at his red-bearded partner.
PERTIMBANGAN PENCIPTA 
Dark_Symphony
Dark_Symphony Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!
Creation is hard, cheer me up!
Status Power Mingguan
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