章節 537: Chapter 357
In Hollywood, at the MSNBC News office in Universal City, Rick Kaplan, the head of MSNBC News, handed Charles a file.
"Charles, you should take a look at this and see if this report should be aired?"
Charles took a glance at it and saw that it was a survey about public opinions on Jewish people. It wasn't anything significant; just selling some anxiety, considering the high unemployment rate, people were indeed complaining a lot.
Charles flipped through the rest and found a lot of international news, tirelessly promoting the truth, virtue, and beauty of the US.
"No problem," Charles said as he put down the file.
Rick Kaplan nodded, "Actually, some foundations are funding this, so it won't greatly affect our earnings!"
Charles looked at Rick Kaplan, "What I want are the ratings. I don't care too much about politics, whether it's left or right. Try to find an opportunity to talk to Microsoft, see if they are willing to sell their shares in MSNBC. We can still co-manage the website."
"Don't worry, I know what to do," Rick Kaplan definitely got Charles' point, knowing that ratings would allow for some sensational stuff to be aired.
...
The Twilight Saga: New Moon opened in 4,100 theaters in North America, with a $143 million opening weekend that proved the strength of the series.
The French film The Intouchables that was a big hit in Europe, however, failed to catch on in the North American market.
Matrix Pictures also did well with Piranha 3D grossing $86 million worldwide.
Saw 3D, the seventh in the series, also did well with $45 million domestically and $95 million overseas.
Paranormal Activity was a huge surprise, with $108 million in North America and an impressive worldwide total of nearly 200 million.
"Henry, has the sequel for Paranormal Activity started?" Henry Winster had been with Charles for a long time in the production department.
Henry Winster smiled, "Since the Saw series has concluded, Paranormal Activity will fill in. We are already preparing it with producer Jason Blum. And I think Jason Blum is quite inventive and has deep insights into horror films!"
Charles understood, "You mean you want to sign a long-term cooperation agreement with Jason Blum, right?"
Henry Winster nodded.
"How about this, let's directly let Jason Blum manage Matrix Pictures. With Capet's resources, he will be more effective in developing films," Charles considered, as the previous manager of Matrix Pictures, Nick Marion, had been transferred to CEO of Focus Features.
Now, Matrix Pictures indeed needed someone.
"That's viable. Matrix Pictures projects usually don't have high investments. Any budget over $25 million needs approval, so Jason Blum is suitable."
Henry Winster greatly supported Jason Blum managing Matrix Pictures.
"When the time comes, seek out suitable films from Universal's library for development. Horror and thriller films aren't fit as models for commercial blockbusters," Charles reminded.
"How's the post-production of Thor 2 and Captain America?" Charles asked.
"Thor 2 is estimated to finish all the post-production by January next year, and Captain America should complete its effects by March," Henry Winster kept a close eye on Marvel Studios' blockbusters. "They will be ready for next summer's release."
...
In the afternoon, Donna Langley specially came over to report on the layoff situation to Charles.
"By next March, we will lay off about 2,500 employees, focusing on Universal's production department and Focus Features. Since Universal will release a lot of films next year, the layoff plan in the marketing department will continue until September!"
Alright, the layoffs from the marketing department were indeed numerous, mainly from the original Capet Pictures.
"Alright, the layoffs are necessary to reduce the company's operating costs," Charles knew it wasn't pleasant but required.
"Charles, with significant projects at Universal cut, is our future direction really focusing on blockbuster effects films?" Donna Langley, as a woman, still wanted to develop more female-oriented films.
Charles understood, in recent years, Capet developed many female films, also thanks to Donna Langley's dedicated support.
"Don't worry, Universal's brand will focus on Marvel and all kinds of special effects blockbusters, commercial action movies. Capet Pictures will still focus on romance, comedy, and mid to low-budget productions since we have plenty of experience!"
Donna Langley nodded, "Charles, I know you don't think much of mid-budget comedies or romance films, but this market supplements the special effects blockbusters and B-movie markets. Special effects blockbusters are the key areas where all major film companies are investing resources."
*****
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