Behind The Spotlight Chapter 157
Just like Wash Dismay Studio, other studios such as Fair Amount Pictures, Uni-versus Pictures, 20th Centaur, Sonya-Collapse Studio, and Whiner Bruh Studio had deep regrets in not buying the movie because they later realized how profitable it had become.
They knew the movie was promising, but none of them offered $60 million, even though some executives argued internally that it was worth a try. At most, Sonya-Collapse Studio offered $53 million, which they considered their final and safest budget.
123 Production decided to contact second-tier studios such as Metro Gold Mayer after weighing every option very carefully. The two made an agreement, and 123 Production sold The Born Identity for $60 million.
Now that The Born Identity had grossed $221 million in just ten days, 123 Production felt they could have sold it for a better price. But this idea didn't linger long because they realized the immediate profit was still significant.
Instead, they decided to take another step. 123 Production still held the production rights for the movie, which gave them leverage in future negotiations. If Metro Gold Mayer wanted to make a sequel, they would have to hire 123 Production, ensuring a continuous revenue stream.
Because of that, it was not technically a loss, especially considering the long-term benefits. As long as they earned money, it didn't matter.
For a small production studio without a distribution channel like 123 Production, selling the movie for a higher price was always the best-case scenario, allowing them to focus on production rather than complicated marketing.
"Axel, I have good news for you. Metro Gold Mayer is interested in filming a sequel, and they are eager to retain the same creative team. They will invest in the movie while 123 Production handles the filming, ensuring quality control and proper budgeting."
Collin called his client, Axel Gunner, immediately after receiving the information, making sure to provide all relevant details and context so Axel could respond appropriately.
"That's great. I'm happy to hear that." Axel's tone showed his genuine excitement over the phone. He had experienced being blacklisted and understood the harsh consequences of being ignored in the industry. Now that he starred in a highly profitable movie with possible sequels, he wanted to latch onto a franchise to ensure long-term career security so he wouldn't be disregarded again.
As long as he was the lead actor of a movie franchise, he wouldn't face the tragedy of being blacklisted.
"They said they will start the project in a year or two, depending on script development and scheduling. They have to create a script and quote a budget before beginning pre-production. However, it's already confirmed that the movie will get a sequel," Collin added.
Axel was pleased to hear that. It seemed he would have to prepare for The Born Identity 2, or perhaps it would be better to call it The Born Supremacy, but that would be for the future.
"How's your new project? You're doing fine, right?"
"Everyone is nice and professional, which makes rehearsals more comfortable."
"I'll visit you next week so we can discuss strategy and your upcoming promotions in detail," Collin promised.
Last month, Axel auditioned for a drama directed by a yellow talent director. Collin carefully chose scripts that had a high chance of box office success while balancing artistic value. Whiflash was one of the scripts that seemed promising. After reviewing it, Axel decided to audition.
His role in Whiflash was that of a mentor who taught a talented drummer, the lead role in the movie. This gave Axel an opportunity to explore a different type of character. In one compelling scene, Axel had to slap the actor repeatedly while he was playing the drums.
The movie was invested in by Sonya-Collapse Studio, and they were looking for an actor in his 30s or at least someone rough-looking with strong authority to make the mentor character believable. Axel passed the criteria because of his appearance. Having once been a soldier, he understood what strong authority looked like.
He was only in a supporting role, so Sonya-Collapse Studio offered him $700,000, a respectable amount for a supporting role, which both Collin and Axel were satisfied with.
Being a supporting actor was not bad, especially for career diversification, and it was impossible for Axel to always be the lead in every movie. That was not how the industry worked. Axel was not like Lawrence, whose strong charisma often drew all the attention.
When Axel practiced for his role, his son sometimes felt intimidated because of Axel's demeanor and authoritative presence.
Axel attended rehearsals diligently and focused on his new project.
"You are the most disciplined client I have ever had. But I have to remind you, Axel, stay away from scandal. Your career just recovered, and we can't afford another mishap that could ruin everything."
"I understand. Thank you for caring and giving me advice. I'll do my best to stay out of trouble." He took Collin's reminder seriously and appreciated the genuine concern.
"Also, are you not interested in hiring a bodyguard? Lawrence asked me to find him one, and Chantal also wanted one. How about you? I can look for four trusted bodyguards, one for each of you, so everyone remains safe."
"It's alright," Axel laughed. "I might not be good at handling scandals, but fighting is one of my specialties, and I trust my own instincts."
"I'll call you if I get other information from Metro Gold Mayer and 123 Production so you can plan ahead. You have a radio interview tomorrow to promote The Born Identity. Don't forget, and be prepared."
"I'll keep that in mind and rehearse possible questions and answers."
The call ended as they bid farewell.
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Just like that, August 1 arrived, and The Born Identity had grossed $344 million at the North American box office, solidifying Axel's status as a top actor. After 33 days of screening, the action movie starring Axel Gunner was undoubtedly a box office hit. Furthermore, the movie had its international release a week earlier, and the marketing team had worked tirelessly. Axel and the cast traveled across multiple countries to promote the movie. The first seven days of international screening grossed $72 million.
Combining the two, the total amounted to $416 million, an impressive sum. The Big Six, who passed up the opportunity to buy The Born Identity, were livid and disappointed in themselves. They couldn't believe they had let go of such a profitable movie.
So far, the highest-grossing movie of 1999 was The 6th Sense, with $672 million worldwide, setting a high benchmark. If The Born Identity kept its momentum, it could surpass that amount.
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While the industry watched the performance of The Born Identity, 20th Centaur Fox was busy promoting its upcoming romantic comedy titled The Boss Proposal, starring Lawrence Terrence and Zandra Bolluck.
Lawrence was happy that his friend Axel Gunner had achieved major success starring in The Born Identity, which boosted Axel's career. Unlike Axel's previous movies, The Born Identity was his major breakthrough, and he had finally proven his talent. In this movie, he was the sole protagonist, carrying the entire story.
'Just as I guessed, Collin is undoubtedly the hidden ace of ANT. Despite the scandal, he saved Axel's career. I wonder if he can also help me find my stalker.'
Lawrence sighed, stressed from accumulated tension. Lately, he had been suffering from a lack of sleep, and the constant pressure was taking its toll.
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[Author's Note: I apologize for not writing and posting last month, let's tackle that. Writing a single chapter can take up to an hour, and there are times when I can't find that time. However, you can expect me to post at least six chapters of each novel every week from now on. Anyway, I want to say thank you for all of your support. Your support is my biggest motivation. Our financial situation has not been good lately, so your support really helped me a lot. Thank you so much. Also, I'm not good with math, so don't expect anything from me when it comes to numbers.]