"So now, when you see Kate again, you shouldn't get shy and blush anymore, right?"
Edgar's tone had a hint of teasing, but Anson didn't mind at all.
He smirked. "No, every time we meet, my heart still feels like it's about to explode."
"Haha." Edgar couldn't help but laugh out loud. "So, you still want to work with Kate?"
Anson didn't hesitate. "Of course."
"And I trust Kate. Captain, Kate is an actress. Although it might be unfair to the life growing inside her, Kate is still an actress who prioritizes acting over other things. She has a strong desire to continue making movies."
"But we still need to wait for the doctor's diagnosis."
As for Sony Columbia, it's not great but not terrible either. They've had both classic hits and flops, including ups and downs with the 'Spider-Man' series.
Sony Columbia tried to strike a balance between salary and profit sharing and finally came up with an answer—
Anson raised an eyebrow slightly. "Oh, has the negotiation finally made a breakthrough?"
This standard line is double that of 'Spider-Man.' But then again, it's not surprising, considering the North American box office for 'Spider-Man' unbelievably surpassed $600 million.
So, making a sequel is an art in itself—
"Sony Columbia has set a box office target for the 'Spider-Man 2' sequel at $400 million in North America, but their real expectation is over $300 million."
In other words, Sony Columbia's expectation for 'Spider-Man 2' is to rank in the top ten of North American film history, which is quite ambitious.
But the reality is different.
"'Terminator 2,' 'Aliens,' these are rare cases. The first installment's box office wasn't that amazing to begin with, so after accumulating enough reputation, it set the stage for the second installment's explosion."
At first glance, these numbers might seem disappointing. From the first film's $600 million in North America to a steep drop in expectations of $400 million, even before the sequel is made, Sony Columbia seems to lack confidence, which is inevitably discouraging.
"Look at 'Harry Potter,' 'The Lord of the Rings,' 'Men in Black.' Sequel films can guarantee audiences will keep coming to the theaters, but surpassing the previous installment's stunning box office is really tough."
Anson laughed. "No, no, no. Sony Columbia is willing to compare us to 'Star Wars.' Oh my God, this is an absolute honor."
Leaving aside other factors, a $10 million base salary marks Anson's entry into the top tier of Hollywood. Hovering between the second and first lines, no matter the film's success or box office performance, as long as Anson signs the contract, this sum will go straight into his pocket.
However, film companies aren't stupid. They won't just hand over their box office profits to actors and producers with a friendly "you take one, I take one, everyone's happy."
The audience has built up an immunity, and the appeal of sequels has greatly diminished, leading many to suffer box office failures.
If she's really pregnant, can she continue shooting during pregnancy? Can her health handle the workload and the all-nighters on set?
A light tease, and Edgar knew Anson was joking all along. So, Edgar teased him back.
A total transformation!
Anson's right hand had already been lowered as he leaned back on the sofa, lazily glancing at Edgar. "What kind of schedule?"
Even classic movies like 'Indiana Jones' and 'Jurassic Park' have sequels, sequels, and more sequels. The 'Fast & Furious' series is another example.
"So."
Edgar's mouth twitched slightly.
North American box office exceeding $200 million would trigger the additional clause.
Edgar looked at Anson. "Sorry, these numbers might sound a bit disappointing..."
Apparently, Sony Columbia couldn't refuse.
Edgar took a deep breath. "I hope everything goes smoothly. I truly hope this project can be completed without disturbing our schedule."
But as previously mentioned, Edgar doesn't think the "20 Million Club" is the future of the film industry. So, instead of chasing the salary numbers, he focused on box office profit sharing, elevating Anson to a producer's role to share risks with the project and increase his influence.
Things like this.
But now, facing 'Spider-Man 2,' Sony Columbia showed restraint, which is commendable.
'Spider-Man' made history with a perfect blend of time, place, and people. But with the sequel, things are different.
"We all know the North American box office performance of 'Spider-Man' was off the charts. Replicating that success with a sequel is nearly impossible..." Edgar continued.
Anson chuckled. "So little confidence? Oh, I'm a bit hurt."
Edgar smiled again. "Did you forget about our packed schedule for the entire year? Of course, it's 'Spider-Man 2.'"
"When the North American box office exceeds $200 million, there's a 5% profit share."
Currently, there are only seven films in movie history that have grossed over $400 million in North America.
"I hope not."
"After all, we all know how the box office and reputation of 'Star Wars Episode II' went. Honestly, I have more expectations for 'Spider-Man 2.' I don't want you to end up like Hayden."
Hayden: ???