Behind The Spotlight Chapter 118
Face: Swap was about an FBI agent who underwent an experimental surgery to switch faces with a terrorist in order to stop a bomb threat.
But when the FBI agent woke up and took the terrorist's face and identity, the two men were trapped in each other's lives in the cruelest twist. The FBI agent was sent to the prison meant for the terrorist, while the terrorist lived a life filled with pleasures and freedom. The terrorist even slept with the FBI agent's wife, savoring the deception. He became a hero after stopping the very bomb he had created.
After a death-defying stunt, the FBI agent successfully escaped the prison to face his enemy and take back what was stolen.
A deadly cat-and-mouse chase ensued as they fought through brutal gunfights and tense pursuits, each determined to reclaim their identity and destroy the other.
In the end, the FBI agent killed the terrorist in a dramatic showdown, but his face was damaged during the battle. Fortunately, with the help of the doctors, he reclaimed both his life and his face.
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The audience clapped with excitement and appreciation when the credits rolled. They were satisfied and entertained by the movie. The two actors' performances were convincing; one was already a famous star, while the other was a rising name.
The audience didn't know Axel's name, but they recognized him from other movies such as The Accidental Wedding Crashers and Week On A Cruise Ship. Axel's performances in those comedies were entertaining, but they hadn't been impressed, good enough, yes, but not groundbreaking.
However, Axel's performance as both the FBI agent and the terrorist in Face: Swap was astonishing. People couldn't stop talking about it. The audience realized Axel could deliver a serious role, proving his potential was far greater than they had first assumed. They had thought this actor was only suited for comedy, but they were wrong, completely wrong.
Furthermore, Face: Swap was a great movie overall. The audience loved it. The idea of switching faces and stealing someone's identity was such an intriguing plot that it sparked conversations long after the credits ended. The film explored this theme convincingly and entertainingly. Viewers had no hesitation recommending the movie to friends, and some even planned to watch it again.
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May 7, 1998. Friday. Face: Swap grossed $14 million in its first 24 hours at the North American box office. Touchpebbles Pictures was satisfied when they received the data. At best, they had expected the movie to gross $9 million, and even that projection was considered optimistic.
Still, such a strong start was welcomed with open arms. Who wouldn't want more money and the prestige of a box-office hit?
May 8, 1998. Saturday. The movie's gross climbed to $31 million. Executives at Touchpebbles Pictures and Wash Dismay Studio were thrilled, since this suggested the film would have long legs in the market.
Face: Swap opened in 3,210 theaters across North America, from small towns to major cities. The Cinema Alliance was already considering increasing the number of theaters the following week to capitalize on the buzz.
May 9, 1998. Sunday. The film's opening weekend grossed $43 million. After just three days, its performance convinced Touchpebbles Pictures that the movie was a success beyond expectations.
The studio decided to intensify promotion with interviews, late-night talk show appearances, and additional TV spots.
Because of this, Axel Gunner had to juggle his schedule more than ever. He traveled across the country, city to city, tirelessly promoting Face: Swap. At the same time, he requested a week off from filming Frightening Movie.
Meanwhile, Collin had a serious conversation with Quincy Jennings.
Quincy Jennings, Axel's entertainment lawyer, represented him and several other clients. Collin and Quincy were discussing Axel's contract for Face: Swap.
"So you're telling me that Axel can get a bonus?"
"I read his contract carefully, so I know. Axel did break the contract, which makes him ineligible for the rest of his salary. However, since he still appeared in the movie, the contract states he can earn a 0.2% bonus from the 30-day box office, provided Face: Swap recouped its investment within 7 days, which is no easy feat." Quincy explained.
"Face: Swap had a budget of $50 million," Quincy added.
"And today is the seventh day of its screening!"
Collin immediately grabbed the day's newspaper and scanned for the box-office report.
"As of May 13, 1998, Face: Swap grossed over $55 million. The movie performed strongly, and audiences loved the chemistry between the two lead actors…"
Collin stopped reading and grinned at Quincy, feeling a wave of relief.
"I only told you today because I wasn't sure the movie would be a hit. I didn't want to get your hopes up if it failed to recoup its cost within a week," Quincy admitted.
"Quincy, you're a great help!"
"Of course, I'll get paid for this, right?"
"No doubt."
The two men laughed. Money was the biggest motivation that fueled them, which was exactly why they had chosen their careers.
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Days passed as Axel continued filming Frightening Movie while also promoting Face: Swap. It felt as though he was living two different lives.
Finally, when the 30th day of Face: Swap arrived, Axel received a call from Collin.
"You mean I'll earn a bonus?"
"That's right. The accountant is working on it. I'm also negotiating with Touchpebbles Pictures."
Collin was trying to convince the studio that Axel's performance was worth rewarding, and that he shouldn't be dismissed for one past mistake.
After some deliberation, Touchpebbles Pictures agreed Axel deserved the bonus. Still, after the issue he had caused earlier, the studio decided not to work with him again in order to avoid further complications. Fortunately, Face: Swap was designed as a standalone film with no sequel planned; otherwise, the tension would have been unbearable.
A few days later, after financial calculations and persistent follow-ups from Axel's accountant, Touchpebbles Pictures settled the account begrudgingly but fairly.
By its 30th day, the movie had grossed over $125 million, cementing itself as a commercial success.
As a result, Axel received $225,000. This was his final take-home amount after his accountant, entertainment lawyer, and talent agent took their commissions.
Axel didn't mind that the amount was cut. His team deserved their share for all their hard work. In fact, he felt grateful to receive the bonus at all, considering the pressure he had endured. He had been struggling financially and emotionally, and the earnings came as a much-needed relief.
Now, he realized how important it was to have a great team supporting him. At least he knew there were people willing to help him succeed, while also benefiting themselves. It was a mutual gain.