[Chapter 275: Kung Fu Shines in Hollywood]
Michael, one of the industry's top insiders, was more like a performer than the actors themselves. Facing countless flashing lights, he showed no hint of nervousness. Arm in arm with Charlie, they looked like good brothers, smiling and waving as Michael loudly answered questions from the press and gave a brief speech.
"Yes, I've decided to join Lion Corleone! I'm a big fan of this company, and as soon as Charlie personally invited me, I immediately agreed. I had great success back at CAA, but I'm eager to start a new journey. If you have ambitions like mine, there's no way to refuse the invitation from Lion Corleone Group! It's simply amazing. You'll find a detailed interview about me later in The Hollywood Reporter.
Now, let's focus on Rush Hour. This is the first film produced and distributed by the company since I became CEO!"
The reporters agreed; after all, Michael was a behind-the-scenes figure. After a few more questions, they stopped chasing Michael and turned their attention to the actors.
The stars, dressed to impress, happily accepted interviews and recited some prepared lines. The biggest star on set was Jackie Chan. Chris Tucker was an unknown African American actor, with nothing particularly attractive except his big eyes.
As for the only female lead, Marion Cotillard, who played a villainous female enforcer, earned some attention through her stunning attire.
Jackie was very excited today. Always a lively character, he playfully helped promote the film. "Yes, being in this movie is fantastic. Which actor could say no to Hollywood? I also hope to deliver an excellent film for North American fans."
Over half the reporters on site had accepted the bribes given by Mafia Distribution's team; no one caused much trouble for the actors.
Some reporters wanted to interview Charlie about the Lord of the Rings fans protesting at the gate. But Charlie had already gone inside with Michael and other executives.
As the boss, he didn't mind stepping forward to promote the film, but that didn't mean he enjoyed being on stage, the center of attention for everyone.
---
Sitting in the theater lounge, Charlie and Michael discussed recent work matters and checked on how things were going.
"Not bad, everything is smooth. I enjoy working with everyone. Charlie, the partners you chose are all great. The whole team is thriving," Michael said cheerfully.
He had already been in contact and coordination with Lion Corleone executives for a while. For most of the past year, apart from handling his legal disputes with Disney, he participated in company affairs unofficially. So once on board, he started normal work immediately.
Charlie nodded slightly and casually asked, "How are the last three theatrical releases for the year going? What are the distribution plans?"
Michael replied, "As far as I know, Chicago is still filming. James Gunn's Saw has wrapped up filming, and the low-budget Following has started contacting theaters. I haven't been involved in the release plans or schedules."
These were COO Kevin's responsibilities to mediate.
Michael was clearly a veteran and fully aware of how much he had to handle.
Charlie smiled and asked about the Corleone Television and the CA Online Mall Show setup.
Michael gave a detailed introduction. With an investment of about $1 million, they established a TV production company, hired staff, set up offices, and purchased some props.
"Currently, I'm negotiating with Channel 7 to pilot our show in Los Angeles and see how it performs."
Charlie agreed. A new show, especially one incorporating advertising, wouldn't cover all North America from the start. Regional trials could optimize the program and reduce company investment.
Michael curiously asked, "Launching our products quickly through the internet is a great idea. I read in the newspaper that a certain online shopping company has already hit two million dollars in sales in half a month. Maybe in the future, this company can provide us an excellent sales channel -- like the Disney brand."
"Exactly. Relying only on ticket sales and VHS tapes isn't enough. Licensing film element merchandise and selling offline peripheral products are crucial. Disney is an expert at this. Their Mickey Mouse merchandise sales reach billions annually. So in the future, we plan to develop 3D animation and fantasy films suitable for licensed merchandise."
The so-called billions represent a massive market. Disney wouldn't take all the profits, but the network of benefits was tempting.
Michael respected the company, especially because his good friend Michael Eisner was Disney's president. He nodded continuously in agreement. After thinking, he marveled, "Bedtime stories series?"
"Haha, yes!"
"Oh God, Charlie, those stories were part of the initial series you started when you founded Corleone. You had this plan from early on," Michael was amazed.
---
The premiere officially began. After interviews with actors, creators, staff, and critics, they all took their seats in the theater.
After a brief event, Rush Hour started playing.
On the screen, the Lion Corleone silhouette logo appeared, and the film opened with lively music.
This movie's core was precisely the enduring 90s American buddy cop type -- one clowning around, the other investigating.
Will Smith's Bad Boys, and Men in Black followed a similar story style.
The packaging added kung fu comedy performances.
The story was nothing special -- a product of assembly line filmmaking.
However, Jackie Chan's kung fu comedy fight scenes, using chairs and tables as props, choreography, and some Chinese-American cultural elements, brought freshness.
Laughter erupted from the audience, indicating that, for the most part, the film was well received.
---
After the premiere and a small party with the nervous and excited creators, Charlie flew back to New Zealand early the next day.
Unlike previous films, Charlie was confident in Rush Hour, knowing it was a blockbuster worth hundreds of millions, so he felt relaxed.
Jackie, having his first real leading role in Hollywood, had a restless night.
By Monday, his agent Bruce arrived at Jackie's Beverly Hills home with good news.
"How's my movie, man? What's the data from Corleone?"
"A huge success, dear Jackie!" Bruce gave him a big hug and opened a newspaper. "Look, 'Jackie's Kung Fu Shines in Hollywood!'"
*****
https://www.patreon.com/Sayonara816.