Ronald was in a great mood, not just because Naughty Boys 3 had performed exceptionally well for Sony Columbia, but because his independent vision for the Action Cinematic Universe was finally taking concrete shape. With the Naughty Boys franchise continuing to rake in money, Ronald had the financial and reputational leverage to pursue his passion project, "Unstoppable," exactly as he envisioned it.
For the male lead of "Unstoppable," he specifically chose Liam Neeson, whose intense presence he felt was perfect for the role. For the formidable gang boss, he secured Al Pacino, a true cinematic legend, for a hefty $12 million fee. The casting director handled the remaining supporting characters, finding talent that would complement his two stars.
After three months of rigorous training for Liam, other actors, and the stunt team, filming for "Unstoppable" began in October 1997. As it was Ronald's first time directing a full-scale action movie, the production was demanding, taking six months to complete shooting. On set, Al Pacino's performance was electrifying, bringing a powerful gravity to the villainous role.
Once principal photography wrapped, Ronald called Amy Pascal at Sony, requesting a top-tier action editor. Their relationship with Sony Columbia was still in a "honeymoon period," especially since Naughty Boys 3 had recently crossed the $200 million mark worldwide, cementing Ronald's status as a profitable director. Sony readily recommended a highly capable editor. Knowing the movie would require significant visual effects to realize his ambitious action sequences, Ronald also contacted Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), George Lucas's renowned effects company. After three months of intense post-production, the film was finally complete.
The film's total budget ultimately rose to $65 million, including the substantial costs for talent and cutting-edge visual effects. Had it not been for the $200 million he'd made from his share market investments, Ronald acknowledged he would have been in significant financial trouble with such a costly independent venture.
"Unstoppable" Hits the Main Stage
Ronald knew his movie needed a massive promotional push to stand out. He allocated $25 million for the marketing budget, with a bold plan to air a commercial during the 1999 Super Bowl. When the Unstoppable ad, featuring intense close-combat fighting, spectacular gunfights, and the magnetic presence of Liam Neeson and Al Pacino, aired during the Super Bowl, it was a sensation. It was one of the first times the American public had seen an R-rated action movie advertised during such a prime-time, family-oriented event, sparking immediate conversation and buzz.
Ronald held the movie's premiere at the iconic Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Many actors, directors, and industry insiders were invited, and Al Pacino's stardom was immense at this time, drawing considerable media attention. After the screening, everyone congratulated Ronald on the film's gritty realism and compelling action.
"Unstoppable" was strategically released in April 1999, avoiding a direct clash with another major blockbuster expected in May. On its first weekend, the movie earned $23 million. However, the word-of-mouth was exceptionally strong, and the film received an impressive 'A' CinemaScore, indicating overwhelming audience satisfaction.
After one month, the movie had earned $80 million in North America and was still going strong. Sony also released the movie overseas, and after two months, the film had accumulated $117 million in North America and $90 million overseas, continuing its impressive run despite other major releases. After a four-month long run, the movie's total gross reached an astounding $290 million worldwide.
Ronald was in a great mood; he knew this movie was a massive hit.
While his direct share from the theatrical box office revenue was roughly $100 million, covering the substantial $90 million in production and marketing costs, Ronald knew he would earn significantly more from TV rights and home video (VHS/DVD) sales, ensuring a substantial profit for Ronald Smith Pictures.