Kazir was engrossed at his desk, his pen dancing across the paper as he meticulously wrote the screenplay.
He held napoleon dynamite in exceptionally high regard, after all, the majority of the film's plot was etched clearly in his mind.
His confidence stemmed from years of obsession with and accumulation of film knowledge.
In his previous life as a professional director, film was practically his entire existence; he felt uneasy if he didn't watch at least one movie a day.
This love for cinema had also greatly honed his memory, making it a piece of cake for him to recall film content.
"It's a pity there's no VCR in the rental house; it would be great if I could rewatch those classic scenes," he mused to himself, then shook his head, remembering the VCR that once belonged to his family but was now with Cassandra.
"Still, I don't regret giving it to her; after all, that was the last thing I could do for the original owner."
For an entire week, Kazir poured almost all his energy into writing the screenplay and proposal, afraid of missing any crucial detail.
The 'clack-clack' of the typewriter sounded more melodious to him than any music.
Of course, making typos also annoyed him greatly, because once a mistake was made, he had to start over, throwing away dozens of sheets of scrap paper.
But he felt it was all worth it, because he was doing what he loved and didn't feel tired at all.
"Phew!"
Kazir finally stretched, his arms almost flinging to the sky.
"How can stretching after sitting for so long feel so good?" he muttered to himself, a satisfied smile on his face.
He got up and walked to the window, only then realizing that it had grown completely dark outside.
"Time passes too quickly; I didn't even notice," he chuckled wryly, filled with emotion.
Today was March 28th, and Kazir knew that Se7en was still in the midst of post-production.
But he didn't bother David Fincher, choosing instead to focus entirely on writing his new screenplay.
He had full confidence in David, believing that he would definitely make Se7en spectacular.
Moreover, the contract clearly stated that he had no right to interfere with editing and post-production; even if he had ideas, he had to follow the arrangements of the producer and director.
"I need to get up early tomorrow and contact Fox Searchlight Pictures."
Kazir pondered.
napoleon dynamite was distributed in North America by Fox Searchlight Pictures, with international distribution handled by Paramount.
"For this film to go global, it first needs to make a name for itself domestically.
Since Fox Searchlight Pictures handled the original, it would be best if we could continue to cooperate this time."
He remembered clearly that Fox Searchlight Pictures was only established last year (1994).
At that time, Disney acquired Miramax Films, and 20th Century Fox followed suit by establishing this subsidiary specializing in independent films.
Later, the rights to Slumdog Millionaire, Black Swan, and this napoleon dynamite all fell into their hands.
"But no one can predict the future; there might be changes!" Kazir thought to himself, then lay down on the bed and closed his eyes.
"I need to get enough rest; I can't look listless when I meet the big shot tomorrow."
...The next day, Kazir arrived at the Fox Searchlight Pictures office as scheduled.
"Are you Kazier Gray? I hear you wrote Se7en, and it's coming out in September, right?" the man sitting opposite him asked.
His name was Tom Rothman, with short hair and glasses, appearing calm and seasoned.
He was not only the founder of Fox Searchlight Pictures but also the CEO of 20th Century Fox.
Kazir hadn't expected to meet such a prominent figure directly, and he felt a little nervous.
"Yes, Mr. Rothman," he quickly replied.
Tom flipped through the screenplay Kazir had brought, a few thoughts forming in his mind.
In fact, Kazir had previously submitted the screenplay and proposal for Se7en to Fox Searchlight Pictures, but unfortunately, he was too inexperienced at the time to catch Tom's eye.
The reason he agreed to meet him this time was mostly because Se7en was set to be released in September.
If this film became a hit, it would prove that Kazir indeed had talent.
"You want to direct this film yourself, don't you, Mr. Gray?" Tom put down the screenplay and looked up, asking.
"Yes," Kazir nodded, his eyes revealing determination and confidence.
Hearing this, Tom frowned slightly; to be honest, he didn't quite believe Kazir could direct this film well.
After all, the original owner's three previously directed films were all small-budget productions, direct-to-video fare.
Although he had some experience, it was ultimately not enough for the big leagues.
"The screenplay states a budget of five hundred thousand; do you think that's enough?" Tom continued to ask, trying to find a breakthrough from the budget aspect.
"Yes, sir.
Five hundred thousand is absolutely enough to shoot it," Kazir replied without hesitation, fully confident in his budget planning.
Tom pondered, weighing the pros and cons in his mind.
As the company's founder, he had to ensure that Fox Searchlight Pictures could establish itself, otherwise his position would be precarious.
Comedies have a broad appeal, but the key is whether they can make the audience laugh.
If Kazir could really achieve this, then this film might indeed become a hit.
"Mr. Gray, we'll get back to you," Tom nodded, finally saying, without giving a definite answer.
"Thank you, Mr. Rothman," Kazir smiled; although he felt a bit uneasy, at least Tom hadn't shown any obvious dislike.
The first meeting went fairly smoothly, which gave him a glimmer of hope.