On October 13, 1995, four weeks after the release of the film Se7en, its box office performance remained strong, and its popularity undiminished.
The film received rave reviews and quickly became a hot topic of discussion, with everyone eagerly discussing the unexpected plot twists when they met.
The box office appeal of the two lead actors, Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, proved to be well-deserved, as the film had already grossed a remarkable $84.75 million to date.
After deducting the $35 million production cost and $5 million for promotion and distribution, the film made a net profit of $44 million.
Although, according to industry practice, cinemas take 30% to 40% of the box office revenue, even so, the remaining profit was enough to make New Line Cinema beam with joy.
After some estimation, they optimistically believed that the film's box office would easily surpass the $100 million mark within two weeks.
Such a significant joyous occasion naturally called for a grand celebration banquet, and as the film's screenwriter, Kazir also received an invitation from New Line Cinema.
He drove his somewhat old car towards the Chateau Marmont Hotel in West Hollywood.
This hotel had a unique feature: parties held there were almost never photographed, making it popular among celebrities, who were often seen there.
To attend this celebration banquet, Kazir specially rented a designer suit.
Although he had just received $2.3 million last week, he had little concept of luxury goods in his daily life.
According to the contract, he split $1.15 million with his brother, Allen Gray. In his opinion, business was business, and since it was agreed upon beforehand, it had to be honored.
Allen's eyes widened in shock when he suddenly saw $1.15 million in his account, and he was speechless for a long time.
He had invested $500,000, and he never expected this investment to more than double in just a few months.
He excitedly kept thanking Kazir and enthusiastically invited Kazir to New York for Christmas, where he planned to propose to his girlfriend.
Kazir smiled and agreed, but couldn't help but sigh inwardly, "It's a pity, this money still has to be taxed. Once taxed, the amount received will shrink considerably."
In America, taxes were a headache for everyone, especially for the wealthy earning millions annually; the IRS would even personally come knocking.
"In America, it's fine to mock the President, the Pentagon, or the government, but if you offend the IRS, then you're really in big trouble; they definitely have the ability to make you compliant," Kazir shook his head helplessly.
However, Kazir was well prepared.
He had his lawyer, Terrence Downey, register a studio in Delaware in advance, which was a good and completely legal way to avoid taxes.
With this studio, he also had his own small company, and he gave it a rather respectable name—Gray Pictures.
Kazir walked into the hotel and saw that the party was bustling with Hollywood's familiar faces; the entire cast and crew of Se7en were there.
"To be honest, I was really unsure at first, especially worried that the market wouldn't respond, I was terribly nervous."
Brad Pitt was chatting with David Fincher, holding a glass. Both their faces were flushed, indicating they had quite a bit to drink.
Now that the film was a great success, they were immersed in the joy of celebration, with constant laughter at the scene.
"Kazir! You're finally here!" David Fincher turned and saw Kazir, then enthusiastically greeted him.
This was a formal party, without the messy noise and chaos, and the music was just right, not too loud, creating a very decent overall atmosphere.
"David..."
Kazir's mouth twitched slightly. The miserable state he was in after drinking with David last time was still clear in his mind. Today, he was determined not to touch alcohol again.
"Congratulations! I heard your new film was released yesterday? I wish it great success!"
"David, why don't you have some water to sober up?" Kazir said with concern.
"Hey, I'm sober!" David argued, his face flushed.
"Yes, yes, yes," Kazir echoed with a smile.
"Kazir, thanks a lot. I heard that Detective Mills's role was recommended by you for me to play," Brad Pitt then came over, enthusiastically shaking Kazir's hand.
"Your acting is superb, and you definitely have a bright future ahead," Kazir said sincerely.
"I heard you're also a director? If there's a suitable role in the future, don't hesitate to find me," Brad Pitt said.
"Definitely," Kazir replied with a smile.
In fact, Kazir knew very well that Brad Pitt's words were probably just a formality.
How could a star of his caliber just accept any role?
Unless a director of the caliber of Spielberg, Kubrick, or Ridley Scott personally invited him, he wouldn't even glance at a script.
"Pleasure working with you."
"The feeling is mutual."
The few of them chatted very congenially. After all, the film was a huge success, and everyone was immersed in joy, feeling exceptionally comfortable.
At this moment, Morgan Freeman also walked over, and more and more people gathered around.
Someone took the opportunity to talk to Kazir, saying that if there were suitable roles, he shouldn't forget them, but Kazir knew that these words were mostly just polite formalities.
"Kazir, our talented screenwriter!" At this moment, Robert walked over and greeted him warmly.
"Robert, long time no see," Kazir replied with a smile.
"I didn't expect you to finish your film in just a few months; your efficiency is truly high," Robert said.
Kazir smiled and nodded. He had heard some negative rumors about Robert before, so he didn't want to offend him easily.
"the lord of the rings series grossed over $2 billion, but director Peter Jackson didn't receive any share and eventually ended up in court."
Although Kazir wasn't clear on the specific details, he had heard about the less-than-flattering dealings between New Line Cinema and the lord of the rings, and he knew it wasn't baseless.
"It's a pity we couldn't collaborate this time," Robert said with a look of regret.
"There will definitely be an opportunity next time," Kazir replied politely.
"Absolutely. If you have another good script, feel free to send it to New Line Cinema, and I promise I'll read it carefully," Robert guaranteed, patting his chest.
"Thanks," Kazir thanked him politely.
Robert smiled very happily. In his opinion, Se7en was about to break $100 million at the box office, and overseas distribution would also bring in more money. He didn't care about Kazir's new film at all.
In his heart, Kazir, as a director, wouldn't amount to much.