Hardy Empire 1945 Chapter 87: Do You Want to Be a Casino Shareholder

In the MGM film production room, documentary director Burgess Moran and his team worked tirelessly, editing a wealth of footage into a compelling 68-minute documentary.

Two days and nights of intense editing led to the film's completion. The screening event included Hardy, MGM boss Meyer, Bank of America President Johnston, Mayor Ross, and Director Ed.

As the lights dimmed and the film began, the audience was treated to a whirlwind of media coverage. The documentary opened with newspaper headlines reporting the dramatic Bank of America robbery.

It detailed the robbery, showcasing scenes of chaos: innocent bystanders killed, money transport trucks riddled with bullets, and the devastated bank. 

The film then highlighted the failure of traditional policing, illustrating how Los Angeles had become a hub of crime. Interviews with Johnston and Mayor Ross expressed their frustration and determination to tackle the issue.

Security's arrival on screen shifted the narrative. The camera followed their high-tech strategy room, reminiscent of a military command center. Black-clad operatives planned their operation with precision.

The climactic scenes depicted the intense gunfight at the waste recycling station. The security team's expertise was evident as they swiftly subdued the robbers. The footage of the brutal shootout, the heavy machine guns, and the grenades captured the sheer scale of the battle.

The documentary concluded with the successful recovery of the stolen cash and the formal agreements between Security, the Los Angeles Police Department, and Bank of America. 

As the lights came back on, the audience applauded enthusiastically.

"Mayor Ross, Director Ed, President Johnston, what did you think?" Hardy inquired, a satisfied smile on his face.

Mayor Ross praised the film's excitement and intensity, while President Johnston felt it accurately represented the Bank of America's business philosophy. 

Chief Ed, slightly embarrassed, remarked that the police's portrayal might seem less impressive compared to Security's heroic depiction.

Despite this, the documentary's impact was undeniable. Meyer planned a trial screening across Los Angeles, confident that its success would lead to broader distribution. Hardy's strategic marketing had paid off handsomely. The film, while a commercial success, also bolstered Security's reputation and solidified its contracts.

Three days later, posters for the documentary appeared in theaters across Los Angeles, featuring security personnel in action. The promotional strategy included a discounted ticket price to attract viewers.

On the first day of screening, the theaters were packed. Hardy took little Lolita Taylor to watch the film, who was thrilled to see the dramatic portrayal of Security's triumph.

The documentary's gripping content kept the audience engaged, and the realistic depiction of the bank robbery's resolution earned widespread acclaim.

As the film gained momentum, Meyer reported that the box office figures were exceeding expectations. The documentary's profitability, combined with its promotional value, was a significant win for Hardy.

Hardy received a call from Siegel, a contact in the casino industry. Siegel, frustrated by recent disagreements with his partners, sought Hardy's investment.

"Jon, I heard from Mayer that you recently invested in a film. I'm in a tight spot. My partners are unhappy with the project's progress, and I'm short on funds. I need financial backing to complete the project," Siegel explained.

"What are you suggesting?" Hardy asked, curious.

"I'm offering you the chance to become a shareholder in the casino," Siegel proposed.