Chapter 581: The Twenty Million Club

When Greg Peters heard what Martin said, he maintained a smile and replied, "Martin, what you're suggesting aligns with Netflix's plans."

David Fincher, on the other hand, poured a dose of cold reality, saying, "The current internet, computers, and standard home equipment can't replicate the cinematic experience."

Greg had an answer ready, "That's why our focus isn't on creating blockbusters with extravagant visual effects. It's all about the story."

Martin's memory was jogged, and he mentioned, "I have a project in progress, a romantic comedy, but its prospects for a theatrical release are uncertain due to limited investment."

Greg was quick to inquire, "Are you starring in it?"

Martin shook his head, knowing how to pique Greg's interest, "No, my studio invested in the production. The lead is Jennifer Siebel."

Greg sought confirmation, "Jennifer Siebel Bell Newsom? Gavin Newsom's wife?"

Martin confirmed, "That's her."

Recognizing the potential, Greg expressed keen interest, "Could I get a look at the script? If you decide to sell this film, please contact me first."

"I'll have the script sent to you tomorrow," Martin said, seeing potential in a Netflix deal. "Once the film's ready, I'll invite you to view some footage."

Greg responded, "I'm not returning to San Francisco today. I'll stay in Los Angeles for the night and await the script tomorrow."

In contrast to their conversation, David Fincher remained rather quiet.

Greg continued, "David, Martin, if you ever come across a suitable project, would you consider creating high-quality content for Netflix?"

Neither Martin nor David Fincher showed immediate interest.

For David Fincher, a traditional Hollywood director, partnering with Netflix wasn't his top choice.

As for Martin, he was hesitant to commit to Netflix just yet. Netflix wanted to expand its influence, and Martin was aware that what's readily available might be the best option.

Greg understood that convincing these traditional Hollywood directors and stars to collaborate wouldn't be easy. It wasn't about what he said but the compensation Netflix could offer.

The conversation ended there, and Martin made his exit.

Greg, too, left the banquet hall to check in.

David Fincher accompanied him to the elevator and asked, "Is Netflix truly considering a hefty investment in this project?"

Greg responded, "Reed Hastings wants to create a top-tier series that can continue to draw in users, but the project hasn't been finalized. I recommended you to him."

David Fincher's stance remained firm for the time being, "Let's wait until I finish 'Gone Girl'."

As the two exited the elevator and stepped into the corridor, David Fincher spotted a familiar face—Walter Hamada, the new president of DC Films. Hamada offered a friendly nod, reciprocated by David Fincher.

Accompanying Hamada was a blonde actress.

The two groups proceeded separately, entering their respective rooms.

David Fincher vaguely recognized the actress as Australian, but her name escaped him.

As Martin returned home, he was greeted by a lively scene. Kristen Stewart, their neighbor, had brought along a group of friends to join Elizabeth in a fireworks display.

The Stallone sisters, Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlett, along with the Fanning sisters, all under Elizabeth's guidance, had emptied the warehouse of fireworks.

Before long, Charlize Theron, another neighbor, arrived to partake in the festivities.

Amidst the joyful chaos, Martin and Elizabeth found themselves in each other's company, beginning their romantic night.

The following morning, Elizabeth was dropped off at Louise's place, while Martin headed to the studio. He arranged for a copy of the script to be sent to the Hilton Hotel.

Upon receiving and reading the script, Greg Peters had questions about the casting. He called Martin and inquired, "Are you certain Jennifer Siebel has agreed to play the script's lead role?"

Martin assured him, "Jennifer personally gave me her commitment."

Greg, recognizing the significance of this, replied earnestly, "Martin, once the project is complete, please notify me promptly."

Martin agreed, "No problem."

As long as "The Troubles" shaped up well, it stood a good chance of being sold. Martin was meticulous about his work, striving not only to turn a profit but also to protect his investors from losses.

With his departure to film "Gone Girl" on the horizon, Martin had arranged a special tea meeting with Leonardo and Nicholson.

In Leonardo's mansion, the three enjoyed afternoon tea.

Martin inquired of Leonardo, "What happened to the Eastern European party you mentioned? It's been over two months, and we've heard nothing."

Nicholson interjected humorously, "Do you plan to wait until I'm in a coffin, then bring them to visit me in the cemetery?"

Leonardo playfully replied, "I'll bring a troupe of Russian beauties to dance at your grave."

Martin, however, steered the conversation back, saying, "Don't change the subject, Leo. Where is your promise? Where is your conscience, morality, and credibility? Have they all gone to the dogs?"

Leonardo apologized, "My apologies, I recently took a trip to Hawaii with a few girls and lost track of time. I'll contact you shortly; I promise to satisfy you."

Nicholson chimed in, "I'll give you another chance to prove yourself."

Changing the topic, Martin revealed, "Leo, you might not be aware, but Jack is on the verge of a new marriage."

This piqued Leonardo's interest, "Really? That's exciting; let me ponder this."

Leonardo playfully pointed at Nicholson, saying, "Marriage is a risky endeavor for you!" Then, pointing at Martin, he added, "Jack, have you forgotten what this rascal Martin likes to do best?"

Nicholson replied candidly, "Other people's wives or fiancées!"

Martin hadn't expected these two to team up.

Nicholson continued, "Luckily, I never considered marrying Meryl Streep."

Martin was left momentarily speechless, "Your concerns are entirely unfounded."

Nicholson reassured him, "For the sake of our brotherhood, I won't give Meryl any opportunities."

Leonardo chimed in, "Meryl can't compare to the 19-year-old Jennifer Lawrence."

Nicholson countered, "Leo, marry Lorraine. I don't mind you being a playboy. Let's go to Las Vegas today and get the marriage certificate. Martin and I will cover the wedding expenses."

Martin added humorously, "If we divorce tomorrow, you'll lose this house and your last name will be Nicholson."

Leonardo jokingly exclaimed, "You're conspiring to take my property! Well, I'm getting you all drunk tonight!"

The three friends concluded their afternoon tea gathering and headed to an indoor bar.

Martin and Nicholson selected two bottles from the finest wines in the cellar, ensuring they wouldn't return home inebriated that night.

Their joviality continued until Leonardo was compelled to shout "Gisele Bündchen" once more.

In the following two days, Martin visited the set of "John Wick 2" to engage in discussions with Chad and Chen Hu concerning action design intricacies.

Soon, his path led to Mississippi, where he would embark on a two-month-long filming journey.

As Martin left Los Angeles, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" had successfully breached the $200 million milestone at the North American box office.

In the post-Oscars period, the box office numbers of several popular films soared. Despite "Benjamin" securing only two minor awards, it leveraged the Oscars' buzz to stage a comeback in the North American box office, reaching an impressive $203 million in total.

The film had settled into a lengthy theatrical run, showing no signs of departing North American cinemas anytime soon.

Overseas, its box office figures had also exceeded $200 million. Following the Oscars, additional countries had acquired screening rights for the film, promising further global box office gains.

"Benjamin" even outperformed "Seven," amassing a whopping $327 million, marking David Fincher's most successful box office venture to date.

With a string of box office triumphs under his belt, there was a growing consensus in the industry that Martin's ability to draw audiences was nearly on par with top-tier movie stars.

"Gone Girl" had also disclosed Martin's salary for his upcoming film, boasting a substantial base payment of $20 million.

Excluding the supplementary earnings from "John Wick" and "Benjamin," "Gone Girl" had truly propelled Martin into the illustrious $20 million club.

The legitimacy of Martin's $20 million payday was undisputed, attributed to his studio's significant investment in the project.

Martin had undeniably earned his $20 million, thanks to the impressive box office track record of his previous films.

The Hollywood Reporter dedicated its front page to the breaking news: Hollywood welcomed a new member to its $20 million club—Martin Davis!

"In an era plagued by a dearth of stars, Martin Davis has emerged as a more deserving candidate for this title than Johnny Depp and Keanu Reeves, whose box office prowess is largely tethered to standalone franchises. In contrast, Martin Davis has proven his commercial might across a multitude of series and film genres!"

In their Burbank mansion, Blake Lively perused the entertainment headlines in The Hollywood Reporter, momentarily lost in thought.

Even she hadn't anticipated that her high-quality stock investment would soon rise to stardom, rivaling the likes of Will Smith, Tom Cruise, and Leonardo.

Eric Lively entered from outside, offering his unsolicited opinion, "Oh God, has the Pacific Ocean flooded your brain? You actually turned down a $200 million blockbuster lead role!"

Blake couldn't be bothered to entertain her not-so-clear-headed brother.

Eric persisted, "It was such a fantastic opportunity. Dad put in so much effort on your behalf, and you're just letting it slip away with a single sentence."

Blake furrowed her brow and inquired, "Who got the part then?"

Eric responded, "They cast Australian actress Abby Nikosh. I heard that DC Films President Hamada disregarded all objections and handpicked her as the lead."

Blake nonchalantly remarked, "I see. This project has nothing to do with me, and I won't entertain any discussions about it in the future."

Warner Bros. orchestrated an elaborate press conference, personally hosted by the new CEO, Kevin Tsujihara, to officially unveil film projects like "Pharaohs and Gods" and "Green Lantern" to the world.

This announcement signaled the dawn of a new era for Warner Bros.