Chapter 456: Revival of 007

[Chapter 518: Revival]

Recently in America, the trial of O.J. Simpson was the biggest news, grabbing nationwide attention as countless Americans focused on this century-defining case. With O.J. Simpson acquitted in his criminal trial, a significant debate about the justice system in America erupted!

Meanwhile, Willie Brown was on trial in the federal court in Sacramento, ensuring no unexpected developments arose; after all, a trial in the San Francisco federal district could potentially involve more individuals.

As for the week-long Fairmont conference, Arthur barely paid attention and headed straight back to Los Angeles.

...

Universal Pictures faced a dire situation with the underperformance of Waterworld, leading to significant losses, prompting the Seagram Company to restructure MCA Universal Entertainment.

They formed Universal Entertainment Group, dissolving MCA's brand implication, which included Universal Pictures and Universal Music Group that had started with MCA Records.

...

In October, Galaxy planned to release two films: Leaving Las Vegas and Get Shorty. Their distributors were United Artists and MGM respectively.

Additionally, a low-budget thriller, The Usual Suspects, debuted in American theaters last month after screening in Europe. However, due to its minimal budget and lack of big-name directors or stars, United Artists opted to release it as an art-house film.

...

The Ritz-Carlton in Beverly Hills buzzed with excitement as the celebration party for GoldenEye was underway.

With a strong reputation and box office earnings of $105 million in North America and $350 million worldwide, GoldenEye had revitalized the 007 franchise and was hailed as the best portrayal of the James Bond series in the 1990s.

Film producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, director Martin Campbell, and key cast members Pierce Brosnan, Sean Bean, Elizabeth Hurley, Famke Janssen, and Judi Dench were all present.

"The next 007 script is already in the works, aiming for a 1997 release. We plan to use the return of Hong Kong as a storyline," Michael Wilson explained to Arthur.

"Hong Kong's return?" Arthur shook his head in disagreement. "We can touch on Hong Kong-related themes or tie in elements from British and Chinese relations, but we can't center the plot around Hong Kong's return event! Geopolitics isn't exactly favorable!"

Michael chuckled, "Our film consultant also advised against that, so let's change the story theme to a plot driven by a mastermind trying to push for a war between Britain and China. Featuring a media tycoon born in Hong Kong as the main villain..."

With Ian Fleming's novels already largely adapted, the 007 series needed new material from screenwriters!

"Just focus on the preparation; the success of GoldenEye has made the product placements shine, and advertising costs will skyrocket for the next one," Arthur had learned from Amy Pascal that the production budget for the next 007 would exceed $100 million. However, Galaxy and MGM wouldn't have to foot the bill as advertisers were more than willing to cover the movie's costs.

"Right now, director Martin Campbell has lost interest in continuing with 007, so we need to find a new director," explained Michael Wilson.

"There's plenty of time. Directing the 007 series isn't really demanding," Arthur reassured; the series didn't require depth or profound meaning. It was simply about action, beautiful women, and grand spectacle. If it weren't for Michael Bay preparing to direct a new MGM project, The Rock, he would have been an excellent choice!

"Let's celebrate this victory!" Arthur patted Michael on the shoulder. The 007 IP was undeniably valuable; unfortunately, Eon Productions would take a big cut of the profits, as GoldenEye was MGM's first official 007 release, while previous installments had all been distributed by United Artists.

...

"Arthur," Elizabeth Hurley approached him with a grin, "How about that? You are not happy with GoldenEye's success?"

"I am happy," Arthur mused, wondering if there was any way to buy out Eon Productions from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. After all, their father, Albert Broccoli, was gravely ill, and acquiring half of the 007 rights was truly tempting!

"By the way, you must be super busy now!" Arthur chuckled.

"Yeah, I've got several scripts, along with some business events and advertising," Elizabeth leaned closer to him. "I'll keep you company tonight. Tomorrow, I've got to head to New York and London for some brand showcases!"

"Make sure you rest; there'll be other opportunities," Arthur reassured her with a light pat. "I'll come find you in England."

Elizabeth nodded, "Let's bring Katherine along; it's a bit much to go alone."

"Alright, it's your time to reap the rewards now; you can say you've arrived in Hollywood!"

...

The next day, at Galaxy headquarters in Glendale.

"Acquiring Eon Productions?" Tom Rothman shook his head in dismay. "The Broccolis have only produced the 007 series for years. They would never sell this golden goose!"

Arthur refused to give up, "Albert Broccoli is likely nearing death; isn't there a chance his children might sell?"

Tom shrugged, "Unless Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson face some massive financial crisis; otherwise, they'd never sell."

Barbara was already 35, and Michael was nearing 50; Eon Productions was their primary asset. As long as they held onto the 007 rights, they had a continuous revenue stream.

"Alright, speaking of which, what's going on with CBS these days?"

"They're still in discussions; our offer is more favorable than Westinghouse," Tom was now visibly excited; Galaxy was on the brink of becoming a diversified media giant encompassing film, television, music, and print, ready to compete alongside Time Warner, Disney, and Viacom, and surpass News Corp and Universal Entertainment!

Arthur nodded; by the end of the month, the deadline approached. Time Warner wanted to solidify their deal with TBS but wouldn't do so quickly; after all, Ted Turner's influence was unmatched compared to that of the mere Lawrence Tisch and Preston Tisch brothers!

Although Ted Turner faced significant pressure, he would definitely seek to maximize his interests and was fully capable of competing with Time Warner chairman Gerald Levin for the top position.

*****

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