Chapter 146: Striking at the Competition
In the lobby of the Hilton Hotel in London, the lounge was almost empty in the morning. Besides Michael Davenport and his party, another person sat far away, idly flipping through a newspaper.
Seeing Michael shaking hands with Alan Albert, this person put down the newspaper and left the hotel.
Outside the hotel, he made a phone call, saying, "Yes! I'm sure! That man is Michael Davenport from Embassy Films! Remember last year, a few months before 'The Purge' was released? He came to see you then, so I recognize him."
Listening to instructions from the other end, he added, "Alright! I'll keep an eye on things here until you arrive."
Re-entering the hotel, he found a spot far away, pretending to read the newspaper while observing the scene.
After shaking hands with Alan Albert, Michael also greeted Danny Donald. Looking at Danny's black eyes, black hair, and yellow skin, Michael's face beamed with a sunny smile, "Nice to meet you, Mr. Donald."
Danny Donald smiled back, observing Michael for a while. This man seemed genuinely cheerful and sincere, treating him and Alan Albert equally.
Compared to Albert Hoffman, Michael Davenport left a better impression on Danny. From his observation, Michael wasn't prejudiced.
Michael, of course, had no prejudice against Danny Donald, an ingrained belief that would never change.
Facing these two peers, Michael appeared straightforward and energetic. After the introductions, Chris excused himself and left.
"Gentlemen, Universal Pictures' attitude towards Polygram Films is very clear. They only want the film library," Michael said directly. "Have you considered your future? Hollywood is the best place for you two to shine. Embassy Films eagerly awaits your joining."
Danny Donald remained silent, looking at Alan Albert. Outwardly, Alan seemed to lead the duo.
However, Michael had thoroughly researched them, knowing they influenced each other.
Alan Albert said, "It's all rumors now. Universal hasn't made a final decision yet."
In such times, smart people know to weigh their options.
Michael could see this, "It's always good to have a backup plan. Embassy Films would be your fallback." He took out two copies of a document from his briefcase and handed them to Alan and Danny, "This is an introduction to Embassy Films, part of Relativity Entertainment Group. In the past year and a half, we've produced and distributed 'The Purge,' 'The Blair Witch Project,' and 'Final Destination,' all low-cost, high-revenue films."
Alan Albert read through the detailed document, which presented the information in plain language, supported by extensive data. The revenue figures for those three films were particularly striking.
Just these three films brought in revenue equivalent to what Polygram Films would earn in two to three years!
Especially 'The Blair Witch Project,' with its impressive marketing plan detailed in the document, showcased genius-level planning.
This is a vibrant company!
Alan Albert naturally had this thought while reading.
Danny Donald was also studying the document, calculating how much more revenue these films could generate if Embassy Films had its own overseas distribution channels.
A conservative estimate suggested an increase of at least one-third.
After a while, Michael said, "Both 'The Purge' and 'Final Destination' are potential series. Franchise films are increasingly important for film companies, providing stable revenue and minimizing personnel turnover."
Polygram's recent turmoil had caused much trouble for Alan and Danny, making them crave stability.
Michael, despite being a step behind DreamWorks, had prepared thoroughly before coming.
Alan and Danny didn't say much, but they appreciated Michael's talk of stability.
No one wants to work for a company in constant turmoil.
Michael continued, "All companies under Embassy Films and Relativity Entertainment are young and dynamic, unlike the stale atmosphere of old film companies. We are a vibrant team dreaming of creating a strong future, at least comparable to companies like New Line Cinema."
Michael toned down his ambitions slightly. Although he dreamed of competing with the Big Six, he didn't want to come across as boastful.
Some goals are better pursued quietly.
"Your company's growth in the past two years is impressive," Alan acknowledged. "I estimate your performance this year might rival some mid-sized Hollywood companies."
Michael confidently replied, "Next year's performance will be even better."
Danny interjected, "Mr. Davenport, let me be frank. Many Hollywood mid-sized companies like yours struggle with funding."
"Indeed," Michael smiled at Danny, "Funding is a major issue for mid-sized film companies. One failed investment can bankrupt them, but that's not the case for my company."
Danny asked, "Can you elaborate?"
Michael, appearing straightforward and sincere, didn't hesitate, "All our films are financed, and we have stable financing channels. We have a steady partnership with Abu Dhabi and have successfully secured tens of millions of dollars from the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority."
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority? Danny and Alan exchanged glances, surprised by this connection.
Michael's keen observation picked up on this, "Have you heard of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority?"
"Yes," Alan replied, "They reportedly have trillions in assets. They're rumored to be eyeing Manchester United in the Premier League, with Sheikh Mansour planning to buy the club."
Buying Manchester United? Michael was a bit surprised, recalling that in his past life, Sheikh Mansour bought Manchester City about ten years later.
Perhaps this is my influence? After all, I did encourage them to buy a sports club to increase their visibility...
If they knew Sheikh Mansour, all the better. Michael said, "My funding also comes from Sheikh Mansour."
Hearing this, Danny and Alan were taken aback. Abu Dhabi Investment Authority investing in films meant funding wasn't an issue.
"Gentlemen," Michael added for credibility, "This isn't a secret in Hollywood. You can confirm it with Sony Columbia, with whom you have long-term cooperation."
He also mentioned Tom Cruise, "I'm friends with Tom. Alan, you're also friends with him. If my company lacked strength, Tom wouldn't introduce us."
Alan nodded lightly. That made sense. Tom Cruise was not only a friend but also a fellow church member, and he wouldn't mislead him on such a critical issue.
Looks promising? Michael sensed a shift in their attitudes.
He didn't expect to finalize the deal in one meeting but aimed to leave a strong impression and sway them slightly.
Just as he was about to speak again, there was a sudden flurry of footsteps, and a dark-haired man in a suit walked briskly towards them.
"Alan, what a coincidence," Albert Hoffman seemed to see only Alan, going over to shake hands.
Danny remained expressionless.
Michael noticed this, observing that Hoffman seemed only interested in Alan.
Only then did Hoffman acknowledge Danny, nodding casually, "Hello, Danny."
Danny responded politely.
What's going on? Michael quickly surmised that Hoffman might not fully understand the dynamics between the two.
Then, looking at Hoffman's white skin and Danny's, Michael understood some things.
There was one reality Michael couldn't deny: In Hollywood, the status of Asians was lower than that of blacks, even less than Latinos.
This was the reality.
For instance, if 'The Purge' and 'Final Destination' were directed by a white or black director instead of James Wan, the media would have hailed them much more.
James Wan had some fame, but that was it.
Michael quickly formulated several plans in his mind in a few breaths.
When lacking strength, one must use all available conditions to strike at competitors.
"Oh, Mr. Davenport." Hoffman seemed to have forgotten who Michael was until the phone call reminded him. He shook Michael's hand, "I heard your little company has been doing well recently? Made a few theatrical movies after years of making video tapes? Impressive."
Though seemingly praise, his emphasis on "little company" and "video tapes" was evident.