Chapter 576: Meeting At Warner!.

"I wouldn't have wondered how reliable Martin and Louise are if you haven't experienced dealing with the big six studios' accounting practices?" Wu Maoting, who had his fair share of trouble with Warner Pictures, had come to appreciate the reliability of his initial collaborator.

At this moment, Martin was candidly discussing all the potential risks, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the project's profitability. However, Wu Maoting increasingly found Martin sincere and trustworthy.

Martin went on to explain, "The project in question is a romantic comedy. While I haven't had the chance to review the script yet, the producer is highly dependable. I'll get in touch with you once I've had a chance to go through the script."

Wu Maoting agreed, "No problem," leaving his contact information in Los Angeles before bidding farewell.

Martin accompanied him to the studio foyer, where they shook hands, and Wu Maoting said, "I'll be eagerly awaiting your good news."

Martin replied with a nod.

As these individuals exited, Martin prepared to head back upstairs. It was at this moment that Louise entered from outside.

She gestured towards the departing Burmese investor and asked, "Is that the Burmese investor?"

Martin responded straightforwardly, "Yes, he invested in 'Terminator 2018' and was deceived by Warner Pictures' accounting."

Louise quickly grasped the situation and inquired, "Are you considering turning the situation around?"

Martin elaborated, "Jennifer Siebel, Gavin Newsom's wife, who suffered due to Harvey's actions, has a romantic film project. She hasn't given up on Hollywood and approached me for investment. Originally, I intended to allocate a portion of the 'Lone Survivor' funds, and he just happened to come along."

Louise commented, "Regardless of the project's outcome, if we can earn management fees and commissions from it, investing in the Newsoms is still a worthwhile endeavor. My father mentioned that after Gavin concludes his term as Mayor of San Francisco, he may run for governor, possibly alongside another candidate. If successful, he could become Lieutenant Governor."

Martin chuckled, "It's not a bad feeling to do someone a favor with their own money."

Louise glanced at her watch and suggested, "It's almost time. Shall we head to Warner?"

The two of them left together, opting not to use a car. Instead, they walked across the street diagonally to reach the Warner Building.

The meeting scheduled for today had a significant number of participants, involving various subsidiaries and partner companies of Warner Bros.

As they ascended to their destination, Martin encountered Gardner from Plan B in the elevator. They engaged in a brief conversation, largely centered around Aniston.

Upon exiting the elevator, Martin spotted Robert Reiner from Castle Rock. Since the 1990s, all films produced by this company had been distributed by Warner Brothers.

The group assembled in the conference center, taking seats around a long conference table.

Soon, over twenty individuals were present, many of whom engaged in private conversations while speculating about Warner's new management's plans.

Didi Gardner leaned over to Martin and shared, "I heard that the new management intends to increase the emphasis on both online and offline movie distribution."

Martin displayed no surprise at this revelation. He remarked, "Distribution companies occupy a prominent position in the industry chain. Handling North American distribution is relatively straightforward, but global distribution is a realm where only the big six Hollywood companies can truly excel."

Louise expressed her opinion, saying, "Maintaining the status quo is the best course of action."

Not long after, Kevin Tsujihara, accompanied by Daniel and two other Warner executives, entered the conference center together.

The meeting commenced.

Kevin Tsujihara wasted no time and addressed the attendees, "Today, I have invited all Warner partners to discuss our future cooperation, aiming to continue our close collaboration for mutual benefit and shared success."

Seated towards the rear, Martin and Louise patiently awaited the unfolding discussion.

Kevin Tsujihara continued in a polite tone, "Over the past five years, our close cooperation and joint efforts have consistently placed Warner Bros. at the forefront of Hollywood. I hope we can maintain our leading position in the future."

Applause echoed through the room.

"However," Kevin Tsujihara continued, "since the 2008 economic crisis, Warner Bros. has experienced declining profits and a narrowing global industry landscape." His tone shifted, emphasizing the challenges ahead. "Warner has faced significant hardships and trials, but we've persevered. Over the past two years, we've weathered the economic storm, preventing its negative repercussions on our downstream partners. Today, Warner stands with its partners, sharing both the burdens and the benefits."

Kevin Tsujihara's words were eloquent.

Martin and Louise exchanged knowing glances, understanding that there might be hidden agendas beneath the pleasant words.

Kevin Tsujihara went on, "Warner Bros. has shouldered this burden alone for two years, and the immense pressure has become too much to bear. The sustainable development of our industry requires collective effort, sharing both profits and risks to maintain a healthy, stable, and long-lasting collaboration."

An executive from New Line Cinema chimed in, "I wholeheartedly agree."

Someone from Legendary Pictures sitting nearby added, "Without Warner's robust distribution capabilities and channels, our successes would not have been possible. Having enjoyed Warner's profits, it's only fair that we also share the risks."

Kevin Tsujihara made a calming gesture, stating, "The primary burden still falls on Warner Bros. You only need to follow Warner's lead."

He continued, "I have other matters to attend to. The meeting will be chaired by your old friend, Daniel."

Daniel rose from his seat and greeted the familiar faces on both sides of the conference table with nods of acknowledgement.

Kevin Tsujihara exited the meeting room.

Daniel assumed control, turning to the central seat, and addressed the room, saying, "I'm sure you're all aware that Hollywood's distribution fees have been steadily rising in recent years, and the distribution commissions between Warner and its partners have remained unchanged..."

Faced with these partners, he found himself in a difficult position, yet he understood that Kevin Tsujihara's strategy remained unchanged and must be implemented.

Warner Bros.'s film business currently ranked first in both online and offline sectors of the industry. Leveraging Warner's extensive global distribution network to increase distribution commission percentages was a logical step, and Daniel agreed wholeheartedly. He declared, "Moving forward, for films that sign distribution contracts, the commission for North American distribution will increase by 2%, overseas distribution by 3%, and all offline channel commissions by 5%!"

A chorus of "Yes!" and "I think it's fair!" echoed through the room, with those under Warner's umbrella, such as New Line and Legendary Pictures, voicing their approval.

Meanwhile, Martin and Louise remained silent, waiting to see how others would react.

Robert Reiner from Castle Rock broke the silence, stating, "I agree. Without Warner's distribution channels, our films wouldn't yield such substantial profits."

His words held undeniable truth, emphasizing the pivotal role distribution companies played in the industry, serving as the gatekeepers to global markets.

Amidst these substantial interests, no one was eager to concede.

Those not affiliated with Warner Holdings turned their gaze towards Robert Reiner, questioning why the supposed turncoat had appeared so swiftly.

Daniel flashed a reassuring smile and said, "Ladies and gentlemen, our collaboration is bound to be more successful."

For the moment, silence reigned in the conference room.

Martin stole another glance at Robert Reiner. He could empathize with why a well-established company like Castle Rock had made this choice.

Having cooperated with Warner Bros. for many years, Castle Rock relied heavily on Warner for the offline distribution of its films. Their profits were closely tied to Warner, and breaking away, while not impossible, would come at a significant cost.

The longer a company collaborated with Warner Bros., the more challenging it was to sever ties with the studio. Newly established companies had an easier time in this regard.

As the meeting adjourned, Martin prepared to leave. However, Daniel intercepted him, suggesting, "If you have a moment, could we have a private conversation?"

Martin remained accommodating, responding, "Certainly, I'll make time for it."

The two proceeded to another reception room.

Daniel began, "I would like to apologize for the situation with the three old films from Warner's library."

Martin waved off the apology, remarking, "No need to worry; it was always tentative, and the initiative rested with Warner Pictures."

Daniel elaborated, "I had initially informed Warner Pictures about it. However, with the change in leadership at Warner Pictures, many unforeseen changes occurred, leading to this unexpected turn of events."

Martin maintained his composure, even though he found it hard to believe Daniel's explanation. He sighed, expressing his regrets, "While I understand the market potential was promising, securing funding for large-scale productions has proven challenging. I had hoped you offer me separate agency and consulting fees if the film succeeded."

Daniel was taken aback, silently cursing himself for not being informed earlier. He thought, "Why didn't you tell me this sooner? I would've set aside a share for you no matter what."

Martin continued, "Nonetheless, I've been exploring other classic films, seeking a suitable remake project. If we find one, we can proceed quietly, avoiding the attention of potential meddlers."

Daniel quickly responded, "Agreed, I'll keep an eye out for other projects. Remember to involve me, and we can plan them together."

Martin inquired, "By the way, what's the status of 'Exodus'? I've heard it's progressing well."

Observing Martin's keen interest, Daniel shared, "The project has been officially titled 'Pharaohs and Gods.' The production budget may exceed $150 million. It will draw inspiration from biblical records, incorporating elements of magic. Negotiations with Christian Bale have reached an advanced stage; he will join the project after completing filming for Christopher Nolan's 'The Dark Knight Rises,' which is slated for a 2012 release."

Martin asked, "Who's directing it?"

Daniel replied, "We're still in discussions with Ridley Scott. It shouldn't pose a significant issue."

Martin recalled that Ridley Scott's "Robin Hood" was set to debut early in the summer season, another epic film with his signature style. It should hold its own well.

In fact, based on his knowledge from a past life, the more Ridley Scott stumbled with epic films, the stronger his comeback in the realm of science fiction. The novel "The Martian" was still in progress, giving Martin room to wait for Ridley Scott's return to the genre.