Hollywood What If

Hollywood What If Chapter 113

For an up-and-coming director like Kazir Grey, it was already a privilege to have three big shots from the Big Six show up to watch the screening. 

This time they were invited to Grey Pictures for a small screening of Taken. Grey Pictures was a studio/production company, so they have equipment related to filming such as cameras and lighting. They also had a small studio where about 30 people could watch movies. 

Even though his initial intention for Grey Pictures was just for tax incentives, Kazir felt that he needed to invest to make sure that the studio had equipment for film-related things. 

The projector was already set up, and Kazir Grey stood and greeted each guest. Even though he didn't know most of them, he greeted them with a smile. 

'I guess Salvatore works really hard.'

He looked at his agent and chuckled when he saw that Salvatore Barlowe had dark circles under his eyes... Well, Kazir had dark circles as well. Like Salvatore, Kazir worked tirelessly. He hadn't had enough sleep in the last few days. 

Of all the actors, only Enzo Park showed up. Scarlett Johansson was not allowed to see the movie without her parents. She was only 12 years old. 

PG-13 means that children under the age of 13 need their parents to watch the movie. 

As for Liam Neeson, the man was taking a break after months of filming. Action movies were definitely tiring. Liam Neeson spent months just to have a positive physique. So he took his time to rest. 

Actors didn't have authority over post-production, only superstars could influence the director's decision. So far, Kazir had never worked with a superstar, so he didn't have a clear understanding of their behavior. 

He knew a few superstars who had absurd terms in their contracts. 

'Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham. It said that these people are not allowed to lose in a fight. It's in their contracts. Also, they are only allowed to get hit a couple of times. I can understand why they have specific things like that in their contracts.'

Actors have to keep up their appearances. Getting beaten up in a movie could do irreparable damage to their careers. So they don't want to lose in a fight... Even if it's just acting. 

"Kazir, it's good to see you again. I hear you're busy these days."

Terry Semel shook hands and greeted Kazir.

"You're still as busy as ever. Haha, don't forget to read the revisions we made to the script of The Hangover Part 2."

Terry Semel didn't forget to tell him. Kazir finished writing The Hangover Part 2 a year ago. He had already given the script to Warner Bros. 

Like a normal film company, Warner Bros was skeptical about the context of the script, so they decided to write a backup script just in case. Although they chose his script immediately after the release of Napoleon Dynamite II. 

They even hired many writers to polish the script. But they felt it was not enough. Kazir's presence was important. Warner Bros believes that Kazir Grey had to read the script before giving the go signal. 

They believe in his ability to make a script. Of course, they would pay him for his work. 

"Don't worry Terry, I'll make sure to attend at least one script meeting this month."

"That's reassuring to hear."

Pre-production on The Hangover Part 2 began. Warner Bros had no choice but to increase the budget now that Ed Helms and Pedro Pascal had established their names. 

Their agents demanded a raise! Which was understandable. 

'If there's just one problem, it's...'

"Kazir, are you sure you're not interested in directing The Hangover Part 2? I can give you a better deal if you want."

Terry Semel said. The importance of a talented director in making a successful movie was obvious. Everyone in Hollywood believes that Kazir Grey can produce another successful comedy film. For that, Warner Bros was willing to accept any terms, as long as they were possible. 

If Kazir wanted 15% of the North American box office, Warner Bros would say yes. If he wanted 20%, Warner Bros would nod its head. 

Kazir Grey as the director of The Hangover Part  2 was the best assurance they could get. 

"Terry, I have to be honest, my schedule is already full for the next four years. I'm going to be busy."

"What?"

Terry Semel tilted his head in confusion. 

'Did he sign a deal with the other film companies? Why have I never heard of this?' He thought. 

"Is it because of the Cinematic Universe you're talking about?"

"That's right." 

Kazir didn't deny it. Terry Semel had read the script for Taken, and he had also read John Wick. Kazir was trying to create a series of movies that were connected. 

"I see. Well, if you're having trouble, you can go to Warner Bros."

As long as Kazir Grey was profitable, film companies would do their best to work with him. 

But Taken was different. To be honest, Terry Semel felt that the script didn't have the X factor. The plot was mediocre and the action sequences had too much hand-to-hand combat. It was also pretty brutal. 

Also, Kazir was a newcomer to action movies. He didn't have enough experience. 

Still, Terry Semel would never say it in front of Kazir. He still needed the man to continue the Hangover franchise. Even if The Hangover was only a trilogy. Considering that the cast's salaries were on the rise. 

Kazir also welcomed Tom Rothman and Michael Ovitz. Just like Terry Semel, the two big shots wanted to make a connection with the up-and-coming director. 

Just like that, the small screening of Taken began with only 23 guests in attendance.