From Flower Vase to Film Emperor in Hollywood

“Ten million dollars.”

With that one sentence, he slashed the budget in half.

New Line Cinema prides itself on being an independent film company, always insisting on cost control even for projects like "The Lord of the Rings"; but now it seems that's just talk. Being acquired by Time Warner inevitably changes the company's nature, giving it the perspective of a large corporation, and its attitude is different.

Even though Mackie and Eric were mentally prepared, they still gasped, their brains hitting the pause button, unsure how to react.

Anson knew the amount of information was overwhelming, so he continued without pausing, "Of course, we have two options."

One is Warner Bros., and the other is New Line Cinema.

Only now did Anson reveal Jeff Robinov's suggestion, leaving it to Mackie and Eric for consideration.

“Different choices, different outcomes.”

The car was quiet as Mackie and Eric were caught in a battle of wills—

They originally thought things were finally turning around, but now it seems that one problem is solved only for another to arise, and there may be more to come.

This once again proves that the work of producers and actors are two completely different things.

This is the true face of Hollywood.

Relying solely on talent to break through is unrealistic.

However, the situation is slightly different now:

Anson.

At least, among them, Anson can be considered someone who initially has a voice. What happened at the chain burger restaurant also deepened this impression.

Eric was more honest and turned to look at Anson, "What do you think?"

“I choose New Line.” Anson didn't hold back. As a producer, he should participate in the film's production decisions from a professional standpoint.

Mackie frowned slightly, revealing some concern, "But, with such a budget…"

Mackie glanced at the rearview mirror: even Anson's salary might be a stretch.

Anson understood, "If we choose New Line, then I will give up my salary. Instead, I'll take 10% of the box office revenue as equity."

Although there are no hard and fast rules, and the differences between projects are ultimately reflected in specific negotiations, generally speaking, the upper limit for the box office revenue sharing for directors, producers, and actors is 20%. To exceed this number, you'd need the level of Steven Spielberg or Tom Cruise.

In other words, if they can reach a cooperation agreement with New Line Cinema and take 20% of the revenue sharing, then Anson will directly take half.

But what if they can't?

In Hollywood, only a minority of directors, actors, and writers can participate in box office revenue sharing. Most obediently take a fixed salary, almost like Mackie and Eric.

Therefore, the probability of the revenue sharing number not reaching 20% is high.

Then, Anson's revenue sharing is still 10%, at the cost of Mackie and Eric giving up some of their own benefits.

See, Anson's role as the producer of "The Butterfly Effect" is not a charitable undertaking.

Although Mackie and Eric are the writers and directors, the original creators of the entire project; without Anson, this project would probably be difficult to put into production and would never meet the audience. Even if they found a film company willing to invest in production, the box office revenue sharing would probably be just a pipe dream.

Things are that simple.

Therefore, Anson takes the lion's share of the revenue sharing fairly and without guilt; in fact, Anson only taking 10%, without aggressively fighting for 15% or even 18%, is already considered conscientious.

Of course, occupying the majority of the revenue sharing also means that Anson needs to bear huge risks—

Taking no salary, performing completely for free.

Once the film fails, Anson's losses will also be severe. Although it won't affect Anson's career, next time Anson tries to become a producer, or tries to change his acting style to challenge different roles, he may face more challenges.

After all, the entertainment industry has always been harsh on pretty faces.

Now, Anson is truly standing on the same boat as Mackie and Eric, sharing weal and woe.

The more so, the more honesty is needed, which is the basis of good cooperation, so without detours or pleasantries, Anson frankly threw out his conditions.

For a moment, the car fell silent, with only the wind whistling.

Anson didn't speak, didn't try to persuade or interfere with their judgment—

Cooperation, after all, is not something to be forced. If they are willing, that would be great; if they are not willing, there is no need to hurt feelings, it's just business.

Then.

Eric cautiously leaned over, "Anson, then, how much box office revenue sharing can we probably… get?"

Mackie glared at Eric speechlessly, "Is that important?"

Eric stubbornly retorted, "How is it not important? I'm about to be unable to pay the rent. Now that New Line Cinema is cutting production costs, our screenwriting and directing income may have to be converted into production cost deductions, and then we'll take box office revenue sharing. This means we have to continue to persevere for another six months to see. I need to know if it's worth it!"

Truthfully, they are not saints willing to sacrifice themselves for art. Everyone has their own struggles, and things are far from simple.

Mackie sighed, "Eric, I know your difficulties, and I'm the same, but the focus now is on our right to make the final decision on the script, and our control over editing and shooting. Otherwise, if the film is shot and fails like 'Alien 3,' it won't matter how much box office revenue sharing you get, because the film may not even be able to cover the distribution costs and theater revenue sharing."

“We need to ensure the success of the film.”

“If the box office can reach one hundred million dollars, even just 1% of the box office revenue sharing is considerable.”

However, Eric shook his head, "We may be evicted from our homes before the film is even released, so, are you planning to sleep on the set?"

“If I know the revenue sharing ratio, at least I can shamelessly ask my family for money, or even go to the bank for a loan. This is all persuasive, otherwise we simply can't hold on until that time.”

They each held their own opinions, and both were right.

Seeing that Mackie wanted to continue arguing, Anson preemptively interrupted them.

“Regarding box office revenue sharing, we still need to continue negotiating with New Line Cinema, but I think there's no problem with the core creative team getting 20% of the revenue sharing. They lower production costs, and we contribute our talent as equity. Both parties share the risks, and they have no reason to refuse.”

“As for creative control.”

“Mackie, this is the premise of our choice of New Line Cinema. They don't interfere with film creation. The executive producer is only responsible for controlling the budget and promoting film production. The creative part is entirely left to you two.”

“If they don't agree, we can completely choose Warner Bros.”

Although Warner Bros. may interfere with creation, Anson doesn't think he's an easy target either, so let's see who has the last laugh in the head-on confrontation with the crew.

Obviously, like Mackie and Eric, Anson also has his own calculations.