Hollywood What If Chapter 591
"I'm flattered," Kazir replied. His voice was calm but firm.
"But I'm not sure I want to direct a movie right now. My hands are kind of full with… well, life."
The mention of Scarlett's pregnancy and his newfound appreciation for a quieter lifestyle was on his mind.
He had done the nonstop grind before. He wrote, shot, edited, and attended red carpets. While it brought him success, it also stole time, moments, and energy. He spent so many years grinding on work like he was a non-stop machine.
Now that he had a year of rest, he realized the allure of working less... In fact, he realized the allure of not working at all. Kazir was at the point in his life where money didn't matter. People would die of jealousy just to experience the life that he had, excluding the scandals, attempted assassination, getting cheated on, having his baby aborted, having no mother, and many more.
On second thought, Kazir's life was not easy at all. Because of that, he didn't want his children to experience the hardships he faced. He now wanted to give everything to his growing family.
Across from him, Jezebel Salome, the current Vice President of Sony-Colombia, gave a nod of understanding. She had read the room well and came prepared. She had created many scenarios in her head just for this conversation. She had Plan A, Plan B, and up to Plan F.
Actually, she was already happy that Kazir was even considering the idea of working with Sony-Colombia again.
"We know your time is valuable," she said with a business smile, adjusting her thick glasses.
"That's why we believe executive producer might be a better fit. You can express your opinion regarding the project since you're also the scriptwriter. Sony-Colombia and the production crew will respect your vision for the film. You don't have to worry about the opinion of the director... Your opinion matters the most," Jezebel said.
"That's... that's assuring." Kazir suddenly felt bad for the director who would take this project.
However, Kazir would probably not interfere much with the production, unless needed. He knew that creative freedom was the situation all directors loved.
"You wouldn't need to be on set every day. We already have a list of directors if you choose to pass on the director's position," Jezebel added.
Kazir tilted his head slightly. That did sound more manageable.
He could offer some opinions during pre-production. He could participate in casting decisions, help guide the tone of the filming, and still be at home for Scarlett's prenatal appointments.
"Executive producer," Kazir repeated. He was thinking about it seriously.
"That depends on the negotiation," he smirked.
He wasn't naive. He knew how studios operated. Offering a big title like 'executive producer' didn't always come with a big paycheck. Sometimes it was symbolic.
But Kazir Grey was not a nobody. He was a proven writer, director, and the man behind billion-dollar franchises. Sony-Colombia had to offer him some bling bling to convince him to work with them.
Although to be fair, his position in this production would probably be symbolic. Still, money was needed to convince him.
"The least I could earn by being an executive producer is $5 million," Kazir added plainly. He was not trying to be arrogant, he was just speaking the truth.
Jezebel's smile widened, although her eyes narrowed behind her glasses. Of course, she knew about Kazir's usual salary as an executive producer. She did her research.
She was a negotiator, and the game had begun.
"That's fair," she said smoothly.
"We'll discuss it further with your agent. There's flexibility in the contract. Percentage shares from merchandising, DVD and digital sales, perhaps a small cut of the box office depending on the agreement."
Kazir nodded, signaling that he was open to it but not fully committed. He was a bit surprised that Sony-Colombia would offer him a profit share, but he wouldn't say no to that.
"I'll consider it and contact my agent," he finally said.
"My team will handle the setup and negotiation."
Jezebel extended a hand, which Kazir shook firmly.
"It's a pleasure, Kazir. We'll make this one a hit. I really believe in it."
Kazir offered a slight grin.
"So do I."
'Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum... We might have to look for them. But once they hear that I'm the one who wrote the script and will also participate in the production, the two will probably introduce themselves with enthusiasm.'
Both actors were already in Hollywood and had starred in movies. They could easily contact them.
As Jezebel walked away to mingle with another group of executives, Kazir glanced up at the starry night sky.
The open-air party was still in full swing. He watched guests laugh and glasses clink. There were hired photographers snapping shots from the perimeter.
21 Jump Street was officially on track. It was surreal. A script he had written based on an old TV show would have its time in theaters.
Thankfully, Kazir wouldn't have to participate much in this project, so he wouldn't feel exhausted. He was behind the scenes... probably not most of the time.
Anyway, he might make more than $5 million this time. With just a small participation, he would make that amount of money, truly incomprehensible to the eyes of ordinary people.
He sipped his drink and smiled. Hollywood kept moving, but Kazir Grey learned how to sail on his own without following the trend. He could make his own decisions, and people would respect him no matter what. He solidly created his foundation, and people wouldn't easily topple him, unlike before.
As the music shifted to a smoother jazz tune, Kazir took another sip of the alcohol, savoring the moment. He had built this life, brick by brick, script by script, film by film.