August 27.
Officially, the team had completed the filming of Titanic, a process that spanned over 100 days. He had caught a cold and cough during the production, as the constant drizzles disrupted his sense of belonging. But the journey was already planned, his bags packed. Every detail of the movie reliably contained the necessary scenes for the rest of the production. For now, he had to focus on so etings with DreamWorks Pictures, which was starting to produce its first films. Additionally, Regency Agents, with whom he had established a collaborative relationship, had approached him with two simple opportunities in film and rights acquisition. Regency wanted money, and Billy wanted to make movies to expand his library while securing roles, reproduction rights, and so profit, at least enough to be consideredinterestingt.
-If you decide to stay in Los Angeles, don’t hesitate to call . We can et up and talk a bit. – Monica said to Kate, who nodded. Kate was flying back to London that night, while they were taking a private plane with stops in Los Angeles and San Jose.
-I’d love to sit down for tea and chat more calmly. I want to know everything about Ro. You know so much, it surprises that Billy never talks about it. But, well, the timing never ca up. I hope we can take a trip together. – The two embraced, their usual way of showing affection since they had first t. Kate’s sweet deanor, contrasting with her slightly nerdy nature, was always sincere and a bit nervous, despite her efforts to hide it. She had a vibe reminiscent of Winona.
-Well, goodbye. – Kate finally said after a while, her gaze fixed on a particular point. It all felt like just another story written down. Ti passes, and one realizes that’s how it’s ant to be. Unlike others, age doesn’t make people immature. But Billy wasn’t immature—he was quiet, conservative, and a bit clumsy when it ca to emotional intelligence, like an old man unsure where to properly direct himself.
They parted ways with a brief trip to a nearby terminal with little traffic. The ride lasted less than an hour, but they arrived in the mid-afternoon. The heat was challenging, filled with a sharp, stinging sun that made you sweat the mont the humidity hit like a filter.
Billy took a long drive that kept him stuck in traffic for so ti before reaching his destination. Jim Gianopulos was there, working alongside his right-hand man. anwhile, he had been in contact with television production companies, which, despite being well-regarded, had a proper but competitive place in the industry. Of the 20 to 30 series released monthly, only a few managed to survive in the market. That was the gamble, and these companies often sought to solve these challenges through external funding. For instance, Billy was covering 40% of the production costs for Friends, a figure set to rise to 50% to share costs equally with CBS. The signed contract stated that, upon its conclusion, Billy would hold near-perpetual distribution rights for his channel and exclusive internet rights—a friendly deal to justify the hefty investnt over the current two seasons and a potential third.
-I’ll wait for you at the mall, love. – Monica said, kissing Billy as her slender steps stretched out a bit. They were in one of the most luxurious locations, with hand-painted storefronts and the finest decorations imaginable. It was just a matter of walking three or four blocks down to et at a nearby shop.
-See you tonight for dinner. –
She stepped out of the car, and Billy made his way to the entrance, eting Jim, who was talking with Arnon Milchan. As always, Arnon wore a light suit paired with a contrasting tie, a flat smile, and rectangular glasses that seed slightly too small due to their fit.
-Now that you’re here, we can discuss the projects we have in mind for the upcoming seasons. We’ve started so films, but new projects constantly arise that need funding. – Arnon said.
-With Arnon, I’ve seen many incredible projects. From my perspective, they’re excellent and will interest you. – Jim Gianopulos added, showcasing his expertise.
Three films were planned for the next season: City of Angels, The Devil’s Advocate, and The Negotiator. These were the ones requiring so investnt from Lux Animation. Billy took a thorough look at the production formats and a summarized script that outlined all possible ideas.
-Okay, let’s move forward. I think these three films are solid choices. Jim will adjust the budgets. – Billy remarked. He had so familiarity with these projects and saw potential in them as Sunday afternoon movies.
-What I’m interested in is the Fight Club project. I’d love to make that film. It’s fantastic, though I think presenting it at a foreign film festival would be a bad idea. Sundance seems like a better fit. – Billy replied.
-We set that project aside. – Jim responded. – With all the projects you had on your plate, I didn’t see ti for you to tackle anything else. But we can start reviewing the script. –
Billy hadn’t known the film was initially intended for an international film festival. Who knows whom he had spoken with—perhaps Chuck, the novel’s author? At the Venice Festival, it was entirely booed, a mont that made history. But over ti, the film gained a strong reception and beca a cult classic. It’s that cult status that draws so actors, who see sothing and say, "I must be part of this soday." Entertainnt seeks to perpetuate people in their work.
-I’m afraid it’s better to postpone it until next year. Regency is a bit swamped with various programs right now. – Arnon comnted. He, with his recent project to establish Lionsgate Entertainnt, saw a potential partnership with Billy for the project. The initial investnt would be steep, but he felt it would be a worthwhile gamble.
-No problem. Next year is fine. – Billy replied. – We’ve got all the ti in the world. –
Billy hoped his role would co to light sooner rather than later, as Titanic was slated for a late-November release.
-One more thing: would you be willing to work with Fox to help them establish their animation studio? They recently bought one and would greatly appreciate your help in refining the details. – Arnon proposed.
Billy barely had ti to be surprised by the sly fox sitting across from him. Arnon was skilled in business matters and had a good sense of what Fox could achieve in creating major films. After all, he was eager for the United States to enter a new era of animation.
-I’ll do it. I don’t mind the competition. It seems reasonable to create more job opportunities for animators and those pursuing the animated arts. A new studio could foster the culture we’ve always aid for. – Billy replied, straightening his posture in his chair and directing a penetrating gaze at Arnon, seated just three feet away.
Opportunities co, but they also demand. Billy knew well that many of his ventures were driven by investnts or connections with a distributor capable of competing internationally.
-Great to hear. –
-And what will I gain from helping them? Or is this a personal favor you’re asking? – Billy inquired.
-It’s a personal favor. –
-Very well, I’ll do it. Let’s leave it at that... Between partners, certain moves are necessary. I hope what you’re asking for is worth it. – Billy concluded. Jim Gianopulos didn’t fully understand but planned to ask later.
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