America Tycoon: The Wolf of Showbiz-Chapter 932 - 869 Stallones daughter
Chapter 932: Chapter 869: Stallone’s daughter
Chapter 932: Chapter 869: Stallone’s daughter
Beverly Hills, Century City.
Dressed in formal attire, Heath Ledger emerged from the Fox Tower. His years of decadent living, compounded by a long-term drug dependency, made him appear exceptionally gloomy, even in the bright sunshine.
His pitch at Fox yielded no results; Heath Ledger was directly rejected.
He had visited numerous production companies, big and small, except for Pacific Pictures, Davis Studio, and Disney Studios.
Within these three, one was founded by Martin Davis, one belonged to Martin’s mistress, and another was currently enjoying a collaboration honeymoon with Martin.
And his old mess with Martin was known to everyone in Hollywood.
Heath Ledger glanced at the nearby Death Star Building and headed straight to CAA.
CAA used to be Heath Ledger’s agency; he was well acquainted with many of its agents, and since CAA liked to package film projects, perhaps they could be convinced…
But contrary to his wishes, it didn’t take long for Heath Ledger to emerge from CAA’s offices with a dejected look.
CAA had a poor relationship with Martin Davis, but after seeing his screenplay, they outright rejected it.
A chess-themed project was simply too niche.
Descending the stairs, Heath Ledger deeply regretted splurging the US Dollar 20,000 on the screenplay while high, listening to someone’s nonsensical hype.
US Dollar 20,000—to think he could’ve spent it on washing powder and been happier.
As Heath Ledger exited the elevator, his cell phone began to ring, an unfamiliar number calling.
“This is Heath Ledger.”
“Hello, Mr. Ledger, this is Clyde, the CEO of Iris Films. I’ve been told by screenwriter Allan Scott that you hold the film and TV adaptation rights to ‘The Queen’s Gambit’?”
This 𝓬ontent is taken from freeweɓnovel.cѳm.
Indeed, the novel and screenplay rights had been purchased by Heath Ledger from Allan Scott. He responded, “That’s correct, they’re in my possession.”
The voice on the other end said, “Mr. Ledger, could we discuss this project?”
Heath Ledger’s heart soared, “Of course, when would you like to talk?”
“It’s up to you,” the person replied. “I’m available anytime.”
Heath Ledger couldn’t wait. Glancing at the coffee shop on the ground floor of the building, he said, “Come to the Death Star Building where CAA is located; I’ll wait for you in the coffee shop on the first floor.”
The other side agreed.
Heath Ledger entered the coffee shop and chose a quiet booth, where he patiently waited.
A business van pulled into the parking lot in front of the Death Star Building.
Ivan, dressed in a suit and gold-rimmed glasses, with a briefcase in hand, made his way toward the coffee shop.
Waiting for his assistant Luke to catch up, he cautioned, “You’re not well-versed in film, so try not to speak when we get there.”
“Alright,” Luke responded.
They walked a few more steps, and Ivan paused slightly, “Actually, it’s better if you don’t say anything at all.”
Luke shrugged, “Boss, from now on, I’m mute, is that okay?”
Ivan entered the café, made a phone call, and soon spotted Heath Ledger. They greeted each other and sat across from one another in the booth, starting to discuss the matter at hand.
Glancing at Ivan’s business card, Heath Ledger couldn’t help but ask curiously, “Iris Films, where Mr. Clyde works—I’m hearing about it for the first time.”
Ivan responded with cool composure, “Iris Films was just established earlier this year, but we are well-funded and have the support of international capital.”
He took a proactive stance, “Mr. Ledger, I’d approached screenwriter Allan Scott before to purchase the film and TV adaptation rights for ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ and he informed me that you have already acquired the rights.”
“That’s correct, the rights are indeed with me,” Heath Ledger replied.
An idea sparked in his mind. Maybe this new company lacked experience; if he could sell the rights with an added condition, perhaps he could become the director of the project?
This could be a turning point for his nearly ruined Hollywood career.
Ivan had investigated Heath Ledger’s details and asked directly, “Would Mr. Ledger be interested in transferring the rights to Iris Films?”
Heath Ledger had his own ideas, “How about we strike a deal a different way? We could collaborate. Over the years, I’ve been intensely studying how to be a director, and I’ve gained considerable insights. I could transfer the rights to you, and in return, you could hire me as the director of the project, leading us to a win-win situation.”
In his current situation, if he succeeded as a director, he could turn things around; even if he failed, the production company would bear the loss, not him, and he’d still earn a hefty director’s fee.
Of course, Ivan wouldn’t agree. “Iris Films is only interested in the film and TV adaptation rights.”
Heath Ledger’s face darkened visibly, but he restrained himself, remembering how his lack of restraint in the past had led to his present situation…
“Iris Films is willing to purchase the rights for US Dollar 25,000,” Ivan stated, as Allan Scott had sold the rights to Heath Ledger for US Dollar 20,000.
Heath Ledger still aspired to direct, so he kept silent.
Ivan, considering the research he had done and Bruce’s advice, added, “US Dollar 30,000.”
Heath Ledger refused, “Only if I can direct.”
“Then there’s nothing to discuss,” Ivan said, picking up his briefcase to leave.
Seeing this stance, Heath Ledger quickly spoke up, “It was just a suggestion.”
With no choice, as his stash at home was running low—he could skip meals, but he couldn’t miss his medicine.
“US Dollar 40,000,” Ivan presented his final offer and even pulled out a US Dollar 20 bill from his wallet, placing it on the table.
