After the reviews hit the media, people finally realized how terrible the film "Sharknado" was.
However, as Eric had predicted, the film, being so exceptionally bad, attracted attention precisely because of its extreme "awfulness." Public curiosity about this phenomenon grew, and many started heading to theaters to see it for themselves.
"Son, what movie do you want to see?"
"Of course, 'Sharknado'!"
"But it's a terrible movie; haven't you seen the reviews on TV?"
"Yeah, I know, but I'm just curious how bad it is!"
Among the puzzled journalists, viewers were once again heading into theaters showing "Sharknado."
Paparazzi began catching celebrities coming out of theaters, leading to some interesting scenes.
Peter Jackson: "Yes, the box office results for 'The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers' are as expected. Everyone is happy, and we believe it will continue to perform well." "Yes, the filming of 'The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King' is almost complete. After a short break, the team will return to work rejuvenated. We won't disappoint our audience." "'Sharknado'? Yes, I've seen it. It has its own unusual appeal. It's truly terrible, but I enjoyed it. I think young people feel the same way."
Nicole Kidman, coming out of the theater: "Yes, I watched 'Sharknado.' Why are you so surprised? Everyone is talking about this film right now, and I was curious too."
Johnny Depp: "What's so surprising? I've always enjoyed watching bad movies. You can't watch only good ones all the time. Sometimes you need to just relax."
Quentin Tarantino: "About 'Sharknado,' I'll just say one thing – it's cool!"
The negative reviews in the media had an opposite effect. Whether intentionally or not, the stars helped promote the film, and "Sharknado" continued to gain momentum.
In the third week, the film's earnings grew again, reaching $45.5 million. The top three at the box office remained "The Lord of the Rings," "Catch Me If You Can," and "Sharknado."
As for the new films, their box office earnings significantly dropped. Even "Chicago" managed to collect only a meager $9 million on its opening weekend.
Although "Chicago" wasn't a blockbuster, it featured stars like Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere. With such a powerful advertising campaign, its failure was unexpected.
Miramax was desperate, and the Weinstein brothers were furiously smashing everything around them.
However, "Chicago" still had a chance. With the announcement of the Oscar nominations in January, the film could receive a new lease on life at the box office.
In three weeks, "Sharknado" grossed $93.3 million, becoming a true phenomenon, especially considering its modest $2.5 million budget.
However, the film's potential was almost exhausted. It was expected to earn another $10 million or so before exiting theaters.
Although "Sharknado" had completed its successful run, the box office battle continued. Next up was "Saw."
Despite "Sharknado" becoming a real sensation, Eric didn't receive many congratulations, as few knew that A.K. Films belonged to him. At this time, he was in the editing room, working with James Wan and Leigh Whannell on their project.
"Patrick Wilson is truly a great theater actor, he's fantastic."
Leigh Whannell reminisced about the shooting moments: "Eric, you were right. Wilson acts naturally, and his interaction with Wan turned out to be surprisingly harmonious."
Wan also smiled: "It's really incredible, but with Wilson, I feel like we've known each other for a long time. He always understands what I want to say. Eric, thank you so much for recommending him."
"Maybe it's fate. He's your actor for life!" Eric said, shrugging.
"I hope so. But after the release of 'Saw,' I haven't decided what to do next and don't know when I'll work with him again."
"You could continue with 'Saw 2.' Leigh will write the script again. You make a great team, and I completely trust you."
Hearing this, Wan froze and, frowning, said, "Eric, actually, I don't plan to direct 'Saw 2.'"
"Why?"
Wan scratched his head: "How to say... Personally, I feel that I've already expressed everything I wanted. If I continue with the second part, the result might not be as good."
Seeing his hesitation, Eric said, "The enthusiasm is gone, the novelty has worn off, right?"
Wan slapped his knee: "Exactly! That's exactly what I wanted to say. I've already done what I wanted, and now it's time to move on. I love new ideas, new films, new scripts. That's what inspires me."
Eric remembered that in the previous timeline, Wan indeed rarely worked on three films of the same series in a row. He usually stepped back after two. Perhaps this was his personal trait.
"That's not a problem," Eric laughed. "Don't forget that MGM stands behind you. In their library, you'll always find something interesting."
"In the worst case, I have a few great ideas. After the premiere of 'Saw,' we can discuss them. If nothing fits, let Leigh write a new script. You're sure to find something interesting."
Leigh Whannell added: "Then give me some time. I don't write scripts in a day."
"Me neither!" Wan supported him.
"Me neither!" Eric confirmed.
The budget for "Saw" was $5 million, and that money was well spent. Eric noticed that the quality of filming, sets, and props had significantly improved, enhancing the atmosphere of horror and despair.
Part of these funds went to hire composer John Williams, significantly raising the film's level.
John Williams, one of Hollywood's three greatest composers, with numerous awards, including over 50 Oscar nominations, was a true master.
After spending some time in the editing room, Eric gave his comments and left, fully trusting Wan's abilities.
There were 13 days left before the release of "Saw," and MGM had already launched a promotional campaign.
This was nothing like "Sharknado." The quality of "Saw" was top-notch, and even among horror films, it could hold its own.
Besides internet advertising, reviews, and posts, television was actively used. The film's trailers began airing on several major TV channels and online.
"There are no mutants, ghosts, curses, or zombies here, but there is something else, truly terrifying."
"Traps, secret rooms, conspiracies, and murders – all of this will show you the struggle of human nature."
"Do you want to understand the meaning of life? Do you want to truly live? Then welcome!"
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