"Zhou is right. Under Han's leadership, the Chinese film market is flourishing. If MGM enters and brings other studios along, we could grow the market several times over in five years," Zhang Ziyi added with a smile.
"Xiao Zhang is right. If MGM brings in other Hollywood studios, I'm confident the Chinese film market will surpass 100 billion in five years," Han Sanping declared with a confident wave of his hand.
But then, he shifted his tone:
"However, there is one condition, which I discussed with Susan. The branch must be a joint venture, and China Film Group must own at least 51%."
Realizing that Eric might not understand fully, Han continued:
"This isn't a personal demand or an attempt to make things difficult for MGM. It's the law: foreign companies cannot independently invest in the cultural sector here; a joint venture is required."
Eric was well aware of this law and had no objections. DreamWorks had also established a joint venture in Shanghai, where they owned 45%, and Eric was aiming for 49%.
A joint venture has its advantages, such as sharing profits and benefits for co-produced films, which aren't subject to the import quotas, effectively bypassing the 13% revenue cut from China.
"Chairman Han, Susan explained everything to me. I understand completely, and I agree. My only request is to speed up the process, which is why I flew here personally."
Han laughed:
"From my side, it's straightforward. As soon as MGM's funds come through, we'll sign the contract, and from tomorrow, I'll focus solely on your paperwork. Everything will be done in no more than a week."
"So fast?" Eric couldn't believe his ears.
"It's not that fast. Since Stephen Zhou contacted me, I've been preparing. After meeting with Susan, I officially reported it to the authorities, and they're very interested."
"We'll arrange a meeting with the leadership in the coming days. Once we get their approval, we can finish everything within a week."
"We even have a suitable facility. Last year, a new building was constructed in the science park, but it's currently vacant. We could use that."
Listening to Han describe everything so smoothly, Zhou Xiaopeng lit a cigarette.
"Lao Han, you have a cultural company, so paperwork is easy for you. But if MGM wants to build a studio, that will take at least a month. They'll need to go through many departments and approvals, especially given the current situation."
Eric frowned. He couldn't tell them that in a few months, restrictions would be lifted — no one could predict that now.
"Director Zhou, is there any way to speed up the process? We don't necessarily have to start construction immediately, but at least finish the paperwork so that when things normalize, MGM can begin without delay."
Han Sanping backed him up:
"Eric is right. We need to complete the initial stages at least. These are foreign investments, Lao Zhou; this is your chance to gain recognition."
"If MGM invests tens of millions of dollars, it will cover not only the current but also future tasks of attracting investments. You should be grateful."
Zhou Xiaopeng shot him a sideways glance:
"You talk as if all the benefits are mine. If your joint company succeeds, it'll be a huge win for you too. You might even get permanent approval. You'll be pleased as well."
Han Sanping waved his hands dismissively:
"Don't talk nonsense. The organization will decide on its own; you can't replace the committee."
Not wanting to delve into sensitive topics, Eric quickly interjected:
"Chairman Han, Director Zhou, MGM has come here with the intent of cooperation and achieving mutual success. It's beneficial for everyone, and since I can't stay in China for long, I'd like to settle all the issues in one go."
"Exactly, Mr. Cooper has come here with good intentions. Lao Zhou, you shouldn't disappoint him. I immediately sent Susan to you and didn't even mention it to the cultural bureau. You can't let me down."
Zhou Xiaopeng brushed Han Sanping's head aside:
"Fine, fine, I appreciate your care. Xiao Zhang, ask the waitstaff to bring the signature carp dish. It's Chairman Han's favorite."
Once again, Zhang Ziyi was used as a server, but she couldn't protest and obediently went to order the dish.
When she left, Zhou Xiaopeng turned to Eric:
"Mr. Cooper, let's discuss something behind closed doors. I have a proposal."
"I'm listening."
"It's a special time, and working is difficult. But there's one exception — the fight against SARS. That's where all the leadership's attention is focused right now."
"In America, this might not make sense, but here, it's called 'risk minimization.' Ignoring this can lead to major issues."
"If you break this minimum threshold, all other accomplishments become worthless, like a zero in front of many zeros."
Eric tried to look as if he was trying to understand, though he already grasped the point.
"So, to speed up the process, I have a suggestion. Of course, this is just a suggestion, with no other intentions. Maybe MGM could consider some charity work."
Hearing the word "charity," Eric immediately understood.
"Director Zhou, are you suggesting a donation to the fight against SARS?"
Zhou Xiaopeng nodded:
"Dealing with a smart person is always a pleasure. In these special times, such a move would instantly boost MGM's recognition across the country."
"The leadership will notice this, and it will simplify all matters. Plus, the title of a charitable company will benefit your future development."
"For example, when you build the studio, you'll need to interact with many departments. A reputation based on charity will open all doors for you."
Eric nodded. Zhou Xiaopeng's suggestion was indeed sensible and advantageous for the company's future.
After years of working in film production, he understood how important reputation was when dealing with various departments. Besides, Eric felt a connection to this land, and making a charitable donation for a good cause seemed both right and beneficial.
"Director Zhou's proposal is feasible. In America, charity is a common practice. So let's add it to the plan and aim for a meeting with the leadership next week."
Zhou Xiaopeng felt a surge of internal joy, knowing this would elevate his status.
"No problem. I just need to know how much MGM plans to donate so I can inform the leadership."
Eric raised his hand:
"5 million dollars!"
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