Oprah asked William, "Have you ever considered investing in the film yourself?"
William shook his head helplessly. "Of course, I've thought about it, but after learning about the operations of some major Hollywood companies, I gave up on the idea. Unless I can buy a Hollywood distribution company, jumping in would definitely get me swindled by those big Hollywood companies. There are too many tricks involved. Profitable movies can be manipulated to appear unprofitable, even resulting in losses. I don't have the energy to deal with these Hollywood companies."
Russell, who had been silent, suddenly spoke up, "William, maybe you can collaborate with Ridley and me. We're Hollywood natives and know all the ins and outs of the industry. I really like this script. We can work together."
Russell's words surprised everyone. They were curious; was the script really that attractive? Even Ridley and Russell wanted to join in.
Russell's words were exactly what William had hoped for. He knew Russell had been wanting to switch to directing. Now, with a wealthy outsider like William, who else would he try to convince?
William pretended to be hesitant for a moment, then nodded. "We can find a time to talk about it. Let's discuss the details later."
Ridley nodded as well. Having been in Hollywood for decades, he knew pirate-themed films weren't highly regarded before, but William's script, which was described as if he were recounting a real movie process, piqued his interest.
Everyone likes money, especially when they thought William, this wealthy man, would invest. They felt more confident, believing that with proper execution, the project's success was likely.
But William had no intention of making the film himself. He lacked the energy and interest. He wanted to use the movie to stir up discussion and boost his reputation in the USA. The involvement of a renowned director and an Oscar-winning actor in this pirate movie would surely be widely talked about.
With the script and the piece "He is a Pirate," William's fame in the USA would rise. His every move would become media fodder.
He was thinking about using his MP3 as bait. Whether he would catch the attention of the company he wanted was uncertain, but there was no harm in trying.
The interview returned to its main topic, discussing the movie "Gladiator." It had been over a month since its release, and it had grossed over $150 million in the USA. With some more effort, it might surpass $160 million.
That's why Russell and Ridley were on Oprah's show today, to promote the movie. After listening to them, William suddenly had a good idea. "I have an idea. Let's bet on 'Gladiator's' award nominations."
Oprah nodded happily. "That's a great idea. But William, I have to ask, have you seen the movie?"
"God, how could I not have seen it? I watched it once in England and again last night with Ambrosio," he said, pointing to Ambrosio. Seeing the camera turn to her, Ambrosio nodded and smiled happily.
Oprah laughed and teased, "Alright, William, you're quite the boyfriend, always finding opportunities to help your girlfriend. How about I invite both of you to the show next time?"
Ambrosio's face turned red with excitement. She had received too many surprises today. William was not so averse to appearing on shows, especially with Oprah's personal invitation. He couldn't refuse publicly.
William said with a smile, "No problem. Maybe when my MP3 is released or when Ambrosio walks the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, we can come back. I'm just worried your show schedule will be full until next year."
"You're welcome anytime. Alright, let's get back to your proposal. Since you suggested it, you start, William."
William looked at Russell and Ridley, who were curious about his prediction.
Seeing they didn't mind him stealing the spotlight, William said, "I predict 'Gladiator' will receive 12 Oscar nominations. The awards will be Best Actor, Best Director or Best Picture, Costume Design, and Visual Effects. If Ridley doesn't win Best Director, the film will win Best Picture."
"12 nominations? Are you serious, William? Do you know what 12 nominations mean? And how can you be so sure Ridley will win Best Director or Best Picture?" Oprah asked, apologizing to Ridley multiple times. Ridley didn't mind; he wanted to hear why William believed in him.
William smiled and said, "It's just a gut feeling from watching 'Gladiator' twice. As for Best Director and Best Picture, if neither wins, I'll donate $5 million to the American Women's and Children's Foundation."
The audience was stunned. This guy really dared to make bold statements. If the film didn't win, William would really have to donate $5 million.
In a public setting like this, if he didn't follow through, his reputation would be ruined, and the world would mock him.
Ridley asked in surprise, "Are you serious, William? You know you have to keep your word. Now I hope neither wins, so that $5 million can help so many people in need through the Women's and Children's Foundation."
William smiled and said, "What if I'm right?"
"God, that's a tough one. I don't have as much money as you. How about I donate $500,000?" Ridley said, looking at Russell and then subtly winking at William.
Russell quickly understood Ridley's idea, winked at William, and said, "If I win, I'll donate $500,000 too."
William quickly realized they were acting, pretending to be hesitant about donating. He had inadvertently pressured them into it.
Fortunately, Ridley and Russell, seasoned Hollywood veterans, understood that William's bet was to create buzz and boost the movie's box office. If it succeeded, $500,000 would be a small price to pay.
Realizing this, William feigned anxiousness and said, "NO, that's no fun. How about if you two win, I'll still donate the money, but you each have to be my chauffeur for a day? That would be interesting. You'd be the most expensive chauffeurs in the world, earning $2.5 million a day. I've never had a Hollywood director and a Best Actor drive for me. That would be quite an experience and might even become a part of Hollywood history, with me as the protagonist and you two as the supporting cast. Haha."
Ridley gave William a grateful look and laughed, "How about it, Russell? I knew William was a kind-hearted young man. He definitely got tricked by me. William, how did Russell and I perform? If we win Best Director and Best Actor, we'll definitely honor our $500,000 donation."
Russell laughed and shook his head, "That's right. William is indeed a great guy. This is the perfect ending. Haha."
William chuckled inwardly. His act was to appear young and inexperienced. He didn't want to come across as too shrewd or talented, as it didn't match his age. People expected a genius scientist to have low emotional intelligence. If he knew everything, it would make him seem like an anomaly.
So, William pretended to be annoyed and said, "Is this really okay? Fooling an innocent young man like me," making the audience burst into laughter.
Those who had dealt with William before watched the show and cursed, "Damn purity. His heart is so dark it could write words."
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