The sun shone brightly as cars and people moved briskly on the streets. James Wong, carrying a briefcase, glanced at the office building in front of him. Among the plaques, he spotted the name "Sahara Entertainment" and confirmed he was at the right place. He quickly walked in.
After finding the appropriate office, he knocked and entered. A freckled girl greeted him, and upon stating his purpose, she asked him to wait a moment before going to inform someone in another office.
Seated on a chair, James Wong observed the modest office with about seven or eight people. He wasn't surprised; he had seen many such small production companies since he and his friend Glen Morgan started their journey in the industry in the '80s.
His agent had briefed him about this company and project a few days ago. The $11 million investment was a significant claim.
However, this wasn't his only option. Dimension Films had approached him to direct a parody version of "Scream," titled "Scary Movie." He hadn't accepted yet because one of his conditions was flatly rejected by Dimension.
Thinking about the script he and Glen Morgan had developed, James felt a nagging sense of urgency. It was a good concept. In the entertainment industry, good ideas were plentiful, but opportunities to execute them were not.
Selling the script outright or as a concept was not on the table. Over the years, James Wong had realized the importance of pairing himself with his ideas to maintain creative control.
The freckled girl returned and said, "Mr. Davenport is ready to see you now."
James Wong nodded, following her to an office where his agent Edward was already present.
"James, this is Michael Davenport, the president of Sahara Entertainment."
"Michael, this is the director I mentioned, James Wong."
Seeing James Wong's Asian features, Michael asked, "Are you of Chinese descent?"
"I was born in Hong Kong," James replied.
Michael got straight to the point. "You've worked on 'The X-Files'?"
"I was with the show from the first to the fourth season," James explained. "I started as a story editor and worked my way up to directing several episodes."
Michael nodded, impressed. James Wong's resume was indeed the best he'd encountered so far, including significant involvement in a successful TV show.
"Why don't you take a look at the script first?" Michael suggested, handing it over.
James Wong took the script labeled "The Purge" and began reading. As he did, he noted its traditional American horror elements mixed with violence, murder, and gore, putting it in the slasher category. It wasn't the type of horror he preferred, which leaned more towards atmospheric and psychological terror.
Despite this, the script had an intriguing concept, touching on social issues that could resonate with audiences. The portrayal of Arab characters as heroes stood out, an unusual choice given Hollywood's typical representation.
James Wong finished the script and took the water Michael offered. "What do you think?" Michael asked.
"There's an issue with the portrayal of Arabs," James replied frankly.
Michael smiled. "The funding comes from Abu Dhabi."
James understood immediately. Wealthy investors had certain demands.
"The concept is solid," James said thoughtfully. "The story could resonate with many Americans due to its societal themes."
"Tell me more," Michael urged.
"I've spent years working in different countries," James began. "Returning to the U.S., I noticed our news is filled with violence. This story captures that constant shadow of violence in our lives."
Michael agreed. "Yes, American crime rates are high."
Edward, the agent, chimed in, "With so much real violence, why don't audiences get tired of violent movies?"
"To make an anti-violence movie, you need to show violence," James replied.
Michael was impressed by James's perspective. "If you were to direct this project, how would you approach it?"
"I would emphasize the violence to highlight its impact," James explained. "The future setting isn't dystopian. It shows a prosperous society still haunted by violence. This contrast will make people think."
Michael considered James's approach. He seemed like a good fit for "The Purge." Testing the waters, Michael asked, "Would you join this project?"
James looked at his agent, who smiled encouragingly. "We discussed the salary—$300,000, paid in two installments," Edward reminded him.
James nodded but seemed to have more to say. "Edward, can I speak with Michael alone?"
Edward left reluctantly, knowing James had other plans.
"What do you need to discuss privately?" Michael asked.
"I'm very interested in your project," James started. "But I have another script I'm passionate about. I wrote it with Glen Morgan. It's a horror film with a new concept. Would you consider investing in it?"
Michael raised an eyebrow. "You want me to invest in your project?"
"Yes," James admitted. "I want to direct it."
Michael flipped through the script. The idea was unique—a group of students surviving a disaster only to be hunted by death itself.
"James, if I don't invest, will you reject 'The Purge'?"
"Not necessarily," James said carefully. "But it wouldn't be my first choice."
Understanding the implication, Michael continued reading. The script had potential. James Wong was indeed the writer behind the famed horror franchise "Final Destination."
"I'm considering it," Michael said finally. "But I need to persuade my investors."
"What can I do to help?" James asked eagerly.
"We need to cut costs. Your script's purchase price needs to be low," Michael said.
"That's acceptable," James agreed. "But I must direct. My director's fee can match what we discussed for 'The Purge.'"
"Full rights buyout?" Michael asked.
James nodded.
Michael pretended to mull it over, knowing this was a golden opportunity. "Funding is tight. Your project would start after 'The Purge'."
"That's fine," James agreed.
"I need you to start on 'The Purge' immediately and prepare a detailed shooting plan," Michael said, recognizing his need for professional guidance.
James nodded. "Understood."
Michael's voice lowered conspiratorially. "Some aspects of this project might raise questions. Just focus on directing."
James assured him, "I understand."