In the meeting room, Michael chatted enthusiastically with Hassan and Hussein.
"This has been a pleasant collaboration. Thank you both for trusting and supporting Seashore Entertainment," he said, handing each of them an invitation. "The film's premiere in Abu Dhabi is also a celebration of the movie you invested in. Your names and portraits are in the credits. It would be an honour to have you attend."
Hussein eagerly accepted the invitation, asking if he could bring his family. Michael nodded, "Of course."
Seeing his children's and family's names and faces in a Hollywood movie gave Hussein immense pride. He was thrilled to have both financial gain and social prestige.
On the other hand, Hassan thought about the $300,000 he had invested and the $500,000 he had quickly recouped within a year. The high return rate stirred strong thoughts within him.
"Mr. Davenport," Hassan began, "I've heard that Hollywood companies produce many films each year. Is 'The Purge' the only film Seashore Entertainment will release this year?"
Michael replied calmly, "Of course not. Seashore Entertainment aims to become a major Hollywood player. We have plans to invest in two large film projects..."
Before he could finish, Hassan interrupted, "Will your company continue to seek external funding for these new projects?"
"Yes," Hussein added eagerly, "will there be more investment opportunities?"
The proven success of Seashore Entertainment's credibility and Michael Davenport's capability reassured both men.
Michael nodded slowly, "One project will collaborate with the Investment Bureau. For the other, I plan to hold a funding event after 'The Purge' premiere. If you're interested, you can attend."
After a moment of thought, Hassan said, "I will definitely attend."
Hussein echoed, "So will I."
"You're both very welcome," Michael said with a smile.
Hassan then asked, "Mr. Davenport, if I may ask, what is the investment amount for this new project?"
"The budget is around $15 million," Michael replied, "and we may need additional funding later."
Hassan pondered, realizing that $15 million was a substantial amount. While he and Hussein could gather that amount, they needed to consider the risk.
They chatted for a while longer before Robert brought in Abu Dhabi media for interviews with Hassan and Hussein. Both men were happy to be interviewed.
"This was a very successful investment," Hassan stated calmly. "Seashore Entertainment is highly reputable, producing a quality film with proven profits."
Hussein was full of praise, "This has been the highest return on investment in my business career. Initially, I was hesitant, but Michael Davenport proved this deal worthwhile. I regret not investing more. Thankfully, we have more opportunities to collaborate."
After the interviews, they confirmed the time and place for the funding event before leaving the meeting room.
At the hotel lobby, Hassan and Hussein found a quiet spot to discuss.
"This is a great opportunity!" Hussein said excitedly. "I missed out last time and can't afford to miss this one."
Hassan thought for a moment before replying, "Michael Davenport is trustworthy, but $15 million is a lot. We need to consider the risk."
Hussein nodded in agreement, "Money is tight, but we can find a way."
Just then, Hassan received a call from a friend asking about Hollywood's investment and profitability. Hassan confirmed the success and assured his friend that the profits were already in his account. His friend then asked if Hassan could introduce him to Michael Davenport, to which Hassan agreed.
In a different part of Abu Dhabi, Mansour disembarked from his private plane with a guest from Paris, a man with partly Arab features named Fontaine.
"Mr. Minister," Fontaine asked, "have you reviewed my script?"
Mansour replied, "Yes, Mr. Fontaine. The script is excellent, and your two previous films are quite impressive."
Fontaine was pleased with the response and passionately spoke about his desire to produce a film reflecting Arab culture and society, emphasizing its artistic value. He mentioned that with just $8 million, he could create a movie worthy of international film festivals, promising global recognition for Abu Dhabi.
However, Mansour noted that some scenes depicting poverty might not be suitable for Abu Dhabi. Fontaine argued that artistic works must include critical and philosophical elements to ensure their quality and impact.
As they conversed, Fontaine realized that his project might be in competition with a new Hollywood project that was also seeking Mansour's support. He feared Mansour might have to choose between them, potentially favouring the Hollywood project over his artistic vision.