In the VIP lounge, seven or eight wealthy individuals gathered to discuss films and investments.
"Seashore Entertainment and Mr. Davenport are very trustworthy," Hassan told his friends. "In less than a year, not only did they return the principal, but they also paid the promised profits. Among the American businessmen I've dealt with, Mr. Davenport stands out as exceptionally honest."
Hussein, feeling proud, added, "We gained more than just profits; our names and faces will appear in the film."
"What's the big deal about a profit of over twenty thousand dollars?" remarked a dark-skinned man. "We may not be the wealthiest in Abu Dhabi, but we're not lacking that much money."
Hassan shook his head. "It's not just about the money; it's a ticket to further opportunities. Seashore Entertainment and Michael Davenport have new film projects. We plan to increase our investment, and future returns will be even greater."
The dark-skinned man asked, "Can you guarantee a profit?"
"You sound like an amateur businessman!" Hussein retorted. "Can you guarantee a profit in your forex business?"
The man fell silent, realizing that risk and opportunity go hand in hand, a basic business principle.
A young man in his twenties said, "Hassan, make sure to include me in this investment."
Next to Hassan, someone said, "You promised to introduce me to Michael Davenport. Where is he?"
"Are you also planning to invest, Aziz?" someone asked.
Aziz smiled, "I missed the first opportunity and didn't want to miss the second. The money we work so hard to earn loses value if it just sits around. Investing in Michael Davenport seems like a good choice."
"My brothers, don't you know?" an unfamiliar voice interjected. A stranger joined the group. "Americans are not trustworthy! Hollywood is full of scammers!"
Everyone, including Hassan, turned to the stranger.
Fontaine continued, "From what I know, Michael Davenport is not famous in Hollywood. Your investment is hazardous!"
Having overheard the conversation about investing in Michael Davenport's films, Fontaine felt compelled to intervene. It baffled him that so many were eager to invest in this Hollywood newcomer while he struggled to secure funding.
As a French director, Fontaine had a natural disdain for Hollywood, believing it overshadowed the potential of directors like him. He felt he couldn't compete in North America, Europe, and even the Arab world.
Relying on his Arab heritage, Fontaine declared, "Hollywood people are deceitful. Their tricks are countless. You should be wary of Michael Davenport!"
"Who are you?" Hussein interrupted. "What proof do you have that Mr. Davenport is untrustworthy? Show us the evidence!"
Hassan's face darkened. "Sir, we've already received the profits from our investment. Mr. Davenport honoured the contract. How can you call such a person untrustworthy? Who are you? Why should we trust a stranger like you?"
He asked his companions, "Does anyone know this man?"
They all shook their heads.
As Fontaine prepared to argue, Hassan saw Michael and said, "Gentlemen, Mr. Davenport is over there. Let's go."
The group moved en masse, leaving Fontaine standing there, perplexed. The competition was more challenging than he had anticipated.
Meanwhile, Hassan introduced Michael to several people. After initial greetings, those uninterested in investing left, leaving behind those who seemed aligned with Hassan.
"Mr. Davenport," Hassan said quietly, "I have a proposal."
"Please, go ahead," Michael replied.
Hassan pointed to the remaining few people. "My friends and I are interested in investing in your new film project."
"That's great," Michael said, smiling. "We've had a successful partnership before, and I look forward to continuing it."
Hassan suggested they discuss further after the premiere and agreed to meet at the Chieftain Hotel afterward.
Elsewhere, Mohammed was brought into a lounge by a large man. Sheikh Mansour greeted the Arab actor with a few pleasantries before asking, "What kind of person do you think Michael Davenport is?"
Mohammed was taken aback by the question but answered, "Mr. Davenport is a good man. He's kind to everyone on set, including me, which is rare in Hollywood."
Mansour nodded. "Did the crew face many difficulties, such as distribution?"
Mohammed thought for a moment. "Yes, many distribution companies refused to work with us. I heard someone from DreamWorks demand that Mr. Davenport change the film's storyline, which he firmly refused."
Mansour asked, "DreamWorks is a Jewish-founded company, correct?"
"Yes," Mohammed said with a resigned smile. "So their actions weren't surprising."
Mansour concluded that Michael Davenport indeed had strained relations with Jewish entities in Hollywood. After further conversation confirming Michael's reliability, Mansour decided he was worth investing in.
In another lounge, Salih mentioned to Michael that Sheikh Mansour had met Mohammed, suggesting he could be the lead in the new project. Michael wasn't worried, confident in the groundwork he had laid.
The "The Purge" premiere went smoothly. It was tailored to suit the Arab audience, with less gore and more screen time for Mohammed and his wife. The screening ended with enthusiastic applause.
Michael returned to the Chieftain Hotel, ready to discuss the investment further with Hassan and his friends while reviewing Mansour's script.