Rumble in the Bronx was quite funny, similar to American films. Even though the story took place in America, it seemed like it had nothing to do with Americans.
William's film wouldn't have been made like that. Americans could be villains, but they couldn't be caricatured. If you arrange it like the original plot, don't expect more than 50 million at the box office; there might as well light a candle and pray.
Kidnapping and extortion for a convenience store didn't make sense. What was that screenwriter thinking?
Going to someone else's store to cause trouble would just get you killed easily, and the murder would go unpunished.
Changing the plot to accidentally stumbling upon a gang transaction would be better. Only at that level would they risk it all. If it's like in the movie, the boss would have died eight times already. Even if you describe it as a crime of opportunity, it'd be less toxic. It's a pity for Jackie Chan's great skills.
Jackie Chan later became famous and wouldn't put himself on the line like this anymore. Time doesn't spare anyone, even if he wanted to try, his health wouldn't allow it.
The situation was different now. Without that ridiculous Cannonball Run, Jackie Chan was doing well in Hollywood and is no longer afraid. It's a good thing, and he can earn more bucks for his buddies.
...
"How's it going, Jackie? Rested enough?"
"Don't worry, William, I'm good."
"Don't take it lightly. No insurance company is willing to take the policy anymore. This one I found with great effort, so take it easy."
Jackie Chan awkwardly accepted. He couldn't say much since it was William who helped him get insurance; if anything happened, it would be incredibly useful.
Rumble in the Bronx was a small production, so it didn't have any big-name stars. This was Jackie Chan's first leading role in Hollywood, and William White was a bit excited to see this guy, so he wanted to keep him in line.
No matter how cool this guy acted back in Hong Kong, he understood he had no real foundation there. The most important point is that William White's film sets had many rules, and there was no room for prima donnas.
If you're not obedient, you immediately get your final pay. This was the tradition at White Films, and the guild often gave him trouble over it.
But well, it's their fault for not behaving.
...
Since they had collaborated once before, the Hong Kong crew was used to it. Even the newcomers were briefed by the big boss, so there wouldn't be any unexpected issues.
"Cut, hey you with the short hair, come over here."
"Director, what do you need?"
"Your expression was wrong earlier. You looked more embarrassed than scared. If there were such chaos outside, you'd be trembling, not blushing like someone caught you. Got it?"
"I understand."
"Take a break, and let's do it again later. During this time, imagine it's like an earthquake, the house suddenly collapsed. Understand?"
"I understand, Director."
"Good, off you go."
"Places, everyone!"
History's inertia is quite strong. It was this girl again. Though she was a newcomer at this time, her face was all flushed now.
[T/N: Anita Mui.]
It's really hard to understand, hadn't anyone looked into it before? They weren't even making action films, what were they thinking?
Overall, making cop movies was indeed simpler. You didn't need to come up with too many tacky plots. William White didn't really date seriously. He was either in bed or on his way to bed. He really didn't get the nuances of romance.
He believed in love growing over time. Really, when enough time passes, feelings naturally develop.
What?
A playboy?
Well, not exactly. Overall, he was pretty restrained.
...
People said William White had a flop with Evita, as the box office was underwhelming.
But the Hollywood big shots didn't think so. No matter how bad, 50 million dollars was a breeze. Do the naysayers even know what kind of art-house films can make 50 million? Those are classics.
"Hey, Lucas, you didn't get involved in this film?"
"Small production, no opportunity. It's strange; after making a big production, why go back to small stuff?"
"It's not that small, over ten million dollars. But it has a Hong Kong film company involved, so it doesn't matter much. Besides, without special effects, I don't have an advantage."
"Heh heh, who's the babe this time? Lucas, who do you think he likes more?"
"Ha ha, what kind of question is that? He's a jerk who probably likes them all. It's that eye-candy again. I think the singer is truly good though. Great acting and a great body."
Two guys pontificated about William White's life. It was puzzling; how are they any good, to criticize him?
...
Sharon Stone falling for Jackie Chan, it indeed felt off, so he couldn't use her. But there wasn't a suitable mixed-race beauty around.
Hmm, or maybe film Basic Instinct first? An R-rated film would be new territory. Forget about Silence of the Lambs, it could be too much trouble.
There're a lot of crazies in America, so when making such films, avoid the real deal. If you film a Conan-like scene, you could be in hot water.
Never mind the movie scenes; Americans replicate even the details from newspapers. If the victim's family sued, it would be a headache.
Basic Instinct is good. That ice pick is quite breathtaking. Frankly, William White rarely stayed overnight anywhere, showing a dark side of his psyche.
His companies were beginning to operate smoothly, with not much requiring his direct attention. Staying at the office all day was boring; going out to make films was better.
However, he wouldn't make small-budget films much longer. Now with Cameron around, he could take it easier.
Hmm, who else? Maybe recruit another director.
Michael Bay?
That guy seems a bit young, but it's worth keeping an eye on.
*****
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