[Chapter 650: A Different Christmas]
IMAX movies are all the rage, and that's an undeniable fact. If two recent films haven't made the case, the re-releases of Star Wars and Terminator certainly do.
It doesn't matter who has grudges -- just be sure to never hold a grudge against money. For the average American, the chase for cash is not that intense.
Of course, there are two notable exceptions -- Hollywood and Wall Street, where the pursuit of wealth borders on a pathological obsession.
The big shots in Hollywood couldn't care less for William White; his very presence makes them look like fools. Come on, everyone was just mucking about, getting by. Then, suddenly, someone shows up who knows what they're doing -- it's infuriating. What's even worse is that this annoying guy is someone they can no longer mess with.
But this IMAX thing doesn't seem so bad. If that's the case, let's see what the fuss is all about.
At this moment, William White's foresight becomes apparent. He has entirely given up on the IMAX theater chain. While he can't control the distribution, the technology and film formats are something they could never take away.
Ha, it's that expensive!
What? You think it's overpriced?
Sorry, we have too many orders; think it over. You can't just grab this immediately -- it's a waiting list.
William White's companies are very focused on product marketing. To him, there are no products that can't sell; there are only salespeople who can't sell.
Now, are there exceptions? Actually, there is one: IMAX has no marketing department; only technical support and installation teams. The company's structure is mind-bogglingly simple.
William White is certain that for a long time to come, there will be no competition for this technology. Instead of wasting energy trying to sell, it's better to find ways to lower costs.
...
"Sir, they've refused. William White has made it clear: IMAX is not for sale; it's a shared treasure of humanity. Ahem, um, sir, this guy is exceptionally shameless."
The head of Sony is clearly disgusted by the billionaire. Come on, can you show a little respect here? can't you come up with something better than that flimsy excuse?
"Tanaka, this means he doesn't want to sell. As for anything else, you can take it as a joke."
"Yes, sir; he doesn't even seem interested in hearing a quote. It looks like he has great confidence in this project."
"It's not entirely that way; the lithium battery project has a lot more potential. The main issue, though, is probably our Columbia office."
...
William White's family is presently watching The Lion King. He doesn't care about whether there's a shortage of equipment outside; he can't skimp on himself.
Every Christmas season, Lanai Island sees hardly any visitors. This year is no different; the Japanese, who didn't lack money, are finally feeling what it's like to be financially constrained. If nothing's going on, might as well stay at home.
Moreover, they don't really feel the Christmas spirit. Christmas isn't significant; New Year's is the holiday they care about. This time of year usually sees companies holding their year-end parties.
Fujita clearly remembers how difficult it was to book those upscale venues in Ginza this time last year. Now what's going on? Why is it so quiet?
"Sir, is it okay if we hand out so many bonuses?"
Seeing this shifty subordinate, Fujita can't hold back his anger. Come on, is this even in your jurisdiction?
"Yuto-kun, this is a decision from the boss. Don't speak out of turn. What's the matter? Don't you want it? If not, we can divide it up a little more."
Yuto's face paled; he was just joking. If the money disappears, how can he pay back his loans?
"I'm sorry! I was reckless; I apologize for the trouble."
"Go check to see what's still not prepared."
"Yes, understood."
While the Japanese have stopped going to Ginza for fun, their theaters are packed to the brim. Watching a movie in Japan isn't considered a luxury; it costs about the same as a bowl of beef rice.
Alright, IMAX movie tickets aren't that cheap, but they're roughly equivalent to a buffet meal.
The economic downturn is hitting various industries hard. To attract more customers, they've not only lowered prices but also extended their service times.
Fujita is relieved now; the boss was right. Industries like comics and movies are minimally affected by the economic crisis. The Viking comic magazine hasn't felt much impact at all.
Of course, next year's ad space will see a significant drop -- that much is certain. It looks like more effort is still needed.
...
"Max, Merry Christmas, old buddy! Can you really not make it back this time?"
"Sir, Merry Christmas! Things are really bad here; everywhere you look, there's conflict. Especially those diamond mines -- if you don't check in for a week, they might switch people on you."
"This is outrageous. Is Sierra Leone at least doing better?"
"No, I really don't understand what kind of monsters the British has raised. They armed those kids."
Ugh, William White feels a headache coming on, this is the reason why he does not participate in arms trade. You always say how bad the black men are, but the question is, who's supplying those weapons?
"Max, cut off ties with these guys; this isn't even a war. If this continues, how many people will be left in their country?"
"Understood, sir. For now, we're just acquiring; there's no clear interest conflict with the various factions here."
"Hmm, not necessarily. There still are conflicts; the biggest distribution center is in Antwerp, and they can't go public."
*****
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