Sean had just briefly described the plan when Wells immediately agreed—without a moment's hesitation.
The only stipulation was that during the final attack on the gangsters, the X security guard should not appear on camera. Instead, the focus should be on the police, showcasing their heroic efforts under Wells' leadership.
Wells was indifferent to whether the film would be profitable or not; his primary concern was the publicity it would generate. Even if the film flopped elsewhere, it was bound to sell out in Newark, where the events took place. That alone was enough for him.
As for shutting down streets for filming, Wells dismissed any concerns about police officers potentially benefiting from their work hours. "If you don't pay, it's not bribery! It's about promoting the image of the police and sending a warning to criminals. It's all above board!"
Not only did Wells refuse any payment, but he also feared that the filming might not capture the right effect. He was willing to facilitate everything through the government, cloaked in a guise of public service.
After leaving the police station, Sean got into the car and gave Norris an approving nod. Wells had agreed to let the police participate for free, and they would handle road closures and other logistical matters.
Norris was taken aback, both surprised and impressed. This arrangement not only saved money but also served as effective publicity.
"Let's head to the base," Sean suggested. "You might not know this, but most members of my security company are also auxiliary police."
"I'm not sure what kind of stuntmen you're talking about, but I can guarantee no one is more professional than them," Sean continued confidently. "We won't need imitation firearms; we'll use real guns loaded with blanks. I can handle that myself!"
Upon reaching the base, Sean instructed everyone to don their auxiliary police uniforms for a drill. It was Norris's first time witnessing elite soldiers train and engage in combat. He mimed the action of a camera with his hands, repeatedly exclaiming his amazement.
The formidable presence of these soldiers and the authenticity of their training far surpassed anything Hollywood extras could deliver. Their intensity stemmed from genuine experience, not mere performance.
Historically, Hollywood had struggled to capture such scenes in one continuous shot, often resorting to cuts due to inevitable mistakes. But with this group of soldiers, that wouldn't be an issue; they could be filmed quietly without the need for a director's guidance.
With real banks, vaults, and even the police chief involved, the film's gunfight scenes would be authentic.
"Now, let's discuss how much we can trim the budget," Sean said as he and Norris sat back down in the office.
"It's clear we can significantly reduce costs," Norris replied. "By avoiding big-name actors, we can manage everything from production to publicity. Although we might not make a fortune, the chances of losing money are slim." After some thought, he estimated the budget at around $20 million, noting that profits could be recouped after considering theater and distributor shares, and potentially more from the video tape market.
Sean, aware that he wasn't dealing with a typical investor, advised Norris to be cautious. If things went south, who knew how he would react?
"Do it well. I believe in you. And don't worry—if you mess up, I won't toss you into the sea," Sean reassured him.
Norris stiffened, humorously pleading, "Please, no more comforting! I'm terrified enough as it is!"
"Let's get to work! I'll hire an action director and stunt team from Hong Kong—just make sure we save where we can," Sean instructed.
Norris shrugged at the thought. As a Hollywood filmmaker, he wasn't particularly fond of crews from Hong Kong, but he wasn't about to argue with his boss. "How do you want to choose the director?"
"We'll also need to select actors and actresses," Sean acknowledged, frowning as he considered the unfamiliar task.
Norris leaned in, "Even if it's just a leading man, we need a female lead to complement him. So, boss, you'll need to pick an actress."
Sean shot him a puzzled look, sensing the implication in Norris' suggestion. "What are you getting at? I expect you to act like a serious filmmaker—no tricks!" he reprimanded sternly.
Norris, caught off guard, regretted his earlier comments. "Let's focus on the project. This is our first film, and it needs to be flawless. If I catch anyone pulling stunts behind closed doors, they'll be in serious trouble!" Sean continued, his serious demeanor in place.
"Yes, yes! I'm on it! No trouble from me!" Norris nodded vigorously.
"As for the actors, I'll take a look at the end and help with the review. You can handle the preliminary screenings. Alright, you're dismissed,"
Sean concluded, waving Norris out of the office.
As Norris stepped outside, he wiped his brow and paused, deep in thought. The responsibility of handling the actors and preliminary screenings weighed heavily on him. Suddenly, realization struck him—this was the sort of direction only a true boss would assert. He chuckled to himself, bemused by how shamelessly Sean had taken charge.
Meanwhile, Sean had a lot on his plate after Norris left. "How's the progress on that private lottery investigation I asked you about?" he inquired as Jonas entered, gesturing for him to sit.
"Private lotteries are gaining popularity worldwide, with methods mirroring local lotteries. For instance, a regular lottery has seven numbers, while private ones often have six, giving players better odds. Naturally, those who enjoy gambling prefer the private versions," Jonas explained.
"The only hurdle is that the 'host' must have local credibility to assure players that they will collect their winnings," he added, glancing at Sean. "But with the Mafia backing us, that shouldn't be an issue."
Jonas continued, "Setting up a private lottery requires multiple sales points, which can be coordinated through the bars owned by our local gangs. Honestly, if he doesn't get involved, he's missing out on a golden opportunity."
Sean nodded. "So, are these lotteries extensive, or just small-scale operations?"
"They're mostly small and scattered, run by various gangs in private," Jonas replied.
"Do they pay taxes?" Sean asked, raising an eyebrow.
Jonas looked puzzled. "Private lotteries? What taxes do they pay?"
Sean's frustration arose. "Not paying taxes is illegal! It's a drain on the system!" He slammed his hand on the table.
Jonas blinked in confusion. "Is that a problem?"
"Of course! We have to collect all the information and send it to Director Wells," Sean insisted.
"Is that really necessary? We could handle it ourselves if needed," Jonas suggested, unsure.
"Abiding by the law is essential! We're decent citizens, not criminals!" Sean replied with exasperation. "We're taxpayers—why should we take matters into our own hands when we have the police to help us?"
He couldn't help but smile as he elaborated. "Plus, if we give this to Wells, he'll owe me a favor. And we can use our auxiliary police to enforce the law and warn those gangs."
"I don't care what money they're making, but I want a piece of that pie!" Sean declared confidently.
Jonas looked bewildered. "You may not be one, but you sure act like a dog in a fight over this."
"All for a private lottery? Come on, it's a goldmine waiting to be tapped!" Sean retorted, his enthusiasm palpable.
With plans in motion and a clearer path ahead, Sean felt energized about the project. He had no intention of letting opportunities slip through his fingers, and he was ready to push forward with determination.