Chapter 495: Playing the Matthew Card Effectively

As soon as Matthew stepped out of the car, he was surrounded by a swarm of entertainment reporters. Despite having three bodyguards and Marvel Studios' security personnel paving the way, he found himself trapped in the small square in front of Marvel Studios' office building, unable to move an inch.

"Mr. Horner, Marvel Studios is newly established and hasn't independently produced any movies. Why are you investing $40 million in them?"

Standing still, Matthew was bombarded with questions, like waves crashing relentlessly.

"Iron Man is just a second-tier superhero in Marvel Comics. Why are you choosing to invest in Tony Stark?"

"Everyone is puzzled by your investment. Can you give us a reasonable explanation?"

"Matthew, do you even understand investment?"

Matthew didn't respond immediately; the scene was too chaotic. 

Of course, he didn't plan to just walk away. Marvel had briefed him yesterday, anticipating today's situation, and had prepared him to answer some questions.

As long as they didn't ask about the red briefs, he was more than willing to respond patiently.

Having reached an agreement with Marvel and invested a whopping $40 million in "Iron Man," Matthew was keen on promoting the project because his profits were directly tied to its success.

He tapped Brown Williams, his bodyguard, on the arm. Williams, always on alert, immediately bellowed, "Quiet down! Quiet down! Matthew has something to say. You're too chaotic!"

Hearing that Matthew was ready to speak, the reporters quieted down somewhat, a sense of order slowly settling over the crowd.

Matthew saw the battlefield turn into a bustling marketplace and spoke up, "I heard some questions just now. Everyone is curious why I'm investing in the 'Iron Man' movie, right?"

"Yes!"

"Exactly."

Responses came from all around him.

Matthew raised his hand, motioning for silence, and the scattered voices gradually subsided, bringing a semblance of order to the scene.

"I'm investing in 'Iron Man' because I'm a fan of Tony Stark!" Matthew began, slipping effortlessly into his role of a charming storyteller, "In the world of comics, the 'Iron Man' series stands alongside 'Spider-Man,' 'X-Men,' and 'Fantastic Four.' This comic has been popular for decades and has always had a dedicated fan base like me. Unlike other superheroes, Tony Stark isn't a mutant or bitten by a spider. He's just an ordinary man who uses his intellect to create an iron suit, one of humanity's greatest inventions."

He shrugged, "Maybe many think I'm crazy, but I've always believed Iron Man is a fascinating character. With 'Spider-Man' and 'X-Men,' Marvel, in collaboration with other studios, has successfully brought super-powered heroes to life."

Although Marvel truly lacked experience in adaptations, Matthew couldn't admit that. "Marvel has a proven and glorious track record in adapting their superheroes to films. I believe 'Iron Man' will succeed."

"Additionally, I've spoken with the director and the writers." Matthew's lies became more elaborate, "This 'Iron Man' movie will address social issues and the world we live in. It's a story about redemption and how an ordinary person can transform into a hero."

Inside the office building's lounge, Kevin Feige and Avi Arad watched through the window. All the reporters were focused on Matthew Horner, ignoring Marvel Studios entirely.

Clearly, the newly formed Marvel Studios was far less captivating than Matthew Horner.

"He's hogging all the attention by himself," Kevin Feige said, a hint of jealousy in his voice.

Avi Arad kept his eyes on the scene outside. "We need someone like him, someone who can draw attention and bring visibility. Matthew Horner is exactly that person."

Kevin Feige sighed and nodded lightly.

"You've seen the recent reports and publicity about '300,'" Avi Arad continued. "Warner Brothers hasn't even started their full promotional campaign, and yet, just the buzz generated by Matthew Horner has spread the film's name across the USA, making it a hot topic."

"Who would've thought..." Kevin Feige smiled wryly, "He's naturally gifted."

Avi Arad emphasized, "We must play the Matthew Horner card well. He brings us much more than just $40 million."

Kevin Feige understood his point perfectly. "I know what to do."

Outside the office building, the brief interview had concluded. Surrounded by security and bodyguards, Matthew Horner slowly made his way towards the building's entrance.

Watching this, Kevin Feige's resolve strengthened. The promotion of "Iron Man" had to be closely tied to this Hollywood star.

Since he started paying attention to Matthew a few months ago, his media presence and public interest never seemed to wane.

As Kevin Feige pondered, a smile crossed his face. Matthew Horner truly was a smart and self-promoting star.

Partnering with someone like him could only benefit "Iron Man."

Should they perhaps think about generating some news linking Matthew Horner and the "Iron Man" crew?

This needed careful planning.

"He's inside," Avi Arad reminded, "Let's head to the conference room and complete the signing ceremony."

The spacious conference room held only about thirty media reporters. In a cost-saving move, Marvel Studios chose to hold the signing ceremony in-house rather than renting a large venue.

Matthew didn't comment on the modest setup. He knew Marvel's financial situation wasn't great. Even in slightly better recent years, they had sold off major hero rights just to keep the company running.

Once in the conference room, Matthew sat across from Avi Arad. They signed the prepared "contracts," exchanged documents, and shook hands in front of numerous cameras, successfully completing the signing ceremony.

Given the $40 million investment, the ceremony was somewhat understated.

Matthew didn't mind. He understood Marvel's financial struggles over the past years, having sold off flagship hero rights to keep the company afloat.

With the signing complete, Matthew posed for photos with Kevin Feige and Avi Arad, standing side by side, exuding camaraderie, with no trace of the fierce negotiations that had taken place earlier.

This collaboration was mutually beneficial. Marvel filled a critical budget gap, and Matthew secured the right to invest in a Marvel superhero film.

After the photo session and the routine media interviews, Matthew followed Avi Arad and Kevin Feige out of the conference room and into a lounge on the same floor.

Their lawyers and representatives from the Producers Guild awaited them in the lounge. Matthew and Marvel would sign the actual contracts here.

Upon entering, Matthew greeted his lead attorney, Wilson, and then approached Helen Herman. She whispered, "The contract is fine."

"I got it."

Taking the pen Wilson handed him, Matthew signed the triplicate agreement, just as Avi Arad did.

Once signed, Wilson took Matthew's copy of the contract, and everyone else left the room, leaving Matthew and Helen Herman alone. Avi Arad had already departed, rushing to catch a flight back to New York. Kevin Feige remained to oversee the rest of the project's progress.

"Kevin, have you finalized the lead actor?" Matthew asked directly.

He had a good understanding of the current state of the "Iron Man" project, having discussed it thoroughly during the negotiations. The film was already in the preparatory stage, with Kevin Feige and Jon Favreau working at the Hughes Aircraft Company's hangar-turned-studio.

For key roles, Jon Favreau would also play Tony Stark's bodyguard and chauffeur, Happy Hogan. Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow was set to play Pepper Potts, and Jeff Bridges was cast as the main antagonist, Iron Monger.

To cut costs, Jeff Bridges was semi-coaxed into taking the role.

In the script Matthew had seen, Iron Monger was the main villain, but the production team told Bridges that Iron Monger wasn't the biggest villain and that there would be a twist introducing Mandarin, Iron Man's archenemy from the comics.

Jeff Bridges, a significant figure in Hollywood, likely had reservations about playing a straightforward villain.

In short, the "Iron Man" project faced many challenges, and Kevin Feige was working hard to overcome them.

Hearing Matthew's question about the lead role, Kevin Feige shook his head, "Not yet. We originally considered three actors—you, Tom Cruise, and Nicolas Cage. But..."

Having invested in the project, Matthew wanted to ensure "Iron Man" was on the right path. "Can I suggest a candidate? See if he fits."

Since they were now partners, Kevin Feige didn't worry about Matthew steering them wrong and curiously asked, "Who?"

"Do you remember Robert Downey Jr.?" Matthew mentioned the name that was synonymous with Iron Man in real life. "I think he would be perfect."

Before Kevin Feige could respond, Matthew continued, "Tony Stark is rich, handsome, witty, and charismatic. He's made big mistakes but eventually redeems himself. This closely mirrors Robert Downey Jr.'s own life."

Helen Herman looked at Matthew curiously, knowing he had never interacted with Robert Downey Jr. before.

This was a $140 million production. It was uncharacteristic for Matthew to recommend someone he had no connection with for such a significant role.

Noticing Helen's curiosity, Matthew chose not to explain. It was too complicated to delve into.

"Hmm..." Kevin Feige pondered for a moment, "I'll reach out to Robert Downey Jr."

_________________________

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