Chapter 497: Kindred Spirits

In late September, Matthew received a notification from Marvel about the casting decision for the lead role in "Iron Man." Robert Downey Jr. had passed the audition and signed a contract to play Tony Stark, committing to the role for the foreseeable future. Marvel initially wanted him to sign a seven-film deal, but Downey was reluctant to agree.

Despite his precarious position in Hollywood—barely securing minor roles alongside George Clooney and facing widespread skepticism—Downey was not naive. He recognized the significance of this opportunity but was cautious about being tied exclusively to Marvel for such an extensive number of films. After considerable negotiation, they reached a compromise.

Aside from "Iron Man," Downey's contract included three additional films where Iron Man would make significant appearances. Naturally, before the production of these films began, both parties could renegotiate his salary. However, with this agreement in place, Downey's compensation was somewhat constrained. Whether Downey would unleash his accumulated pay demands once the contract expired was no longer Matthew's concern. By that time, his investment agreement with Marvel would also have likely concluded, and even if he wanted to invest further, Marvel might no longer be interested.

With Downey confirmed as the lead, Matthew reviewed the finalized script. The story trajectory aligned closely with his memory, so he temporarily set Marvel aside. The "Iron Man" production had professionals overseeing it, sparing him the need for constant involvement. Additionally, Bella Anderson, his agent, would periodically check on the film's progress.

Matthew returned to Warner Bros. Studios. Starting in late September, he visited the studio daily to monitor the post-production of "300" and prepare for the upcoming shoot of "I Am Legend."

"The promotional campaign is going exceptionally well, even surpassing our expectations," said David Ellison, sipping his coffee in the studio's cafe. "The entire North American continent is buzzing about... our trailer and promotional posters."

The campaign had generated an astonishing amount of excitement. David was almost at a loss for words. Matthew's red cape and red trunks had sparked widespread discussion, especially among women who were nearly ecstatic.

"By the way, Matthew," David asked hesitantly, "having that kind of... advantage, does it make it easier to attract beautiful women?"

Matthew was momentarily taken aback. After a pause, he shook his head, replying, "I don't think it makes a difference. Before I became famous, no actress or model ever approached me, and even if I tried to talk to them, they mostly ignored me."

He shrugged and added, "It's the celebrity status that's the real draw."

David continued, "So, it's like most women approaching me because I'm rich?"

Matthew nodded slightly. "Pretty much. The actresses or models I've dated were more interested in my celebrity status than in me personally."

He then pointed to his face with a smug look. "Of course, my looks are also part of the appeal."

David couldn't help but laugh. "This year, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is in Los Angeles. Why don't we go and see who can charm the most models?"

"Is it confirmed for Los Angeles?" Matthew had been keeping an eye on the Victoria's Secret show.

"Yes," David affirmed, "it'll be held at the Kodak Theatre."

Matthew perked up. "Great, David. Let's see who can woo the most models."

David, brimming with confidence, said, "Those models are even more fame-driven than actresses. With our wealth and status, we're bound to score."

Two wealthy and famous men discussing the high-profile Victoria's Secret show and its models was almost inevitable. In this aspect, Matthew and David were kindred spirits—interested in the same indulgences.

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show wasn't until December. After chatting for a bit, David inquired about Matthew's investment activities.

"You borrowed money from me to invest in Marvel's superhero films?"

Matthew couldn't deny it. "Yes, Marvel Entertainment formed a subsidiary, Marvel Studios, to adapt 'Iron Man' into a movie. They approached me to play the lead, but I turned it down."

The media had already extensively covered Matthew's investment in Marvel, so it wasn't a secret.

David looked at Matthew. "I've heard about this project, but most people are skeptical about it. I also think it's quite risky."

Matthew smiled. "I'm just taking a gamble."

He noticed that David had matured significantly over the past couple of years. While he wasn't yet a top-notch investor, he had become more cautious about high-risk investments.

David had invested $80 million in "300" and had another project lined up. "I personally can't pull out $40 million. I invested $60 million in 'Flyboys,' which won't be released until February next year."

Matthew recalled that David had invested in "Flyboys" a couple of years ago. Back then, David's investment decisions were more impulsive, reportedly driven by his love for airplanes.

"Is 'Flyboys' completed?" Matthew asked out of curiosity.

"Not yet, but it's close," David replied, looking a bit dejected. "The film's quality doesn't compare to '300.' I'm not feeling too optimistic about it."

Standing on the same side as David, Matthew thought for a moment and said, "Try to do more test screenings and adjust based on the feedback. Also, work with the critics and sites like Rotten Tomatoes to delay releasing their reviews until the movie's premiere."

"Good idea," David acknowledged. He then added, "I've thought it over. I need to be more selective with my investments. My main focus will be on you. From now on, I'll follow your lead and invest in the movies you star in."

David looked at Matthew. "You don't mind, do you?"

Matthew pointed at him and laughed. "With someone like you backing me, why would I mind? I'll be thrilled. But there's one thing we need to agree on: if you do invest, you must support me no matter what happens on set."

In the past couple of years, Matthew had experienced a smooth career, but he had undoubtedly stepped on some toes along the way. Unforeseen issues could arise in the future.

"Don't worry, Matthew," David promised. "We're friends."

Judging by the reaction to the "300" trailer, the film had a higher chance of success than failure. Given Matthew's track record, David had noticed something special about his film choices. Matthew's movies often achieved significant box office success, even when reviews were mediocre, highlighting his star power.

If "300" also succeeded, David's investment decisions would become easier. He'd simply follow Matthew's lead.

After chatting with David for a while, Matthew went to see Zack Snyder. Zack looked noticeably thinner, likely due to his hectic schedule.

In the editing room, Matthew watched some completed segments. The visual style and slow-motion sequences vividly brought back memories of the original film.

"Zack Snyder is Zack Snyder," Matthew thought. "His unique style is unmistakable."

"I think this might be the pinnacle of my career," Snyder said, standing beside Matthew and watching the screen. "I don't think I'll ever replicate this feeling again."

Matthew patted his arm gently and said, "This is just the beginning."

With the potential success of "300," Snyder would likely become closely associated with Warner Bros. In a few years, Christopher Nolan might recommend him to produce the DC Universe and "Justice League."

Considering this, Matthew found it amusing that he and Snyder would be on opposite sides—one with Marvel, the other with DC. However, the rivalry between DC and Marvel wasn't as fierce as their fanbases' online battles. The companies maintained a good relationship, frequently collaborating and borrowing ideas from each other. Their heroes often crossed paths in comics, engaging in friendly competition.

He vaguely recalled the passionate online disputes between DC and Marvel fans from his past. These were often more entertaining than the superhero movies themselves.

Fortunately, superhero films weren't the hottest Hollywood exports in some parts of the world. Otherwise, theaters screening DC or Marvel movies might witness a brawl between fans, necessitating immediate intervention.

After having lunch with Snyder, Matthew spent the afternoon on the Warner Bros. lot, meeting with the "I Am Legend" crew, including Akiva Goldsman and Guillermo del Toro. The start of this sci-fi post-apocalyptic movie was imminent.

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