Chapter 41. Hollywood's Young Talent Goes Crazy

Time flew by quickly, and it was already Wednesday. The press conference held on Monday instantly propelled MGM and Hasbro to the front pages of all entertainment publications.

Hasbro's stock soared, rising 9% the next day, reaching $33.6 per share.

Not only did Hasbro's stock show growth, but Mattel's shares also slightly increased. Perhaps the market expected Mattel to take a similar step and bring Barbie to the big screen? However, that would take another twenty years.

As for LEGO, it remains a family business, not listed on the stock market.

Many small investors who had previously sold their shares were now biting their nails and cursing themselves with thoughts like, "Why didn't they announce this earlier?!"

After the last conversation, Eric's father quietly purchased a significant amount of Hasbro shares. Now the Cooper family owns 5% of the company, having invested $300 million.

These shares can't be touched right now; moreover, they need to be increased until the film's release and the beginning of the major game.

Under the influence of this event, interest in Winona Ryder's case, who was accused of theft, significantly decreased. Although this happened by chance, as a celebrity, she should thank them for it.

In two days, the necessary and unnecessary people already knew all the details, and it became clear that most viewers eagerly awaited the release of "Transformers."

Back in 1991, after the release of "Terminator 2," many wrote to Hasbro asking to bring "Transformers" to the big screen. At that time, it was impossible, as the implementation of such special effects was too complex.

Eleven years have passed since then. Those who wrote letters may have already grown up and long since stopped watching "Transformers." But learning about the upcoming film reignited their hearts.

As for Eric's bold statement about $700 million in box office receipts, the "Los Angeles Times" conducted a street survey with 200 participants.

The results showed that 67% of respondents believed in success and were ready to support their childhood by buying movie tickets.

However, many analysts and film critics were pessimistic, accusing Eric of overconfidence.

Journalists seized the opportunity and began interviewing famous directors—Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Peter Jackson, and Tim Burton, trying to elicit critical comments about the young and ambitious Eric.

Steven Spielberg, caught off guard at the entrance to his studio, said in surprise, "Sorry, I'm busy with the post-production of 'Catch Me If You Can.' I'm not aware of this event and won't comment."

George Lucas merely smiled, "Yes, I read about it in the newspapers. $700 million is a tough goal, but I believe in 'Transformers.' If Industrial Light & Magic is needed, we will be happy to help."

Peter Jackson, busy with the post-production of "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers," laughed loudly, "Come on, it's 'Transformers'! Many boys liked them since childhood; it's a favorite cartoon of millions worldwide."

"$700 million? That's quite possible! I'll take my family to the premiere myself. Of course, the film will need a lot of special effects, and Weta Digital has extensive experience in this. Make sure to include that in the article, ha-ha-ha."

All these directors were experienced and skilled people, understanding the journalists' sly intentions and skillfully dodging provocative questions.

However, before them stands the head of MGM—not a newcomer who can be criticized solely due to his early entry into the industry and high status. He is an equal representative of capital, not easily swayed.

In the world of cinema, everyone often crosses paths, and no one will rashly throw words, as there are still many collaborative projects and opportunities for making money ahead!

Unlike the calmness of the great directors, the young generation of Hollywood was seized with excitement. The leading female role was already taken, but the main male role was still vacant—it's a heaven-sent chance, who would miss it?

Look at Tobey Maguire. Before the release of "Spider-Man," few knew his name, though he had been working in the industry for ten years without much success. After "Spider-Man," he skyrocketed to the top, becoming a favorite of directors and studios, with his fees increasing tenfold—a real rise to the stars.

Eric already stated that he was looking for a young actor, without the need to compete with big stars, significantly reducing the pressure.

...

Beverly Hills, the Cooper residence.

During one breakfast, Eric's father answered seven calls, and after the last one, he said with a smile and fatigue, "That was James Franco's agent, another old friend, impossible to ignore."

"James Franco? The Green Goblin Jr.? Looks like he also aims for more!"

"Of course, why else would he enter this world of Hollywood? Not getting the role of Peter Parker, 'Transformers' is a great opportunity."

"But my answer is always the same: come to the audition, we don't play backstage games."

Eric was glad that his time in the industry was still short, and he didn't have to deal with numerous annoying calls.

"By the way, Dad, how are your relations with the Department of Defense?"

"What?"

"For shooting 'Transformers,' we will need planes, tanks, and missiles. Have you ever collaborated with the Department of Defense? Can we count on their support?"

Charlie Cooper frowned, "Some films do cooperate with the Department of Defense and the FBI. But even if we have cooperation, significant funding will still be required."

"In fact, the best person in the industry with connections to the Department of Defense is Michael Bay. His films always have a lot of explosions, so he has established cooperation."

"Have you already decided who to invite to direct 'Transformers'? If not, Michael Bay is a great choice; he's a master of commercial blockbusters."

His father's advice was good because, in the future, it was Michael Bay who became the director. But Eric didn't want to hire him.

Firstly, it's expensive. After the success of films like "The Rock," "Armageddon," and "Pearl Harbor," Michael Bay became one of the most sought-after directors in Hollywood. At current market rates, his share of box office receipts would be no less than 8%, and with a fixed fee, $10 million is the minimum price.

Secondly, it's a matter of character. Michael Bay is known for his explosive temperament. He yells at everyone on set, including producers, and fears no one.

It would be easy to assume that conflicts would arise between him and Eric, leading to chaos about who to obey in the end.

And finally, the most crucial factor: Eric wanted to direct this film himself. He had long dreamed of taking the director's chair.

This dream drove him forward for twenty years, and even in his current position, he still aspired to achieve this cherished goal.