Chapter 723: Universal Studios Archives
In March, the Wanda Group spent $2.6 billion in cash to acquire a 68% stake in the second-largest movie theater chain in the United States, becoming its controlling shareholder.
Immediately after, the theater chain spent 650 million in cash to acquire two smaller commercial theater chains from Capet: Pacific Theaters and ArcLight Cinemas.
In mid-April, on Hollywood's Universal Plaza Street, there was the grand opening of the Universal Studios Archives. This three-story venue housed all the film works of Capet Universal, specifically built to align with Universal Studios' 100th-anniversary celebrations this year!
The celebration event drew countless reporters and fans, filling Universal Plaza Street completely.
From noon, stars started arriving at Universal Plaza one after another.
Charles Capet, dressed in a perfectly tailored Italian handmade suit, attended the opening ceremony. On the long red carpet, stars appeared as if attending an awards ceremony.
After Charles arrived, he also went to the backlot for the Universal studios' centennial group photo.
Afterward, everyone returned to the grand hall, and the official Universal 100th-anniversary event began.
The event had esteemed political guests like the Governor of California, federal senators, and the Mayor of Los Angeles, not to mention big-name directors and stars collaborating with Capet Universal. Even top singers like Michael Jackson and Britney Spears were present!
In the grand exhibition hall, over 300 attendees participated in this grand event, with the newly crowned Oscar-winner Anne Hathaway as the host.
"Alright, now let's welcome the youngest mogul in Hollywood history, Charles Capet!" Anne Hathaway exclaimed excitedly.
Charles, sitting with his mother, Britney, Donna Langley, and other executives, received a warm hug and a kiss on the cheek from his mother, Evelyn Capet. "Darling, I'm so proud of you!"
Charles smiled, then walked up to the podium, took the microphone from Anne Hathaway, and hugged her. Anne whispered in his ear, "I'm so excited! Let's invite Emily tonight!"
After Anne stepped off the stage, Charles scanned the crowd. Many major Hollywood stars had come, shining even brighter than at the Oscars.
Among the directors were Ridley Scott, Steven Spielberg, J.J. Abrams, and Francis Ford Coppola, his daughter, and others.
Male actors included Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Matt Damon, Chris Evans, and more.
Female stars included Nicole Kidman, Scarlett Johansson, Charlize Theron, Naomi Watts, Angelina Jolie, Julia Roberts, Megan Fox, and many more!
With the addition of Capet Record's music stars, the entire hall was dazzling.
"Thank you all for attending Universal Studios' 100th-anniversary celebration. Seeing this scene, I want to say, I've done quite well over the past ten years. Universal Studios is one of the most historic film companies in Hollywood.
Starting from the silent film era, going through the talkies, to the appearance of color films, we've experienced so much.
From World War II, the Paramount Decree, to the impact of television, Hollywood has endured.
Many film companies have disappeared into the dust of history. Those who remain are Hollywood's elite.
Our predecessors developed Hollywood into the world's cinema hub, and we must keep Hollywood in its number one position!
Of course, owning Universal is a great pride for me. Thinking back to my days on movie sets, I still feel satisfied.
I couldn't have achieved this without my beloved mother. If it weren't for her, I might not have entered this industry," Charles said, pointing to his mother.
"So, your kids might end up like me someday."
clap clap clap
...
"Finally, Universal Studios is a crucial part of the Capet Group and an inseparable part of Capet's assets. In the future, it will certainly progress hand in hand with other Hollywood studios..."
After Charles' speech, everyone attended the grand party. So many stars kept the LAPD busy.
"Charles, this is truly unforgettable," said Gavin Newsom, clinking his champagne glass with Charles. "Governor Brown even called officers from other areas to maintain order!"
Charles smiled, "Don't worry. I donated $5 million to the Los Angeles City government, and this archive will be open to the public soon."
...
Meanwhile, Donna Langley, back from New York, was chatting with Alan Horn. "I didn't expect Charles to make it this big!"
Looking at the attendees, who were all renowned figures, Alan Horn smirked, somewhat embarrassed, "Actually, I thought of something else?"
Donna Langley became interested, "What's funny?"
Alan Horn's expression made Donna suspect it was something amusing. "Well, Paramount is also celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and they're holding a grand celebration in the summer," Alan Horn explained, chuckling involuntarily.
"Now we've set a high standard, not only by building a new film archive but also making the event so grand!"
"Ha-ha," Donna Langley laughed, covering her mouth, "Philip Dauman and Brad Grey will probably feel awkward..."
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