Chapter 103: It Must Succeed

Chapter 104: It Must Succeed

The unexpected death of Li Guohao led to an investigation, even involving the FBI, though it's unclear if they found anything.

Gilbert's films have been such box office hits that competitors were too scared to release their movies alongside his. But this was mostly an illusion, as the big summer blockbusters from major directors and stars are typically released in June and July. In May, apart from "Real Steel," the competition seemed weak.

Last year, a film with a $20 million budget, "Speed," held a premiere, so this year, "Real Steel," with an $80 million budget, obviously deserved one too. This premiere was held at the luxurious Dome Theatre, with an upgraded guest lineup.

Before the premiere, lead actors Bruce Willis, Ryan Gosling, and Naomi Watts frequently appeared on various shows to promote the film. Gilbert didn't join this time, and, two weeks before the film's release, Warner Bros. and Disney's media divisions revisited last year's feud between Gilbert and Hollywood's animal rights organizations, where Gilbert emerged victorious.

It's said the animal rights organization had tough luck. After clashing with Gilbert, their influence in Hollywood waned, becoming a group everyone looked down on. Film crews no longer paid attention to them, significantly reducing the donations they once received. But outside Hollywood, the organization was still strong and mostly unaffected.

After Gilbert exposed the hypocrisy of the Hollywood branch, other animal rights organizations started to distance themselves. Some media began circulating shocking images of animal dismemberment to stir public sympathy and disgust toward humans. These organizations then declared, "We genuinely love animals and have no connection with the extortionists in Hollywood." With that, they could act freely again.

Meanwhile, the extreme activists hoped Gilbert would once again engage them in a media showdown. They saw this as a chance for revenge and to increase their profile by challenging the famous director. But since last year, after his thunderous response, Gilbert had been focused on his film work, ignoring the animal rights issue entirely.

There's an unwritten rule in Hollywood: you only become a "squid" (a term symbolizing achievement and recognition) by producing results. Yet media often spin it around to say that people succeed because they're already a "squid." This myth, created by those controlling the media, has fooled the public for years.

Gilbert had become one of these symbols. How else could a young man in his twenties gain nationwide fame as a director? Was it some blessing from above? Some might say yes, as "squids" are considered favored by a higher power.

Ordinarily, disturbing the established interests would have consequences, with someone giving Gilbert a lesson, especially the wealthy backers behind the animal rights group. However, three factors played in Gilbert's favor. First, Hollywood had long resented the organization's extortionist tactics and secretly applauded and supported him. Second, Gilbert's success earned him a spot in Hollywood's inner circle, where "squids" unite to protect one another. Finally, Warner Bros. and Disney shielded him through their combined influence.

If Gilbert had been from a minority background, his actions would likely have led to downfall despite any victory. But being a white "squid," he remained untouchable.

So, the animal rights group was left in an awkward position—unable to attack or criticize him. The only option left was to ignore him.

The two main casualties in this incident were Michael Ovitz from CAA and the Hollywood animal rights organization. Gilbert's revelations even led to Ovitz's resignation. Yet, recalling last year's battle wasn't about reminiscing over Gilbert's victories; it was all part of the movie's promotion.

No matter the intentions, in Hollywood, the end result often comes down to money. Understanding this reveals the essence of the industry.

Thanks to the frequent promotions and the buzz around last year's events, "Real Steel" soon became widely anticipated among moviegoers. The trailer's quality was excellent and enticing, with special effects rivaling even "Jurassic Park," which won an Oscar this year for best visual effects.

With a superb trailer and strong publicity, "Real Steel" quickly became the most anticipated movie of the summer. Both media reactions and audience surveys were promising, giving Warner Bros. and Disney high hopes.

On Thursday, May 5, 1994, "Real Steel" held its premiere at the Dome Theatre in Los Angeles. With Naomi Watts, Bruce Willis, and Ryan Gosling walking the red carpet, Gilbert's date for the event was Charlize Theron.

Playing her first major role and attending her first premiere, Charlize was nervous, repeatedly telling herself, "Stay calm, Sally. You can do this."

Her manager, Diana, found her deep in prayer for a good performance. "Sally, what's wrong?" Diana asked.

"I'm just nervous," Charlize replied.

Rolling her eyes, Diana reminded her, "Wake up, Sally. You're starring in an $80 million blockbuster. Remember, you're one of the leads."

Encouraged by her manager, Charlize regained her composure.

As Gilbert helped Charlize into their car to head to the event, Diana silently prayed, "Sally, you must succeed!"

At the Dome Theatre, thousands of fans had gathered, some from cities like New York, Chicago, and Boston, eagerly awaiting the cast. When they arrived, fans were awestruck by the life-sized robot models displayed outside, which had been preserved after filming.

As the creators came out, Bruce Willis, though not as iconic as Stallone or Schwarzenegger, was still a major action star, while Naomi Watts was a familiar face, and Ryan Gosling's youthful charm won over the crowd.

Ryan even did a robot dance to AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" on the red carpet, though sadly, the real robot couldn't join in. Nevertheless, fans cheered enthusiastically.

Then, it was Gilbert and Charlize's turn. Charlize, now composed, displayed grace and elegance. Gilbert observed with interest, impressed by her quick adjustment. When Naomi Watts first walked the red carpet, she had squeezed his hand so hard from nervousness.

"It's time, Sally," Gilbert said as the car stopped. "Prepare for cheers and applause; you'll get used to it."

Charlize gave a nod, waiting for Gilbert to exit first before taking his hand and stepping out. Cameras flashed everywhere, and though Charlize found the lights intense, she held her head high, putting on her best smile.

Being Gilbert's date earned her significant attention, but Gilbert, being the main attraction, received the most. Arm-in-arm, they walked down the red carpet.

"Director Gilbert, I love you!" "Gilbert, look this way!"

Hearing the crowd's excitement, Charlize blanked out, mindlessly following Gilbert.

"Sally… Sally…" Gilbert's voice brought her back. "Show off your beauty," he encouraged, stepping aside to let her shine alone on the red carpet.

After a brief pause, Charlize posed, showcasing her elegance and charm.

Finally, Gilbert rejoined Charlize, and they reached the end of the red carpet, where a host awaited.

Gilbert spoke into the microphone, "Hosting the premiere here is exciting. Throughout production, Bruce kept calling, asking about the premiere. We've all been eagerly waiting for this moment." The fans' cheers were nonstop.

Charlize also had her turn to speak. "When I found out I'd be working with America's genius director Gilbert, I couldn't sleep the entire night. I kept asking myself, 'Is this real?' Only on set, after the first take, did I realize it wasn't a dream."

When asked if she was attracted to Gilbert, Charlize responded candidly, "Who wouldn't be? A young, talented, and handsome director?"

Her answer delighted the female fans, who loved Gilbert not only for his movies but also for his looks. Comparing him with Spielberg, it was clear Gilbert was more popular among women.

Gilbert headed to the press area for interviews, where reporters, mostly from Disney and Warner's selection, asked standard questions.

After interviews, he greeted other celebrity guests. The red carpet followed a standard flow: walking, interacting with fans, a brief speech, and then a press interview. Bruce Willis even returned to the fan area after his interview for more interaction, being the main star.

The interviews were simple, and after finishing, Gilbert still had to greet the industry guests who came to support him.

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