The Greatest Showman #1081 - Status Promotion

The rapid rise to the top ranks in Hollywood is no easy feat, and it's clear that Renly has earned his spot among the elite. Whether it's a 20-million-yuan club or a 10% box office dividend, such treatment is reserved for only the top-tier actors in Hollywood. Renly has bypassed the ranks of first-line actors and shot straight to the A-list—Hollywood's crème de la crème.

In fact, there are fewer than thirty actors in Hollywood who enjoy this kind of treatment. Legends like Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise, who often receive 15-20% of box office dividends, have reached this rarefied air, but only under special circumstances. To earn such a high percentage, an actor must usually be both an actor and a producer, and the crew must be relatively small, as the total amount of box office dividends available to be split is often capped at around 40%.

Moreover, such lucrative deals come with significant risks. If the film flops, the actors and producers bear part of the financial burden. Hence, the rewards are balanced by the risks involved.

In the world of filmmaking, securing a deal that includes both high salary and high dividends requires careful negotiation. It's not just about having a great agent—it's about timing, leverage, and a deep understanding of the film company's priorities.

For instance, if Warner Bros. agreed to Renly's 20 million-dollar treatment, he could expect similar terms for films with other production companies, and once a star's asking price reaches this level, it is unlikely to drop. This was seen in the lengthy negotiations between Dwayne Johnson and the "Fast and Furious" franchise.

This kind of treatment places tremendous pressure on film companies. Every decision related to such large sums of money and high dividends has ripple effects, as other studios may attempt to sway these lucrative deals to their advantage.

For Renly, the opportunity presented by Gravity was the perfect alignment of timing and opportunity. The Innovative Artist Agency, led by Andy Rogers, was working tirelessly to secure top-tier treatment for Renly—something that had delayed the finalization of negotiations.

Now, with Barry arriving in London personally, it was clear that more than just salary figures were at stake. Barry's visit represented Warner Bros.' recognition of Renly's potential. His involvement would secure Renly's place among the A-listers, a coveted status within the industry.

What was also clear was the strategic importance of Gravity and the upcoming Edge of Tomorrow sequels. The significance of these films went beyond the numbers—they were a part of Warner Bros.' longer-term blueprint, a glimpse of the studio's ambitions for the future.

Renly couldn't yet fully see Barry's grand strategy, but it was certain that Barry's motives were more than just an interest in one actor. As the CEO of Warner Bros. and one of Hollywood's most powerful moguls, Barry wasn't only thinking about Gravity—he was considering how Renly could be a part of the studio's future.

After all, an actor capable of grossing $500 million in North America and $1.1 billion worldwide was a rare commodity. Barry knew this was a relationship worth investing in, much like Christopher Nolan had been in the past.

Renly allowed himself a small smile. "It seems like our collaboration is going to continue for some time."

Barry's eyes twinkled. "If I can, I wouldn't mind seeing this partnership last even longer." He shifted the conversation. "However, no matter what, I hope we can finalize everything within the next four weeks."

Time was of the essence for Warner Bros. With Edge of Tomorrow becoming a sleeper hit, the studio had no time to waste. The future of these projects—and their position in Hollywood—depended on rapid progress.

Barry continued, "Alfonso Cuarón has completed most of the preliminary technical work. Now we just need to finalize the lead actor and the remaining preparations to keep things on track." He didn't wait for Renly's reply before continuing, "We've already secured the November studio time. The film will be shot in the UK, and our Surrey studio is ready. The shoot will take one to two months. I'm sure your agent can give you the details."

It was clear that Barry was talking less to Renly and more to himself—he was dictating terms, not negotiating. His words were assertive, giving little room for discussion.

Renly observed Barry calmly without responding, his silence hanging between them.

A subtle tension built up, the two of them engaging in an unspoken battle of wills. Neither was willing to give ground.

It was Renly who broke the silence, his chuckle easing the tension. "Mr. Mayer, it's clear you're treating me like a producer, but I'm just an actor. My knowledge of the non-acting aspects of filmmaking is limited."

For Renly, whether it's a 20-million-dollar treatment or a 10% box office dividend, the specifics were of little concern. He had already agreed to star in Gravity without even considering salary. He had similar feelings for the Edge of Tomorrow sequel.

Barry smiled, clearly amused. "I'm a businessman. The only things I talk about are salaries, markets, and future plans. The art of filmmaking? That's not really my domain. But I will say this: I loved the final product of Edge of Tomorrow."

Renly's expression mirrored Barry's sentiment. "In a way, we've reached an agreement, haven't we? You focus on profit, I focus on performance. Ultimately, we both want to create something great. The difference is in our methods."

Barry nodded, his smile widening. "Actually, I think you misunderstand producers a little. We're not just here to manage budgets or promotions. A producer's role is far more nuanced. We provide a unique perspective on the film—from character creation to how the actors interact with the plot. We help the director shape the performances, ensuring that the actors, from leads to supporting roles, work together cohesively."

Barry's rare moment of giving advice was a reminder to Renly that, if he wanted to grow as an actor and truly understand the filmmaking process, stepping into a producer's shoes could be a valuable experience. It would offer him a deeper understanding of the entire creative process—something actors like Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep had mastered.

As Barry spoke, Renly thought about Tom Cruise's career. In his past life, Tom had gradually become typecast, and many of his films seemed similar, despite his dual role as actor and producer. Edge of Tomorrow itself was an example of Tom's signature style. But Renly hadn't yet reached that level of mastery, and it was clear that Gravity—and possibly the Edge of Tomorrow sequel—could provide him with that opportunity.

Barry raised his whisky glass and took a sip. "I think we both have a lot to learn from each other." He placed his glass back on the table and straightened up. "I know you've had a long day. Next time, let's have dinner and talk about the little things."

It was time for Barry to leave.

Renly didn't object. He was indeed exhausted.

Barry left some cash on the table, and the two walked out of the bar, chatting as they made their way to their cars. They exchanged goodbyes before going their separate ways.

The conversation had been intense, with plenty of information to digest. Renly had intended to call Andy immediately afterward, but after a long day's work and a relaxing bath, he was too tired to do anything but fall into a deep sleep. The demands of the West End performances were taking their toll, and Renly couldn't ignore the physical strain.

The next morning, Renly started his day with coffee, still digesting the events of the previous evening. Nathan reminded him to call Andy about the meeting, so Renly dialed across the Atlantic.

Andy was stunned when Renly summarized the meeting. After a few deep breaths, Andy couldn't help but laugh. "You're telling me, after Warner Bros. CEO Barry Mayer offered you a top-tier deal, you slept soundly and weren't affected at all?"

It was hard not to laugh at that.