Chapter 367: TV Interview, Box Office Continues to Boom

[Chapter 367: TV Interview, Box Office Continues to Boom]

"Link, I heard that Guess Pictures invested 100 million dollars into the Titanic project. Was this your idea or someone else's suggestion?"

At TNT, host Billy Crystal asked.

"It was my suggestion."

Link replied slowly, "Back in '92, I moved to Golden Oak Apartments and became neighbors with director James Cameron. We talked about this movie, and initially, James intended to make a simple story film to counter the critics who accused him of only being able to make action blockbusters like Terminator and not delicate art films.

After seeing the records on the Titanic disaster, I was shocked by the tragedy of that event. It struck a chord in me.

I told James that the Titanic disaster was the largest and most tragic maritime tragedy in human history. It would be a waste to make just a simple art film out of it. This story should be adapted into an epic film with grand narratives, using the best actors to faithfully recreate that tragic sinking.

If he didn't do it, I would take it on after he finished his film. Unfortunately, James didn't give me that chance.

After meeting him for the second time, he thought I was right; this story was indeed suitable for a blockbuster. He prepared to redesign the screenplay and make a big movie.

After several years of development, we finally have the Titanic project we see now."

Billy Crystal was astonished. "So, the increasing investment in Titanic is partly due to you?"

"A little bit, but the main reason is James's ambition to create an epic film. I believed in the project, and in him, so we decided to invest."

Link, dressed in a casual suit, shrugged as he spoke.

"But you must know that both Waterworld and Cutthroat Island faced box office failure. Many people now think that adapting this type of material is extremely risky, considered a bad investment. Aren't you worried about your investment failing?"

"Not at all," Link laughed confidently. "First, I love this story. Investing in something I love is meaningful; secondly, I have faith in James; his films have never lost money.

Finally, I have a lot of confidence in films of this type. Even if Waterworld and Cutthroat Island underperformed, their qualities were not an issue. They are rare gems for fans of this genre and worth watching."

"Wow, are you promoting those two films?"

Host Billy Crystal and many in the audience were surprised as they looked at him. Billy continued, "Link, we all know these two films were in competition with yours; you are actually openly recommending them?"

Link smiled, "I enjoy stories in this genre and plan to create one myself, so I made a point to catch both films in theaters when they were released. They weren't as bad as the media claimed."

"Link, you also plan to make a film in this genre. Can you share when?"

Billy Crystal asked.

Link shrugged, "I only have some ideas for now. It could be a story about a pirate king, connected to various folk tales around the Caribbean."

"Pirate king? That sounds exciting! I hope it comes out soon."

Billy Crystal remarked.

The audience of fans applauded and cheered, expressing their eagerness to see the film.

...

"Incredible! Link is promoting Cutthroat Island?"

In an office, Michael Ovitz widened his eyes as he watched Link speak confidently on TV.

Mario Kassar also found it hard to believe. Link was a big name in the industry with immense influence -- his endorsement was equivalent to millions in advertising costs. How could this man publicly endorse a rival's movie on a TV interview?

Kassar suddenly felt a sense of gratitude; he had just earnestly sought help from several colleagues, but no one was willing to assist him. Now, this competitive foe was publicly promoting his film. Perhaps Link wasn't so terrible after all.

"Don't trust Link. He's cunning and scheming; whatever he's doing must have an ulterior motive."

Harvey squinted at Link, who appeared dapper and charismatic on screen.

"I think so too," Ovitz nodded.

"Link said he wants to make a pirate movie. Is that true? Isn't he afraid of losing money?"

Ron Meyer stroked his chin thoughtfully.

"Who knows? Link is a deep thinker; maybe he's using this as an opportunity to promote Titanic and build hype for that film."

Ovitz suggested.

...

On the TV, Billy Crystal continued interviewing Link. This show aired just after the third week box office results for The Sixth Sense, inviting Link to discuss the film mostly to promote it.

After discussing the investment in Titanic, Billy Crystal moved on to The Sixth Sense.

"Link, congratulations on your new movie The Sixth Sense taking the box office crown again. Since 1992's Buried, each of your films has topped the weekly box office. You're the only director in Hollywood who has achieved this. It's remarkable."

Billy Crystal praised.

"Really? Directors like George Lucas, Spielberg, and Cameron's films should also meet that standard."

Link replied.

"No, no, only you. I checked the data. Lucas's early films like Electronic Labyrinth: THX 1138 4EB wasn't a big hit. Spielberg had a rocky start as well until Jaws. Cameron's 89 film The Abyss also faced box office troubles. Currently, only your films have done this."

"Okay, sounds like a great record. I hope I can maintain it longer."

Link laughed.

"You're amazing, Link! I'm proud of you!"

"Link, I love you!"

"Director Link, go for it! We will always support you."

Hundreds of audience members cheered and applauded.

"Thank you!"

Link waved in appreciation.

...

"Link is truly impressive."

In the Golden Oak Apartments, Jodie Foster remarked as she watched the television in amazement.

"Are you feeling something?"

Michelle Pfeiffer teased as she leaned on Jodie's shoulder.

"Not at all. I'm not interested in men."

"Really? But your eyes didn't leave Link while you were watching him."

Michelle joked.

"I simply admire him, just pure admiration. Nothing else."

"Alright, I had planned to invite Link over for a barbecue, but since you're not interested, I'll scrap that idea."

Michelle shrugged.

Jodie Foster blinked, "Barbecue? I'll go too; I have work to discuss with him regarding the release of Hachi: A Dog's Tale. Don't get any wrong ideas."

Michelle smiled slightly and chose not to call her out.

...

"Link, after The Sixth Sense was released, there were reports that some experiences of Cole mirrored your own. Is there any truth to this rumor?"

Billy Crystal asked on the TV.

"As unbelievable as it sounds, it's true. In the 70s and 80s, superstitions were rampant where I grew up. Almost everyone believed in the existence of ghosts."

"Everyone?"

Billy Crystal interrupted, surprised.

"Yes, people think that after death, humans don't vanish but exist in some other forms around us, quietly watching us. That is what ghosts are. This was the inspiration for me to create The Sixth Sense."

"Alright, I heard you could see ghosts when you were a child. Is that true?"

Billy Crystal inquired.

Link laughed, "There is a theory that intelligent children can see things that adults cannot before they are five, like ghosts. So, children are more prone to getting frightened and need special care. I saw some things when I was young.

But as I grew older, memories of these things blurred, leaving only a few impressions. It makes me sensitive when I see related news. I suddenly remember that I had similar problems when I was a child."

"So you enjoy making horror films?"

Billy Crystal asked.

"Yes, I've researched these matters extensively, and the research provides me inspiration. The films I'm currently working on are also related to these stories."

"I see, too bad I can't see ghosts or else I could write stories like that."

Billy expressed regret.

Link smiled, took a sip of water, and continued answering other questions.

...

The interview lasted around two hours, though only 30 minutes aired later. After the program aired, Link's promotion of Cutthroat Island and Waterworld became hot news. Furthermore, the reason behind his investment in the Titanic project and his childhood experiences with ghosts generated a buzz in the media.

This helped raise the excitement around The Sixth Sense again. In its fourth week, it grossed $38.15 million in North America. With no heavyweight blockbusters released that week, The Sixth Sense maintained its position as the box office champion for four consecutive weeks, totaling a box office of $248 million.

Disney's comedy film, Grumpier Old Men, ranked second, earning $23.2 million in its opening week. Third place went to Whitney Houston's musical film, Waiting to Exhale, which had an opening week total of $14.12 million.

Cutthroat Island ranked sixth, bringing in $3.17 million. According to statistics from the cinemas, after Link praised the film, its box office grew by over a million in just two days.

Total Film magazine stated that Link's influence was comparable to that of a major newspaper with over 200,000 copies sold.

---

"Link, your influence is so great that when Hachi: A Dog's Tale opens next year, you have to help promote it."

In Michelle Pfeiffer's living room, Jodie Foster sat cross-legged on the couch, flipping through newspapers while dressed in a knit sweater and black casual pants, her short hair resting on her shoulders giving her an androgynous look.

"Of course, I'm also part of the Hachi: A Dog's Tale crew. Promoting the film is my responsibility."

"Then how much do you think our film will make?"

"It's hard to predict without it having premiered, but you don't need to worry. The film is of very good quality; many cried during the preview screenings, indicating that the story is very touching; so it will undoubtedly perform well."

Link crossed his legs, relaxing while reassuring her.

"This is what you said. If the movie flops, don't put the blame on me."

Jodie Foster pointed at him with a smile.

"Of course not. I'm not that kind of person."

"Are you really not?"

Jodie gave him an amused glance toward the kitchen and quickly leaned closer to him as if they were friends, putting an arm on his shoulder. "Come on! When did you get Diane? You're quite the flirt -- loving every other girl you meet seems a bit much."

"We've spent a few months together; our feelings have developed naturally. It's definitely not just flirting."

Link laughed.

"Do you think I'd believe that? You've had dozens of girlfriends; how can you talk about love?"

Jodie lifted her nose in disdain.

"Some people have smaller appetites, content with just a bowl of cereal for a meal, while others have larger appetites and need five pounds of meat and bread. You can't discriminate against those who require more to appreciate food."

"What does that even mean?"

"I'm just saying I'm one of those who needs five pounds of meat at a meal; otherwise, I'll be hungry. If you force me to only have a small piece of bread, that would be torturing my body."

Link chuckled lightly.

Jodie Foster blinked, "You mean you have to have a lot of women every time, otherwise you will starve to death, no, die of unsatisfied desire?"

"Pretty much!"

"I don't believe you. You're just finding excuses for your womanizing."

Jodie huffed, crossing her arms.

...

"What are you two chatting about?"

Michelle Pfeiffer and Diane Lane entered, holding fried chicken, barbecued meat, and beer.

"We're discussing your business. Diane, you know Link is a womanizer. How can you still spend time with him? I remember you used to hate fickle men -- what happened?"

Jodie draped an arm around Diane's slender waist, glaring mischievously at Link.

"Because Link isn't a womanizer; he's a good man. I've fallen in love with him, so what's wrong with that?"

Diane Lane, with flowing gold hair in a lacy black dress, showcased her tall figure and homey qualities.

"A good man?! Diane, have you been kidnapped or threatened? If that's the case, just tell me, and I can rescue you."

Jodie held Diane tightly and gave a knowing glare to Link.

Link ignored her threats, taking a sip of the beer that Michelle handed him.

Diane chuckled, "No, while filming The Sixth Sense, I developed an admiration for Link. He's very talented and extremely handsome. The more I got to know him, the more attracted I was; after we became intimate, my feelings deepened. If I had to leave Link now, I would feel like a fish out of water."

Diane nestled in Link's arms, gazing at him with adoring eyes.

Link smiled, leaning down to kiss this enchanting woman.

Jodie Foster helplessly watched them with a look of confusion.

Since Michelle and Diane began dating Link, she thought their intention was to curry favor with him for resources, seeking protection. But she gradually realized it wasn't so.

Michelle was a top-tier actress, one of the few capable of carrying a large female-led film's box office. She was not short of resources or funding and didn't need to compromise to befriend Link.

Moreover, they had been together since '93 and never split up. Throughout, Michelle hadn't sought other men and remained devoted to Link, expressing deep affection. Every gathering would often lead her to talk about Link as if he were her prized treasure.

It definitely didn't seem like a relationship forged for "benefit".

Diane Lane's situation was the same.

After becoming Link's lover, she mirrored Michelle, acting like a love-struck teenager even at nearly thirty, lost in love.

These circumstances perplexed Jodie Foster.

While Link had youth, charm, talent, and wealth with excellent character attributes, he was also quite the flirt; having many girlfriends must be a significant flaw for women seeking independence.

Yet Michelle and Diane didn't seem to mind. Why was that?

"What are you looking at? Do you want to kiss Link too? I can help you with that."

Michelle Pfeiffer joked.

Jodie Foster rolled her eyes, grabbed a beer from the table, and downed several gulps, throwing her arm around Michelle. "Come clean. Why are you both so smitten with Link? Did he put you under a spell?"

"Yes, we've all taken Link's spell, and we can't help but adore him."

Michelle laughed.

"Don't play around! I'm serious. You and Diane weren't obsessed before. Now you are completely."

Jodie playfully grabbed her waist and felt its surprising softness, making her a bit envious.

"I'm not lying, but it isn't because Link cast anything on us; we willingly wanted his spell."

Michelle smirked, leaning close to Jodie and whispering, "If you want to know why, just stay tonight. When we're asleep, you can peek in through the door, and maybe you'll discover the answer."

"Peeking?"

Jodie gasped, looking at her in disbelief. "You want me to spy on you two doing that? Is your taste that wild now?"

"Whatever you like, I'll leave the door open for you tonight; watching is optional."

Michelle shrugged with a knowing smile, adding a flirty edge to her otherwise stunning face.

Jodie Foster disapproved of her attitude, setting the beer down and jumping on Michelle, playfully wrestling her.

The two rolled about on the carpet, laughing.

Link released the now relaxed Diane from his arms, savored some delicious barbecue, drank cool beer, and watched the two beautiful ladies play.

The scenery was simply splendid.

...

After lunch, Link played Street Fighter 2 with the three women in the living room, controlling characters as they had a blast.

Around seven o'clock, Diane stretched and leaned against him, hinting it was time for bed. Link, losing interest in the current video game, put down the controller, picked up Diane, and carried her into the bathroom.

Soon, odd sounds began echoing from the bathroom.

Jodie, holding the controller, felt a flush creeping across her cheeks.

Initially, she had been pretty indifferent about such things; even watching adult films rarely affected her.

But the noise from next door was so outrageous that, based on the sounds, she could almost visualize the scene unfolding.

"Sweetie, I'm going to sleep now. Goodnight!"

After finishing a game, Michelle Pfeiffer placed a quick kiss on Jodie's cheek before sprinting out of the living room barefoot.

"Is it necessary to be that anxious?"

Jodie rolled her eyes, continuing to play the game.

However, the noise outside the living room was too loud. She could clear a level in one breath before, but now she couldn't even last a minute.

Her palms grew sweatier, and her mental imagery became increasingly chaotic.

What frustrated her more was that after enduring over ten minutes, it still hadn't quieted down.

In anger, Jodie tossed the controller down, slipped on her slippers, and returned to her bedroom to listen to music and read magazines. After half an hour, she took off her headphones, intending to step outside for some fresh air, only to find the commotion hadn't stopped. It had simply moved from the bathroom to the bedroom.

"It must be an act."

Jodie scoffed quietly as she pushed ajar the door that had been left cracked open.

*****

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