Chapter 231: Strict Defense
[Chapter 231: Strict Defense]
Jackie Chan arranged a lunch banquet at the Fortune Hotel in downtown Hong Kong, not far from the Peninsula Hotel.
Although Raymond Chow had reminded Jackie that two beauties were already accompanying Linton, Jackie still brought along Maggie Cheung, who quietly appeared at his side.
As soon as Vivian Chow and Michelle Reis saw Maggie, they exchanged glances and immediately raised their guard. They silently agreed to stay on high alert — absolutely determined to prevent this from turning into a foursome.
The moment Linton entered the private room, the two women clung tightly to his sides, fully committed to blocking Maggie Cheung from getting anywhere near him.
Jackie Chan, ever the showman and generous host, ordered all of the hotel's best dishes and had several bottles of Rémy Martin opened.
Grateful for Linton's plans to promote his films in North America, Jackie picked up a large wine glass, filled it generously, and walked over to Linton.
"Director Linton, thank you for your support. If you ever need my help, just say the word — I'll give it my all."
...
By the end of the banquet, as Jackie Chan accompanied Linton out to his car, he passed along a message:
Jet Li wanted to host Linton for dinner that evening.
Like Jackie, Jet Li was thrilled about an American studio taking the initiative to promote his films in the U.S.
Ever since founding East Asia Film Company in 1992, Jet Li had gained control over the copyrights to all his newer movies.
Linton's visit — and his interest in acquiring North American rights — directly benefited East Asia Film financially. A dinner invitation in gratitude was only natural.
But why hadn't Jet Li come in person? Why did Jackie pass the invitation along so quietly?
The answer lay in the feud between Golden Harvest and Jet Li.
Back in 1990, Jet Li had signed a contract with Golden Harvest. However, due to their poor scheduling, he couldn't complete the required four films within two years.
When the contract expired in April 1992, Golden Harvest refused to pay Jet Li his 6 million yuan salary.
At this critical moment, Cai Ziming, a Chinese-Dutch businessman with underground ties, stepped in as Jet's agent. He not only helped recover the money but also arranged the filming of New Dragon Gate Inn, helping Jet break free from Golden Harvest.
But shortly after, Cai Ziming was mysteriously shot dead in the street.
Jet Li fled Hong Kong overnight, spent half a year in Beijing, and eventually returned. He then co-founded East Asia Film Company with Yuen Kwai and hired nine bodyguards for long-term protection.
The whole affair exposed just how deeply intertwined the Hong Kong entertainment world was with the criminal underworld.
Because of this history, Jet Li could never publicly appear alongside Raymond Chow. However, he and Jackie Chan maintained a good personal friendship. So Jet Li had asked Jackie to deliver the message discreetly and promised to call Linton directly.
...
Sure enough, once Linton returned to the Peninsula Hotel, he received a call from Jet Li.
To avoid any paparazzi trouble, Linton suggested they have dinner at the hotel itself and also mentioned he was already accompanied by two ladies.
That afternoon, Klinsmann remained busy negotiating the film copyright pricing with Golden Harvest's representatives.
Meanwhile, Linton stayed at the hotel... indulging in games with Michelle Reis and Vivian Chow.
To his surprise, by the next morning, both women seemed completely transformed.
Not only did they sing louder, but their movements, expressions, and styles became far more daring and varied.
They even began staging little costume and prop performances for him...
What a wonderful game...
*****
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