Chapter 91: Teasing Rachel in Front of the Universal CEO

[Chapter 91: Teasing Rachel in Front of the Universal CEO]

Was this really appropriate?

Wouldn't it be rude? At least on the surface, people should be polite to each other, right?

Vera looked like a puppet being pulled forward by Charlie. Inside, she was struggling with complicated emotions. Her brown hair fluttered in the wind, and she felt disheveled.

A young girl was no match for Charlie. Being around such a seasoned veteran always put her at a severe disadvantage.

Before Vera could react, when she looked up again, she saw the British actress Rachel standing in front of her with a puzzled look.

"Uh, hi Rachel," Vera forced a smile and waved awkwardly.

Rachel, who knew more about Charlie's sometimes manic personality, nodded at Vera and then looked at Charlie with a questioning gaze.

This young British actress seemed very composed but was a bit anxious inside.

'Damn it, what does this bastard want? He's staring at me like he's about to devour me.'

Two seconds later, Charlie suddenly switched to a warm smile and politely reached out to greet a meticulously dressed middle-aged man in a suit standing next to Rachel. "Hey, hello, Mr. Ronald Meyer, nice to meet you."

Ronald glanced at Charlie thoughtfully and said with an oddly peculiar smile, "Hello, Charlie Corleone. I've heard about you."

Charlie was very polite, nodding lightly, "It's an honor, Mr. Meyer. As a newcomer to the industry, opportunities to meet the Universal Studios CEO are rare."

After a brief pause, Charlie shamelessly began talking about the latest developments at Corleone Entertainment, without caring whether anyone wanted to listen or not.

He briefly described several projects in development, highlighting the film The Stockbroker starring Will Smith.

He also showed off Corleone Entertainment's recent partnership with Pillow Health Partners, indicating that Corleone Entertainment was thriving with plenty of funding.

Ronald Meyer started his career in the 1960s as an agent for Paul Koner and joined William Morris in the 1970s. Later, he co-founded the famous CAA with Michael Ovitz and others.

He was the most successful among former agents turned film executives at CAA.

Whether by background or experience, he was skilled at dealing with people and had seen all kinds of slick characters.

Yet, Charlie's shamelessness still made him somewhat amused and bewildered.

Initially listening half-heartedly, he gradually became surprised. "Sounds like things are going well! You seem very capable. At 19, you've already achieved a lot; that's something to be proud of."

After a casual compliment, Ronald teased, "But why are you telling me all this? I'm not really focused on ordinary independent production companies."

Meyer seemed intrigued by Charlie and wanted to see how this young man would handle a little embarrassment.

Charlie did not disappoint. He showed no embarrassment but smiled even more. "Corleone Entertainment is focused on growth. Some of our films have global distribution agreements with Fox. However, my Mafia non-theatrical distribution channels in North America aren't perfect yet. So, we're seeking more partnerships."

Meyer shrugged noncommittally and joked, "Looking to collaborate with Universal? I have to say, you're brave. Aren't you worried about upsetting Eisner and McCarthy?"

Clearly, the Universal CEO was well aware of some inside stories about Corleone Entertainment.

Charlie shook his head, casually leaving a chess piece on the board. "Corleone Entertainment has independent decision-making power.

I heard Universal is developing a new version of the 1932 The Mummy, transforming it into an adventure action movie?

That's a great idea. Spielberg and Lucas's Raiders of the Lost Ark opened a new market.

Corleone Entertainment is also working on Lord of the Rings. We haven't had such experience before and hope to get learn from you."

Ronald's mouth twitched slightly. How did this kid have the nerve to say all that?

He's got some nerve. A startup film company owner, how could he dare ask the Universal CEO for advice?

Besides, Meyer himself was originally an agent and never produced blockbusters like those.

Charlie continued, "For adventure films like The Mummy, we should inherit the strengths of Raiders of the Lost Ark -- like the adventurous plot and character design. But importantly, use new film technology for special effects. Pure adventure and puzzles might feel outdated.

The real attraction for audiences should be the mummy element. The famous Egyptian pyramids' civilization is mysterious and fascinating.

Setting interesting mummy characters could bring a novel experience to the audience!"

Meyer furrowed his brows, thinking for a moment, then nodded slowly. "Your suggestion is interesting."

Suddenly his expression stiffened, followed by a dry cough.

Turns out, you want to advise me?

But I have to admit this kid's ideas are quite clever. He has a unique commercial perspective on filmmaking!

With that thought, Meyer nodded with some approval. "I think you could be an excellent film producer. I'm looking forward to your Lord of the Rings project."

He only expressed goodwill but made no promises.

Charlie didn't mind and didn't plan to push further. He casually tossed a few compliments back.

Chatting with Meyer was just a way for people in the industry to know him better.

Additionally...

Charlie then smiled and glanced at Rachel. "Mr. Meyer, are you planning to cast her as the lead in The Mummy? She's my ex-girlfriend, a great actress! You brought her here today to accompany some investors?"

Everyone's faces changed abruptly at this.

Vera had just been quietly complaining that her boyfriend promised to back her up but was now fully focused on talking with the Universal exec. Now it seemed the conversation was back on track. But was such blunt talk not offending someone?

Rachel was shocked and angry, cautiously looking at Meyer, then glaring fiercely at Charlie -- what a madman!

As she hesitated whether to reprimand Charlie, Ronald came back to his senses.

After all, as Universal Studios' CEO, his self-control was impressive.

Though Charlie's alternating modesty and insanity were a bit shocking, he quickly calmed down.

His face darkened, eyes rolled, and squinting, he said in a low voice, "What do you think?"

Probably unsure of Charlie's true personality, Meyer feared this young guy might lose it over a relationship issue.

If that happened here, it would be a huge embarrassment.

So Meyer impatiently added, "Rachel Weisz's team is using the backlash from Fifty Shades of Gray's poor reviews to recast her as an independent woman. She's here today to cheer for some people."

*****

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