Chapter 133: All Funding and Distribution Issues Can Be Resolved

[Chapter 133: All Funding and Distribution Issues Can Be Resolved]

"Is this on your own?" Charlie grabbed the main point and asked straight out.

"Exactly!" Bobby Shriver seemed to truly regard Charlie as a good friend, sincerely sharing his troubles and aspirations.

He recounted that after graduating from Yale Law School, he had only served as a clerk for a year at the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. During this process, as the eldest of five children, he received more attention. Whether it was pressure or something else, his first job after graduation did not turn out as successful as he had imagined.

"Later, I decided to become a businessman. Together with my father and some friends, we invested in the Baltimore Orioles. We established the RRS company and worked in music, film, and charity. Fortunately, Arnold became a top star, and he gave me some help. Then I was able to invest in True Lies."

Bobby smiled wryly: "The finances of Hollywood film companies are incredibly complex. You have to understand, I'm a pretty decent lawyer, but even I couldn't handle contracts that truly tried to swindle me. Now, my family's old friends' kids have become real big bosses in the film industry.

So, Charlie, let's collaborate. I can offer you help in many areas, and your skills in the entertainment business can bring me a real career!

As the eldest of five, I have to set a good example for my siblings. Among us five, Mark and Maria are actually the most talented. Mark just graduated and is already a Maryland state representative. I really don't want to be teased every family gathering."

Bobby chuckled, occasionally loosening his shoulders and raising his eyebrows. These little gestures, combined with half-joking complaints and heartfelt sharing, quickly made it seem as if the two had known each other for a long time.

But Charlie remained unmoved and said, "You've talked enough; now show me the real chips."

He roughly understood that this contact was probably Bobby's personal initiative. If the Irish family patriarch had made a decision, there would have been no beating around the bush. They would have immediately taken shares in Pillow Health Trust, installed people into Corleone Holdings, and released massive resources to directly boost Corleone's assets.

That would have made Charlie one of the mid-to-upper echelon members with actual control in their group!

Given Charlie's current achievements and age, unless he was the Irish family patriarch's own son, he wouldn't get such attention.

Bobby's purpose was much simpler; with his own limitations, he hoped to find like-minded partners to develop with.

This was a great opportunity, but Charlie was cautious. He needed to know how much benefit Bobby could bring him. Not just anyone could help Corleone Entertainment Group nowadays!

Seeing Charlie not jump at the chance, Bobby felt a little puzzled. Then, after some thought, he realized: 'My mistake. Judging by how this young man rose so quickly, he is like a man in his thirties or forties. As a marginal member of a not-so-prominent family, he wouldn't think too highly of me.'

Bobby shook his head with a light laugh and then got to the point: "Charlie, I can temporarily provide your Pillow Health partnership company with $30 million in funding over three years. You can use it on any project, and I can sell the revenue contracts through financial instruments. You just need to ensure it breaks even."

Charlie's face remained unchanged, and he smiled calmly. "Oh, thank you!"

In truth, it was a $30 million interest-free loan over three years! Bobby intended to use his own channels to earn interest and returns through other means.

"Although your Corleone Studios has only distributed two films, the results have been excellent. I can help expand your Mafia Distribution Company's video cassette channels. Blockbuster, Family Video, Giant Video, and other North American retailers -- I can connect with them.

As a lawyer, I can help you secure favorable distribution agreements.

Not just that, Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Hasbro -- I can also help with connections. Soon, your film company's North American distribution capabilities will be second only to the big six!"

"That sounds fantastic!" Charlie smiled warmly.

These were things Corleone could do on their own -- retailers wouldn't refuse distribution contracts from Corleone Entertainment. But doing it themselves meant uncertain terms and a lot of time.

Buying other distribution companies would be easier, though similar companies cost tens of millions.

Charlie realized he needed to show some goodwill. After thinking for a moment, he smiled: "If that's the case, Bobby, you have to invest some money and become a shareholder of Corleone Holdings!"

Bobby showed a bright smile, clearly knowing that Corleone Holdings was more important to Charlie than the somewhat superficial Corleone Studios.

Their initial contact was very good; both put forward genuine chips to cooperate.

After that, they didn't discuss specific details but chatted casually about entertainment industry gossip.

With mutual interest, the conversation grew more engaging. Although there was a gap in ability, they were both seasoned in handling social affairs.

Charlie felt very happy about this meeting; Bobby's appearance sparked more ideas and thoughts.

Before parting, Charlie seriously put his arm around Bobby's shoulder: "Buddy, I'm really glad to meet you. We have to find time to talk in detail. How about next Wednesday at my place? I'm throwing a party. I'll invite the Corola Foundation, the Trumm family trust, and Frank Giustra. I'm considering inviting you all to invest and become shareholders in Corleone Entertainment Group.

Besides that, Bobby, I have a sincere proposal for you personally!"

This little guy's network wasn't as weak as imagined. In a short time, using limited chips, he created such a business -- truly impressive!

Bobby was curious and asked, "What is it?"

"Are you interested in joining Mr. Kerry's team? He plans to run for the state senate speaker next year, which could make him California's lieutenant governor. You know my heritage -- my grandfather still has connections in California. If we join forces, there might be potential collaborations."

Bobby was stunned for a moment but quickly recalled the current top boss in California. He marveled at Charlie's expansive thinking and bold ideas.

Bobby's own family had deep influence in legislative bodies.

But due to the mistakes during his clerkship, unless he returned to Maryland, it would be hard to continue a career in public office. But Maryland fully supported his brother Mark.

Now a new opportunity was before him. If he could accomplish something, regaining family resources wouldn't be a pipe dream!

Bobby showed a big smile and shook Charlie's hand: "My friend, that sounds great. I wish I had met you earlier so I'd know old family friends are always trustworthy! Charlie, you're very young; are you interested in earning a bachelor's degree? I can recommend Yale University for you, and you could join the Scroll and Key club."

*****

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