Chapter 355: Chapter 79: Following Disney’s Path Chapter 355: Chapter 79: Following Disney’s Path If Catherine Zeta-Jones had to make a choice again, she might still hesitate, but the outcome wouldn’t change, even though what Adrian said back then really made her angry.

“What does he take me for? A prostitute?!” Even now, when she thought of it, Zeta-Jones still felt dissatisfied, but it was undeniable that Adrian had effortlessly stirred her heartstrings and left an indelible impression on her.

Four North American box office hits, a $10 million film salary status, and an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress–many well-known actors have spent decades in the entertainment industry without achieving this much! It’s not just about a cameo appearance, and though Adrian didn’t say it outright, Zeta-Jones knew this was about being the absolute leading lady in a billion-dollar North American box office hit, a distinction few movie stars from outside the United States had attained, especially with salaries over $10 million.

Such terms would be irresistible to anyone, let alone the ambitious Zeta-Jones. Even if she was somewhat disgruntled by Adrian’s forthrightness, what did that matter? To reach her goals, she had to pay a price, and, from a certain perspective, this also showed his determination to have her.

At that thought, Zeta-Jones couldn’t help but chuckle to herself. By the late ’80s, she had become famous in the United Kingdom through television dramas and was also a fairly well-known actress in Europe. Naturally, she knew the rules within this circle quite well, particularly in mainland Europe, where the level of chaos sometimes astonished her. Therefore, she had a sharp eye, always able to seize the best opportunity among countless others.

Zeta-Jones still remembered the time when that American producer proposed to her, promising to take her to Hollywood–though she had forgotten his name–she didn’t ponder long before rejecting him. She didn’t believe he could bring her much benefit and didn’t want to be tied down by marriage too soon, nor did she doubt her ability to make it in Hollywood.

Of course, reality quickly taught Zeta-Jones a lesson. In her first half-year in Hollywood, aside from playing a role in an indie production, she auditioned for countless parts and didn’t land a single one. It’s said British actors have an easier time in Hollywood than other European actors, but why didn’t that seem to apply to her?

But now, Zeta-Jones was somewhat grateful for that period of hardship. When she first met Adrian at Cindy Crawford’s party, she had heard of the Miracle Director’s fame but didn’t know much about him. Having only just arrived in Hollywood, she had intended to make his acquaintance, but after he was pulled away by Cindy, she gave up on the idea.

Then, after hitting wall after wall and getting a detailed understanding of Adrian–particularly regarding the stories about his romantic exploits that circulated within the industry–Zeta-Jones made her decision. This led to the scene at the “Mission: Impossible” premiere party and the passionate encounter in the car that followed.

It proved to be well worth it. Without mentioning the enticing terms Adrian had offered, just five days later, the outlines of the script were in her hands, and four days after that, she received part of the screenplay–efficiency that would likely be unattainable for others, especially given his reputation.

Had anyone else made such promises, Zeta-Jones would’ve considered it mere boasting, but even though Adrian had only been in the entertainment industry for a few years, with less experience than most, his achievements were undeniable. He also had his own media company, and there weren’t many people with both power and talent like his.

Besides, he understood women very well and was quite formidable. Though he had been somewhat domineering and irresistible that night, the subsequent dates had been considerate and gentle. Even in the cramped space of the car, she had experienced unprecedented satisfaction. More importantly, Zeta-Jones was certain that he was still smitten with her–the things that happened in bed couldn’t be easily concealed, and even if not particularly obvious, they were definitely there.

With an even brighter smile, the stunning woman at the wheel exuded confidence in her figure, appearance, and… methods. Even if Adrian had many women, who was to say she wouldn’t have the last laugh? Of course, she wasn’t naive enough to think Adrian would be easy to deceive, but even a failure would be fine as long as he delivered on his promises. With Adrian’s reputation, she believed he wouldn’t go back on his word.

Lowering the car window, the breeze rushed in, blowing her dark hair wildly. Gazing at the road ahead, Zeta-Jones said softly, “Just don’t disappoint me, Ed, and I won’t disappoint you either.”

However, Adrian knew her far better than she knew him.

“Tell them they’ve done well, and they don’t need to come asking me about the rest for now. Also, notify John that I’ll be at Pixar by tomorrow at the latest,” Adrian spoke as he signed documents without looking up.

“What about this?” Charlize pointed to a few sheets of paper on the desk.

Adrian finally lifted his head and then looked at his secretary with a meaningful smile. It was the unfinished script he had shown to Zetajones. Clearly, Charlize was asking on purpose.

“Give it to the editing team, and have them polish the script as soon as possible, so I can start making preparations,” Adrian leaned back, clasped his hands behind his head, and smiled as his gaze roamed over the woman’s graceful figure.

“I got it.” Charlize, obviously aware she was somewhat emotional, spoke in a flat tone, gathering the signed papers and half-finished script to leave.

“Speaking of which, I’ve finally found a woman who looks just as good in that outfit as you do,” Adrian suddenly said.

Charlize shot him a fierce glance immediately, “I know I arrived a bit early, so remember to notify me if there’s a next time.”

“Hey, I didn’t say anything; I was just making an observation,” Adrian replied with a shrug, feigning innocence.

“Don’t try to goad me, Ed. I definitely won’t let you have your way,” Charlize quickly regained her composure, her chin slightly raised as she looked at him, “I believe there’s nothing left for me to do here.”

“Alright, alright,” Adrian sighed, gesturing her out, though internally he was quite pleased.

In the past, after such remarks, Charlize would have left at once, but now she stood firmly in place, waiting for him to speak before leaving. Such subtle changes revealed how her regard for him had altered.

In formal situations like cocktail parties, the office, or meeting someone outside for business, Charlize was always dressed very professionally–an office lady (OL) look–except on set, particularly on location where it was necessary to move around, allowing for more casual attire. Although the OL dress code varied little aside from colors and styles, it somehow just seemed right on her. A natural model combined with over two years on the job, her manner had grown commanding and sexy. It was no wonder Adrian often thought about a passionate encounter with her in the office.

In fact, if Adrian really wanted to, Charlize wouldn’t refuse. Since that day, he had made further advances; while talking business and getting handsy with her, he was now able to slide inside her skirt. If he chose the right moment to catch her off guard and fondle her sensitive spots, she couldn’t resist.

But Adrian didn’t want it that way. He preferred to see Charlize come onto him willingly, for many reasons, the most important being that their relationship was somewhat special. She shared characteristics with other women–being acquainted early like Kate, cared for at a critical moment like Sarah, or staying for the sake of benefits like Monica–yet when combined, these traits made for a unique dynamic.

Adrian had often said that he didn’t keep much from Charlize. She was quite aware of various aspects of the company, such as thoughts on acquisitions, forward-thinking strategies, considerations for movie scripts, stories, and novels needing adaptation rights, and even about the women in his life–including Kirsten.

Charlize had everything arranged in an orderly fashion, she was smart, and her abilities were quite remarkable. Although there were a few mistakes in the beginning due to lack of experience, she mastered it quickly through learning.

“I really can’t imagine what my life would be like without you,” Adrian often said this jokingly, as if he were flirting, but that was indeed the case.

Take his women, for instance. Even though Adrian was fully aware of how to properly arrange and handle things, without Charlize’s help, he would inevitably be all thumbs. Their relationship was very delicate; despite Charlize’s frequent cold sarcasm and seeming indifference, they were actually closely connected.

Therefore, he would rather put in extra effort than ruin this delicate yet attractive relationship. Besides, Zetajones in OL attire wasn’t less sexy than Charlize. Of course, Adrian preferred to see her in another kind of uniform.

Every person is different. Charlize is unique, but weren’t Kate, Sally, Monica, and Julia each special too? It’s their differences that make them attractive, right? Just like Zetajones, to some extent, would do anything for an opportunity, just like Monica. But, undoubtedly, Monica had much higher standards than Zetajones.

In terms of personal conduct and behavior, Zetajones appeared much more ambitious. Even after a car tryst, Adrian had only met with her three more times–of course, this was also because he had made it clear from the start, she didn’t need to pretend around him. Had it been anyone else, she would have acted completely differently.

He found this kind of ambitious and unpretentious woman not bad at all. That’s what Adrian thought to himself. This was not to say that the other women would pretend, but they would always instinctively avoid certain topics. Unavoidably, even Gwyneth, during their time together, had developed quite a lot of feelings and naturally shied away from certain things.

Whereas Zetajones represented a blatant transaction of interests. In that regard, she was similar to Drew and Cindy, but the difference was, Adrian wanted to add her to his collection. The meaning of collecting was to continuously add coveted things into one’s inventory. Those wealthy people who cherished master paintings or antiques didn’t stop collecting, and they collected items of quality. Besides the best and most worthy of collecting, one or a few, they still needed the lesser ones for contrast, which added to the sense of achievement when they were enjoyed.

As long as he maintained a good measure, remembering that too much is as bad as too little. As for certain things, he believed Zetajones wouldn’t be so foolish not to honor a transaction, for the consequences of a breach were severe, especially since it was very simple for Adrian to fulfill his promises.

There were plenty of films in North America with a box office of over a hundred million, like “The Mask of Zorro” he had prepared for her. Bandaras was already under his agency, and Hopkins had a good relationship with him. Plus, it was this very film that had brought recognition to Zetajones, so why not take it into his own hands? After all, it was a matter of acquiring the rights.

Although he remembered that the movie hadn’t made a billion in North America, it was only a little short, and with the promotional tools at his disposal, bridging that gap wasn’t impossible. Moreover, in the 21st century, films with over a hundred million in box office in North America were commonplace–it was the advantage of knowing the future.

And a 10 million dollar paycheck and status were easy to achieve. Anyone who had played the lead actress in four films with a North American box office of over a hundred million would definitely earn no less than 10 million dollars, so the hardest part was still the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.

Best Supporting Actress was indeed easier to get than Best Actress, but that’s relative. If Kirsten hadn’t given an outstanding performance in “Interview with the Vampire,” Adrian wouldn’t have been able to get her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress, no matter what.

Moreover, there were many other factors that could affect award success, such as luck or context. The value orientation differs subtly from one time period to another, and if “Chicago” were moved to the present, there was a 60% chance it would receive the opposite appraisal.

However, it’s fine, since Adrian hadn’t promised to fulfill it immediately. Postponing it a few years was quite normal; that was his little backup. Besides, he now had a better idea.

Alright, let’s set these aside for now and get back to the hottest topic of this summer.

“Let’s hear it, gentlemen, your new plans,” Adrian said, still seated beside Ed Catmull to show his respect, “Securing a win with the first step is crucial, and if we can succeed in the second step, Pixar’s status will truly be established. I hope everyone understands this.”

After a pause, he added, “Of course, success isn’t about high box office numbers, the key is whether Pixar’s style is established and, once it is, whether it can maintain a certain reputation.”

Having finished, he made a gesture of invitation, prompting Catmull to take over, “So, let’s hear everyone’s opinions.”

Not many people had come to the conference room, apart from John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, and a few newly promoted technical staff. The content of their discussion didn’t surprise Adrian. Given how immensely popular “Toy Story” was, making a sequel was a given; the question was who would be in charge. With abundant manpower and funds, they also needed to produce another animation, and someone had to take responsibility for that.

After Adrian had spoken, he casually watched the proceedings, having said that he would leave it all to Catmull, and except where necessary, he wouldn’t interfere. Besides, during their discussion, they frequently threw around technical jargon that Adrian, unlike Jobs, could hardly understand, so staying silent was the best course of action.

They argued vehemently, looking as though they might burst into a fight at any second, but there was no need for concern. This was just a facade, for no matter how fierce the debate got now, afterwards, they would all chuckle and joke about it, not taking it to heart. They were such a group, each with the heart of a big child, striving for their dreams, and that’s why creations like “Finding Nemo” and “Wall-E” could only emerge from their hands.

Adrian could understand their current state of mind; although they believed “Toy Story” to be excellent, the response it generated was beyond their expectations. Not to mention anything else, just the revenue from merchandise alone left the studio folks agape with astonishment, something Claude had marveled at over the phone more than once.

“If they produce a few more animations, maybe we won’t have to consider financing,” was what Claude had said, indicating the magnitude of the income that could be expected.

“Very well, then I have a suggestion,” Adrian threw out the plan he had been pondering, “I had Charli fax the information to you; I believe you’ll be interested–at least you should be by now.”

It wasn’t an especially novel idea; he simply wanted to follow Disney’s path, building a strong stance in the animation field and then developing based on a vast, excellent merchandise foundation. Hence, Pixar wouldn’t be the only animation studio under his umbrella, and such foresight made it entirely possible for him to achieve this goal.

Back in the Pixar conference room, unprecedented profits led to an unprecedented increase in investments in animated movies, so naturally, several individuals vied energetically for the production rights. They were used to an informal atmosphere, and thankfully Catmull’s exceptional control always managed to bring back any off-topic discussions in time.

“I have no objections. I trust you all. Since you have already created one miracle, you can surely create another, right?” Adrian summarized after the debate ended and he was called upon to speak.

The second animation had not been decided on yet, and several concepts were discussed during the meeting, including the early form of what Adrian knew to be “A Bug’s Life.” He wanted to speak up as a reminder, but after giving it some thought, he decided to let them make their own decision. Even if they changed the subject from what he remembered, he trusted that their talents would ensure a great outcome.

“However, I do have one more thing to say,” Adrian continued, not interfering with the studio’s business did not mean he wouldn’t strengthen his own influence, “I hope that the animations we produce can maintain a theme: suitable for all ages, laughter mixed with tears.”

After a moment of silence, the conference room erupted into enthusiastic applause. (To be continued. If you like this work, you are welcome to vote for it on wuxiaworld.site. Your support is my greatest motivation.)