Sweet Subterfuge

There was a little episode in the process of acquiring the rights to “Migration to Mars.”
When Cosmic Entertainment bought the IP, Pluto was still an unknown author. No one was willing to buy the copyrights to his
novels, even when the publisher bundled his novels together at a low price.
At that time, the person in charge of Cosmic Entertainment’s film production department had a personal relationship with Pluto’s
editor, so they purchased the rights to this particular book out of goodwill
Two years ago, Pluto’s new book, “Wormhole,” won an international award, which brought his works into the spotlight
The copyright of “Wormhole” was bought by VisualBox, a streaming platform under Microworks Corporation, They engaged a
foreign team overseas who took two whole years to produce a sci-fi film of exceptional quality. The film achieved tremendous
success due to raving reviews, despite being released in an unpopular time slot. It eventually grossed over four billion dollars at
the box office, breaking the record for Caldor’s highest-grossing film in history:
Following the success of “Wormhole. Pluto’s other works were quickly snapped up by other im production companies, including
the one that he was currently writing. These novels were adapted to film and went into production one after another, except for
“Migration to Mars,”
Cosmic Entertainment was strapped for cash, but they were also unwing to let go of this potential goldmine to other companies.
Xavier’s smile vanished instantly and he replied sternly, I’m sorry, but that is not for sale”
Frank quickly explained, “Mr. Seymour. I think you’ve misunderstood. Im not buying the copyright of Migration to Mars, but I am
interested in collaborating to produce the film, 111 provide the funding, anduce the film.”
That was exactly what Xavier wanted.
“I see. That we can discuss.” Xavier answered with an air of arrogance, as he felt he was gradually gaining the upper hand in the
negotiation.
Suppressing the urge to kick Xavier out of the room, Frank remarked casually. “However
Xavier was startled by the sudden turn of the tables. Narrowing his eyes, he said, “What is q
“Although we are keen to produce Migration to Mars, a successful film needs more than just a good script. I hope that you can
assemble a production crew worthy of my investment Frank said.

Hearing that Frank wasn’t going to pull out of the collaboration, Xavier breathed a sigh of relief.
“To be honest, already have a perfect team in mind. However, I’m hesitant to approach them due to insufficient funding,” he
replied.
Frank assured him confidently. “You don’t have to wo
worry about the funding. At this moment, I have approval for a budget of fifty million dollars. The costs for post-production are not
included as well. Besides, our company has the latest technology in the production of visual effects. We’ll take care of the post-
production editing. So you wouldn’t have to spend any money on that.”
However, Xavier still let that the budget was not enough. “Fifty million dollars would only be enough for the director and actors
remuneration. For a film like this, two hundred million dollars should be the starting point.”
His audacious demand startled Frank. Since the money wasn’t his, he didn’t know how to respond to Xavier’s request
Lewis suggested. “Ask him to finalize the crew and submit to you a detailed budget. Then, you will negotiate with the compar the
budget that he provided.”
Frank repeated his words verbatim.
“Alright.” This was Xavier’s last strand of hope, so he could only agree. Eagerly, he asked, “When will we sign the contract?”
based on Frank answered composedly, “Once the project takes shape. As I said before. I am here to make money. If you want
my investment, I need to see the potential for profit.”
Xavier was displeased with Frank’s answer, but he couldn’t show it nonetheless.
the last this opportunity, he didn’t know whether he would be able to turn things around for the company.