King of Hollywood

Chapter 312: 39 chapters 2 choose 1 Chapter 312: 39 chapters 2 choose 1 “I completely understand how you feel, Ed, John,” Adrian began, gesturing with sincere eyes toward Kammer and Lasseter, “I’ve heard about Pixar’s ‘ugly duckling’ nickname in Silicon Valley. You indeed need a weighty film to prove yourselves, but now is not the best opportunity. Consider this—which would be more impressive: making an animation movie that receives praise from audiences or creating one that shocks the industry with its excellence?”

He made a gesture: “You should be aware that the Christmas season and the summer season are the two most important release windows for films. Even if you work overtime to complete the last bits of production, distribution and promotion will take weeks. I don’t need to emphasize the importance of promotion, but without an exceptional hook, there is almost no effect in less than four weeks. At most, you could catch the tail end of the ’94 Christmas to ’95 New Year schedule, which is disadvantageous for box office returns. I’m sure that’s not what you want to see. If we wait until next summer, we’ll have ample time for promotions and to prepare for various scenarios, such as contacting toy manufacturers…”

“Sorry, did you say toy manufacturers?” Lasseter couldn’t hold back, “Isn’t it a bit early to be thinking about that?”

“Not at all, John,” Adrian replied with a smile, his self-assurance evident. “‘Toy Story’ is an exceptional animation film, it will be very popular because my judgment has never missed.”

He dared to say this because, having seen the preview and comparing it to his memory, aside from some differences in montage techniques, everything else was nearly the same, and some parts even seemed more perfect after his suggestions. Unless all Americans collectively lost their minds, there’s no way ‘Toy Story’ wouldn’t cause a sensation.

“That’s… really exhilarating news,” Ed Kammer removed his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose. Beside him, except for Peter Docter who didn’t wear glasses, John Lasseter and Andrew Stanton made the same gesture, their faces expressing clear joy and excitement.

“Any other questions, gentlemen?” Adrian then asked.

There were no questions left. Adrian had made it clear that he had their best interests at heart. Coupled with his famously accurate foresight and his unwavering support over the past year, this group of Hollywood dreamers now looked to him as their leader.

“For now, you can relax. If you have time, why not make a few shorts? They can serve as practice for interesting little stories or can be commemorative tales based on the movie’s characters. Also, consider how you would want to make ‘Toy Story’s’ sequel. Trust me, this film will ensure no one underestimates Pixar again,” Adrian said to Kammer and Lasseter as he was leaving.

“Although you often have high hopes for many, it’s quite rare for you to have such confidence,” Charlize, who seldom spoke up in the car, suddenly made a comment, looking into Adrian’s grey-green eyes with an inquisitive gaze.

“Of course, they are outstanding. You’ve seen that animation; what do you think?” Adrian asked with a smile.

“Not bad, but…” Charlize shrugged her shoulders but was interrupted before she could finish.