Chapter 235: Film Duel Betting on the Future

"I have no intention of accusing Johnny Depp, but as everyone knows, he always plays some 'maverick' roles. Well, to put it bluntly, they are very strange roles, and he is also a recognized weirdo actor in Hollywood. He is very suitable for some specific films, but he definitely cannot carry the box office of a 140 million big production!"

"And inviting such a weirdo actor to play a pirate captain will turn a pirate-themed film into a disaster! Director Wu Yuchen is either blind or has paste in his brain. When *Pirates of the Caribbean* fails, he will have to bear all the blame!"

Reporters heard these words that ignited the war again, and couldn't help but be happy, recording them one after another, while publishing them in newspapers, they ran to interview the *Zhenzhugang* crew.

When these words reached Johnny Depp's ears, he immediately got angry. Depp is not Josh Hartnett, he won't be sprayed by others and still care about his public image and dare not fight back. Would Depp, who has always been rebellious and unrestrained, care about this?

He directly shouted in front of the media: "I don't know what this old guy is crazy about, but I will use my performance to prove that what he said is dog shit! He must apologize for his rudeness! *Pirates of the Caribbean* will succeed!"

Wu Yuchen is actually very happy in his heart, because now the war of words between the two sides has aroused the interest of the whole United States. According to the feedback from the publicity teams of DreamWorks and Universal, the attention and topic degree of *Pirates of the Caribbean* have obviously increased recently. Of course, *Zhenzhugang* is also the same.

After Wu Yuchen released his words, naturally some reporters ran to the *Zhenzhugang* crew for interviews, hoping to get their response. But this time the *Zhenzhugang* crew didn't make a sound immediately.

"Director Career VS Resignation!"

"Mom? Will *Pirates of the Caribbean* be as good as *The Mummy*?" A little boy asked his mother beside him.

Click click, the camera flashed, and the reporters happily recorded this moment.

"One film decides life and death, *Pirates of the Caribbean* attracts attention!"

"If it were *Pirates of the Caribbean 2*, I could now confidently tell you that the first weekend of 3 days could break 100 million at the box office!"

Katzenberg replied: "Thank you, Wu. I think *Pirates of the Caribbean*, which will be released this weekend, will also be able to achieve a beautiful result!"

Female lead, Keira Knightley VS Kate Beckinsale, undoubtedly, Kate wins in all aspects over this 16-year-old girl Keira.

In Harvey's vision, this year *Pirates of the Caribbean* will overturn first, be dried by *Zhenzhugang*, and then wait for next year's Oscars, he will personally snipe *A Beautiful Mind* out of the Oscar golden statue. Then, Wu Yuchen will suffer a double blow in commerce and awards, and won't be able to turn over for several years!

And at the same time, a detailed analysis and comparison article of *Pirates of the Caribbean* and *Zhenzhugang* was released and made it to the front page of the entertainment section.

And *Shi Laike* has a good reputation, and it is constantly fermenting. Everyone is very optimistic that it can accumulate high long-term box office in the next three months of the summer file.

"*Zhenzhugang* box office will exceed the box office record of *The Lost World: Jurassic Park* in the first weekend, and break 100 million within 5 days!"

When these words came out, the reporters who interviewed were extremely excited! Wu Yuchen is now a hot first-line director in Hollywood, and he actually publicly said words betting on his 5-year director career!

You know, in the past, even if a director was very confident in his work and boasted about how many billions the box office could reach, he had never said betting on his director's future!

Male second lead, Hugh Jackman VS Josh Hartnett. Hugh Jackman *Frequency* and *X-Men*, Josh Hartnett *The Faculty* and *Halloween H20*, Hugh Jackman wins.

Wu Yuchen shook his head with a smile: "I can only say, I have confidence that the first weekend box office will be higher than *Zhenzhugang*!"

A reporter immediately asked: "Do you mean, you are not optimistic that the two films *Pirates of the Caribbean* and *Zhenzhugang* will break the first weekend box office record of *The Lost World: Jurassic Park*? Aren't you always full of confidence in *Pirates of the Caribbean*?"

"If *Pirates of the Caribbean* fails, I will naturally bear all the responsibility alone! I am willing to bet on my director career, and will not pick up the director's microphone within 5 years."

Wu Yuchen can say that he will not be a director within 5 years, and he cannot say that Disney will not film within 5 years, right? Therefore, he can only lead to himself. That is only the road of resignation. Obviously, these reporters just want to force him to say this, and then let the two sides' bet this time be equal, and then explode this topic again.

Therefore, Disney is equivalent to making a bold statement to the outside world, *Zhenzhugang* will break the first weekend box office record and the fastest 100 million record.

*Pirates of the Caribbean* producer James, representative works include *The Sixth Sense* and *Phone Booth*. That's right, James's two representative works are both in cooperation with Wu Yuchen, and before this, he had no big-selling works. Some people call him just Wu Yuchen's helper, and he is just an ordinary producer after leaving Wu.

"No, Mr. Eisner, I have confidence in *Zhenzhugang*!"

Michael Bay, *Bad Boys*, *The Rock*, *Armageddon*.

"Then will you go to see *Pirates of the Caribbean*?"

"There are no underground tombs on the sea, but there may be small islands with mechanisms, where the pirates' treasures are hidden. As for whether there is magic, Mom also wants to know~"

The cast can be considered a tie between the two sides.

Of course, the reporters who just finished interviewing Disney also rushed to find Wu Yuchen:

"Disney Film Studio Chairman personally enters the bet!"

"Okay, then let's not open our mouths, let Disney's people respond." Bruckheimer said.

The next day, Peter Schneider accepted an interview: "*Pirates of the Caribbean* cannot win in the competition with *Zhenzhugang*, not a chance!"

However, the reporter wouldn't stop after hearing this, and started to fan the flames: "But Wu is willing to bet on his future director career as a guarantee..."

But if *Zhenzhugang* fails, will Peter Schneider and Michael Eisner push the responsibility? Are they willing to take responsibility?"

"Michael, did you ask Spielberg what's going on? How could Wu say such things to the outside world? Is he crazy?" Bruckheimer asked Michael Bay.

And this time Wu Yuchen's response is also very simple. *Pirates of the Caribbean* is not a special film for the political and business elite, but a film for the ordinary people of America, especially children. Therefore, the premiere of *Pirates of the Caribbean* this time will invite many child audiences to participate!

"The most eye-catching thing in the entertainment industry recently is the battle between *Zhenzhugang* and *Pirates of the Caribbean*. I think everyone is very eager to know who wins and who loses. This article will analyze and compare the two focus films in all aspects and make predictions."

"Of course, I will go to see it. I will take my children to see it. I am also very curious about what kind of film he will film this *Pirates of the Caribbean* into."

*Shi Laike* produced by DreamWorks Animation is also released recently, and the North American box office successfully broke 100 million in 10 days. You know, this was obtained with insufficient publicity, and its cost is only 60 million US dollars, which is undoubtedly a very successful project.

"In my opinion, his statement is really playing tricks. If he messes up a 140 million big production, then he won't be able to receive any big production olive branch within 5 years, so he dared to say this!"

And Eisner said in an interview that he invited a luxurious premiere guest led by Old Bruce, directly saying that he didn't put *Pirates of the Caribbean* in his eyes at all. The general meaning is a weirdo, a substitute actress, and an Australian kid who just has a little fame, and this also wants to fight with our *Zhenzhugang*? The goal of *Zhenzhugang* is always only *Titanic*!

Wu Yuchen knows that *Pirates of the Caribbean* cannot compare with *Zhenzhugang* in terms of

"Wu, Disney says they are confident that *Zhenzhugang* will break a series of box office records, so what about you?"

"I don't know, did he really make a bet like that? If it's true, that's just too surprising!

Which movie to watch? I originally wanted to go see *Zhenzhugang*, you know, after all, it is Memorial Day, but I'm a bit hesitant now..."

Wu Yuchen, *Frequency*, *Phone Booth*, *The Sixth Sense*.

Clearly, Harvey Weinstein was just bad-mouthing Wu Yuchen and *Pirate King*; he had already held a grudge against Wu Yuchen, and at this time, he naturally wanted to take the opportunity to step on him.

Today at the *Pirate King* premiere, a small half of the seats were for guests, while a larger half were given to invited children and their parents.

First, comparing the film themes.

When the heavyweight executives on the Disney side truly accepted Wu Yuchen's wager and staked their careers alongside Wu Yuchen, this gamble completely ignited the public's emotions, making them increasingly expectant for both *Zhenzhugang* and *Pirate King*!

Throughout the entire month of May and even June, it is impossible for any other film to steal the spotlight from these two, and this has truly become a battle that has captured everyone's attention.

"*Pirate King*: Confidence or Arrogance?"

Of course, some people don't care, like Harvey Weinstein:

"Without a doubt, *Zhenzhugang* will achieve victory! From the moment *Pirate King* was greenlit, it wasn't favored by the industry. Who is still interested in the outdated pirate theme now? And Wu's ability to handle big productions is also very worrying. As for his casting, it can be said there isn't a single box office draw! Compared to *Zhenzhugang*, I don't see *Pirate King* having a single chance of winning!"

Unable to dig out any more big scoops from Wu Yuchen that would escalate the conflict between the two sides, the reporter could only leave with these words.

As of now, the North American opening weekend box office record holder is *The Lost World: Jurassic Park* with 72.13 million, and its 5-day box office is 98.38 million, which did not break 100 million.

Cheng Long laughed and said: "It's only right, I'll definitely come to Director Wu's movie; we support our own people!"

Director, *Zhenzhugang* wins!

Actors, both sides have a configuration of two men and one woman.

Disney pulled a big stunt this time; the premiere ceremony for *Zhenzhugang* will be held on a military aircraft carrier at Zhenzhugang. At that time, in addition to inviting celebrities from the film and television industry, many important figures from the American political and military circles and representatives of WWII veterans will also attend, so Eisner attaches extra importance to it.

At this moment, Wu Yuchen and Cheng Long hugged: "Brother Long, thank you for coming to show your support!"

This time, having finally received a satisfactory reply from Disney, who had been silent for several days, the reporters left in high spirits.

I am inviting many political and military figures to attend the *Zhenzhugang* premiere, including former President Bush. You must make a strong response to demonstrate our confidence!"

"Oh, Chris, I'm thinking that you'll know the answer after you finish watching~"

"Congratulations, Jeffrey!" Wu Yuchen congratulated Katzenberg, who was all smiles.

His response clearly won the favor of many citizens, especially the invitation for children to watch at the premiere; this attitude made many parents very satisfied.

"To be honest, I think his words are a bit radical. Actually, given Wu's resume and achievements, even if he failed once, it wouldn't matter. There is simply no need to bet his future 5-year career; this seems a bit rash to me.

Very clearly, in the producer category, *Zhenzhugang* wins!

Next, comparing the directors of both sides.

"What? Could it be that you don't have confidence in our *Zhenzhugang*?"

Patiently answering her son's questions, Mary rubbed her son's head. Her son Chris was one of the children invited this time. Children are at the age where their desire for exploration and curiosity are strongest, and this type of adventure treasure-hunting movie is his favorite. In the last two years, his favorite movie series has been *The Mummy*; the mysterious Egypt and the process of tomb-raiding adventures in the film have deeply fascinated him.

There were even reporters specifically on the street conducting interviews on this topic:

However, Wu Yuchen also knew that although both sides hadn't stated it clearly, they had already reached a tacit understanding: to use this war of words to drive traffic and attract heat to both of their films. As for who lives and who dies when the time comes, both sides clearly have confidence in themselves.

Wu Yuchen looked at this article and couldn't help but click his tongue a few times. Clearly, this article was written by someone Disney found! It appeared neutral and fairly compared *Zhenzhugang* and *Pirate King* from several angles, arriving at the result that *Zhenzhugang* was superior to *Pirate King* in every aspect.

Yes, there are only a few days left until the release of *Pirate King*. As the release date gets closer and closer, both sides have started another round of verbal sparring from afar. This time, even the actors have joined in; Keira Knightley even expressed dissatisfaction that she wasn't as good as Kate.

Peter Schneider opened his mouth helplessly, but could only say: "Okay, Mr. Eisner."

But the current situation is that the *Zhenzhugang* crew has money; hundreds of millions of dollars in promotional fees are no joke.

And this time, Wu Yuchen actually dared to release such words, which naturally raised the heat of the topic by another notch. Once this report went out, it immediately attracted the attention of many viewers and caused quite a bit of discussion.

Now, the atmosphere of the upcoming battle between *Pirate King* and *Zhenzhugang* has been pushed to a climax.

Commercially speaking, both are talented Hollywood directors, which can be called a draw. But considering Michael Bay's rich experience in directing big productions and grand scenes, Michael Bay has a slight edge.

And the producer of *Zhenzhugang*, Bruckheimer, is a top-tier gold-medal producer in Hollywood. *Flashdance*, *Top Gun*, *Bad Boys*, *The Rock*, *Con Air*, *Armageddon*—this series of films are all blockbuster works that everyone is familiar with.

And *Zhenzhugang* is war, disaster, plus romance. On the 60th anniversary of Zhenzhugang and the Memorial Day slot, *Zhenzhugang* is undoubtedly the best theme. And disaster plus romance, with *Titanic* as a reference, if filmed well, it will definitely become the public's favorite!

Film theme, *Zhenzhugang* wins!

Secondly, comparing the producers of both sides.

And this time, for *Pirate King*, which is also an adventure treasure hunt, Chris was naturally very expectant and kept begging his parents to take him to see it. Mary tried to sign up, and unexpectedly, they were actually drawn to attend the premiere, which made their whole family very happy.

Therefore, Wu Yuchen also responded to the *Zhenzhugang* side once again:

"Then you make a response. Now everyone's eyes are focused on our two films. If you don't respond, others will think our *Zhenzhugang* is afraid of them!

Peter Schneider's brain is not stupid. It's fine if you let him go and spray *Pirate King* and Wu Yuchen; anyway, this kind of thing isn't strange. Hollywood hasn't not had such things happen for the sake of attracting traffic. But if you want him to publicly announce that he is responsible for *Zhenzhugang* now, he can't do that! What if *Zhenzhugang* really fails? How would he take responsibility? Resign in disgrace? Stop joking!

However, sometimes things go against one's wishes; he received a call from Michael Eisner: "Peter, why haven't you fought back?"

Since he had already said these words, Peter Schneider simply made a bold statement again:

Regarding this, Wu Yuchen won't personally step into the fray now; let the *Pirate King* publicity team find the media to fight back.

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"Uh, Mr. Eisner, I don't think there's any need to engage in his crazy talk..."

Male lead, Johnny Depp VS Ben Affleck. Depp's representative works: *Edward Scissorhands*, *Sleepy Hollow*; Ben Affleck: *Good Will Hunting*, *Armageddon*. Draw.

For these stars or directors, they would rather say something like kissing a donkey's butt or streaking if they fail, rather than betting their careers. Because if it really happened, their reputation would be ruined if they went back on their word!

"*Pirate King*: A work that bets on Director Wu Yuchen's career!"

Thinking of Eisner's call, Peter Schneider had to sigh in his heart and said confidently:

On the red carpet of the premiere ceremony, stars gathered; Tom Hanks, Stallone, Leo, Russell Crowe, and many other Hollywood A-list stars and directors came to show their support. To be honest, DreamWorks' connections are also very strong, and it was easy to invite many stars to show support.

The *Pirate King* side is baiting *Zhenzhugang*, but *Zhenzhugang* isn't just hyping with *Pirate King*. On one hand, they are promoting that they will break the box office record of *The Lost World: Jurassic Park*, and on the other hand, they are comparing themselves to *Titanic*, which is equivalent to all-around traffic diversion, wanting to maximize the attraction of viewers to enter the theater to watch.

Although *Pirate King* isn't as luxurious as *Zhenzhugang* in getting an aircraft carrier for the premiere ceremony, compared to other big productions in the past, it is not inferior at all.

"I think I will go see it, not for anything else, just because Wu is so confident. I have a good impression of his past few films, and I think he shouldn't be shooting without a target."

Comprehensive evaluation, *Zhenzhugang* beats *Pirate King*!"

On the evening of May 25th, *Pirate King* premiere.

"Hehe, of course, I have confidence in *Pirate King*, but my confidence is built on a rational basis. As everyone knows, the opening weekend box office of an original film is generally not as high as a sequel. Even the opening weekend record of *The Lost World: Jurassic Park* was created by a sequel."

"Although it is an impossible thing to happen, if *Zhenzhugang* fails, I will take responsibility for it and resign in disgrace!"

"*Zhenzhugang* and *Pirate King* focus battle!"

Clearly, Wu Yuchen's words about betting his future career also made them feel if he was a bit carried away? Why go that far?

Michael Bay shrugged: "I went to ask Steven, and he said Wu isn't targeting us; he and Eisner have a grudge."

*Pirate King* is a fantasy film of the pirate plus adventure treasure-hunting genre. Treasure-hunting films are a theme that Hollywood audiences have been relatively fond of in the last 20 years, but if you add the prefix 'pirate', it directly becomes a minus point. The pirate theme is currently recognized in Hollywood as a niche or even a poison theme!

"Will there be magical underground tombs and magic?"

Now *Pirate King* and *Zhenzhugang* have become the focus, and the entire Hollywood is also paying attention to these two upcoming films. However, most people are just watching the fun and not speaking; on one hand, both sides are very powerful, and no matter which side you stand on, you will offend the other; on the other hand, if you speak and take a side before the results come out, wouldn't you be an idiot if you were wrong?

Wu Yuchen is secretly accusing *Zhenzhugang*'s premiere of only inviting those celebrities, which is clearly deviating from the mass line, while our *Pirate King* is different; we serve the masses!

"Hey? May I ask if you have heard the remarks of Director Wu Yuchen betting his career?"

"Oh, yes, I have seen the relevant reports~"

Her son Chris not only received a gifted pirate doll but also found an opportunity to ask Johnny Depp for an autograph. Mary discovered that Depp is not at all like the weirdo the media portrays; he is very patient when treating fans, especially very gentle with children, which made her full of good feelings for Depp and this *Pirate King*.

Holding the pirate doll in his hands, as the lights went out, Chris looked at the screen full of anticipation.