1609-1611

Chapter 1609: A Total Victory 

When shock and impact go beyond the limit, the brain enters a brief blank state, losing all thoughts and emotions. It's just pure stupefaction, submerged in the surging current, swept into a hurricane, swaying and rotating with it— 

This is what it was like. 

"Spider-Man 2" defeated "I, Robot," achieving the first three-peat on the 2004 summer box office North American weekend charts. 

It wasn't just Anson Wood defeating Will Smith. Not only was it Will Smith's first loss in the summer box office weekend chart competition in a full ten years. The truly astonishing thing was that "Spider-Man 2" was already in its third week. Its third week! 

In the end, "I, Robot" still lost. 

Whoa. 

All of Hollywood gasped. 

Anson won, which wasn't strange. More accurately, after calming down and thinking carefully, it was actually completely unsurprising. Subconsciously, they had already foreseen this. But when it actually happened, that mix of shock and astonishment still easily filled their chests. Fireworks exploded all at once. 

Simply! Incredible! 

Moreover, "Spider-Man 2" wasn't a narrow victory. This was a complete victory. A total victory. 

In the third week of July, the "Spider-Man 2" movie-watching frenzy never weakened. Word of mouth spread far and wide, further tapping into market potential. 

Indeed, this was a superhero movie, a comic book adaptation. In the eyes of the general public, it was often seen as childish middle school stuff. But this time, it was slightly different. More and more people were convinced. This was a different kind of film, not just a coming-of-age story, also including life choices and the pressure of reality. The perfect balance between seriousness and entertainment also ensured its popcorn appeal. 

Not to be missed. 

And so, despite having already erupted with incredible box office energy in the first two weeks, "Spider-Man 2"'s third weekend box office still remained strong. 

A box office drop of 43.2%. Completely silenced all the media and all the noise. Staring dumbfounded at the incredible box office curve. Although it was now impossible to determine when the next film with a $100 million North American weekend box office would appear, without a doubt, "Spider-Man 2" shouldn't be the point of reference. Such a box office trend was almost an unreplicable feat. 

Thanks to such a small box office drop, "Spider-Man 2" in its third week still took in $72.48 million over the weekend. Even at this point, this box office number still exceeded the opening performance of 90% of films released this year. To the point where astonishment seemed cheap. No one even bothered emphasizing "history" or "records" anymore, because every step from now on meant a brand new journey, a brand new world. 

As of now, after three weeks, "Spider-Man 2"'s cumulative box office had already reached $470 million, surpassing "Star Wars." Temporarily ranking fourth on the North American all-time box office chart, behind the three films "Titanic," "Spider-Man," and "Star Wars Episode I." 

Do you need any other explanation? 

Reaching such a scale after just three weeks, surpassing history and breaking records was almost a certainty. $600 million in North America seemed within reach. The focus now should be whether "Spider-Man 2"'s final cumulative box office can... break through $700 million? 

Difficult, nigh impossible. But just a possibility. This was enough to make everyone excited. 

In this craze, Will Smith and "I, Robot" suddenly seemed irrelevant. If you weren't paying attention, they might be forgotten. 

Looking a bit flustered. 

In Will's career, he hadn't experienced such treatment for a very long time. Especially not during his career's rising period? 

Damn it! 

But fortunately, people hadn't completely forgotten Will, nor had they completely forgotten the "Anson VS Will" new vs old showdown. 

"I, Robot"... its opening performance wasn't bad. At least it didn't collapse like "King Arthur." Although the critical consensus was indeed disappointing, relying on Will's appeal and this summer's box office frenzy, the continuously surging audience entering cinemas was still willing to pay for it. 

In the end, the movie took in $55 million over its opening weekend. 

How to evaluate this opening number depends on the criteria used. 

Looking at the average data for opening weekends this summer, it was slightly above average. Not bad, but not great either. 

From the perspective of 20th Century Fox's expectations, obviously, this number was far short of $100 million. And compared to the movie's $120 million production cost and over $40 million in promotion expenses, this opening result made those involved feel a pang in their hearts. 

Not a failure, but not a success either. But it was indeed quietly tilting towards losing money. 

In the past, films like "Wild Wild West," "Men in Black II," "Bad Boys II," and so on, although reviews were poor, although the box office return wasn't optimistic either, at least, they all successfully topped the North American weekend box office chart. James Rust could use press releases to muddy the waters. 

Subsequently, and then by guiding public opinion, to recover the decline as much as possible. Even if the North American box office was below expectations, the overseas market could always bring surprises. 

However, now? 

Above "I, Robot," there was still another film, "Spider-Man 2." 

From every angle, "I, Robot" lost completely and thoroughly. No matter how excellent the PR efforts, they couldn't save the current bad situation. 

Of course, James Rust could always find an angle. Entering with the profound influence of the original novel, emphasizing Will Smith's vision for science fiction films. Compared to reviews and box office, this was more like an experiment, an adventure, because Will hoped to give science fiction films more possibilities— 

This way, at least in terms of reputation, he could still salvage something. Die-hard science fiction fans should be satisfied. 

But this was the last resort. A desperate struggle after a total defeat. A dignified way to wave the white flag. 

Feeling stifled, resentful, bitter. 

Hard to swallow. 

However, reality was this cruel. The entire North American market was still crazy for "Spider-Man 2." 

Looking across the entire box office chart, "Spider-Man 2" alone still occupied 48% of the market's top ten. In other words, the box office of positions two through ten all added up, only barely surpassed "Spider-Man 2." 

Films like "I, Robot," "Anchorman," "A Cinderella Story," "King Arthur," "Fahrenheit 9/11," "The Notebook," and so on, followed in a string behind, but looked like none of them could compete. Examining them all carefully, their gaze ultimately fell on the champion. 

The victory of "Spider-Man 2" was not just a victory. An undisputed total victory. 

Everything was just right. This was a chaotic summer box office season. At the same time, it was a summer box office season full of opportunities. "Spider-Man 2" firmly seized the opportunity. From buzz to hot topics, from word of mouth to promotion, going all out. A film that was already standing under the spotlight ultimately erupted with such energy. 

In James Rust's view, the success of "Spider-Man 2" was not unexpected. But a burst of this magnitude, this level, was an absolute surprise. 

Now, seeing "Spider-Man 2" about to make history, utterly sweeping all of Hollywood's rules and order into the trash bin— 

Could it be that everything was because of Anson Wood? 

Chapter 1610: Close Enemies 

Anger burned in his stomach, bubbling and boiling. 

James Lassiter had to use all his strength to control himself. 

To be precise, rather than anger, it was shame, like a slap across the face, hitting Will Smith hard. 

Just this past week, Will had embarked on a massive promotional tour across the United States, personally meeting and interacting with audiences, urging them to go to theaters to support "I, Robot." Everywhere he went, he constantly displayed the influence of a top superstar. The commotion and crowds witnessed firsthand didn't lie; you could feel the meaning and weight of the name "Will Smith" on the North American continent with your heart. Every promotional stop brought surprises. 

The collaboration between Creative Artists Agency and 20th Century Fox erupted with energy greater than the sum of their parts. 

Everything was giving them confidence. 

At this very moment, Will should still be on his way to the next promotional stop, confidently waiting for the weekend box office chart to be released and for records to be broken— 

Will also longed to have his first film to cross the hundred-million-dollar mark at the North American weekend box office; this would be fitting for his superstar status, and now was the time. 

That's why 20th Century Fox had released the news early, showing their determination. 

The result... fifty-five million dollars. 

Heh, it was simply a joke. 

However, Lassiter had to control himself because he knew how fast gossip spread in a small place like Hollywood. 

Perhaps, if he lost his composure at this coffee shop, the entire Century City would know within thirty minutes— 

Losing face as an agent was a small matter; people noticing Will's anxiety and fear was the big deal. 

Because this could send a signal to producers and investors that Will was losing his cool and panicking in the face of Anson's rising momentum. 

Indeed, this was the truth, but the truth known only to agents and publicists versus the truth known to everyone were two different things, and the subsequent impact would be completely different. 

The more angry he was, the more he needed to be calm; the more he felt shame, the more he needed to be composed. 

Only by showing enough magnanimity and composure could the negative impact of this painful defeat be minimized. 

So, despite his burning anger, Lassiter sat calmly in his seat, showing no emotion, appearing to be leisurely enjoying a morning coffee. 

Rustling, chirping— 

In the breeze, you could catch the scattered sounds of whispering and murmuring, accompanied by various onomatopoeia of excitement, delight, surprise, shock, and unexpectedness, vividly conveying the public's reaction. Clearly, Hollywood wasn't the only place paying attention to this week's North American weekend box office chart. 

"Ahhh, 'Spider-Man 2' continues to hold the top spot." 

"Anson Wood has gone crazy. This time it's Will Smith's turn..." 

"I have to say, Anson deserves it." 

"Really? Is the movie that good? Should I go see it this week?" 

"God, you haven't seen it yet? Quick, quick, please promise me you'll watch it this week, okay?" 

"I have no interest in the summer box office, but Anson is really cool this time." 

"Honestly, I never understood the frenzy over Anson before, but this time I really get it. When the camera lingers on those eyes of his, wow." 

The next second, there were gasps and laughter, full of joy and excitement. 

In the coffee shop, the waiters were secretly exchanging glances, one by one stealing glances at Lassiter, then their eyes would quietly drift towards Edgar not far away. 

No words were needed, not even sound; the tension in the air was almost overflowing. 

Clearly, Lassiter also noticed. 

Without warning, Lassiter pushed back his chair and stood up. 

The bustling eyes in the air focused on Lassiter quickly retracted like sensitive plants, fearing being discovered, but their peripheral vision still subtly followed Lassiter's movements. 

They even held their breath involuntarily. 

Noticing Lassiter's direction, their hearts gradually rose with his steps, finally getting stuck in their throats, almost bursting out. 

Edgar! 

It was actually Edgar! 

Mars colliding with Earth! King meeting king! The online showdown turned into a real-life meeting offline! Lightning fast! A touch and it would explode! Nerves instantly tensed to the extreme! 

"Hey." 

Lassiter initiated the greeting, showing a smile. 

"A beautiful fight." 

"For God's sake, we really didn't leave any face." 

Open and upright, Lassiter displayed the confidence of someone in a superior position— 

Clearly, "I, Robot" losing to "Spider-Man 2" was nothing in Lassiter's eyes. After all, Will's status and reputation in Hollywood didn't need further proof. Witnessing the occasional rise of a newcomer, he could generously offer his blessings. 

At least, this was the posture Lassiter was trying to project, using Edgar to make a statement. 

Isn't there a saying, keep your friends close, and your enemies even closer? Because an open spear is easy to dodge, but a hidden arrow is hard to guard against. Only by truly getting close to your enemy can you be prepared at all times. 

Having been in Hollywood for many years, Lassiter knew this well. 

"I hope we don't have to compete again next time. I'm worried that what little face we have left might be completely lost," Lassiter said with a lighthearted chuckle, making a playful remark. 

Edgar: So, I'm a tool? 

Suddenly, Edgar realized he was just a stepping stone, a part of Lassiter's PR strategy. But inconveniently, Edgar couldn't retaliate at this moment, otherwise, he would fall into Lassiter's trap and sacrifice Anson's image to boost Will's reputation. 

Lassiter had calculated this point, which was why he deliberately came over to preemptively strike. 

However, Edgar wasn't a pushover either. 

Edgar didn't stand up or reach out to greet him, but instead leaned back in his chair, "So, how should I celebrate the victory?" 

"Is this okay? Or should I cross my legs? Ah, maybe I should wear glasses. Sorry, I look like Mr. Bean right now." 

smug, but awkward. 

Arrogant, but reserved. 

It was just a joke, really, but the underlying meaning behind Edgar's words could be understood: 

Anson, a new player, with no power or influence, no foundation in Hollywood, and who didn't even understand how to play mind games; this victory over Will was just a " fluke." On the contrary, Will had been in Hollywood for over ten years, shrewd and cunning. If Will decided to subtly sabotage Anson behind the scenes, it shouldn't be difficult. 

It must be said, Edgar's response was perfect. On the surface, he delivered a jab at Lassiter, but the real attack was hidden in his words, yet it didn't make Anson seem like someone who gloated in a small victory. Instead, it highlighted the potential threat from Will. 

After all, in Hollywood, Black people were still a minority and tended to stick together more. Revenge was commonplace, and unprovoked challenges weren't uncommon either. 

The pressure immediately fell on Lassiter— 

Losing both the battle and face. 

Lassiter was slightly surprised and looked at Edgar again. 

It had to be said, Edgar's response was perfect. Even someone as seasoned as Lassiter couldn't find a crack to counterattack. This made Lassiter even more certain that he should maintain a close relationship with Edgar. 

In Lassiter's view, Edgar had the ability and the conditions; all he lacked now was time. Given time, he would undoubtedly become a figure in Hollywood that could not be ignored. 

Chapter 1611: Friend or Foe 

As expected, this guy’s a real character. 

In Hollywood, everyone sings Anson’s praises. Behind his dazzling success, you can see his creative genius at every turn, always one step ahead, riding the crest of the latest trends. 

But in Luster’s eyes, Edgar, the man behind Anson, gets overlooked. His vision, his resolve, his judgment, and his execution—they’re indispensable. 

Maybe all Edgar lacks is time. Time to grow, time to build connections and make his mark. 

Given a few years, Edgar could very well stand at the pinnacle of the pyramid, watching the world unfold with a smile. 

So, the question is: what should Luster do about it? 

Enemy or friend? 

Luster has to consider Will Smith’s feelings. 

Sure, in Hollywood’s cutthroat game of fame and fortune, there are only eternal interests—no eternal friends or enemies. But as a seasoned top-tier agent, Luster knows a truth nobody likes to admit: among actors, true smarts are rare. 

Now, some might push back and say, “No way! Every actor who claws their way to the top of Hollywood’s pyramid is no dummy.” 

Luster would agree—they’re not idiots. But being “not an idiot” doesn’t mean they’re brilliant. The real masterminds behind the scenes are the agents. At the top, maybe two or three out of ten actors are sharp, and one might even be genuinely clever. The rest? Well… not so much. 

At the end of the day, the actors who shine on the big screen rely on their looks, their craft, their charisma—not their brains. 

That’s exactly why these actors struggle to stay cool-headed. They’re impulsive, emotional, easily blinded by love or hate, and rarely able to make choices based on those eternal interests. 

Add to that the glaring fact that actors are a spoiled bunch. Surrounded by endless applause and adulation, they’re a narcissistic lot, living in their own bubble. With their looks and charm, everything comes easy—no need to hustle, no need to think. Opportunities just fall into their laps. They’re used to being flattered, validated, and chased. 

Willful. Reckless. Arrogant. 

People often call this a stereotype, and sure, Luster would say stereotypes can be unfair. But sometimes, they hit the nail on the head. 

Will Smith is no exception. 

Take the situation right now. 

In Luster’s view, Will should buddy up with Anson, leverage his success, and open new doors for his own career. 

But Luster knows Will won’t bite. Setting aside the issue of race for a moment, Will’s pride took a hit after stumbling in front of Anson. He’s not about to swallow that. 

So, friend or foe? 

The answer’s already clear. 

Ha. 

A glint of amusement flickers in Luster’s eyes, his demeanor even warmer and friendlier now, as if Edgar’s an old pal of ten years. 

“Hope you guys don’t get too used to this. That kind of thrill can be addictive.” 

“God, I’m already starting to miss it.” 

With a quick pivot, Luster throws in a self-deprecating jab about I, Robot’s flop, as if it’s a collapse on the level of King Arthur. 

This time, Edgar doesn’t take the bait. When Luster gets this chummy, it’s time to sound the alarm. 

No time to gloat over a rival’s misstep. 

And sure enough, what happens next proves Luster’s tactics and Edgar’s instincts were spot-on— 

Will Smith loses it. 

Losing the North American weekend box office crown to Anson and failing to extend his summer blockbuster reign with I, Robot? That’s bad enough. But getting outshined by Anson? That’s the real humiliation. 

For an actor at the top of Hollywood’s pyramid, it’s unbearable—especially after grinding like a dog on a nationwide promo tour. 

Will is livid. 

Literally hopping mad. 

And not just in one place. Later, in New York, L.A., Atlanta, Miami, and beyond, Will loses his cool repeatedly. Whenever Anson or Spider-Man 2 comes up, he doesn’t hold back, tearing into them with open disdain and relentless attacks. 

It’s hard to imagine the usually polished, charming Will Smith—always humble and friendly in front of the cameras—showing such a raw, unfiltered side in private. 

And he just can’t let it go. 

Luckily, Luster knows Will inside and out. He’s already laying the groundwork, starting with this very encounter. 

Luster notices Edgar’s restraint but doesn’t mind. “I’m guessing balancing commerce and art is still a tough one, huh? It’s a shame—this project really deserved more attention. We genuinely believed this film could bring something new to sci-fi.” 

Edgar raises an eyebrow slightly. “Oh, so you were planning an awards-season release? That’d probably get a different kind of reception.” 

Clearly, Edgar’s not playing along. 

But Luster stays cool, shrugging lightly. “Maybe we’ll take it to awards season.” 

Smoothly, almost effortlessly, Luster slips in another plug for I, Robot’s merits. Later, when word of Will’s outbursts spreads, Luster and his PR team stick to the same script: 

Will’s frustration isn’t about the box office or Anson—it’s about a labor of love not getting the recognition it deserves, a heartfelt push to shake up the sci-fi genre. 

Whether Hollywood buys it is another story, but in the court of public opinion, the damage is minimized. The masses eat it up. 

That’s Luster’s skill. Whether Edgar plays ball or not, Luster gets what he wants. 

And he knows when to quit while he’s ahead. 

Objective achieved, Luster pulls back without hesitation. “Sorry, I’ve got work this morning and need to hit the road. I won’t keep you from your celebratory breakfast.” 

With a parting shot, Luster slyly paints Edgar as cocky: celebratory breakfast? That’s a dig at Edgar’s supposed arrogance. 

Edgar catches it instantly but doesn’t take the bait. Instead, he flashes a grin. “I’m still waiting for that cake you promised.” 

Just a joke, he’s saying—nothing more. Edgar deflects Luster’s jab with ease. 

Luster gives Edgar a second glance, says nothing more, and turns to leave, a faint smile lingering. But for a split second, he falters. 

It’s all too sudden, too overwhelming, even for a seasoned fox like Luster. His carefully crafted momentum nearly crumbles. 

“Asa!” 

His steps screech to a halt, the name slipping out instinctively. 

Coming toward him is an older man, white-haired, looking to be in his sixties but brimming with vitality. His sharp eyes and poised demeanor radiate energy. A tailored navy suit makes his cobalt-blue eyes pop, deep and striking. 

Every gesture carries an effortless charisma, drawing glances from passersby. 

If anyone could age so gracefully, they’d sign up in a heartbeat. 

The man gives Luster a polite nod, his gaze sliding past to someone behind him. “Sorry, I’m late.”