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"Everyone outside is saying that the genius writer Ernst has gone mad, but you seem to be doing quite well."

While making jokes, Wenger even whistled at the hot girl eating breakfast in the kitchen, looking quite frivolous.

$14.8 billion. Ernst still remembers the furious look on Korkrian's face when he left in a huff.

The other party did not expect that he really wanted to acquire MGM. The two sides secretly competed with each other. When the price was raised to $14.8 billion, the casino tycoon gritted his teeth and gave up.

"I'm waiting for you to squander MGM's wealth. If you're interested in selling it then, remember to contact me."

"We will contact you, but not to discuss the sale of MGM, but to discuss the issue of brand infringement."

Taking over MGM was just the first step in Ernst's revenge; the next step was the licensing of the MGM brand.

Although the other party has already made ample preparations and completed the separation, whether it's the hotel or the casino, if they can't punish you, can't they at least disgust you?

With new grudges and old hatreds combined, the other party will only fight to the death in the future.

The Italians were delighted, as the originally agreed price had increased by another $1.8 million.

The payment will still be made in three years, with $500 million paid annually for the first two years and the remaining $480 million paid in the final year.

The money to come later is easy to arrange; Ernst has plenty of time to operate. The primary task now is to raise the initial $1 million.

"I bet the entire American media is mercilessly mocking me right now, right?"

This news couldn't be kept secret; it's estimated that the media received the news before Ernst even brought the pretty girl home last night.

Just as Ernst had predicted, all the media outlets, like sharks smelling blood, focused all their attention on Ernst's acquisition of MGM, and a wave of ridicule and mockery swept in.

I picked up the Los Angeles Times from the table; the front page featured an exaggerated headline.

"Ernst's attempt to swallow MGM: A farcical snake trying to swallow an elephant?"

In the article, financial experts mercilessly analyzed Ernst's financial situation, pointing out that although he was wealthy, he was simply not in the same league as Cockley. His attempt to gain control of Hollywood giant MGM was utterly presumptuous.

"Ernst's acquisition of MGM is like a child with a toy water gun standing in front of a fully armed tank, claiming he will conquer it. It's not only ridiculous, but also a disregard for market rules..."

"His words are quite sharp," Ernst chuckled, as if the newspaper wasn't describing him at all.

He picked up another entertainment-oriented newspaper, with MGM's iconic lion logo prominently displayed on the cover, next to a disheveled photo of Ernst recently released from the police station, creating a stark contrast between the two.

"MGM, this dazzling temple of Hollywood, which holds countless classics and glories, is now going to be taken over by Ernst, this infamous nobody? This is simply a desecration of the art of film. Ernst, what makes you think you can control this beast, MGM?"

The article even interviewed a veteran director who had previously worked with MGM, who expressed his disdain during the interview.

"MGM has a top-notch creative team, abundant film and television resources, and a profound cultural heritage, while Ernst? His only concern with Hollywood is probably those Hollywood actresses he has deceived. This acquisition is like letting an outsider conduct a world-class symphony orchestra; the result will only be a mess."

Regardless of the ridicule from the outside world, Ernst's status has been greatly elevated, at least in the eyes of celebrities.

For example, Jennifer Connelly, a globally renowned goddess, was enjoying breakfast in the kitchen when she obediently climbed into Ernst's bed.

While Connery enjoyed immense fame and prestige outside the entertainment industry, she actually held very little status in Hollywood.

This actress, who has been named one of the most beautiful faces in the world twice, became the world's first love after appearing for only a few minutes in "Once Upon a Time in America" ​​when she was 14 years old.

She entered Yale at the age of 18 and later transferred to Stanford to study acting.

But what was the result? Despite her acting skills being recognized, she was already defined as a sex awakening goddess because of her angelic face.

Her established image has made her unsuitable for major Hollywood directors and productions, leaving her in an awkward position.

Ernst was willing to give her a chance, at least in terms of facial expressions, she had already gained his approval last night.

The way she played her expression, whether genuine or not, gave the man an unprecedented sense of satisfaction.

"Tell me, I don't think you called me over to show off your womanizing skills."

After Connery finished eating, he picked up his coat and prepared to leave, saying goodbye to the two men before he left.

Wenger, however, did not say it behind the other party's back. That may sound a bit impolite, but that's Hollywood.

Goddesses who appear high and mighty to the outside world are nothing more than beautiful puppets in the face of true power.

"I need loans, mortgages, copyright mortgages, stock mortgages, I need to raise $100 million."

Ernst currently has only six million dollars in cash on hand, and even with the Hunger Games' first payout coming up soon, it will only amount to around ten million dollars.

He didn't want to touch this money; it was the start-up capital for his internet company.

"It's difficult. This is no small sum. You can only borrow around $1500 million from your house and stocks. Your most valuable asset is the copyright to your novel, but even though The Hunger Games is a huge hit, you still need to borrow $8500 million..."

After glancing at Ernst, Wenger admitted, "To be honest, that's simply impossible."

Ernst knew this would be the outcome, and pulled out two printed documents. "What if we add these?"

Wenger, puzzled by the results document, opened it and exclaimed, "Wow, I didn't expect you to have already finished the second and third books of The Hunger Games. Ernst, I must say you are very talented in writing. Leo is a big fan of yours, and I enjoy reading your work very much."

Leo is Wenger's son, and he is 17 years old. In addition to Leo, Wenger also has an 11-year-old daughter, Lilia.

"You have to give me a signed copy of your book. It's Leo's birthday soon, and I want to give it to him as a birthday present."

Ernst rolled his eyes. "Shouldn't we get down to business first?"

"Okay, with these, the success rate will increase significantly. I'll check the loan interest rates at various banks, then contact your accounting firm, and finally conduct an evaluation of your copyrights."

Ernst suddenly remembered something and smiled, "The evaluation can wait a few days."

Why?

"Tomorrow is the official release date of The Hunger Games overseas."

The Hunger Games' popularity in North America immediately attracted attention in Europe.

The Hunger Games has now reached agreements with publishers in 17 countries around the world and will be translated into 11 languages.

If the project meets expectations this time, more and more foreign publishers will come to negotiate, and the copyright value will naturally rise accordingly.

"I see you're very confident about the Hunger Games, I understand."

With Wenger gone, Ernst is now considering how to help MGM fire its first shot after taking over.

At this time, MGM was already at the bottom of the Hollywood Big Seven, with a disorganized workforce and low morale.

In addition, they now have such an unreliable boss. If not handled properly, it could easily fall apart and become a mess.

Ernst needs to instill confidence in MGM, and what's the most effective way? Of course, it's to lead the production of a high-grossing film.

"High-budget productions won't work. MGM doesn't have the funds for high-budget productions right now, unless it's the 007 series."

Hollywood moguls don't use all their own money to make movies; most of it comes from loans and external investments.

Especially for money laundering, film and television investment is one of the best investments. Hollywood itself is the world's largest place for money laundering, which is one of the important reasons why Cochrane wanted to acquire MGM.

Ernst is no longer able to attract investors; everyone is watching him make a fool of himself, so he can only produce on a low budget.

Once they establish a reputation, MGM will no longer lack funding for its film productions.

But before that, I need to get my hands on the Harry Potter book I've been longing for, just to reserve my spot first.

He took out his phone and answered it; Craig's voice sounded clearly off.

"Help me register a copyright company, and then go to the UK to negotiate the film and television rights for a novel."

"Damn capitalists, can't you let me enjoy myself for a few days?"

Craig's voice carried a hint of roaring, and Ernst could even hear the woman's murmurs and panting.

As the saying goes, "when one person attains enlightenment, even their chickens and dogs ascend to heaven," Craig naturally became the object of flattery for some third- or fourth-tier Hollywood actresses.

You're out working in the fields so early in the morning; I wonder if your old body can handle it.