Behind The Spotlight Chapter 50
December 4, 1995.
It had been seven weeks since the premiere of The Accidental Wedding Crashers took the box office by storm. The movie grossed over $147 million at the North American box office after 45 days of screening. An undeniable achievement for such an unexpected hit.
The number of theaters screening the movie had dropped to 1,700 from its initial wide release of more than 2,100 screens. However, the situation was different in other countries, where the hype was only just beginning.
Uni-Versus Pictures had a worldwide distribution network that few could rival. This allowed them to send their movies to international markets efficiently and with greater reach.
Once domestic theater counts began declining, Uni-Versus kicked into global gear. They began shipping the 4-foot-long film reels, carefully packed and labeled, to foreign countries to continue the film's momentum abroad.
Their first targets were English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, and others where Western comedy typically performed well.
In 1995, technology was still behind the future digital age. Movies were distributed via bulky physical reels rather than lightweight digital transfers, making global distribution logistically challenging and demanding.
This was why only a select few studios had the resources and experience to distribute movies worldwide smoothly. It took at least a decade of effort and infrastructure to build a distribution chain that truly worked across borders.
At that time, only the Big Six and a few selected B-list studios with extensive international ties could manage such feats without much friction.
So, while The Accidental Wedding Crashers was winding down in North America and being overshadowed by newer releases, it was only just launching overseas. Anticipation in foreign countries was high, and international box office results would take longer to report due to slower systems abroad.
"Congratulations. I guess your decision to greenlight the movie paid off after all."
Henry Greyson raised his glass and clinked it gently against Collin's, the soft chime ringing through the festive air.
Tonight was the celebration party for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Collin had asked Henry if he knew of a good venue to rent, and naturally, he invited Henry along with many others involved in the project to join the event.
The venue was an open area illuminated by gentle garden lights. A soft hymn of violins filled the air, with musicians performing peaceful, elegant tunes to match the occasion. Long tables were adorned with drinks and delicacies carefully curated to impress the guests.
Collin ensured every detail was handled, from food service to music cues. As the producer, he wanted the celebration to be meaningful. While he was getting tired of the position, he understood the importance of this event. To make things smoother, he'd hired a professional party manager to take care of the arrangements so he could enjoy the night.
A successful movie deserved a celebration worthy of its triumph. The Accidental Wedding Crashers had become a breakout hit that surprised critics and audiences alike. Out of the thousands of movies released in 1995, only six grossed over $100 million at the North American box office.
That made this film a certified box office hit and a standout success of 1995.
It was a big W.
A major win for everyone involved.
And now, they had gathered to celebrate the size of the W with laughter, wine, and good company.
Perhaps only a few people would understand that reference.
Collin looked around and saw the cast enjoying themselves in a moment of pure joy. Some had already downed a few glasses of alcohol, their cheeks flushed and collars loosened as they talked louder than usual.
Uni-Versus also participated in the event as a sign of goodwill and a marketing opportunity. The studio even invited some celebrities to liven up the atmosphere. Each guest had their own reason for attending. Some wanted to network with the rising stars, while others were simply looking for a fun night out.
However, something obvious stood out in the mingling crowd. Wyatt was attracting attention like a magnet, surrounded by people who were drawn to the director behind the surprise box office hit.
"If you'd asked me months ago if Wyatt would make it in this industry, I'd have said no," Henry admitted, swirling the wine in his glass. "He was too inexperienced. Still looks like a kid with those chubby cheeks. But now? I don't even know what to believe anymore. His success is undeniable."
Henry's face was flushed, likely from the wine. His tone was loose, his words coming out without filters.
Collin nodded slowly. If not for his golden vision, he wouldn't have backed Wyatt's directorial debut so confidently.
"Just like I said before, Collin… you really know how to pick the right people."
Collin laughed genuinely, touched by the sincerity in Henry's voice. It was real praise, rare and meaningful, and it made him feel unexpectedly emotional.
"Thank you, Henry."
Henry Greyson was the producer who had previously overseen Director Esteban's project earlier that year. He was also the friend who helped Collin get Wyatt on that project. Collin had never forgotten that favor.
Director Esteban's film had been a drama with mature themes, released before The Accidental Wedding Crashers. Its modest $12 million budget returned a respectable $83 million in the domestic box office.
Though successful, the studio felt the film's niche subject matter didn't warrant international distribution. As a result, its profits remained limited despite its strong reception.
Collin knew that Wyatt's opportunity on Esteban's set had helped him gain the experience he needed before leading his own project.
"How's Director Esteban doing these days?" Collin asked casually, giving his wine glass a gentle swirl as they settled into chairs near the edge of the party.
Around them, the celebration was reaching a peak. Music and laughter mixed with the scent of perfume and alcohol. More guests were getting tipsy, the mood turning chaotic but joyous. Collin even caught a faint whiff of weed lingering in the air.
"He's doing great," Henry replied, hiccupping with a smile. "The movie wrapped on a high note. He's taking a break, no plans for a new project this year. He wants to relax for a bit."
"That's good to hear. Then maybe you've got some free time to take on another project, if you're interested. I'm looking for someone I can fully trust."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Henry frowned, squinting slightly. Despite his buzz, Collin's words cut through the haze.
"Wyatt's ready to start a new project. I'm looking for a producer who can help him pitch it to a studio. Interested?" Collin asked with a smile, a spark flickering in his eyes.
"..." Henry paused. His eyes sharpened, a sober glint flashing through them. He turned to look at Wyatt, who was still surrounded by admirers like the true star of the night.
"When we started The Accidental Wedding Crashers, I approached so many producers and asked if they'd manage the project or give Wyatt a chance," Collin said, a sudden laugh breaking through his voice. "Every single one of them turned me down without hesitation. Not even a second thought."
He leaned back and chuckled, almost bitterly.
"Now? They've been asking me about Wyatt's next project like nothing ever happened. Acting like they've supported him all along. They want to be his producer now, trying to ride his wave."
He grinned, his expression laced with contempt.
Those bastards were shameless. Spineless. It was laughable.
Collin turned to Henry, his green eyes glowing slightly in the soft light. He wasn't even looking directly at him, his gaze hovered just above his head, as though he was seeing something invisible, something only he could perceive.
"Collin..."
In that moment, Henry realized something. Collin had changed. He was no longer a desperate agent scrambling for work. There was a new confidence in him. An unshakable presence that only came with success.
Henry swallowed hard, trying to ease the sudden dryness in his throat. It was probably the alcohol… or maybe it was something else entirely.