Page 4 of The Ties That Bind
But it didn’t end there…
A popular cinematographer had been hired for the documentary to work on the transitions between each scene by creating breathtaking cutaway shots. Brie loved the idea because it would add a whole new dimension to the film.
Her documentary was not going to have one film distributor but many—each company specializing in their territory of the world. Not only that, but Brie learned they were scheduling it to release in theaters, DVD, cable, and digital download platforms.
This was the entire package!
Mr. Thompson went over each contract with an eagle eye while Mr. Phillips gave Brie a rundown on the individual businesses represented and further details about what was being provided by each entity.
“Collectively, this is a dream team,” he whispered in her ear.
Brie nodded in agreement, thoroughly impressed. Looking at the army of men, she asked them, “So, let’s get down to business. What is the actual offer?”
Mr. Cummings smiled. “I’m glad you asked.”
He took a thick file from his briefcase and pushed it toward her. “Rather than a lump sum, the percentage reflects the funding required, as well as the considerable risk involved in assembling this unparalleled team.”
Brie opened the folder and glanced at the first page. “I would receive ten percent of the net profit?”
“Yes, Mrs. Davis,” Mr. Cummings replied without hesitation.
She nodded, then turned to her two lawyers. “I would like to discuss this privately with you.”
“Certainly,” Mr. Thompson answered.
“Gentlemen, if you’ll excuse us,” she stated, getting up from the table. With as much grace as she could manage in her third trimester, Brie left the room with Mr. Thompson and Mr. Phillips following behind her.
She led them outside to discuss it with them while she watched the ocean waves breaking over the shore. “Do you feel this is a fair deal?”
“I do,” Mr. Thompson replied.
“And you, Mr. Phillips?”
“It’s quite generous considering there is no financial risk to you.”
Brie nodded, her heart starting to race. This offer would allow countless people all over the world to see BDSM in a completely new light. That alone was worth it to her. But, having them offer her a dream team, along with considerable financial funding, made this deal suspect. It almost seemed too good to be true.
She asked Mr. Phillips, “Do you think it’s strange that no one in the room knows who is actually financing the film?”
He nodded. “It is highly unusual, but then, so is your current situation with Holloway.”
“Why would anyone agree to this, considering Holloway’s influence in Hollywood?” she pressed him.
“The compensation must be considerable,” Mr. Thompson stated frankly.
Mr. Phillips agreed. “Plus, there is power in numbers. The fact that the top echelon has agreed to work on this project protects them from being attacked individually by the man.”
“Something concerns me,” Brie confessed. “I have no idea who this person is or what vision they have for my film. While I appreciate having expert hands on my work, I don’t want the essence of the message to be lost with all the changes being proposed.”
“You should request the right for the final say,” Mr. Phillips replied.
“Make it nonnegotiable,” Mr. Thompson advised her. “But understand you may lose the offer if you do.”
Brie nodded. Compromising the documentary was not an option for her. “So be it.”
“You’re sure?” Mr. Phillips insisted.
“Yes, as long as I retain control over the project, I’m onboard with everything.”
