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🕑 Added 2025-06-01 16:00:14 +0000 UTCChapter 223: The Bait
Michael Eisner had done some digging into Dunn and finally confirmed his ambitions.
This kid wanted to carve out his own territory in Hollywood!
Originally, Michael Eisner didn’t think much of it. After all, no matter how much Dunn Films grew, surpassing Disney seemed like a pipe dream.
But then Dunn Films’ movies started humiliating Disney’s releases in the summer box office, one after another. And Dunn’s personal schemes? They were downright infuriating!
He actually wanted to use Disney as a stepping stone to climb to the top of Hollywood!
Sure, any movie company that could trample Disney would secure a solid foothold in Hollywood—maybe even snap up Universal Studios while they were at it.
But as Disney’s big boss, how could Michael Eisner let something like that slide?
When he made a move, it was always a big one—and this time, it was a ban!
Back in the day, Hollywood’s top brass had issued bans before. Even a legend like Charlie Chaplin had faced one. A more recent example? Mel Gibson, a few years down the line.
But banning an entire movie company? That was unprecedented.
Michael Eisner wanted to use this tactic to send a message to Hollywood—and to Dunn—that anyone who tried to climb over Disney or exploit its reputation for their own gain would regret it.
On a deeper level, behind this ban, Michael Eisner had set two traps for Dunn.
The first trap was obvious: goad Dunn into running to the media and airing their dirty laundry.
If that happened, Disney wouldn’t even need to lift a finger. The other major studios would team up and crush Dunn Films themselves.
No question about it—anyone who dared to challenge Hollywood’s interests was doomed.
Entertainment circles in other countries might be seen as low-class, but not Hollywood. In the U.S., Hollywood had the most elite connections and power!
Take Kirk Kerkorian, for example. Years ago, he sold MGM to an Italian tycoon with “mafia” ties for a quick buck, throwing the Hollywood market into chaos. Hollywood fought back hard—reaching all the way to the White House—using every trick in the book to shut it down.
In the end, Kerkorian had no choice but to buy MGM back from the Italians. But by then, MGM had lost its spark in the movie game, and he was forced to turn it into a real estate company.
It wasn’t until the last couple of years, with the Hannibal series and the 007 franchise, that MGM started to catch its breath again.
So, if even MGM barely survived, clinging to life, what chance did Dunn Films have? With its current strength, if the Big Six ganged up on it, it’d be smashed to pieces.
The movie market might not seem huge—its profits don’t even rival TV—but Hollywood’s network stretched from the White House to Congress. It was easily one of the most influential groups in America.
When reporters probed Dunn, he kept his lips sealed, firmly denying any “ban” existed.
That only reinforced Michael Eisner’s hunch. All that arrogance, swagger, and bravado Dunn showed the media? Pure theater.
Deep down, this was a sharp, steady, and mature young guy.
But did Dunn think staying quiet would get him out of Michael Eisner’s web?
Not a chance!
This was the guy who’d ruled Hollywood for two decades as Disney’s top dog!
Now, Dunn had stumbled right into the second trap—backing down.
Wasn’t Dunn’s whole plan to step on Disney to prove Dunn Films’ clout and influence in Hollywood? And this summer, Dunn Films had been outshining Disney at every turn.
Michael Eisner knew the “ban” bent Hollywood’s unwritten rules, but only slightly. It wasn’t a big deal—its impact was limited.
Especially now, with Dunn Films on fire, raking in cash with hit after hit. That kind of success was a direct threat to the authority and status of the traditional Big Six.
A little pushback? Everyone would be happy to see it.
Just like how they’d all quietly ganged up on DreamWorks a few years back.
Now, Michael Eisner was the one taking the heat, while the other five majors might publicly side with Dunn. But behind closed doors? They were all rooting for Disney to slow Dunn Films’ roll.
By backing down, Dunn was clearly banking on the Motion Picture Association and the other five studios to step in and mediate.
Ha! Was that even possible?
Even if it was, any mediation would come with a timeline—maybe three months, maybe five.
A few months of pressure on Dunn Films, and even if the Big Six eventually stepped in to “resolve” things and Disney lifted the “ban,” that time would be enough to kill Dunn Films’ hot streak.
Plus, after months of getting pummeled by Disney with no way to fight back, wouldn’t that just prove Disney’s untouchable power over Dunn Films?
No matter how high Dunn Films’ box office numbers climbed, it couldn’t erase the fact that Disney had bullied, crushed, and stepped all over them.
That would cut off Dunn’s dream of using Disney as a launchpad to soar to the top and seize control of Hollywood.
That was Michael Eisner’s master plan.
Dunn and Dunn Films? He didn’t even see them as a real threat. All he cared about was making sure Dunn’s sneaky little scheme didn’t work—ensuring Dunn Films didn’t level up by riding Disney’s coattails!
Just then, his secretary stepped into the office and said softly, “Sir, latest update: Dunn Films’ movie Saw just got an R rating.”
Normally, something this trivial wouldn’t even register on Michael Eisner’s radar.
But these were special times. Anything about Dunn had to be reported to him ASAP.
“What’s going on?” Michael Eisner’s face darkened.
“The other six reviewers all gave it an R. We pushed for NC-17, but it didn’t stick.”
Michael Eisner raised an eyebrow. “Even Twentieth Century Fox went with R?”
“Yep.”
“Got it. You can go.”
Michael Eisner waved her off, feeling a bit annoyed.
Dunn Films had been scooping up a bunch of ex-Fox employees lately. Tom Rothman should’ve been out for blood—so what was he playing at?
Michael Eisner mulled it over for a while, then chuckled to himself. “Fine by me. Let the kid think the other studios have his back. Consider it… bait!”
…
Golf’s a sport that mixes socializing, exercise, and fun, all while letting you soak in nature. For the “elite,” it’s the go-to way to unwind after work.
Dunn didn’t have that habit—mostly because… he didn’t know how!
But Michael Ovitz? He was a pro. Their first meeting wasn’t about business at all. Instead, he invited Dunn to Griffith Park Golf Course for a round, just to take the edge off.
Hard to say no to that, so Dunn reluctantly agreed.
Of course, there was another reason. Michael Ovitz’s agency had lined up a stunning, charming woman to keep Dunn company—sexy, graceful, the whole package.
With AG’s current clout, they didn’t have any A-listers. But this woman still caught Dunn’s eye—Penélope Cruz!
This Spanish beauty was still a nobody in Hollywood, stuck playing minor roles with barely any lines, usually just eye candy.
Back in Spain, though? She was a household name!
The road to Hollywood stardom is always bumpy and full of twists.
But this time, with big boss Michael Ovitz bringing her to meet Dunn, it felt like a ray of hope piercing through Hollywood’s foggy uncertainty.
Michael Ovitz was a sharp guy. He knew why Dunn was there but played it cool. Golf and a gorgeous companion? It was all about getting Dunn to relax—body and mind.
Only when you’re fully at ease can you face intense pressure and tough rivals with a clear head.
In the golf course’s VIP lounge, the three of them met.
Michael Ovitz noticed Dunn’s eyes lingering on the girl and grinned. “Dunn, this is Penélope Cruz, a fantastic Spanish actress and one of my agency’s talents. Penny, I don’t need to introduce this guy, right?”
“Director Walker! Hi, I’m Penny. I’m a huge fan!” Penélope Cruz took a quick step forward, her enchanting face lighting up with a dazzling smile.
Dunn shook her hand lightly, teasing, “So, is it me you like, or my movies?”
Penélope giggled. “Both!”
Dunn gave her a long look and saw no hesitation in her eyes. She met his bold, almost predatory gaze with a seductive charm of her own.
One glance, and Dunn got it.
He’d been in Hollywood long enough to master its unspoken deals and hidden rules.
This was a win-win-win.
AG was a rising agency, and Michael Ovitz clearly saw potential in Penélope Cruz. Introducing her to Dunn was a move to boost his company with a recognizable star.
For Penélope? Obvious. She was huge in Spain but a nobody in Hollywood. That gap made her willing to play ball to jumpstart her U.S. career.
And Dunn?
Natalie was about to head back to Harvard for school. Sophie Marceau was in France shooting Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Charlize Theron was off doing a Dior ad and would soon join the Unsinkable set.
Right now, he was missing a gorgeous woman by his side.
Sure, this might be Michael Ovitz’s bait to cozy up to Dunn. But who cared?
Even Penélope Cruz couldn’t resist the opportunity.
When Michael Ovitz asked if she’d join Dunn for golf, she knew exactly what that meant—Dunn’s reputation wasn’t a secret.
Still, she jumped at the chance, barely hiding her excitement.
Chapter 224: Mediation Is a Joke
Michael Ovitz started his career back in the ‘70s, when the “red sofa” was still all the rage.
During the rise and growth of AA, it’s no exaggeration to say that for nearly a decade, Michael Ovitz was Hollywood’s biggest star “middleman,” doing whatever it took to fast-track his clients to fame. Now, with his new AG agency, setting up Penelope Cruz and Dunn is just him getting back to his old tricks.
Michael quickly picked up on the little glances between the two. Clapping his hands, he grinned and said, “Alright, time to change! Then let’s hit a few balls!”
“Sounds good.” Dunn turned to Penelope Cruz with a playful smile. “Penny, think you could help me out? Pick something sporty that fits.”
“No problem!”
Penelope tagged along beside Dunn, casually linking her arm with his. They looked so comfortable together, you’d think they’d known each other for years.
Los Angeles boasts some of the best golf courses in the U.S., and Griffith Park Golf Course is the crown jewel. It’s hosted tons of international tournaments and has top-notch facilities. Take the temporary clothing shop, for instance—hundreds of brand-new outfits, sneakers, sun hats, and sunglasses, all laid out for VIPs to choose from.
Penelope picked out a Fila set for Dunn: a white short-sleeve tee and breathable black pants—simple and sharp. For herself, she went with an Umbro women’s outfit: a red fitted tee paired with a red-and-white bubble skirt.
Next up was changing. Dunn shot Penelope a quick look and nodded toward a dressing room.
Penelope pursed her lips, sneaking a glance at Michael Ovitz. The old guy seemed oblivious, muttering to himself, “Dunn, hurry up and change. I’ll give you 15 minutes.”
Fifteen minutes is a clever window. Plenty of time for what you can do, but never enough for what you can’t.
Dunn got the hint and chuckled. “Don’t worry, I’ll find you once I’m changed. I might not be great at golf, but with Penny’s help, I’m not scared of you.”
Penelope bit her lip lightly and started heading toward the dressing room Dunn had pointed out.
“What’s up? Not into it?”
Once they were inside, Dunn pinned her against the wall, close enough to feel her breath, looking down into her captivating eyes.
Even as bold as she was, Penelope couldn’t quite handle Dunn’s intensity. Her gaze flickered. “No… I’m fine with it.”
“Then why do you look hesitant?” Dunn leaned in closer, their noses brushing.
Penelope pressed a hand lightly against his chest. “It’s just… it feels so fast.”
Dunn grinned mischievously, lowering his voice. “But I can’t wait any longer.”
“Mr. Ovitz is still waiting for us.”
“Relax, I’m not that impatient. Let’s change.”
Penelope nodded softly with a quiet “Mhm.”
Changing was easy for Dunn, but for Penelope, it was a different story. She was wearing a tight, form-fitting bodysuit and needed to switch into a breezy sports bra. That meant baring everything in front of a guy she’d met less than 20 minutes ago.
She shed her outer layers, and now it was time for the undergarments. Her heart raced. She’d prepared herself for this, but still—things were moving fast. Biting her lip, she glanced over and saw Dunn already in his sports gear, lounging on the sofa, watching her with a relaxed grin.
“Mind if I enjoy the view?”
He made a move like he might step away.
“No, I don’t mind!” Penelope blurted out. Then, steeling herself, she grabbed the sports bra and stepped right in front of him with a flirty smile. “Mr. Walker, until you’re married, I’d love to be your companion and stick by your side.”
Dunn clapped lightly, beaming. “The honor’s mine! So, can I admire that stunning figure of yours?”
“Sure.”
Penelope took a deep breath and, like she was in slow motion, started undressing right there under Dunn’s gaze. Every move oozed temptation. She set her undergarments aside gently, not rushing to cover up. Instead, she stood there confidently, spinning once—right leg slightly bent, hand on her cheek, striking a sultry pose. Her voice dripped with allure. “Mr. Walker, what do you think of my body?”
Dunn didn’t hold back. “Flawless.”
Penelope’s cheeks flushed as she stepped forward, sliding into his lap and wrapping her arms around his neck. Whispering softly, she said, “Mr. Walker, for you, I’d give everything.”
Dunn held her gently, chuckling. “I can see that.”
Nibbling her lip, she murmured, “I’ve heard… Hollywood’s full of bad people. Will you help me?”
“As long as you behave.”
“I…” She pressed herself closer, her voice dreamy. “I’ll do whatever you say.”
Twenty minutes later, the three of them were out on the course, all changed up.
A few caddies trailed at a distance while Penelope guided Dunn through his swings, adding a little charm and flair to the scene.
Riding the cart to the next hole, Dunn couldn’t help but ask, “Michael, with the five big agencies already dominating Hollywood, AG’s not exactly in a great spot, is it?”
Michael waved it off. “No work talk today—just golf!”
Dunn huffed. “The house is practically on fire, and you’re out here swinging clubs?”
Penelope, still a small fish in the pond and clueless about any “ban,” giggled. “Mr. Walker, you’re such a joker. What could possibly rattle you in Hollywood?”
Dunn pulled her close with a sigh. “Every family’s got its struggles.”
Michael shook his head. “Dunn, chill out. The bigger the mess, the longer it takes to fix.”
Dunn shot back, “So we just let it fester? How’s that different from kidding ourselves?”
Michael glanced at Penelope with a knowing look. “Dunn, that guy… if he’s making a move, he’s already got all his bases covered.”
With Penelope there, they kept their words vague. Dunn knew exactly who Michael meant by “that guy”—Disney’s big boss, Michael Eisner.
“So we need to build connections fast, rally our friends. Mediation, sanctions, whatever—just do something, right?” Dunn’s tone was sharp.
Penelope caught the tension. She didn’t know the details, but she was smart enough to stay quiet, nestling into Dunn’s arms and resting her head on his shoulder.
Michael grinned. “Dunn, you’re stressing too much. Let Penny keep you company and unwind for a few days. I’ve got this—I’ll handle it.”
Dunn frowned. “Unwind? You know the longer this drags, the worse it is for my company. Dunn Pictures’ reputation can’t take a hit!”
Seeing Dunn wouldn’t budge, Michael tried a nudge. “Dunn Pictures grew too fast—especially this summer. It’s over the top! Did you know your influence has already outstripped DreamWorks?”
Dunn’s brow lifted as something clicked. “You’re saying… Dunn Pictures is a target now?”
“Not quite public enemy number one, but you’re definitely a threat to the big players. That’s a fact.” Michael glanced back at him, eyes sharp. “People hide their true selves. Don’t judge by what you see—利益分配 (profit distribution) is what matters.”
Dunn sucked in a breath, feeling the conversation hit a wall.
Michael’s words were like a bucket of cold water in the summer heat, snapping him awake.
He’d been banking on the other five major companies stepping in, thinking they’d oppose Disney’s dirty tactics for the sake of Hollywood’s market health. But after Michael’s breakdown, it hit him—mediation? What a laughable idea!
It was like during World War II, when Japan invaded, and the government pinned its hopes on the imperial powers to mediate. How pathetic, how ridiculous! Sure, those powers might’ve condemned Japan publicly, but behind closed doors, they were selling weapons to them, exploiting the chaos to manipulate the currency reform and control the nation’s economy.
In the end, it’s all noble talk on the surface, but underneath? Self-interest rules.
This mess with Disney targeting Dunn Pictures was the same damn thing.
Stepping off the cart, Dunn’s enthusiasm for golf faded. He swung half-heartedly, handed the club to Penelope, and sidled up to Michael, voice low. “Got any solutions?”
“They’ll sit back and watch Disney’s moves because it benefits them. If Dunn Pictures goes down, Marvel’s treasure chest is up for grabs.”
Michael, a Hollywood vet of over 20 years, had seen this game play out a hundred times.
Dunn smirked coldly. “Yeah, the copyrights I’m holding are pretty tempting.”
“Exactly. Where there’s profit, they’ll stay on the sidelines.” Michael took a solid swing, watching the ball sail off with a grin. “Dunn, know how to beat someone at golf? If you can’t weaken them, you’ve got to step up your own game.”
Dunn’s eyes lit up, a spark of understanding flickering.
Chapter 225: One-Stop Shopping
Michael Ovitz’s words boiled down to a simple truth: you’ve got to be tough to forge iron.
But Dunn caught a deeper meaning beneath it.
Disney was breaking market rules, ruthlessly targeting Dunn Films. The other five major studios were okay with it because, compared to a minor disruption of the market, crushing Dunn Films brought them bigger profits.
Now, imagine if a thriving Dunn Films could offer them even more benefits—would they still turn a blind eye to Disney’s antics?
No way!
They’d team up and slap Disney down in a heartbeat!
Dunn gave Michael Ovitz a long, thoughtful look, quietly impressed.
This guy had dominated Hollywood for over twenty years for a reason—his insight and perspective were razor-sharp. This kind of clear, down-to-earth analysis outshone anything Wes Cotton or Bill McNick could muster.
Now, Dunn finally had a full grasp of Dunn Films’ situation—and it was worse than he’d thought!
Still, he wasn’t feeling down about it.
To fix a problem, you first need to figure out what’s wrong. If you can’t even pinpoint the issue and just throw out random solutions, you’re left with a mess.
Michael Ovitz glanced at Dunn and noticed a faint smile tugging at his lips. Surprised, he paused for a second. “Dunn, you’re the strangest young guy I’ve ever met.”
“Strange?” Dunn chuckled. “Think about the Normandy landing. The winds were fierce, the waves were crashing, and all the generals were sweating bullets, worried it’d flop. But General Eisenhower? He was thrilled. He saw it as the perfect setup—tough conditions meant the German defenses would be at their sloppiest.”
Michael Ovitz smirked and shook his head.
Eisenhower?
The Supreme Allied Commander, a five-star general, a U.S. president!
This Dunn kid sure had a big mouth!
But then again, it wasn’t totally off-base.
In Hollywood, Dunn’s rise mirrored Eisenhower’s in a way—both carved their paths through controversy and pressure.
Who knows? Maybe Dunn could one day be Hollywood’s… president!
…
After the game, it was shower time.
Dunn and Penelope Cruz, without a word, headed to the same bathroom.
Out here, with no time limits holding them back, how could Dunn resist a stunner like her with that killer figure?
In no time, it was a whirlwind of passion—wild and chaotic.
Gasps and thuds echoed through the bathroom, turning it into a steamy symphony.
When Dunn stepped out, fully dressed, he spotted Michael Ovitz pacing in the VIP room, phone in hand, looking a bit antsy.
Soon, Ovitz hung up with a sigh and glanced past Dunn. “Where’s Penny?”
Dunn didn’t dodge. “She’s still getting dressed.”
Two people, one bathroom, and a long delay—anyone could guess what went down. Compared to young Dunn, Ovitz was the real veteran here. Stuff like this? He’d seen it all.
Sure enough, Ovitz didn’t bat an eye. “Penny’s career in Hollywood’s been rough,” he said with a sigh. “She even has to head back to Spain sometimes just to make ends meet.”
“I can help her out,” Dunn said, blinking as a thought hit him. “That call just now… more company stuff?”
Ovitz nodded. “Hollywood’s a different beast than it was twenty years ago. Starting something new now? It’s nothing like launching CAA back in the day.”
Dunn hesitated, then went straight for it. “Michael, Hollywood’s already got five big agencies. The market’s pretty much tapped out.”
“You think I don’t know that?” Ovitz shook his head. “I’m just not ready to give up. The entertainment world’s where I thrive—I don’t want to leave it.”
Dunn grinned, half-joking. “You can’t leave! I’m counting on you to keep Disney in check.”
Ovitz waved a hand confidently. “Don’t worry about that. Unless it’s the absolute last straw, I’m not going anywhere. Head to AG tomorrow and sign the contract, alright?”
“Deal. But I’m curious,” Dunn said, eyeing him. “Back in the day, you built CAA with that ‘package deal’ model and changed the game. What’s AG’s big idea? If it’s just the same old packaging, people will stick with CAA.”
“Big idea?” A spark of proud confidence flashed across Ovitz’s face. “This time, I’ve got something even bigger in mind!”
Dunn leaned in, intrigued. “Care to share?”
Ovitz hesitated, then sighed. “What’s the point? If I can’t snag top stars and sharp agents, even the grandest vision’s just a pipe dream. It’s all about the foundation—and right now, AG’s got no base.”
Dunn laughed. “You’ve got me, don’t you? Am I not big enough?”
“You’re plenty big,” Ovitz admitted, “but one guy—even you—can’t prop up a whole agency. Plus, with AG and Disney at each other’s throats, we’re missing a huge chunk of resources. That kills our pull.”
Ovitz knew exactly what AG was up against.
In his past life, he’d never cracked this nut. Despite all his grand plans, he couldn’t make it work without the right pieces.
By 2001, Michael Ovitz had walked away from AG, and the agency quickly faded into the Hollywood shuffle.
At 54, Ovitz was still in his prime—energy, experience, and skill all perfectly balanced.
For him to bow out of entertainment now? That’d be a real loss for Hollywood.
And Dunn needed him around to pull off the massive Universal Studios acquisition.
In the ‘90s, Ovitz had brokered Universal deals twice—first to Panasonic, then to Seagram. He had the chops.
So, no matter what, Dunn had to help him out, get him through this rough patch, and keep him in the game!
“Tell me about it,” Dunn pressed. “Maybe I can lend a hand.”
He knew helping Ovitz now was helping himself later.
Ovitz went quiet for a long moment before speaking slowly. “CAA’s integrated packaging was something I cooked up with my partners back then. Now, I’ve got an idea to take it up a notch—upgrade it into a ‘one-stop shopping’ service!”
“One-stop shopping? What’s that mean?”
“With integrated packaging, we’d supply a full crew—actors, directors, cinematographers, editors, you name it. One-stop shopping takes it further by filling in the gaps with investment funding!”
“Whoa!”
Dunn’s jaw dropped.
Even with all his “worldly” experience from his past life, Ovitz’s bold, creative twist still blew him away.
This guy was a titan for a reason—his ambition was unreal!
If Ovitz could pull this off, CAA, UTA, all the rest—they’d either collapse or have to reinvent themselves.
This “fill-the-investment-gap” service? It was a game-changer.
Hollywood studios had clout, sure, but movie money took forever to roll back in, leaving cash flow tight. Even a giant like 20th Century Fox nearly sold Titanic’s rights to Paramount over a measly few million.
Finding investors and plugging budget holes? That was the lifeblood of most film companies.
Plenty of movies got greenlit because an actor brought cash to the table—landing the lead role and a producer credit to boot.
Take Fast and Furious: Vin Diesel secured funding, starred in the franchise, and shot from nobody to A-lister overnight.
If Ovitz could nail this “one-stop shopping” model, he’d be back on top, ruling Hollywood again—no question!
Just then, Penelope Cruz emerged, dressed in a flowing white pleated skirt that made her look like a Greek goddess—stunning and radiant.
A lingering flush still colored her cheeks, adding a sultry, irresistible charm.
“Wow, Penny, you look incredible!”
Dunn jumped up, arms wide, pulling her into a hug.
This Spanish beauty was something else—her killer curves had just given him a thrill Charlize Theron couldn’t match, with that exotic flair driving him wild.
Penelope nestled into his arms, whispering in his ear, “You’re too much. My legs are still shaky—you’ve got to hold me up.”
To any guy, that’s the sweetest compliment going.
Dunn stifled a laugh, murmuring back, “That was just the warm-up. Come home with me later—we’ll go for three hundred rounds!”
“Three hundred?” She shot him a playful glare, biting her lip in that tempting way. “You were already at three thousand earlier!”
Dunn couldn’t hold it in anymore and burst out laughing.
One arm wrapped tight around Penelope’s soft waist, he tossed a casual remark over his shoulder. “Michael, let’s hash out work stuff tomorrow. That ‘one-stop shopping’ idea? I think it’s got legs, but the approach needs tweaking.”
Ovitz blinked, caught off guard.
Was this kid for real? I barely mentioned “one-stop shopping,” and he’s already sold on it, saying it’s got potential? He’s not just buttering me up, is he?
Dunn didn’t bother with Ovitz’s stunned look. Humming a tune, he strolled off with Penelope in his arms.
