Chapter 45: A Glimpse of Disney
As the fashion capital, Milan had given birth to numerous internationally renowned luxury brands. With the U.S. economy in a slump, Japan had become the primary consumer of high-end luxury goods.
Jennifer Connelly led Aaron to explore the area around Milan Cathedral, cautioning him, "There are plenty of pickpockets here. We need to stay vigilant."
Aaron tightened his coat and scarf, smirking. "If they dare steal my wallet, they'll get a taste of divine wrath."
"I grew up in Koreatown, Los Angeles, I've dealt with plenty of muggers before!"
"Let's go inside. Milan Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, second only to St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican," she continued. "It has a long history, exquisite architectural artistry, and holds immense significance in Catholicism."
Aaron pursed his lips, unimpressed. History and architecture? Not exactly his thing.
The cathedral was undeniably magnificent, with countless historical sites and designs by famous architects, but Aaron remained indifferent, serving mainly as Jennifer's companion.
By 1990, the international landscape continued to shift. Japanese conglomerates were accelerating their acquisitions overseas. After Sony acquired Columbia TriStar, Panasonic, with assistance from CAA, began moves to acquire Universal's parent company, MCA.
Meanwhile, Hollywood's globalized business model had evolved. Big-budget, high-concept films featuring renowned directors, top-tier stars, gripping plots, realistic visual effects, and immersive audio experiences were now the norm.
Paramount Films led the charge, joining forces with James Cameron and Arnold Schwarzenegger to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in the sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
After spending half a month in Milan, once Jennifer finished filming A Walk in the Clouds, she and Aaron returned to the U.S. to resume school, accompanied by director Giuseppe Tornatore, who was attending the Golden Globes.
Back in Burbank, at the modest offices of Dawnlight Films, Aaron Anderson, Quentin Tarantino, and David Fincher discussed the film Phone Booth.
"David, the shoot went well. I've sent copies to several distributors—I hope someone notices." Aaron wasn't keen on selling cheaply to New Line or Miramax.
"I understand," said Fincher, directing his first feature, naturally hoping for a theatrical release.
The total budget for Phone Booth was $1.75 million—not high—but Fincher had confidence in the film.
"Any news from Disney?" Aaron asked. That year, Disney was set to release Dick Tracy, which had been overshadowed by Warren Beatty's scandal.
Tarantino shook his head. "Nothing yet."
Aaron leaned back in his chair. "Disney did well last year. The sci-fi comedy Honey, I Shrunk the Kids earned $130 million in North America and $90 million overseas, totaling $220 million globally. Dead Poets Society, a critically acclaimed drama, made $95 million domestically and $140 million internationally—$235 million worldwide.
"And the animated classic The Little Mermaid? $110 million in North America, $100 million overseas—$210 million worldwide."
The success of The Little Mermaid, both critically and commercially, marked a new era for Disney's 2D hand-drawn animation, ushering in a golden age for animated feature films.
Under the leadership of Michael Eisner and Jeffrey Katzenberg, Disney's market value had skyrocketed from $2 billion just a few years ago to over $13 billion—an astonishing growth in under five years.
The upcoming spring release, Pretty Woman, promised to further cement Katzenberg's influence at Disney.
Meanwhile, Phone Booth, a project with a budget under $2 million, probably wouldn't even make it onto Katzenberg's desk.
On the evening of January 20th, the 47th Annual Golden Globe Awards were held at the Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. The ceremony took the form of a gala dinner, with guests mingling around tables, enjoying drinks while awards were presented.
Aaron held an invitation from Miramax and attended with the stunning Nicole Kidman—it was both of their first time at the event.
They sat near the center of the hall with the crew of Glory, a war drama depicting a regiment of Black soldiers led by white officers fighting heroically in the Battle of Charleston during the American Civil War.
The 36-year-old director was Edward Zwick, with Matthew Broderick starring, supported by Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, and others.
"Hello, I'm Aaron Anderson. Your film, Glory, is excellent," Aaron said, introducing himself directly to Zwick.
After all, Glory had received nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor in the drama category.
"Thank you, Aaron. It's a pleasant surprise to meet you here. I've spoken with Steven Soderbergh, and he mentioned your sharp eye for film projects," Zwick replied with a smile.
Aaron clinked glasses with him. "Perhaps we can collaborate someday. I'm currently developing a film of my own."
Previously, Zwick had focused on romantic dramas for television, winning the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series. His prior works had all centered on love stories.
"Oh? You have a project in development?" Zwick asked.
"Yes," Aaron replied. "It's a romantic script. If you have time, I can send it to you. My project, Ghost, aligns perfectly with your style."
Zwick nodded. "I'm still tied up with Glory's promotions and haven't started any new projects."
"I'll make sure to send it your way," Aaron smiled.
As the awards ceremony progressed, Disney's animated feature The Little Mermaid won for Best Original Score and Best Original Song, while Born on the Fourth of July took home the award for Best Screenplay.
"Next, the award for Best Supporting Actress goes to Steel Magnolia, Julia Roberts!"
Aaron and Nicole applauded. The next category was Best Supporting Actor.
Denzel Washington, a Black actor from Glory, was nominated, though at 36 he was still relatively unknown. Aaron's eyes flicked to Morgan Freeman, also from Glory, who had a supporting role in this film but had earned a nomination for Best Actor in a Musical/Comedy for Driving Miss Daisy.
Soon, the Best Supporting Actor award was announced—it went to Denzel Washington from Glory!
Aaron and Nicole moved aside to congratulate him. "Congratulations," they said.
"Thank you, thank you!" Denzel replied.
"You had good instincts, Aaron," Nicole whispered with a smile.
Aaron smirked. "Well, I say that to anyone I meet who's nominated…"