In the USA, a few weeks after Shin's interview, Forbes began processing suitable photos of Shinro Suzuki for the cover. The initial photos were impressive, but Forbes felt they lacked something. Consequently, they reached out to Shinro shortly after the interview and invited him for a more professional photoshoot. Shin, seeing no issue, agreed to the opportunity.
While Jenna took a few days to transcribe the interview, it will likely be another month before Shinro Suzuki's cover is released in Forbes Magazine. During this time, Shin eagerly anticipates the prospect of being featured on the Forbes cover.
--
Around June, KiShin Pictures' new film project was already underway. Inside the KiShin Pictures HQ conference room, Stan Lee reviewed files containing the selected cast choices made by the casting director.
"Oh, I like this Leonardo; I think he's suitable to play Spiderman," Stan Lee remarked, stroking his chin.
"Yeah, he has that appeal in him..." nodded the casting director, John.
As they prepared for their new superhero comic movie project, titled "Spiderman," an executive from KiShin Pictures mentioned, "The young founder also recommended someone named Tobey Maguire."
"Tobey? I don't think he can match Leonardo, who has such a charming appeal," remarked the writer, shaking his head.
"I feel the same," the executive added.
The casting director then shared, "Mr. Suzuki also suggested that actor to me. I'm not sure why Mr. Suzuki thinks he'll match Leo, but he merely suggested it without pressuring me to cast Tobey as the protagonist."
After hearing this, most of them nodded.
"As for the heroine casting..."
The team proceeded to discuss potential actors and actresses for the new film project auditions.
Interestingly, despite considering Stephen Spielberg for the director's role, KiShin Pictures, led by ultimate decision-maker Shinro Suzuki, opted for the 36-year-old aspiring Hollywood director, Sam Raimi, for their high-budget film.
The executives at KiShin Pictures don't hold much sway over Shinro Suzuki's decisions. In a previous project, Mortal Kombat, Suzuki chose a different director, surprising the executives who initially doubted the film's success. To their amazement, Mortal Kombat turned out to be a box office blockbuster.
Whether it's luck or Shinro Suzuki's knack for choosing talent, the executives found themselves at a loss for words.
Sam Raimi, having directed only one superhero movie, Darkman, felt genuinely excited to be chosen for another superhero film, especially by a notable film studio. KiShin Pictures, gaining attention in Hollywood for producing two consecutive blockbuster films, added to the significance of Raimi's selection.
Aware of the buzz surrounding KiShin Pictures, Raimi, known for his work in horror, felt a bit nervous about directing a superhero movie, given his limited experience outside of Darkman.
The owner of KiShin Pictures appears to have placed a significant amount of trust in him, compelling him to give his best effort.
--
During the implementation of KiShin's [Spiderman] Film Project, Hollywood critics who caught wind of KiShin Pictures working on another film project began speculating. Despite KiShin Pictures not unveiling the details of the project, many were already engaged in speculation.
Although KiShin Pictures has only produced two films so far, both were massive blockbusters, consistently surpassing expectations. KiShin stands out as an anomaly among newly established film studios.
Amidst the speculation surrounding KiShin Pictures' new film project, a teaser for the 3D animation film collaboration between Pixar, KiShin, and Walt Disney graced advertisements on USA cable and TV channels.
The Toy Story teaser delved into behind-the-scenes aspects of the animation film, featuring the director and voice actor, Tom Hanks, expressing their amazement at the project.
"[Toy Story! The first-ever computer 3D animated film! And the Pixar and KiShin CGI animation film production.]" appeared as text on a black screen.
The narrator expressed excitement as the text appeared, and scenes from Toy Story played out.
"[KiShin Pictures and Walt Disney Presents!]" echoed the narrator's words.
Viewers at home became intrigued by the Toy Story teaser, raising the curiosity of everyone. The fact that Walt Disney, a renowned animation film studio known for quality and emotional depth, presented the animation film added to the anticipation.
Simultaneously, KiShin Pictures was also a presenter. Despite being founded just two years ago, KiShin Pictures had already gained recognition not only in the USA but worldwide. Known for producing blockbuster films, the studio's reputation naturally fueled curiosity about the animation film.
Just with the combined efforts of KiShin Pictures and Walt Disney, it's evident that a considerable number of people have become curious and interested in the animation film.
--
Following the teaser, Hollywood critics were somewhat surprised to learn that KiShin Pictures was involved in the production of the Pixar animation film. Initially, they believed it was a partnership between Walt Disney and Pixar through Steve Jobs, with Walt Disney handling distribution. However, the revelation that KiShin Pictures was part of the first-ever computer 3D animation film with Pixar and even involved as one of the distributors caught them off guard.
KiShin Pictures' rapid growth in connections and stature as a film studio within just two years proved remarkable. Its successful track record in film production not only facilitated industry connections but also established distribution channels.
Supported by Shin's efforts to expand KiShin Pictures, the studio flourished, securing the distribution rights for Toy Story alongside Walt Disney. While Walt Disney may not have been entirely pleased with KiShin sharing the distribution, they refrained from expressing strong negative reactions due to the existing partnership.
Walt Disney seemed to be biding their time, possibly contemplating a strategic move against KiShin Pictures or other KiShin-affiliated entertainment companies when the opportunity arose.
While KiShin Pictures was gearing up for their new superhero film project, they sent the script for the [Spiderman] cast to Leonardo DiCaprio. In his apartment, Leonardo received the pre-read script, examining its front cover with curiosity.
"It's about a superhero, huh?" Leonardo mused, stroking his chin and licking his lips as he enjoyed an apple.
Turning the pages, he delved into the script, reading each page with interest. Finishing it while indulging in his apple, Leonardo couldn't help but remark, "The script is too simplistic; it lacks the character depth I seek." With that, he casually tossed the script aside.
Leonardo found that the character of Peter Parker didn't quite align with what he was looking for.
Peter Parker's portrayal as a "Nerdy Outsider" particularly concerned Leonardo. Additionally, a scheduling conflict arose due to Leonardo's later filming projects.
Seeking more diverse and challenging roles to foster his growth as an actor, Leonardo desired roles that offered complexity. Unfortunately, the role of [Spiderman] Peter Parker fell short of meeting his expectations.
Had the portrayal of Peter Parker been challenging and complex, Leonardo would have considered accepting it, even if it meant canceling his other schedules—especially given that the script and the [Spiderman] film project were from KiShin Pictures.
KRS 2 Ringtone*
Leonardo's KRS 2 phone rang, and upon seeing the caller ID as Tobey Maguire, he answered.
"Oh, Tobey. What's up?" Leonardo greeted.
"Leo, I'll be at your place. Let's play a video game in KS1, Mortal Kombat..." Tobey's voice sounded.
"Play a video game? Sure, I don't have much to do at this time anyway..." Leonardo casually responded, watching the TV.
During this time, he managed to catch the Toy Story teaser.
"The first-ever 3D animated film? Made by Pixar and KiShin, huh..." Leonardo commented as he glanced at the pre-read script of [Spiderman] he had tossed earlier.
After a while, Tobey arrived, and Leo welcomed him at his place. They headed to the living room, where KS1 was already connected to the TV. Leonardo and Tobey then played Mortal Kombat together.
Following their gaming session, the two friends sat down with beers for a conversation.
"You don't seem to get as many projects, huh?" Leonardo observed as he took a sip of his beer.
Tobey nodded and replied, "Yeah... Because of that, I've been drinking alcohol most of the time."
"You should take care of your health. You might develop an alcohol addiction..." Leonardo expressed concern.
"I might already have..." Tobey admitted with a helpless chuckle.
Leonardo looked at his friend, genuinely worried about Tobey's well-being.
'It seems that he is really going through a tough time,' Leonardo couldn't help but think. Unlike himself, who had received numerous film projects, his friend Tobey appeared to be struggling.
Suddenly, Leonardo recalled the [Spiderman] film project from KiShin Pictures. Though fortunate to be considered for the role of Peter Parker, he found the script lacking and felt it wouldn't propel him toward the actor he aspired to be. Leonardo admired actors like Daniel Day-Lewis, driven by passion rather than profit.
Considering Tobey might be interested in the role, Leonardo said, "Tobey, I have a script here from a well-known film studio. If you're interested, you can audition for it." He handed Tobey the [Spiderman] script he had tossed earlier.
Tobey examined the script, muttering, "A known film studio, huh..."
Seeing the title "Spiderman" and the film studio, KiShin Pictures, Tobey's excitement and curiosity surged. "It's from KiShin!" he exclaimed, looking at Leonardo.
"Yeah, it was..." Leonardo smiled, well aware of his friend's admiration for KiShin, fostered by their shared pastime of playing KiShin video games and enjoying blockbuster films produced by the company.
KiShin Pictures had become a prominent name in Hollywood, drawing the interest of many actors, actresses, directors, and writers eager to connect with the studio.
As Tobey read through the script, turning page after page, excitement welled up in him. "Leo! I think I can do this!" he exclaimed.
"Oh, yeah? If you want it, go for it. Audition for the role and give it your best shot," Leonardo encouraged with a smile.
"But... Isn't this your opportunity?" Tobey couldn't help but express his concern, realizing that the script was originally intended for Leonardo. The situation left him feeling a bit conflicted.
Leonardo observed Tobey's concern and assured him, saying, "Don't worry..." Pausing for effect, he added, "I don't like the role; it doesn't suit me." Leonardo nodded, providing Tobey with further reassurance.
"Really?" Tobey questioned, looking to his friend, and Leonardo nodded again with a reassuring smile.
"Besides, I have a tight schedule with another film project offer, so don't worry about me," Leonardo said, smiling.
"In that case, I'll take it," Tobey replied, relieved. He jokingly added, "No taking it back now; don't regret it later."
"Haha, now that I think about it, with KiShin's success in film production, maybe I'll regret it... I take back my words," Leonardo quipped.
Tobey playfully responded, "Wanna take back the script? Haha, dream on. This is mine now."
--
Meanwhile, at KiShin Pictures Headquarters, the casting director received a call from Leonardo DiCaprio about rejecting the role of Peter Parker.
Initially feeling a bit of pity, the casting director was surprised when Leonardo recommended his friend, Tobey Maguire, for the role.
Upon hearing this, the casting director almost blurted out to Leonardo, 'Mr. Suzuki, is that you?'
Feeling quite complicated, he recalled that Tobey Maguire was also recommended by Shinro Suzuki. Now, even Leonardo DiCaprio was vouching for Tobey Maguire.
"What is so special about Tobey Maguire!?" the casting director couldn't help but utter after ending the call with Leonardo DiCaprio.
At the KiShin Pictures Headquarters conference meeting, the casting director voiced confusion, "I don't understand... Initially, Mr. Suzuki suggested Tobey Maguire, but we leaned towards Leonardo DiCaprio for Peter Parker. Yet, DiCaprio just called, turning down the role and recommending Maguire. Is this some joke orchestrated by Mr. Suzuki and DiCaprio?"
"Well, Mr. Suzuki likely wouldn't have time for such pranks. It must be a coincidence," Sam Raimi mused, stroking his chin.
"Indeed. Initially, DiCaprio was Mr. Suzuki's top choice for Peter Parker, with Tobey Maguire as the backup," added Stan Lee.
"Well, I guess you're right. There's definitely something about Tobey Maguire that Mr. Suzuki and Leonardo DiCaprio saw," the casting director mused, stroking his chin.
"I heard that Leonardo and Tobey are friends, so it's not surprising. Maybe it's just a coincidence," a writer chimed in.
"Yeah, let's just see Tobey's audition and decide," another writer suggested.
Most of them nodded in agreement, and Stan Lee added, "Maybe the world is telling us that Tobey Maguire could be a perfect match for Peter Parker."
Some found this reasoning sensible, while others still thought Leonardo DiCaprio would have been a cool Peter Parker.
"Well, I can see a nerdy side of Tobey Maguire fitting the role of Peter Parker," Sam Raimi nodded in agreement with Stan Lee.
--
At KiShin Rules Headquarters in the Chairman's office, Shin learned of Leonardo DiCaprio's refusal of the Spiderman role and his recommendation of Tobey Maguire.
Shin smiled, shaking his head, "And here I thought I could finally see Leonardo DiCaprio as Spiderman in this world. It seems luck isn't on our side."
Shin drummed his fingers on a sheet featuring a schematic diagram illustrating the electrical components and connections within the device—a blueprint for a specific gadget labeled with the letters "GBA" in English.
--
After finalizing the Shinro Suzuki interview transcripts and selecting a suitable photo for the cover, undergoing editor review and approval, they proceeded to decide on the cover layout for the magazine.
The cover featured an image of Shinro Suzuki seated confidently, making a triangle gesture, known as 'Merkel-Raute' in Shin's previous life, conveying a sense of power. The headline read, "From Ashes to Glory: The Rise of KiShin and the Revival of Gaming."
In bold letters at the top, it proclaimed: "The Mastermind."
Below, the cover featured Shinro Suzuki's words from the interview with Jenna: "Most people in this world don't appreciate video games as much as I do. I felt the need to express my passion for video games and let the people of this world know the charm of video games..."
The editor-in-chief and others nodded in approval as they reviewed the dummy cover featuring Shinro Suzuki for the next issue of Forbes Magazine.
The term "dummy cover" referred to a prototype of a magazine cover.
"This photo alone could capture the attention of many women," remarked a senior management member with a smile.
"Indeed, as a woman, I find Shinro Suzuki's photo quite cool. He looks like the handsome young boss from my dreams," added a female executive.
The photo of Shinro Suzuki sitting in his chair exuded a cool vibe, particularly appealing to girls and women.
Moreover, Shinro Suzuki's triangle of power hand gesture added a mysterious and imposing touch, leaving a strong impression on men who viewed it.
"What's that hand gesture? Fingertips touching each other, and the thumbs and index fingers of each hand forming a rough diamond shape," commented one executive as they examined the photo of Shinro Suzuki.
"Indeed... I sensed power and control just from that hand gesture."
"Power and control? From my perspective, Shinro Suzuki's hand gesture exudes confidence."
"Well, for me, the hand gesture signifies strength and determination."
The executives and senior management couldn't help but express their diverse opinions on Shinro Suzuki's hand gesture.
"It seems that the hand gesture evokes different feelings and interpretations."
"Yeah, I believe it will truly offer readers a variety of emotions and interpretations. The hand gesture alone could elicit a positive response," the editor-in-chief said, stroking his chin with interest.
"You're right. I feel the same way," agreed one of the executives.
"Wait. Shouldn't we add another word for the cover dedicated to that hand gesture? Like 'The Triangle of Power'?"
"I disagree with 'Triangle of Power.' How about 'Triangle of Confidence'?"
"That's lame. Think of a better name for that hand gesture."
The editor-in-chief remained silent as the executives and senior management debated the name for the hand gesture.
--
Meanwhile, Shin was enjoying time with his child, Shinichi, completely unaware that his hand gesture from the Forbes photoshoot had been named by the Forbes executives and senior management.
If he were aware, he could only shake his head, recalling that the hand gesture he had casually used became incredibly popular, evolving into a meme in his previous life.
For the meantime, Shin remained focused on the research and development of the handheld console, Gameboy Advance.
The extensive research efforts had a significant impact on the research team. Concurrently, as the handheld console research advanced, the cellular phone technology that KiShin and Apple had been exploring also made substantial progress.
It became evident that KiShin's influence hastened the global progress of technology, particularly in the realms of phones and handheld video game consoles.