radicalducati Chapter 98 The First Wave of the New Year
Chapter 98 The First Wave of the New Year
Chapter 97 The First Wave of the New Year
The festive atmosphere of New Year's Day has not yet completely faded from the streets and alleys of Beijing, but the film and television industry, this never-ending arena, has already ushered in the first shock of the new year.
In a high-end apartment in Chaoyang District, Jiang Xuerou woke up early.
Outside the window, the winter morning light was a grayish-blue, and inside the room, the heating was strong.
She walked barefoot to the floor-to-ceiling window and looked at the cars that were beginning to move slowly below.
Today marks her first real "show of force" as the new president of Light Chaser Pictures.
On the coffee table, several finalized project documents were spread out.
She picked up a cup of black coffee, the bitter liquid sliding down her throat, bringing a sharp, clear feeling.
Six months ago, she was the "general manager" of Zhouyi Film and Television, worrying about the crew's meals and the actors' schedules.
Now, with the blueprint and resources left by Jiang Yu in hand, she wants to steer "Chasing the Light," a giant ship that has just been restructured and equipped with a new engine, into even more turbulent waters.
Pressure? Of course. But there's an overwhelming sense of excitement.
Nine o'clock in the morning, in the conference room of the new headquarters of Light Chaser Pictures.
The interior design features a simple and modern style with clean lines.
Seated around the oval conference table were the core team: Vice President Chen, who was in charge of production; Sister Yang, the distribution director; Xiao Wu, the publicity planner; and representatives from the legal and financial departments.
The atmosphere was somewhat serious, yet subtly restless.
Jiang Xuerou wore a well-tailored dark gray suit skirt, her hair was neatly tied up, and she had a just-right smile on her face, which was both a woman's approachability and an unquestionable leader's authority.
"Happy New Year, everyone. The holiday is over, time to get back to work." She started crisply and decisively, "Without further ado, let's get straight to our first round of ammunition this year."
The projection screen lights up.
Page 1: "Love Like a Bouquet"
"The director is Shen Ao. He graduated from the Directing Department of Beijing Film Academy and has won several student film festival awards. He previously directed short art films and art-house films. He is Lu Yang's junior, and Lu Yang strongly recommended him."
Jiang Xuerou spoke calmly, "The scriptwriting team polished it repeatedly for more than half a year. It has a delicate style and tells the story of a young man and woman whose souls are highly compatible, from their meeting and falling in love to gradually drifting apart in the torrent of reality. There is no melodrama, only real life details and emotional flow."
She paused, her gaze sweeping over the crowd: "The investment isn't large, 1500 million. The lead actors are Shu Chang and Zhu Yilong."
There was a slight commotion below.
"I know everyone has concerns," Jiang Xuerou said, seemingly reading their minds. "Shu Chang has a clean, artistic quality that suits the role perfectly. Zhu Yilong gave an outstanding performance in 'The Witch,' and Director Lu Yang told me, 'This kid has something in his eyes,' showing his ability to immerse himself in the role. At Light Chaser Animation, we not only make blockbusters, but also cultivate promising new actors and directors. This project has controllable costs and low risks; if done well, the word-of-mouth and market success are not necessarily bad. The production companies are us and Light Chaser Animation, and Light Chaser Animation's distribution network has experience with this type of film."
Old Chen nodded: "Low-budget romance films, as long as they're made realistically, are prone to becoming dark horses. I've seen Director Shen Ao's sample footage; the cinematography is very delicate."
Page 2: The Lone Agent.
"Lu Yang's new work." Mentioning this name clearly lifted the spirits in the meeting room.
Lu Yang, with his film "The Witch," swept the domestic box office and entered the Hollywood spotlight, becoming a golden brand for Light Chaser Pictures and even for the new generation of directors in China.
"Genre: Crime Action. This time, we're aiming to create a more relatable and hardcore story of a solitary hero from the East. Starring: Zhang Jin, Wang Zhi."
"Zhang Jin has no problem with his martial arts skills and acting, what he lacks is a powerful leading role opportunity. Wang Zhi's popularity soared after 'The Witch,' and she needs more diverse roles to prove herself. This time, she's not an action star, but a key figure in a crisis, with a lot of internal monologues and action scenes combined."
Jiang Xuerou explained, "The investment of 5000 million yuan was mostly used for location shooting, action design, and post-production. The production companies are us and Sound Entertainment. Sound Entertainment has advantages in Hong Kong film resources and action teams."
Sister Yang interjected, "The popularity of 'The Witch' is still going strong, and the combination of Lu Yang and Wang Zhi has a solid foundation for box office appeal. If Zhang Jin can break through, it will be a win-win situation for both us and the actors. This lineup is a sure thing."
On the third page, the moment the projection switched, everyone held their breath—Lucy.
Director: Luc Besson. Genre: Action/Sci-Fi. US-China co-production.
Investment: $4000 million. Production companies: Light Chaser Animation, Fox Film Corporation, EuropaCorp.
The synopsis is just one line: An ordinary girl is accidentally drawn into a transnational conspiracy, and her brain potential is forcibly developed from 10% to 100%, making her an existence beyond human comprehension.
"The trump card has arrived." Jiang Xuerou's voice rose a few decibels, carrying a hint of barely perceptible excitement. "This project was personally secured by President Jiang in Hollywood, directed by Luc Besson, with the core concept originating from him. We, Light Chaser Animation Studio, are deeply involved as one of the main Chinese producers and production companies. This is not just a collaboration, but a crucial step for us to learn from Hollywood's top-tier industrial processes."
The room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop, followed by a low gasp.
A $4000 million investment, Luc Besson, and global distribution by Fox—everyone knows what these words mean when put together.
This is no longer a simple film and television project; it is the eye of a storm.
"Currently, the project is about to enter the global casting phase." Jiang Xuerou's eyes were bright. "The female lead, Lucy, is absolutely crucial. We need an actress who can embody the transformation from ordinary to divine, possess international recognition, and whose acting skills can withstand the test of the big screen. This will be one of the most anticipated roles in the Asian entertainment industry this year."
Xiao Wu, the PR guy, couldn't contain his excitement and rubbed his hands together: "President Jiang, this news will be a bombshell!"
Page 4: "Silent Separation".
"Finally, this is our first work as Light Chaser Animation Studios, marking our official entry into the television drama field."
Jiang Xuerou relaxed her tone slightly, "Adapted from a novel, it's an urban romance. The directing team includes Liang Guoguan and Li Dachao, veterans brought in by Zhou Yi. They are experienced and skilled in emotional portrayal and visual aesthetics. The other one, Wen Muye, is also a recent graduate of the Beijing Film Academy. Lu Yang and Shen Ao both recommended him. I've seen his graduation project and several short films. His narrative is solid, and his grasp of characters' emotions is accurate. He's a promising talent."
Starring: Wallace Chung, Fan Binbin, Zu Feng, Jing Tian.
The mention of Fan Binbin's name caused several people to exchange glances.
"Fan Binbin was paid a friendly price, 15 yuan per episode."
Jiang Xuerou frankly stated, "She has her own plans and wants to access international resources. This collaboration can be seen as a mutual gesture of goodwill. Wallace Chung's elite demeanor suits the male lead, and Zu Feng plays the second male lead, a lawyer, providing solid support. Jing Tian—recommended by Starlight Entertainment, is a suitable supporting actress with appropriate screen time and a fitting image."
She summarized, "TV series are an important part of consolidating our core business, cultivating our team, and expanding our profit channels. This project is cost-effective, has a strong IP foundation, and features a popular cast, so we can't afford to fail."
Turning off the projector, Jiang Xuerou looked around: "Four projects, three films and one TV series. Covering romance, action, science fiction, and urban romance. There are low-budget productions supporting newcomers, medium-budget productions consolidating our strengths, blockbusters aiming for global box office success, and solid TV series trials. This is our Light Chaser Pictures 2009..."
The start of the year.
She picked up her coffee cup and tapped it lightly on the table: "Now, all departments should prepare press releases and contact the media according to the established plan. The announcement will be made to the public at 3 PM this afternoon. Remember, maintain a composed demeanor and be confident. We're not launching a satellite; we're flexing our muscles."
"Understood!" everyone responded in unison, their eyes filled with eager anticipation.
At 3 PM, Light Chaser Pictures released its official announcement on time.
Like a boulder thrown into deep water, it instantly creates a thousand waves.
News pop-ups on online media, posts flooding film and television forums, and industry insiders' QQ groups are buzzing with excitement.
"Is Chasing Lights insane! Dropping such a huge bombshell right after the New Year!"
"With this cast of 'Love Like a Bouquet'—a new director and actors who aren't exactly top-tier, can it pull it off? But Light Chaser Animation Studios has a pretty good eye for talent these days, so let's wait and see."
"Lu Yang's new film! 'The Man from Nowhere'! Zhang Jin is finally going to be the leading man? Can Wang Zhi still fight? Looking forward to it!"
"Holy crap! What am I seeing?! Lucy! Luc Besson! Fox! A Sino-US co-production! Another co-production. What on earth has Jiang Yu been doing in Hollywood?"
"100% brain development? That's an intriguing concept! Who will be the female lead? Which domestic actress has a chance?"
"Fan Bingbing is actually acting in a TV series? And it's her first series with 'Light Chaser'? Her salary must be low. Is she trying to curry favor with 'Light Chaser' and hitch a ride on their coattails?"
"Who is Wen Muye? A recent graduate from Beijing Film Academy? Does Light Chaser Animation Studio like to use new directors so much? But with Liang Guoguan and the others backing it up, the quality of the series should be stable."
"Jiang Xuerou is amazing! Her first move after taking office was so impressive! Those who come from the Zhou Yi school really know their stuff; their resource integration speed is incredible!"
A high-end yoga studio in Shanghai.
Fan Binbin had just finished a set of relaxing stretches when his assistant carefully handed him his phone, which displayed a news page from Zhuiguang.
She wiped her sweat and read it carefully, especially the parts about "My Sunshine" and "Lucy".
Her delicate face remained expressionless, except for a slight upturn at the corners of her lips.
The salary of 15 yuan per episode is practically a "fire sale" for her current status.
That's not what she's after. She's just trying to curry favor with the production company and get the lead role in this TV series; it's a gesture.
Jiang Yu's influence in Hollywood is clearly evident through films like "Inception" and "2012".
The embarrassment of being rejected during the audition for "The Witch" is insignificant compared to the long-term benefits.
The key to Fan Binbin's success today, besides her beauty, lies in her ability to assess situations and adapt to changing circumstances.
"Send a message to President Jiang to congratulate Light Chaser Animation on the new year and say that I am looking forward to collaborating on 'My Sunshine'."
She gave instructions to her assistant, her voice languid yet firm.
Then, her gaze lingered again on the words "Lucy Global Casting," and a flicker of ambition burned deep within her eyes.
In an apartment near the Beijing Film Academy, Shen Ao and Wen Muye, two young people, kept refreshing the webpage, looking at the online discussions about their names—a mixture of curiosity, doubt, and anticipation.
Both of them had sweaty hands. They looked at each other and could see the excitement and trepidation in each other's eyes.
"Old Shen, does this mean we've officially debuted?" Wen Muye was still a little dazed.
"Muye, you helped me polish the script, you're talented." Shen Ao patted his shoulder hard, his eyes a little red. "Senior Brother Lu and President Jiang gave us a chance, the rest is up to us to work hard! We can't let Zhuiguang down, and we can't let Beijing Film Academy down!"
"Yes! Let's give it our all!"
A gym in Hong Kong.
Zhang Jin had just finished a set of high-intensity weight training, and was drenched in sweat.
The agent rushed in excitedly, phone in hand: "Brother Jin! It's official! Light Chaser Animation Studios has announced it! He'll be the male lead in 'The Lone Agent'! Directed by Lu Yang!"
Zhang Jin paused for a moment as he took the towel, then wiped his face vigorously, sweat concealing his instantly reddened eyes.
He walked to the window, looked at the bustling street scene below, and remained silent for a long time.
After years of waiting, from stuntman to supporting actor, he has finally been offered a decent lead role in an action film, one that truly centers on him. It's with the rising star Light Chaser Animation Studios, and he's collaborating with the hottest actor, Lu Yang.
He clenched his fists so tightly that his knuckles turned white.
He had to seize this opportunity and give it his all.
The project announcement from Light Chaser Pictures was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, creating not ripples, but towering waves.
The homepage of Entertainment Weekly's official website features a striking red, bold headline:
[Chasing the Light 2009: A Comprehensive Strategy from Low-Budget Art Films to Top Hollywood Productions]
Subtitle: Jiang Xuerou's three initial moves ignite new ambitions for Chinese films.
The article provides a detailed analysis of four projects, with a focus on *Lucy*: "While most domestic film companies are still fiercely competing for screen time during the Lunar New Year season, Light Chaser Pictures has already set its sights on the global stage. Its collaborations with Luc Besson, Fox, and EuropaCorp are not just about projects, but also a signal: Chinese capital and filmmakers are deeply involved in top Hollywood projects as producers, not just investors. Behind this lies the fruitful result of Jiang Yu's years of dedicated work in Hollywood—"
The report in *Film World* was even more inflammatory:
[A wave of new directors is rising to prominence; is Light Chaser Animation aiming to become a "Whampoa Military Academy" for directors?]
"From Lu Yang to Shen Ao and Wen Muye, Light Chaser Pictures' favoritism towards new directors borders on a gamble," Jiang Xuerou said in a telephone interview with this newspaper. "Chinese cinema needs fresh blood, and we are willing to provide opportunities and room for error for talented young people." However, entrusting tens of millions of yuan to recent graduates is a bold move. But Lu Yang's success may have given them confidence—this director, who rose to fame with "The Witch," is now a leading figure of the seventh generation of Chinese directors.
The post from the entertainment-focused social media account "Octopus Set Visit" was even more incisive and direct:
[In-depth analysis: Why did Fan Bingbing lower her price to take on the role in the TV series "Chasing the Light"?]
"15 yuan per episode! What does that mean? You should know that Fan Bingbing's studio currently charges at least 30 yuan per episode for TV dramas! This isn't a friendly price; it's a strategic investment price." Considering the news two years ago that Fan Bingbing was rejected after high-profile audition for "The Witch," and now she's willing to play the lead role in Light Chaser's first TV drama, the signal behind it couldn't be clearer: Hollywood resources are too tempting! Who wouldn't want a piece of the "Lucy" pie? Fan Bingbing's move, seemingly a concession, is actually brilliant."
A popular post on Douban's movie group is titled: "[Rational Discussion: Which of these four projects by Light Chaser is most likely to be a hit? Which is most likely to flop?]"
The original poster, "Movie Elementary School Student," wrote: "As the title says, let me first state my opinion:"
1. *Love Like a Bouquet*: Directed by a newcomer, with actors who aren't top-tier stars. Romance films are prone to producing dark horses, as long as they're made sincerely. A small bet is likely to be successful.
2. *The Man from Nowhere*: Starring Lu Yang, Zhang Jin, and Wang Zhi, with the original production team behind *The Witch*, this action film has a broad audience. A sure bet.
3. *Lucy*: A blockbuster production, but a Sino-US-French co-production carries risks; casting the female lead is crucial. It could be a huge hit or a complete flop.
4. *My Sunshine*: Strong IP foundation, a star-studded cast, and fierce competition among TV dramas. A worthwhile bet.
What do you think?
The top-rated comment (3521 likes): "I'm betting on *Lucy*! Luc Besson's imaginative concept + Hollywood special effects + global distribution—this combination is unique in China! The key is the female lead; if they cast someone with an international face who can also act, it'll be a smash hit! I bet five cents that Zhang Ziyi will be the female lead!"
The second most popular comment (2987 likes): "Upstairs, Zhang Ziyi is currently filming 'Sophie's Revenge,' so her schedule might not be suitable. I think it will be a newcomer, or someone like Li Binbin or Liu Yifei who has a good command of English and a certain level of international exposure. But honestly, Light Chaser Animation's move is brilliant. While others are still struggling in China, they've already gone to Hollywood to grab a piece of the pie."
The third most popular comment (2456 likes): "Am I the only one looking forward to 'Love Like a Bouquet'? Shu Chang hasn't acted in a TV series in a long time, and Zhu Yilong's looks and acting skills are both on point! I've seen director Shen Ao's graduation project; the cinematography is as beautiful as a music video, and he's particularly good at capturing the ambiguous feeling between men and women! This kind of small but beautiful film might be a dark horse!"
On Sina Entertainment, topics such as #LightChasingPicturesNewProject#, #LucyGlobalCasting#, and #FanBingbing15YuanPerEpisode# have repeatedly topped the trending search list.
Entertainment blogger "Old Hand in the Industry" posted a long blog post: *
[Exclusive Analysis: Why is it said that the casting for "Lucy" will cause a major earthquake in the entertainment industry?]
"1. Resource level: Directed by Luc Besson and distributed globally by Fox, this is one of the top Hollywood resources that Chinese actresses can currently access, which is much better than going to Hollywood to play minor roles."
2. Role significance: She is an absolute leading lady, transforming from an ordinary girl into a goddess, offering a huge space for acting skills and a character that attracts fans.
3. Follow-up effects: If successful, she will directly join the ranks of international actresses, and Hollywood resources will continue to flow in.
4. Fierce competition: It is foreseeable that top domestic actresses, ambitious second-tier actresses, and even actresses from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities will be scrambling to get in.
As far as I know, less than two hours after the announcement, several actresses' agents had already begun urgently contacting Light Chaser Animation, Fox, and EuropaCorp. This war without gunfire has only just begun.
The comment section of this blog post became a "recommendation session" for fans of various celebrities: "My Xun's acting skills and talent are unmatched, and she's also learning English. Please consider her!"
"Yi has the highest international profile and extensive experience in action scenes, making her the most suitable!"
"My Filipino speaks fluent English, is currently filming 'Black Swan,' and has a pure and versatile temperament!"
"I speak fluent English, am dedicated and hardworking, and am currently filming '2012,' a Hollywood project I'm working on!"
"Tony has a unique charisma, and 'Lust, Caution' proves she can handle complex roles!"
"Everyone upstairs, make way! I, Fan (Fan Bingbing), have already lowered my standards" to show goodwill. Isn't that enough sincerity?"
Zhang Ziyi's studio; she had just finished a long-distance call, her brows slightly furrowed.
Agent Ji Lingling sat opposite.
"Fox said that casting is mainly being led by Luc Besson's team and Light Chaser Animation, and they'll provide a shortlist." Zhang Ziyi rubbed her temples. "I'm currently filming 'Sophie's Revenge,' and scheduling is an issue. If the role is really suitable—"
"Ziyi, we must fight for this role." Ji Lingling's tone was firm. "You need a truly leading lady role to solidify your position in Hollywood. 'Memoirs of a Geisha' is an ensemble piece, but an original sci-fi blockbuster like 'Lucy,' if successful, will secure your position. We can coordinate the schedule, even if 'Sophie's Revenge' requires some extra work."
"What about Jiang Xuerou?" Zhang Ziyi asked.
"We've already made plans for afternoon tea tomorrow." Ji Lingling flashed a shrewd smile. "I heard Fan Bingbing traded a TV series for her ticket to the event; we can also curry favor with her appropriately. Haven't you always wanted to try producing? Perhaps we could collaborate with Light Chaser Animation on future projects."
Hengdian, the film crew of "Dream of the Red Chamber".
Yang Mi was scrolling through her phone during a break from filming when she saw a trending topic. Her eyes lit up for a moment, but then dimmed again.
She went to a secluded spot and called her agent, Zeng Jia.
"Jia-jie, did you see the news about 'Chasing the Light'? 'Lucy' ————"
On the other end of the phone, Zeng Jia sighed: "Mimi, I know what you're thinking. With your current status, it's difficult for you to even get an audition at this level. We need to be realistic."
Yang Mi bit her lip: "I know—but Sister Jia, could you at least try to get an audition opportunity? Even just to meet them once? I want to see how far I am from having access to top-tier resources."
Zeng Jia paused for a moment: "I'll try to get some information through some connections. But don't get your hopes up too high."
Our main task right now is to film "Chinese Paladin 3" and "Dream of the Red Chamber" well, and build up our portfolio and popularity. Once you have your representative works, these opportunities will naturally come.
After hanging up the phone, Yang Mi gripped it tightly.
She looked at herself in the mirror, still wearing makeup, her eyes filled with resentment, but even more so with determination.
Meanwhile, undercurrents were also swirling within the circles of Chinese female celebrities in Hong Kong, Taipei, and even Los Angeles.
Lin Ziling's team is evaluating the possibility of her participating in the film, and Liu Yifei's advantages in the United States are being discussed repeatedly; even Li Meiqi, who has been developing in Hollywood for many years, expressed through her agent that she is willing to lower her salary.
Huayi Brothers, Wang Zhonglei's office.
The Wang brothers, Zhongjun and Zhonglei, looked at the announcement from Zhuiguang with complicated expressions.
"This Jiang Xuerou, she's quick on her feet." Wang Zhongjun lit a cigar. "Her foundation in I Ching, plus Jiang Yu's..."
Hollywood's resources instantly expanded the market.
Wang Zhonglei flipped through the report: "The key is *Lucy*. We've tried Sino-US co-productions before, but for them, getting deeply involved in top-tier productions like this is like drinking water. Just how many connections has Jiang Yu built up over there?"
"I heard he has close ties with Fox executives, and they built trust through the Twilight and Avatar projects," Wang Zhongjun said, exhaling a smoke ring. "The question now is, should we cooperate with Light Chaser Animation? Their projects, especially Lucy, definitely need more domestic capital to share the risks."
"Take the initiative to go find them?" Wang Zhonglei frowned. "Wouldn't that be too beneath us?"
"Losing face?" Wang Zhongjun laughed. "What does face matter when it comes to real money and resources? But don't rush, let's see how the others react. Bona and New Pictures definitely won't sit still either."
Bona Film Group's Yu Dong is holding an emergency meeting.
"Light Chaser Animation has raised the bar for the industry," Yu Dong said, banging on the table. "Before, when we talked about Sino-US co-productions, it was mostly just about bringing a few washed-up Hollywood stars to China for a brief appearance. This is a real Luc Besson + Fox global distribution. We need to catch up."
The production manager suggested, "Mr. Yu, should we also speed up our contacts with Hollywood? We have resources in Hong Kong and can reach some international producers through Universal Music Group."
"It's not enough to just make contact; there must be specific projects."
Yu Dong's thinking was clear: "In that case, immediately organize a team to specifically study the case of 'Lucy'."
We need to learn how they negotiated the deal, how the profits were divided, and how the Chinese side participated in the production. Also, I should call Jiang Xuerou to congratulate her and sound her out. Perhaps we can participate in the domestic distribution of *Lucy*.
The atmosphere inside the Light Chaser Pictures office building was both lively and tense.
The receptionist's landline was ringing off the hook with calls from media outlets requesting interviews, artist teams wanting to meet, and other companies discussing collaborations.
Publicity Director Xiao Wu's team worked overtime overnight to organize media feedback, monitor public opinion, and prepare in-depth publicity materials for the future.
A small queue formed outside Jiang Xuerou's office.
Department heads were waiting to report on their work, while also trying to get more inside information about the casting of "Lucy" from the president.
"Mr. Jiang, this is a summary of today's media reactions." Xiao Wu handed over the laptop. "Overall, it's very positive, with the most criticisms directed at 'Bouquet' and speculation about the casting of 'Lucy'."
Jiang Xuerou quickly browsed through the list: "As expected. Regarding 'Bouquet,' have Director Shen Ao prepare a director's statement and a teaser concept art, and release them in a few days to show the audience our sincerity and aesthetic sense. As for 'Lucy'—"
She smiled and said, "To maintain an air of mystery, we can appropriately reveal some casting criteria: fluent in English, highly adaptable, and able to undergo high-intensity physical and acting training."
"So—many female celebrities' agents want to meet with you?" Xiao Wu asked tentatively.
"We'll politely decline all offers initially, giving a unified response: casting is handled by the director's team and a professional casting director; we respect the creative process." Jiang Xuerou paused for a moment. "However, regarding Fan Binbin—she just accepted our drama role, so we can arrange a brief phone call to thank her for her support and also discuss 'My Sunshine'."
Preparations.
She walked to the window and looked at the bustling traffic below.
My phone vibrated; it was a message from Jiang Yu: "We've seen the domestic response, well done. Stay calm, casting is key, better to have fewer but better castings."
Jiang Xuerou replied, "Understood. The pressure is all on 'Lucy,' I'll manage the pace on the domestic side."
She thought for a moment, then added, "President Jiang, many people are asking if you have someone in mind."
A few minutes later, Jiang Yu replied: "The director and I have a few people we're observing, and ultimately it depends on their audition performance."
Los Angeles, 2 a.m.
Liu Yifei has just finished another night scene for "Black Swan".
This scene is the climax of Lin Xin's transformation and darkening on stage, and it is extremely emotionally draining.
She returned to her hotel room, feeling utterly exhausted.
After taking a hot shower, she sat on the sofa wrapped in a bathrobe and habitually opened the domestic news.
News about the film "Chasing the Light" is still on the front page of the entertainment section, and the comments section has seen several rounds of speculation about the female lead of "Lucy".
Her name was mentioned frequently, with some expressing anticipation, others pessimism, and still others making comparisons.
The agent sent a message: "Yifei, there's a lot of discussion about 'Lucy' in China. The company suggests we take the initiative. I can contact Light Chaser Animation Studios to formally express our interest in auditioning."
Liu Yifei thought for a moment and replied, "Wait a minute. I think—I'll ask Jiang Yu first."
She opened her contacts and found that name.
My finger hovered over the screen for a long time, but in the end, instead of making a call, I typed a long text message: "Jiang Yu, I just finished filming a night scene and saw a lot of news about 'Lucy' in China. Everyone's guessing who the female lead will be, and many people have mentioned me. To be honest, I'm very excited, but also a little scared. Excited because it's truly a dream opportunity, and scared because I'm worried I'm not good enough and will let down such a role and the expectations placed upon me. Filming 'Black Swan' taught me a lot. Director Darren said I've improved a lot since filming started, but I don't know if that improvement is enough to win Lucy." If—I mean, if—I had the chance to audition, what would I need to prepare? Or, do you think I'm suitable?
send.
She hugged her knees, staring at her phone screen.
Time passed by, minute by minute, ten minutes, twenty minutes.
Just when she thought Jiang Yu was resting and wouldn't reply, her phone lit up.
"Just finished a meeting. First of all, don't be afraid. It's normal for actors to be nervous when faced with such opportunities. Secondly, whether it's suitable or not isn't up to me; it's up to the director, the role requirements, and your performance during the audition."
If you ask for my personal opinion, I think you have the most potential. The journey from purity to shattering and then rebirth that you portrayed in *Black Swan* shares a certain intrinsic similarity with Lucy's growth arc. Casting will officially begin at the end of next month, at which time audition invitations and footage will be sent through your agency. Now, get some rest and finish filming *Black Swan*. Opportunities are for those who are prepared and in good form.
Liu Yifei read the message three times, and her unease and anxiety gradually disappeared.
She replied, "Thank you, Jiang Yu. I'll prepare well, no matter the outcome. Thank you for always giving me such specific advice. PS: Are you still wearing your New Year's Eve scarf?"
The reply came quickly: "Scarves aren't really necessary in Los Angeles winters. I keep it on the coat rack in my office to remind myself to stay warm. Also, that dinner and the fireworks were memorable. Goodnight, Yifei."
As Liu Yifei read the last two sentences, the corners of her mouth unconsciously turned up, and her cheeks flushed slightly.
She pressed her phone against her chest, feeling most of the fatigue from the whole day dissipate.
Outside the window, the Los Angeles night sky was devoid of fireworks, only sparse starlight and eternal lights.
In her heart, she seemed to see again the magnificent sky over the Santa Monica seaside.
>