Chapter 121: Talent
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Tian Liang, the actor playing Zhang Ju, initially had concerns about Wen Nian’s ability to perform and how it might impact tonight’s crucial scene, lie knew that Xu Chang would insist on reshooting the scene repeatedly until he was satisfied with the final take.
lie had mentally prepared himself to stay up all night, but to his surprise, it was only n pm after they finished filming.
It must be acknowledged that today’s scenes were not particularly challenging. Moreover, Wen Nian had taken the initiative to seek guidance from the senior actors on set regarding various acting techniques, which contributed to the successful filming. Tian Li believed that tonight’s scene was sufficient evidence that Wen Nian possessed not only a strong work ethic but also exceptional acting talent.
Not everyone possesses the ability to truly embody their characters. “Mu Ci, you’re a natural in this field! I was so genuinely frightened by your performance just now that it made my throat tighten, and I almost stumbled over my lines.”
Lan Tian, the actor portraying Wu Gang, still found it hard to believe when he thought about it. The young girl standing before him was merely 17 years old, while he himself was five years older. Reflecting on his performance just moments ago, he couldn’t help but smile. “Luckily, 1 managed to remind myself that I was filming; otherwise, 1 might have accidentally dashed out of the frame.”
Wen Nian diligently studied the script during her supplementary classes. As she recalled the nuances of the movie’s performance in her previous life, she pondered whether she could find a more effective way to deliver her own performance.
Having received positive feedback and witnessing everyone’s approval of her performance, she couldn’t contain her excitement. “Thank you all for your encouragement. 1 am determined to maintain my dedication and deliver excellent performances going forward.”
All the scenes scheduled for today were successfully filmed according to the plan. Those who didn’t have their own vehicles traveled back to the hotel in groups, taking the bus.
The first group of actors departed, and among them were Wen Nian and Shen Jun, who boarded the bus. Wen Nian had skipped her lunch break and, combined with the emotional intensity of the scenes she had filmed throughout the night, she felt mentally and physically drained as soon as she allowed herself to relax.
Wen Nian was overwhelmed by drowsiness, struggling to keep her eyes open. She squinted and glanced at Shen Jun, who had discarded his soiled coat and was now wearing only a sweater.
Wen Nian asked, albeit belatedly, “It was quite chilly on the set earlier. Won’t you catch a cold wearing so little?”
Although it was a delayed concern, Shen Jun felt a sense of contentment. “Director Xu has a heater over there. I’ll go and warm up while you continue filming. Don’t worry, you should get some rest.”
Finally, Wen Nian felt a sense of relief. Leaning her head against Shen Jun’s shoulder, she found solace. Shen Jun gazed at Wen Nian’s peaceful sleeping face, his emotions intertwining within him. He had closely observed all of Wen Nian’s scenes on the monitor.
Everyone said that Wen Nian was talented, and Shen Jun admitted it.
However, Wen Nian’s intense and unsettling gaze continued to haunt his thoughts. Shen Jun couldn’t dismiss the notion that it wasn’t merely a display of talent but rather a glimpse into a maddening intensity, capable of obliterating the world after encountering a life-or-death crisis.
The journey from the school to the hotel was a mere ten-minute drive. Upon reaching the hotel’s entrance, Wen Nian was so exhausted that she began to emit soft snores. Shen Jun’s heart filled with sympathy, so he decided not to disturb her slumber. He gathered their belongings and gently lifted Wen Nian, cradling her in his arms before stepping out of the car.
Since today’s scenes were set in the main school, the occupants of the car primarily consisted of young actors. As everyone witnessed Shen Jun’s tender actions towards Wen Nian, their curiosity got the better of them, causing them to steal a few more glances at the scene unfolding before them.
Pan Jia nudged her assistant, Sun Yue, with her elbow. “I told you to gather information about Wen Nian. What did you discover?”
Sun Yue had followed Pan Jia’s instructions and searched for information on Wen Nian. However, the available information was limited. As Wen Nian had maintained a low-key presence since her second year of high school, most of the news available was outdated. The news mostly revolved around Wen Nian’s past reputation for being indulgent and self-centered after entering No. 1 High School.
Upon hearing Sun Yue’s report, Pan Jia responded as if she had anticipated the outcome. “1 knew something was amiss with her landing a role in this film! Her appearance is merely average, and the most crucial factor is her lack of acting skills. 1 only took an interest in the script because I liked the role of Mu Ci. If it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t have accepted the role of the second female lead!”
Pan Jia cast a disdainful glance at the group of people walking ahead of her, and her lips curled in contempt. “Only those fools who are my co-stars would believe Xu Chang’s praise. If I were playing the role of Mu Ci, I would undoubtedly deliver a far superior performance to hers!”
Sun Yue, known for her persuasive skills, quickly chimed in, echoing Pan Jia’s sentiment. “Absolutely! You consistently rank within the top three in your professional class. I refuse to believe that Wen Nian secured the lead role without resorting to any tricks!”
Pan Jia had always been cast as a female lead in previous projects. This was the first time a director had personally approached her for a role. Initially, she had intended to compete for the lead role, but after the audition, she was offered the role of the second female lead instead. She reluctantly accepted the opportunity only because it was a rare chance in her career.
The more Pan Jia dwelled on it, the more her anger intensified. Particularly after witnessing the captivating scenes involving Mu Ci’s character that day, she felt that her own opportunity had been unjustly taken away. “No, 1 refuse to accept this silently.. If I can’t portray Mu Ci, then she won’t have it easy either!”