If that's the case, then it's wonderful!
Who knew better than her how tired she was of playing decorative roles in other people's movies? Only in Laila's movies could she have the opportunity to showcase her acting skills. And compared to those films that didn't even aim for box office success, Laila's movies, which consistently caused a sensation, would undoubtedly offer her much more.
In her excited yet nervous anticipation, Laila indeed uttered the words she most wanted to hear.
"I have a plan for the second half of the year to make an action film with a female-centric theme. It will be about a woman's journey of revenge."
Charlize Theron's heart was about to leap out of her chest, and her voice trembled slightly as she asked, "That's an intriguing theme. I wonder if I could play a role in it?"
Her longing was certainly not lost on Laila. The lead role had been prepared for her, but Laila didn't want to make it too easy.
"If you can train to a level that satisfies me within three months, the lead role is yours."
"Ah!" Charlize Theron stood up excitedly. The lead role! Moreover, the lead role in Laila's film! What did this signify? It meant that she would become known worldwide!
"I can do it! I'll put in all the effort required for any kind of training!"
"Very well." Laila stood up and patted her on the shoulder. "I know your dedication, but Hollywood doesn't. Use your hard work to earn a role that will astonish all of Hollywood!"
Charlize Theron nodded solemnly, "I will!"
Even if it meant giving her life, she wouldn't pass up this incredible opportunity that could lead to her success. She would not depart until after completing this film. She was determined!
Laila then called Demi over and had her take Charlize Theron to the trainers that Roy had. Three months was a short time, and Laila didn't need her to become a full-fledged martial arts star. If she could perform certain actions like side flips and kicks, that would be great. If she couldn't, it wasn't a big deal. Stunt doubles and post-production could always make the movie work.
After dealing with Charlize Theron's matters, Laila called Louise over.
"The area in the theme park with the Final Destination theme can be opened now. Arrange some promotional activities for its opening. Additionally, set up a new area next to it; I'll be building a new studio there."
Louise was delighted, "Is the preparation for the new movie already starting?"
"Yes. The script is already halfway done. I'll send it to you once it's completed. Also, keep an eye on Charlize Theron. I plan to cast her as the lead in the new film. I just had Demi take her to the training instructors. I promised her that if she can deliver the kind of action that satisfies me, she'll get the lead role. Be sure not to let her overexert herself, though. If it comes to it, I'll have to look for other options."
Louise wiped off a bead of sweat. If Laila was concerned about her getting exhausted, she shouldn't have made such a tempting offer! If it were her, faced with such an excellent opportunity, she might disregard everything else and strive for it as well.
Wait a minute! Did she just say training instructors?
"You're making an action movie?"
"Exactly. It's a revenge action film with a female protagonist. There will be a lot of fights and bloodshed."
Louise looked at her in astonishment. Female-centric films in Hollywood history generally didn't perform well, let alone action film!
"Laila, are you sure about this? Hollywood isn't that forgiving when it comes to female protagonists."
"Of course." Laila wasn't unaware of Hollywood's exacting standards for female roles. Women over thirty usually only had a chance if they were top-tier actresses, while most others were sidelined. On the other hand, men could continue acting even into their gray years with attractive women, often portraying romantic adventures.
"I'm going to create a surprising female-driven film. I want those people to see that it's not that female-centric films don't sell; it's just that they lack the skill."
"Alright, since you've made up your mind, I believe you've thought it through thoroughly," Louise sighed inwardly, not pressing the matter further. She couldn't deny that sometimes Laila saw things others didn't. Maybe this time she was confident enough to make such a decision.
Laila knew what Louise was worried about. Female-driven films usually had lighter plots, often revolving around romantic love stories. There's even a specific term for them, Chick Flicks, or what's colloquially known as "chick movies."
Movies like "Pretty Woman," "Sleepless in Seattle," and "The Princess Diaries" are some representative examples of Chick Flicks.
These films typically attract a female audience and often become date night choices, where couples can share the wonderful hormones elicited by the romantic tales on screen. Hugs, kisses, and sweet nothings—it's a realm of bonding. But would it be appropriate to watch a blood-soaked action movie during such moments?
However, if it's not for a date night, what other opportunities are there for female protagonists to get ahead?
Louise was perplexed, but she didn't want to delve any further into the matter.
"I understand. I'll arrange for the new area."
Laila nodded and, recalling someone else, asked, "How's Roy? He hasn't stirred up any trouble recently, has he?"
"Oh, no," Louise chuckled. "He's recently taken up a film and is already on set."
"Good. He needs to be cautious about the films he takes. He's set to become the top artist in our company's talent division. We need to think long term." Laila wouldn't settle for just any role or film for him.
"I understand. We're only selecting films where he can work alongside major stars, hoping he can learn from them."
Laila had full confidence in Louise's work, and with that, she left, putting on her coat. "I have other matters to attend to now. Let's keep in touch over the phone." She walked to the door.
Louise nodded with a smile, "Of course."