However, Laila wasn't as optimistic. She knew that the upcoming "Deep Impact" had strong momentum, as it was one of the top ten highest-grossing films in North America in 1998. If she remembered correctly, it should be ranked eighth, just behind the original "Rush Hour."
It had a grander setting and more impressive special effects than "Final Destination," making it appealing to fans of disaster films. This would undoubtedly have a significant impact on the box office of "Final Destination," especially since it was the first week for "Deep Impact," while "Final Destination" was already in its third week.
However, its luck wasn't great either, as it hadn't found a suitable release window. Soon after its release, another top-ten annual box office film, "Godzilla," would hit theaters, potentially siphoning off a significant portion of its audience.
Of course, those concerns were unrelated to Laila. By the time "Godzilla" was released, "Final Destination" would likely have already tapered off, collecting only residual box office revenue without a confrontation.
"No rush, no rush." After hanging up the phone, Laila tapped her fingers lightly on the desk.
With her eyes closed, she suppressed the excitement of wanting to engage in a battle.
Yes, rather than avoiding it, she preferred her films to collide directly with those big productions. She wanted to see those lavishly produced movies shattered to pieces by her works, to crush and dominate, to stand high and overlook the many losers beneath her.
Unfortunately, it was still too early. Her wings hadn't fully grown yet; she needed more experience and funds. To make big films, and secure a spot in the lucrative summer release season to maximize box office potential, she needed a substantial amount of funding. Just take a look at the investments made in those big films—often in the range of hundreds of millions.
She had earned some money, but if she were to invest all of it, it would hinder the normal development of her company. Her ambitions extended beyond filmmaking; she had various other plans, such as building the talent management division and implementing innovative collaboration projects. All of these required significant financial resources.
So, she could only lightly lick her slightly dry lips and repeatedly tell herself, "No rush, just wait a little longer..."
Using three days, Laila finally completed the script for "Kill Bill." The next step was storyboarding, which would have to wait until after she finished taking promotional photos for the Victoria's Secret models.
For this photoshoot, Laila had requested that Victoria's Secret provide some of their unreleased new designs as well as a selection of classic pieces. She didn't need to photograph every single piece but rather chose those that best complemented the models' well-toned bodies based on their styles.
In her design, the promotional photos were divided into two parts. One part would be shot in a studio with a plain background to showcase the models' allure. The other part would take place in a luxurious hotel room, using an opulent bedroom setting to enhance the appeal of the lingerie.
Laila had a bold idea—to take the models to her horror-themed amusement park. Imagine the stark contrast between lingerie-clad models and the eerie, gruesome scenes around them. Picture a stunning model with a flawless figure and sensual lingerie striking provocative poses amidst the backdrop of bloodstains on the walls or a dilapidated floor. The visual impact would be incredibly powerful.
To her, even she wouldn't be able to resist the allure of such a concept.
However, she couldn't be sure if others would share her vision. Therefore, she temporarily shelved this idea and decided to consider it after completing the other promotional photos.
Within the Victoria's Secret headquarters, there was a dedicated photography studio. At the appointed time, led by Warren Galls, Laila arrived at the studio.
Warren was a pitiable guy. Unwilling, he had been coerced by his father to become Laila's personal driver, assistant, and various other roles in her service. But Laila didn't hesitate to take advantage of the situation. When opportunities came knocking, it would be foolish not to seize them. Hadn't she called Demi over for her convenience?
At this moment, the models were already waiting in the dressing room. As Laila arrived, they greeted her with cheerful smiles.
Returning the greetings, Laila carefully observed the girls' appearances. Just as she had requested, each one had rosy, radiant cheeks and flawless, supple skin. The models' adjustments had been effective. She couldn't even spot a single pimple on their beautiful faces.
First, Laila had Warren bring out the lingerie she had requested, distributing them to the models according to her plan. She had already established this plan beforehand, possessing full-body photos of the models as well as images of the lingerie. Preliminary distribution at this stage wouldn't pose any issues. If she were to distribute them later, they would run out of time by mid-morning.
The next step was makeup. Before starting the shoot, Laila needed to discuss the details with the makeup artists.
"I want something simple and natural. No heavy makeup, no flamboyance. I want them to have natural, wavy long hair, moisturized lips, and eyes that appear watery. And then..."
She conveyed her requirements to the makeup artists, leaving them free to add their creative touch.
In front of the camera, even the slightest flaw could be magnified. Although adjustments could be made in post-production, nobody wanted to expose their unflattering side to the photographer, especially not someone of Laila's caliber.
One by one, the models were led away by the makeup artists to get their makeup done. Laila observed from the side, occasionally offering input. For instance, she suggested a different lip color that might better complement their complexion, or recommended lingerie pairings that matched well.
Despite Laila's insistence on a natural look, achieving such an appearance still required a series of meticulous steps. After all, a "natural" look wasn't as simple as it seemed.
Furthermore, for promotional photos, even more attention was required. Laila knew well that any flaws could be magnified in images that might be enlarged and displayed prominently in outdoor advertisements. And this was the year 1998; Photoshop and similar tools weren't as advanced as they would become in the future.
The first model to be ready was Heidi. As one of the most renowned supermodels of the future, she possessed enviable natural attributes. Her voluminous honey-colored curls cascaded down her back, and her elegantly long legs presented a perfect proportion. Standing 176 cm tall, she was tall and slender without appearing overly thin—an image that Laila favored.
She had always disliked models who appeared emaciated. She felt that such an aesthetic stemmed from an unhealthy obsession and didn't suit the purpose of promoting products. Observing the models selected by Laila during the Moran Fashion Show, Janet had been influenced not to favor excessively thin models either. Laila had chosen women who were more voluptuous, healthier, and radiant when they smiled.
Dressed in a not-yet-released sultry lingerie set, Heidi stood before a plain white backdrop.
The black and purple lingerie showcased Victoria's Secret's signature sexy style. A long, purple chiffon veil hung loosely around her waist, adding a touch of elusive allure.