"Moran-san."
As Laila was preparing for the next shot, a man speaking Japanese-accented English approached her.
"Mr. Chiba, is there something you need?"
The newcomer was Shinichi Chiba, the Japanese actor who would play the swordsmith in the movie.
Speaking of him, he was quite renowned, having received numerous awards in Japan. In 1998, he even went to Hong Kong to participate in the filming of "The Storm Riders" and was nominated for Best Actor at the 18th Hong Kong Film Awards. He was a highly skilled veteran actor.
In the original version of "Kill Bill," he was cast in the important role of the swordsmith. Laila had a vivid memory of his performance, so she invited him again for this movie.
Despite the relatively similar appearances of neighboring Asian countries, nationalities could still be easily identified through temperament. Japanese people, especially those with a rugged appearance like Shinichi Chiba, exuded something that actors from other countries had difficulty replicating.
The character of the swordsmith in the movie was precisely that type of person. It would be easy for a Japanese person to embody such a character, but if actors from neighboring countries were chosen, the effect might be less convincing. This was a cultural inheritance—much like the way East Asian actors in wuxia films carried an air of mysticism and heroism that would be difficult for a Korean actor to emulate.
"Moran-san, regarding those swords, I believe there's still room for improvement."
Shinichi Chiba, like many Japanese people, had a very serious personality. Some might call him "rigid," but that personality suited Laila's work standards.
"Is there a problem?" Laila's expression turned serious as well.
The swords were valuable pieces she had spent a considerable amount of money to collect. If subpar items were mixed in, it wouldn't make her or discerning fans happy.
"No, no, the swords are good, very good." Shinichi Chiba's English accent was heavy, only capable of carrying out basic conversations. Fortunately, he had a translator by his side to facilitate smooth communication with others.
Laila asked, puzzled, "So, what's lacking?"
"The sword racks, the racks holding the swords." Shinichi Chiba gestured while speaking, concerned that she might not understand as a "foreigner." "The framework supporting the swords."
Of course, Laila knew what he meant. "What's wrong with the sword racks?"
"The quality isn't good, and they lack spirit." Shinichi Chiba used a rather abstract term. It wasn't that he didn't want to explain more clearly, but he felt that even if he did, a Westerner wouldn't understand terms like "spirit."
However, Laila understood his meaning. He was saying that the racks and the swords didn't match.
"That's indeed an issue. Thank you for pointing it out." Perhaps no one would pay attention to the swords and racks serving as background props, but since she aimed to make a classic, she wouldn't allow any room for regret in the film. "I will have better sword racks procured."
Shinichi Chiba seemed satisfied with her attitude and bowed solemnly. "I should be the one thanking you, Moran-san, for bringing our country's culture to the United States and other countries. It's something very respectable."
Hong Jinbao, standing beside them, stared at him with bloodshot eyes. He wished he could replace him on the spot. Someday, he would convince the young director to make a movie about their country's culture. Then, he'd like to see these little Japanese show off!
Out of the corner of her eye, Laila caught his expression. Apart from finding it amusing, she didn't know what other expression to use.
"Laila." Louise came over with Demi.
Laila bid farewell to Shinichi Chiba and followed Louise to a resting area. "What's up?" She knew Louise wouldn't appear on the set without good reason.
"This document needs your signature." Louise put two documents in front of her. "And about the land, the negotiations are almost finalized. We can sign the contract once the lawyer reviews it."
Laila quickly scanned the documents, signed her name at the bottom, and handed them back. Then she asked, "How's the price?"
"10% lower than planned. You know the surrounding area isn't the best, so getting this price is already good."
Laila nodded in satisfaction. "You handle it."
The land they were talking about was a large, desolate piece of land north of the theme park, more than twice the size of the park itself. Given the vast land in the United States and its relatively low value, particularly barren land like this was practically worthless. That's why they were able to acquire it at such a low price.
Louise asked, "Shall we start working after signing the contract?"
"Let's start. Our time is limited, and it would be best to catch the summer release window two years from now."
Based on her calculations, shooting would take place from the end of this year to the beginning of next year, with the remaining time allocated to post-production, special effects, and music. This was her first step into the summer release window and a way to showcase her fangs. To achieve her goals, she wouldn't tolerate even the tiniest mistakes!
Louise's heart raced, and her blood boiled with excitement. The summer release window was her dream, shared by many in the film industry. Ever since Steven Spielberg demonstrated the value of the summer release window with "Jaws," this period had become the battleground for powerful film companies.
When "Jaws" held the top spot at the box office for 14 weeks and became the first film to gross over $100 million, the scene from back then still sent shivers down her spine. Could there be a filmmaker who wouldn't want to carve a brilliant path in the competitive summer release window?
"Yes! We're going to conquer the summer release window too!" Laila clapped Louise's hand and laughed.
The reason they were purchasing new land was because Laila wanted to build a pirate-themed amusement park. Although she could construct it within the existing park, she intended to create two distinct themes.
The current park specializes in horror and R-rated attractions, targeting visitors aged 18 and above. The new park, on the other hand, would cater to all age groups, creating a place for young people and children to enjoy.
Laila knew that in her previous life, Disneyland had dedicated an area to "Pirates of the Caribbean," and that ride had been a massive success. Now that she owned the ship of those pirates, how could she not seize the opportunity to make a profit?
"Oh, and one more thing." Louise finally managed to calm her racing heart and remembered another matter from this visit. "Time magazine is hoping to interview you."
Laila furrowed her brows. She was about to refuse, but Louise interrupted her.
"I think you should consider it. This is the third time they've requested an interview. Their sincerity is evident, and I believe you can use this opportunity to promote our new film."