However, their momentary relief didn't last long, as Laila misunderstood their words, thinking that they were concerned she might not be satisfied with the script and wanted to make changes.
"There are a few areas where I think some adjustments might be needed, but I don't think we need to replace the entire script. If possible, I'd like to discuss with the scriptwriter," Laila said.
Yolanda and the manager were taken aback, as that wasn't what they had intended to convey. If they were to bring up the idea of changing the script now, they couldn't predict the consequences. Most importantly, they didn't dare to mention it again.
In the end, they forced back the bitterness that had risen in their throats, treating the idea of changing the script as if it didn't exist. They figured that the higher-ups wouldn't go to the trouble of verifying this minor issue.
"Alright, we will make arrangements as soon as possible. When are you available?" The manager shrugged off his initial worries and became more composed.
Laila called for Demi and scheduled a meeting time with them before smiling and saying, "I'm curious why you decided to send me this script. Weren't you worried I might ruin it? I've never done anything like this before."
The manager and Yolanda exchanged a knowing smile, choosing not to reveal the true reason. If the entire situation were exposed as a result of an impulsive action, they wouldn't be able to show their faces to anyone.
"It's like this," Yolanda, who had reached her current position due to her quick thinking, soon came up with a suitable explanation. "We've been keeping an eye on your films. From your R-rated horror films to R-rated action films, from martial arts films to pirate films, we see you as a very innovative person. We're sure you don't want to confine yourself to one genre. We're currently working on a collaboration with Miramax Films, and they've presented us with this script that we're quite excited about. It's just missing the right director, which is where you come in."
Laila tilted her head, appearing to believe their words, though she didn't take them too seriously. It made sense on the surface, but if her previous films weren't good enough, would they have still considered her for this project?
No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't deduce the utterly ridiculous reason behind their decision.
"Thank you for considering me. I have to admit I had some reservations at first because I've never worked in this genre. However, I do enjoy musicals, and this script looks promising, so I'm willing to give it a try."
"Of course," the manager replied. He realized that as long as she was willing to take on the project, everything would be fine. This was an opportunity to strengthen their relationship, and even if this project failed, they might still have future collaboration opportunities.
Laila looked at both of them, finally asking the question she had been wanting to know all along: "I'm curious, why did you want to make this movie?"
"Just as you mentioned, our company is also very fond of this script and believes that, with a good production, it could potentially win some awards," Yolanda said, not hiding anything and explaining their original plan. She never underestimated the young director before her. Looking into those wise, clear, and thoughtful eyes, she could tell that Laila was not someone who could be easily fooled. It was better to be sincere from the beginning rather than be caught in a lie.
Laila nodded thoughtfully. In her memory, the birth of this film was closely related to a certain gentleman's efforts. However, from their conversation, she couldn't find any mention of this person. She didn't know if they considered this person unimportant or if there was another reason for his absence from the conversation.
Regardless, a film couldn't be made well without that person's help. However, it seemed like Yolanda and the manager were unaware of the truth. She would have to wait until she met with the screenwriter to find out the whole story.
Laila never concerned herself with her payment; Louise handled her agent duties. Whenever the time came, Disney would naturally negotiate with Louise.
The remaining details were all about the film.
"Before I officially accept the script, I have a few questions I'd like to confirm," Laila said, her ice-blue eyes naturally exuding a profound chill that kept those who saw them on edge.
The manager and Yolanda were no exception. Under that scrutinizing gaze, they felt an inexplicable chill creeping over them.
"Please go ahead," the manager hurriedly gestured, unconsciously wiping away the cold sweat that had appeared on his palm. If he had been sweating on his forehead, like Yolanda, he would likely have lost face in front of his subordinates and compromised his authority.
Laila interlaced her fingers, resting her wrist on the table. "I'm a very demanding person. Anything I direct needs to perfectly achieve the desired effect. I don't want anyone interfering with my work, whether it's you, your superiors, or any big names. I need you to grant me that necessary authority."
"Of course!" The manager quickly agreed to this without needing to report it to higher-ups. She wasn't an unknown director; with each film of hers grossing that much at the box office and a track record of no failures, she had every right to hold such authority.
Laila was satisfied with his cooperation and continued, "Regarding the selection of the cast, I'd like to have veto power."
The manager considered this and eventually nodded in agreement. She wasn't asking for the right to select the cast; she simply wanted the right to veto, indicating that she wasn't particularly interested in who was cast, just that she didn't want actors she didn't like. Having this guarantee meant the company would have a lot of options when casting, which was a good thing for them.
"After the cast is in place, I would like them to spend six months learning to dance. If, after six months, they don't meet my expectations, I have the right to replace them."
This made the manager hesitate. Six months could be seen as long or short, but it would provide ample time for the cast to prepare. The issue was whether these people, who weren't necessarily professional dancers, would be willing to spend so much time training and whether they could pass her rigorous standards. What if her standards were exceptionally high, and the actors who had trained for six months were still kicked out?
Laila understood his concerns. "Don't worry, I won't impose excessively strict requirements on them. I just want them to be able to perform professionally in front of the camera. After all, we're making a musical, aren't we? If they can't dance well, how can we expect the audience to buy into the film?"