Laila knew that her mother, Janet, had always considered herself a fashion designer, and her connection to the film industry wasn't particularly strong. Winning an Oscar last time was an unexpected result.
However, Laila later discovered that having a fashion designer working on films was the right thing to do. Janet had a natural talent, and her designed costumes seamlessly integrated with the movies. It never gave the audience that feeling of "Did he/she wear the wrong outfit for this occasion?"
Laila became addicted to working with her after they collaborated on "Chicago." When Laila decided to film "The Lord of the Rings," she invited Janet to join her team.
"Mom, stop being so modest. By the way, have you read 'The Lord of the Rings'?"
"Of course! I love that book; I've read it many times."
"That's great." Laila smiled. "I plan to turn it into a movie. Are you interested in working with me again?"
Janet fell silent for a moment. Laila was worried the call might have dropped, but then she heard a nearly ear-piercing scream from the other end.
"Laila! Darling! Are you serious? You're going to film 'The Lord of the Rings'?"
"Yes, Mom, you heard it right." Laila was caught off guard by the scream, rubbing her ears and saying, "I'm going to film it, probably as a trilogy. Are you interested in handling the costume design?"
"Oh my God! I can design costumes for characters from the book!" Janet's voice trembled with excitement. "I'm so interested! Do you know how much I love that book? I take it out to read almost every year, and each time, it gives me a new feeling. My costume designs even drew inspiration from it!"
That was exactly what Laila wanted to hear. "That's fantastic. I believe I can make the best movie with your help."
"You're absolutely right! We're the perfect team! We'll dominate Hollywood in the future!" Janet exclaimed, waving her fist.
Watching his fiancée bounce around on the sofa, William could only smile wryly and pull her back to his side. Seeing her excitement, he wouldn't be surprised if she turned the furniture at home into an obstacle course.
To prevent little William from imitating her, he had to catch her before a tragedy occurred.
"Laila, congratulations." Taking the phone, Quentin finally calmed Janet down.
"Thank you." Laila's lips curled up. She found the way he and her mother interacted quite amusing and heartwarming. She wondered if she could have such a relationship in the future.
After receiving many congratulatory calls and just when Laila was about to shut down for some rest, she unexpectedly received a call from Michael Bay. After exchanging a few congratulatory words, he got straight to the point.
"Why did you choose me?"
Laila knew he was referring to "Transformers," and it seemed Louise had already put him in touch with someone.
"I believe you can create the effect I want."
"I've read the script, and there's a high chance it'll be a hit if we follow it." Michael was perplexed; he couldn't understand why she would give up such a golden opportunity.
Laila had no objection to his judgment. "Yes, that's why our company worked hard to get the rights. Mr. Bay, I am a director, but also the owner of a film production company. I think you're suitable, and that's why I want you to direct. It has nothing to do with anything else."
She understood his concerns. Probably, like Louise thought, he believed they were arch-enemies after their fierce competition. He might suspect there was a trap behind this seemingly good opportunity.
"Mr. Bay, I'm not joking about a few hundred million dollars. I need the most intense, exhilarating, and impactful movie. The war scene you shot in 'Pearl Harbor' impressed me, and that's why I made this decision. Of course, the final decision is yours. If you're not willing, I'll look for another director."
Michael Bay's expression was conflicted. He wanted this opportunity, but he had other worries. With the influence of "Transformers" alone, he could foresee a huge box office success. If he gave up now, he would regret it in the future.
"I have one question."
"Go ahead."
"Why don't you direct it yourself? With your abilities, I'm sure you can make it as you envision it.
Laila smiled. "Yes, I can direct it myself, but I'm not sure if I can capture the exact feeling I have in mind. Also, I already have a new movie to make, and in my heart, it's more important than 'Transformers.'"
Michael Bay was somewhat disbelieving. If she looked down on "Transformers," what could be more attractive to her?
"Can I know the name?"
"Of course, it's 'The Lord of the Rings.'"
"..." Michael Bay rolled his eyes. So, that was it. If it was that work, he had nothing more to say.
"I've taken 'Transformers'!"
"Great, let the team below discuss the specifics."
"No problem." Michael agreed readily.
Ending the call, Laila turned her gaze back to the script of "The Lord of the Rings," still under revision. This was her fourth revision, and each time she reread the book, new insights came to her. She felt it was worth investing so much effort to ensure she wouldn't ruin such great work.
"Monster" was entrusted to Patty Jenkins, "Transformers" was handed over to Michael Bay, and the sequel to "Pirates of the Caribbean" was assigned to Rob Marshall, who served as Laila's assistant in "Chicago." Everything had been properly arranged, and Laila planned to start the production of "The Lord of the Rings" after the Oscars concluded.
This work not only has many thought-provoking aspects in terms of content but also promises a visually captivating experience for the audience. This implies that it's not just about the actors' performances; there needs to be significant coordination in the realm of special effects. Fortunately, Laila is already very proficient in this area, and as she reads the script, she anticipates creating a work that will be remarkable both visually and thematically.
This work not only had many profound aspects to contemplate but also promised high visual enjoyment for the audience. It meant that the actors' performances alone wouldn't be enough; there would need to be substantial collaboration in special effects. Fortunately, she was already very proficient in that area. Looking at the script, she couldn't help but anticipate the kind of masterpiece she would create.