Villainess With a Cat Changing System Ch.41 part 2
Thank you Jack, I very much appreciate your support <3
While Pei Jingfei was preparing 《Book of Wishes》 with that destitute director, Lin Shuwei was also preparing her own comedy film, 《Me and My War》.
The anti-fans’ attempts, with the hidden operation of Tianyu’s public relations team, didn’t gain traction.
Lin Shuwei had long developed a thick skin and paid no attention to what the anti-fans were saying.
She invested some of her savings into this film and dedicated herself wholeheartedly to its production.
The film had a low budget, and the required funding wasn’t much. Lin Shuwei treated her acting fee as an investment, and Jiang Xinran handled the directing and writing in post-production.
Lin Shuwei played dual roles in the film, and she even did the makeup and played several supporting roles with special effects, which tested her acting skills.
In addition, with Jiang Xinran assisting with miscellaneous tasks, Lin Shuwei was extremely busy during this period.
Even in her busyness, Lin Shuwei didn’t forget to open her phone every day and read the private messages sent by Huo Yu.
It felt magical, as if Huo Yu was following her every day.
When she stayed up late, she would tell her to sleep early and work at full capacity with a clear mind. When she didn’t eat on time and had stomachaches, she would send her messages asking her to eat properly.
Lin Shuwei couldn’t contact Huo Yu.
She could only draw strength from these private messages.
Someone on the other end of the internet was paying attention to her, so she had to work even harder!
Under Huo Yu’s relentless efforts, Lin Shuwei’s happiness index began to rise.
Huo Yu felt that these private messages had some kind of immunity. Only the first one had the highest increase in happiness index, while the rest were at 50 or 100.
But it was still pleasing. She actively seized every opportunity to improve Lin Shuwei’s happiness index, squeezing into her arms whenever possible, and even made calls to her when Lin Shuwei was busy.
What bothered Huo Yu was that while she was making efforts on her end, there would occasionally be sudden messages like “Lin Shuwei misses the host” or “Lin Shuwei wants to embrace the host.” which caused the happiness index to plummet by a few hundred points!
Sometimes, when Lin Shuwei held Huo Yu, the cat, she would also think about the “host.”
Huo Yu naturally no longer thought that the host referred to the cat body.
Being in Lin Shuwei’s arms felt awkward and embarrassing, making Huo Yu want to give Lin Shuwei a few punches as a cat!
Fortunately, as Lin Shuwei became busier, she had no time for longing or such thoughts.
She had even less time to take care of Huo Yu in cat form. Lin Shuwei sent Huo Yu to the Cat Apartment and visited her whenever she had free time.
Huo Yu and a few sisters started filming 《Me and My Wealthy Sisters》 in March. It was precisely when Lin Shuwei was busy, with Huo Yu shooting during the day and returning to the cat’s nest to sleep at night, conserving happiness points. She didn’t know when they would disappear.
It was also because Lin Shuwei often finished work late at night that she would sometimes stop by the Cat Apartment to see him on the way.
The Cat Apartment had glass on one side, allowing a view of Huo Yu’s cat nest from outside.
So, when the cat was sleeping in the nest, there was a chance for Lin Shuwei to increase her happiness index by peeping on him when she finished work late at night.
With a high happiness index, Huo Yu also had time to transform back into a human for filming.
The films and TV dramas Huo Yu invested in didn’t earn much money from the company’s artists. There were no big hits, but they didn’t lose money either. The biggest profits came from the money invested in the stock market, which multiplied several times over.
Huo Yu’s financial issues were also resolved.
Participating in 《Me and My Wealthy Sisters》 required a significant amount of funding.
During this period, Huo Yu naturally came to know that her own brother truly liked Lin Shuxiao.
Huo Yu was twenty-two years old, while Lin Shuxiao had just turned nineteen after the new year, making her even younger than her actual age.
She was a weak and pitiful little thing.
Huo Yu didn’t know how her own brother could have developed feelings for Lin Shuxiao.
But since her brother liked her, Huo Yu also started to feel affectionate towards Lin Shuxiao and treated her well.
It was undoubtedly the best treatment for Lin Shuxiao to come to the Cat Apartment.
When Huo Zhen was busy and Lin Shuwei was not around, Huo Yu took care of Lin Shuxiao in cat form.
The filming period for Lin Shuwei’s movie was relatively short, with post-production starting after three months of shooting.
Regarding marketing and promotion, Lin Shuwei wanted to find a reputable company to help with distribution. With the strength of her small studio, she couldn’t maximize the value of this film.
Lin Shuwei encountered setbacks when approaching two companies.
For these low-budget films, it was not worth the effort for companies that had already planned their schedules to promote them.
When Lin Shuwei approached the third company, the receptionist spoke a few words with her and asked her to wait. After being outside for over an hour, just when Lin Shuwei thought she might have been stood up, the person returned with a woman.
It was a woman dressed in professional attire and wearing glasses with gold rims.
She looked mature and elegant, with an indescribable charm of professionalism.
This woman was none other than Lan Xin, whom Huo Yu knew.
“I am Lan Xin, the President of this company. I watched the movie and found it quite interesting. I would like to hear from you about the advantages of this film. What reasons do you have to persuade us to handle its promotion?” Lan Xin sat down and looked at Lin Shuwei as she spoke.
“President Lan, hello. I know that this film may be rare in the current trend. However, compared to big-budget films with hollow scripts and only special effects, this film has more appeal. It can bring joy. It is the most direct and straightforward popcorn movie. As long as its promotion is done well, it has the potential to break through.” Lin Shuwei looked at Lan Xin and spoke.
When Lin Shuwei chose to invest money and time in filming this movie, it wasn’t just because she thought the script was good, but also the result of her research on the current market.
The tastes of the audience who are accustomed to big productions have become more discerning.
Small-scale productions that bring joy have the potential to break through.
However, there have been many cases of similar movies flopping recently, without any major successes. Therefore, those who control the distribution channels and chase after capital rarely put in much effort in these types of films.
“What you said seems to make some sense. However, my company needs to make money. We won’t engage in ventures without guarantees.” Lan Xin said with a slight smile as she looked at Lin Shuwei.
“We can sign a gambling agreement. If the box office doesn’t meet your expectations, I’m willing to compensate for that part of the money!” Lin Shuwei gritted her teeth and said.
“A gamble? Interesting. I’ll propose a number: 150 million. If you agree, our company will use the best team and strive for the most theater screenings for this movie!” Lan Xin said.
150 million, this number is quite high compared to previous examples of similar films that usually made tens of millions at the box office.
However, given the current situation with no other companies helping with promotion and the low screening rate for this film, it would be fatal.
“Deal!” Lin Shuwei looked at Lan Xin and clenched her fist.
Lan Xin, as if she had anticipated this, beckoned and had the prepared agreement brought over.
Lin Shuwei was the biggest investor and the lead actress in this film. Jiang Xinran had already entrusted all these matters to Lin Shuwei, who was exhausted after completing post-production and had already gone on vacation.
Lin Shuwei signed the agreement on behalf of her studio, which meant that if the box office fell short of 150 million, she would have to bear the loss.
Lan Xin watched as Lin Shuwei signed the agreement, completing the deal, and a smile appeared on her lips.
“I will have someone check the recent movie screenings and arrange for this film to be released as soon as possible. It should be scheduled for the summer season, and during the Film Protection Month, where all the films shown are domestic, the competition is also fierce. As for promotion, as long as you cooperate, it will be fine. Pleasant cooperation.” Lan Xin extended her hand to shake hands with Lin Shuwei.
“Are you interested in acting in an art film? I think your acting skills are good. Director Guan Xiuying has a project in the planning stage, and the female lead role hasn’t been decided yet. As a gesture of cooperation, I’ll give you an audition opportunity.” Lan Xin said after exchanging pleasantries with Lin Shuwei.
“Guan Xiuying, the director? Is that really possible?” Lin Shuwei was surprised. Guan Xiuying was one of the few female directors among the fifth generation of directors and was known for her delicate and beautiful art films. She had won numerous awards.
Even with Tianyu’s influence, it would be extremely difficult to secure a role in a film directed by Guan Xiuying. She never considered capital or popularity when casting actors; she only looked at their talent and suitability. Each of her films may not have done well at the box office, but they were all considered classics.
The movies Lin Shuwei had been filming so far were directed by second or third-tier directors, lacking depth. Jiang Xinran was also a newcomer director, and her collaboration with Lin Shuwei was her debut.
“It’s just an audition opportunity. I’ve heard that the role is very demanding. You know, Guan Xiuying is extremely strict. You should give it a try. Perhaps it will work out.” Lan Xin said with a smile.
“Thank you, Ms. Lan. Is there anything I can do to help you, Ms. Lan?” Lin Shuwei bowed and asked.
They were only cooperating at the moment, and there were no apparent benefits for Lan Xin to offer such an opportunity to Lin Shuwei. Although it was just an audition, it was still a rare chance.
“Ms. Lin is a smart person, so I won’t beat around the bush. Capture Huo Yu’s heart sooner and let my little girl give up.” Lan Xin narrowed her eyes and smiled.
“…” Lin Shuwei looked at Lan Xin in astonishment.
“I’ve watched that survival program. A woman’s sixth sense should be quite accurate. My little girl is that foolish yet loyal child, Gu Nanzhen. Have you heard of her? She’s currently filming a variety show, having a great time.” Lan Xin said.
“I will pursue her, but this isn’t a transaction.” Lin Shuwei looked at Lan Xin and said.
“Then consider it a favor owed to me. Whether the audition is successful will depend on you.” Lan Xin smiled and said.
“Thank you, Ms. Lan. I will remember this favor of yours.” Lin Shuwei said.
“Good. The audition arrangement will be made by Director Guan’s assistant. They will contact you.” Lan Xin said to Lin Shuwei.
The two didn’t say much more, and Lin Shuwei left Lan Xin’s company.
The filming of 《Me and My War》 had ended, and there was still a need for promotion, roadshows, and other activities for the new movie. It all required time. Lin Shuwei hadn’t decided yet on her next role.
If she could really secure a role in Guan Xiuying’s film, that would be the best outcome.
In the afternoon, Lin Shuwei received a call from Director Guan’s assistant, and they met later that day.
“Before we discuss anything, whether you’re willing to audition or not, you need to sign a confidentiality agreement. Director Guan has prepared this play for a long time, and not even the slightest detail can be leaked. Do you have any questions?” the assistant said to Lin Shuwei after they met.
“No, that’s natural.” Lin Shuwei nodded.
After signing the confidentiality agreement, the assistant briefly explained the general content of the play to Lin Shuwei.
“This is a film with a same-sex theme. There are two female leads, and the other lead has already been confirmed. The working title is Overgrown Grass and Fragrant Orchid. If you have any concerns about the same-sex theme, we can stop here.” the assistant said.
“I have no concerns. Please continue.” Lin Shuwei said after pausing.
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Translator: Glariosa
Editor: Sinensis
