Chapter 317 Watch the Script Closely
"Being famous now doesn't guarantee a good outcome. The higher the expectations, the bigger the disappointment," Pearl said slowly. "To win the audience's love, current popularity isn't enough. Plus, since everyone's looking for Haley, we shouldn't bother. It'd be a waste of effort!"
She glanced at the remaining list. "Just because something's not popular doesn't mean it's bad. Plenty of shows become hits after they air."
She looked at Emma. "This will also boost the audience's anticipation."
"You're right," Emma nodded seriously. "But who doesn't want instant fame? The risk is too high. Eileen might need this show for a comeback."
In the entertainment industry, a show equaled an opportunity.
Missed this chance, and there might not be another!
Many artists fade into obscurity after one hit show.
Time changed fast, and competition among artists was fierce. Audiences constantly saw new faces, and old ones could quickly be forgotten.
"So we need to choose carefully!" Pearl said.
For Eileen to stay popular, she needed another hit show.
In this era of trends, one always went with what was hot. No matter how popular something was, it couldn't beat the audience's craving for novelty. Audiences always got visual fatigue. And these trending scripts all followed the same route. The styles weren't much different.
Pearl carefully read through all the scripts and introductions she could find.
"This one," Pearl said to Emma. "Call Eileen right away. She must get this script!"
Emma glanced at it and asked, "The director of this show is Penelope, and she's not very famous. Her show is too avant-garde and a bit depressing. The female lead isn't an idol type; it's more like a revenge drama with a weak romantic subplot. Actually, the audience prefers emotional dramas."
It was a modern drama.
In the past, Eileen was known for her period dramas, but she should try a new style.
The script tells the story of a female lead who grew up in a family that favored boys over girls and was bullied at school. She faked her death to escape, then returned for revenge, making the bullies suffer and eventually becoming a big boss.
Pearl raised an eyebrow but smiled. "I think this director has her own ideas. Writing and directing herself, avant-garde needs to be tried. Forget those old conventions and see if the script is exciting. The weak romantic subplot is fine; the strong female lead is exciting and teaches us about female independence. There's nothing wrong with that!"
A hit show should have a unique style.
"Okay." Emma still trusted Pearl. "I'll call Eileen right away."
"I'll go with her to meet the director later," Pearl said. "Time is of the essence!"
Eileen, after resting for a few days, got a call from Pearl and showed up as requested.
She got out of the van, looked at Pearl who was already waiting, and smiled. "Why are you still working even while pregnant? I'm making you worry too much!"
"Getting you famous is part of my job," Pearl said. "The media will write that I'm the most important person in Eileen's life."
She was definitely aiming for that goal.
She had high hopes for Eileen and naturally shared her successes and failures.
"I read the script you chose," Eileen said. "I want to try a new style too."
"So we're on the same page again?"
Eileen smiled gently. "We always have such good chemistry."
Pearl smiled back but stayed silent.
"But I'm more worried about you," Eileen continued. "Have you really recovered?"
Eileen was referring to the recent drama with Haley.
Haley and Oscar got together, leaving Pearl out.
To her, it was a ridiculous situation.
Pearl shrugged and said cheerfully, "If I focus on my career, I won't lack men. Once I reach the top, I can choose anyone I want!"
Eileen gave her a thumbs up.
They walked into Penelope's studio, which was quite small.
Penelope had previously made documentaries, which had won several awards.
This was her first time making a TV series.
She spent five years writing this script, showing her passion and dedication. Penelope wasn't just following trends.
Rebecca Washington, who greeted them downstairs, said politely, "Ms. Harris, Ms. Collins, I'm sorry. Penelope is currently locked in her room, working. It might take some time. You can wait, but I can't say when she'll be out."
Rebecca seemed a bit embarrassed. She wasn't sure when Penelope would come out.
And Penelope didn't like to be disturbed while creating, so she felt sorry for them.
"No problem, we can wait," Pearl said with a smile.
Rebecca was very grateful. "What would you like to drink? We have coffee, juice. I'll get it for you."
"Water is fine."
"Same for me," Eileen said.
Rebecca took them upstairs. As soon as they entered, they saw clothes and waste paper scattered on the sofa.
The whole room was quite messy.
"Sorry, I didn't have time to clean up." Rebecca quickly moved the clothes off the sofa.
She had tidied up in the morning, but Penelope had made a mess by the afternoon.
Pearl could tell that Penelope might be a bit careless in her personal life.
They waited for about two hours.
Finally, the door to the room opened.
Penelope stood at the door and stretched. She was about 5'7", thin, with messy hair, thick black glasses, and still in her pajamas.
Seeing Pearl and Eileen sitting on the sofa, she suddenly remembered. "I think I had an appointment today."
"Hello!" She came out warmly and shook hands with them.
Penelope looked at Eileen and smiled. "Eileen, I didn't expect you to come. I've seen your shows."
She looked at Pearl and thought for a moment. "I don't really know you."
"Hello, I'm Pearl." Pearl shook hands with her.
Penelope sat across from them and adjusted her glasses. "So, what brings you here?"
"We're interested in the lead role for your series," Pearl handed her the documents, getting straight to the point. "I was wondering what your process is and when the auditions will be."
Eileen said gently, "I'm very interested in your script. I'm hoping for a chance to audition."
Penelope adjusted her glasses again, looking troubled.
Pearl noticed her hesitation and said, "Penelope, just say what's on your mind."
Penelope pressed her lips together. "Actually, I don't want to make this series anymore."