The Best Director

Chapter 125: It’s You!

Accompanied by Jessica, Wang Yang returned to Chinatown in San Francisco for a few days, and then went for a vacation to Malibu to enjoy fishing out on the sea. After a week of well-deserved rest, he finished his post-incarceration holiday and officially got back on the work track. He now had three film and television production projects in his hands, producing “Sweetheart” and “Prison Break,” and directing, writing, and producing “District 9.” No matter how many projects there were, he had decided to address them one by one, and he chose to complete the preliminary work for “Sweetheart” first.

Because even before he began his imprisonment on March 21, he had already completed the screenplay for “Sweetheart.” This was a sun-drenched, vibrant dance movie that naturally required a sunny disposition to produce; whereas “District 9” was so oppressively intense that it drove one mad. So, he wanted to finish these sunny tasks first before diving headlong into the work for “District 9,” including writing the screenplay, assembling the crew, and so on.

Home TV Entertainment” department

As for “Prison Break,” Flame Films

had already initiated the project by hiring producers to prepare for production. A TV series might have as many as a dozen producers; a movie would have at least five or six, including productions like “High School Musical,” ”

Pursuit of Happyness,” and “Juno,” where each producer had specific roles to fulfill different tasks. Otherwise, it would be impossible for one person to shoulder all responsibilities alone; having the energy is one thing, but having the time is the bigger issue.

In “Sweetheart,” the role of the producer Wang Yang wasn’t the main one, but he was tasked with the most critical jobs, not soliciting investments since he was the investor himself. Instead, his job was to build the film’s crew, though not the entire crew. His task was to first confirm the choice of director and then to work with the director to cast the lead actors. His preliminary work would be complete once these were accomplished.

He wouldn’t concern himself with the hiring of key crew positions like the cinematographer, art director, and set designer, or with financial management of the crew, equipment, and location. Those would be managed by the director and other producers.

Who would direct Sweetheart? He was looking for someone who understood street dance, coolness, and had a sunny, youthful directorial style; someone with storytelling abilities and passion… After pondering many prospects, Wang Yang’s eyes finally settled on Annie Fletcher’s name, the 35-year-old dance director of the movies “Titanic,” ” trilogy.

Bring It On,” and the “High School Musical

The future director of the dance movie “Step Up” was Annie Fletcher herself. Undoubtedly, her choreography skills were exceptional, far superior to his own. Annie was more capable of blending various dance elements such as street dance, ballet, and opera dance; coolness, sunshine, youthfulness. She hadn’t yet picked up a director’s microphone, so her style was not yet defined and could be shaped gradually. Her storytelling ability seemed lacking, which was a flaw evident in “Step Up,” where the plot was rather bland and thin.

While dance movies focus on dance, without an engaging storyline, even brilliant choreography could end up as meaningless embellishment. The narrative issues with “Step Up” stemmed firstly from the screenplay and secondly from the continuity in post-production editing. He believed that with him, a producer familiar with the next decade’s musical and youth films, he could help Annie avoid this issue as much as possible.

Moreover, “Step Up” was already very successful, and “Sweetheart,” equipped with a script combining the essence of youth films for the next decade, had a very good chance of becoming a major hit as the first street dance movie of the new century.

Another point was his role as the producer, where he would ensure his own opinions were considered throughout the movie’s creation. It was well-known that directors disliked interference; he certainly did not want to argue or even fight with anyone, like Sara Schulman. Therefore, for a first-time director with a gentle and friendly personality like Annie Fletcher, a Taurus woman, she was the most suitable candidate—provided she was willing to take up the microphone.

In the backyard filled with the faint scent of flowers, Wang Yang sat on a wooden chair, throwing a tennis ball for Danny, his tongue-lolling dog, to chase, while he smiled into the phone, “Hello, Annie!”

This Annie—Darren or Hathaway—was indeed Annie Fletcher. Her hearty voice came through the phone, “Hi, the amazing Yang! Why are you calling?” She laughed heartily and added, “Every time you call me, it’s about ‘a job.’ Let me guess, is it for the dance director of ‘Sweetheart’? Tell me YES, I’m out of work, ha!”

Wang Yang, having retrieved the tennis ball from Danny’s mouth and thrown it again, replied with a smile, “I’m sorry to disappoint you, but no. It’s indeed ‘a job’ and related to ‘Sweetheart,’ but not for dance direction. I want to invite you to direct ‘Sweetheart.'”

Oh! What?” Annie Fletcher seemed to finally grasp what he was saying, surprised enough to exclaim, “You want me to direct ‘Sweetheart’?” The hand holding her phone tightened with excitement. She was just a dancer who started with backup dancing and performances, then gradually gained a name for herself and, by chance and good luck, became a movie dance director. Beyond choreographing, sometimes she even took on minor roles. She had always aspired to be a director and thought about making an independent film, but she never imagined such an opportunity would suddenly arrive.

Yes! Annie, I hope you can become the director for ‘Sweetheart’!” Wang Yang said seriously, knowing Annie Fletcher’s story. She was like the titular ‘Sweetheart’ in ‘Sweetheart Spicy Dance,’ and though ‘Sweetheart’ was a completely different story, their shared passion for dance would give Annie enough enthusiasm to direct. He added, “I don’t know if you’re interested? Let me tell you a bit about the story first…”

As Wang Yang played fetch with Danny, he introduced the plot and some stylistic elements of ‘Sweetheart’ to Annie Fletcher.

Annie listened attentively and, after he finished speaking, she said with a laugh, “The story is very interesting! But shouldn’t I read the script first? Ha ha… Magic Yang, in truth, I really, really want to direct. This job excites me so much! I love it, I love this new job!” She said excitedly, “This time I can even design the storyboards!”

Wang Yang smiled and then added a serious preliminary remark, “But you know, I will serve as the producer for ‘Sweetheart,’ so I might interfere, pointing out issues with certain shots or suggesting changes…” Annie Fletcher on the other side chuckled nonchalantly, “That’s okay, at least I can tell the actors what to do, right? Ha! Honestly, I wouldn’t mind it if it’s for the betterment of the film.”

It won’t be much, I’m mainly concerned with the style, you know more about dance than I do.” Wang Yang said smiling as he stood up and walked toward Danny, who wouldn’t return the ball. He continued, “Annie, our goal is to create a movie that sparks a street dance craze! We’ve already confirmed two main actors — Jessica for the role of Sweetheart, and Michael Pitt as the brooding Brooke from the team…”

After confirming Annie Fletcher as the director, Wang Yang quickly began the selection and auditioning process for the leading actors. He and Annie Fletcher would be the interviewers, but he would take the lead.

‘Sweetheart’ had six leads, members of the dance team, each with their unique personality, coming together to tell a story about dreams and friendship. Of course, some roles were more prominent than others, but they would all be headliners on the poster. And at this point, “starring in a Magic Yang movie was synonymous with success, a new star in Hollywood.

Thus, even though ‘Sweetheart’ wasn’t directed by Wang Yang – he was just the writer and producer – numerous well-known actors of the appropriate age fought for a leading role, having the famed young director’s name attached was enough.

Apart from Sweetheart and the brooding Brooke, whose casting was already settled, there was also the preliminary selection for the role of the funny and sleazy ballet dancer Edison. Wang Yang reached out to his ideal choice, Joseph Gordon Levitt. Born on February 17,1981, in Natalie’s words, “he’s also an Aquarius.” Joseph started acting in commercials, TV series, and TV movies from a young age and was a well-known child actor. He was currently studying at Columbia University in New York.

Over the phone, Joseph expressed his happiness about the role offer and shared with Wang Yang his love for ‘Juno,’ claiming to be a “hardcore fan” of his. But assuming the role of Edison would mean taking a long break from his studies and learning ballet, so Joseph said he would need to think it over carefully before responding.

As for the other three roles, including a brother-sister duo, Hogan and Pandora, who were masters of street dance and marched to the beat of their own drums, they were the kind of cool kids who made young people scream in excitement. Then there was Karen, a character somewhat timid and quirky, embodying the style of stage opera. These three roles required a smaller-scale audition, meaning picking from among a few predetermined actors.

When Wang Yang crafted the character of Karen, he felt that Annie Darren was a perfect fit for the role; even seeing ‘Karen’ on the script made him picture Annie. However, uncertain of Annie’s acting ability to handle the part, both Karen and Pandora’s auditions were scheduled, with Annie participating in the competition for Karen.

In the audition room of Flame Film Company in Santa Monica, Wang Yang and Annie Fletcher sat in the judges’ chairs. A young woman with light golden hair, Annie Darren, stood in front of the audition table, handing them her personal resume and a set of photos. Wang Yang took it and set it aside, tapping it lightly saying, “I’ve already seen it three times. No need to look again. But Annie, why did you have to be the first one?”

There always has to be a first.” Annie replied with a slight smile, feeling nervous inside,…

OK, let’s start the audition,” Wang Yang was about to present a performance topic when he saw Annie taking a deep breath. He couldn’t help frowning and asked, “Annie, are you very nervous?”

Annie smiled and waved her hand, but her heart was beating faster and faster. She apologetically nodded and said, “I’m sorry, Yang, Ms. Fletcher, I am a bit nervous, but it’s okay.” She took several deep breaths and laughed, “It’s okay.

Oh, Annie, just call her Annie!” Wang Yang shrugged as he looked at Annie Fletcher beside him, and both blond Annies smiled. Annie Fletcher turned to the girl in front of her and comforted her with a smile, “Annie, relax! You won’t be as nervous as I am, this is my first time directing, my first time auditioning someone; but you’ve been through many battles, just bring out your understanding of the character.”

Seeing that Annie seemed much more relaxed, Wang Yang couldn’t help but silently marvel that women really knew how to comfort others. He smiled and said, “Annie, you know what kind of character Karen is, she is somewhat timid, but she’s also a girl who bravely pursues what she wants…” After explaining for a bit, he said the specially written topic, “So let’s start the performance. Hey, Karen, interested in joining my team?”

Your team?” Annie frowned ever so slightly, a look of both excitement and wariness on her face. She asked tentatively, “What team? For real?” Her hands seemed to want to protect herself as she asked again, “Are you talking about joining a team for the competition?”

Wang Yang wore a casual expression, but inside he let out a sigh of relief, mentally checking off a box! Compared to three years ago, Annie’s acting had improved by leaps and bounds. Moreover, the character of Karen allowed for a theatrical style, which let her throw herself into the performance, resulting in a very good effect. It looked like there was a good chance he wouldn’t be telling Annie “I’m very sorry” for the fourth time.

Annie then performed a few other topics. After completely relaxing, she performed better and better, like a girl who brought a touch of opera into real life, which made both Wang Yang and Annie Fletcher nod in approval.

That’s all for now,” Wang Yang said with a happy smile. He glanced at Fletcher and then looked back at Annie who had become very tense again. Clutching her fists tightly, her eyes blinking non-stop, he said warmly and with a smile, “Annie, it’s you!”

Oh, my God!” Annie immediately blushed with excitement, but her fists remained clenched, and her eyes were blinking wildly as if she’d forgotten how to react… Had she gotten the role of Karen? Had she gotten a major role in a movie! Looking at Wang Yang and Fletcher smiling in front of her, Annie covered her mouth with her hands, her voice trembling as she kept saying, “Thank you! Thank you, thankyou…”

I can’t cry, now is the time to smile… Annie pressed her nose and finally couldn’t hold back, tears streaming from her eyes as in her ears she vaguely heard that furious voice, “Go on, go! You’ll die in Hollywood! That place is a graveyard of people like you!” And then there was that night, on the rooftop with the strong, whooshing wind… She hadn’t died! She could tell her parents, I did it! You can hang a movie poster with your daughter on it on the wall of your room and be proud of her!

Thank you.” Annie wiped away her tears and, laughing and crying, said intermittently, “Thank you! Thank you all, thank you, Yang, thank you, Annie! Thank you, Annie…”

Annie Fletcher was smiling with heartfelt sympathy, and Wang Yang too had a broad smile, giving a thumbs-up to the overjoyed Annie, shouting, “Annie, well done!” Annie smiled, revealing her white teeth, and suddenly those ordinary freckles on her nose seemed so beautiful.

Having confirmed the selection for Karen in the morning, in the afternoon the two began auditions for the cool girl Pandora. After interviewing four girls, a blond, blue-eyed young woman walked in. About 160CM tall, she had a youthful, beautiful face with a chill beauty about it. Wang Yang took immediate notice — this girl had the right temperament, and of course, everyone who came to audition did, but she must be… Scarlett Johansson?

Hello, Magic Yang, Annie!” The blond girl introduced herself confidently with a smile, “I am Scarlett Johansson, and here’s my portfolio and stuff.” She then handed over the documents she was holding.

Hmm, Scarlett, I know you, I’ve seen your ‘The Horse Whisperer’, you performed wonderfully,” Wang Yang said with a smile, taking her documents. He handed the photo collection to Annie Fletcher and began to read Scarlett’s resume.

Scarlett Johansson was born on November 22,1984, and had yet to turn 17. She began her acting career at an early age, initially with stage plays. In 1994, she made her big screen debut in “North,” and in ’96 showcased her acting talent in “Manny & Lo”. By ’97, while filming “The Horse Whisperer,” Natalie Portman abandoned the role due to her commitment to the Broadway play “The Diary of Anne Frank”, thus Scarlett, equally talented, was cast as the lead daughter, “Grace MacLean,” earning widespread acclaim for her performance once again.

In the following two years, she appeared in several independent films like “American Paradise” and seemed to be seeking a move into mainstream Hollywood movies. All he knew was that Scarlett was not the type to stagnate as a child star, having seen her superbly sexy performance in “Iron Man 2”; but it wasn’t just about sex appeal, her acting talent was arguably on par with Natalie’s. Both had a fierce acting showdown in 2008’s “The Other Boleyn Girl”.

But all that was yet to come, and whether Scarlett was right for “Pandora remained to be seen through auditions. Wang Yang closed the resume, smiled, and said, “OK, let’s begin.” Scarlett nodded and replied, “Alright.”

Next, Wang Yang and Annie Fletcher began their assessment with various prompts, and Scarlett, whether acting cool or performing scenes, was remarkably impressive. Watching Scarlett excel, Wang Yang thought of Annie and sighed, “After all, she is a beautiful butterfly.” He glanced at a satisfied Annie Fletcher, then nodded to Scarlett and said, “Buddy, you’re the one!”

Scarlett paused for a moment and then her face lit up with joy, “I’m the one?” Wang Yang nodded again, “Yes!” Thrilled, Scarlett clenched her fists, wanting to rush out and share the good news with her waiting mother, even though this wasn’t her first movie. Pandora might only be the second female lead, and she had already played several lead roles, but this was a Wang Yang movie! Wang Yang! Gleefully she said, “Thankyou for this opportunity! I’ll work hard!”

Yeah, welcome to ‘Sweetheart’!” Wang Yang stood up, shook her hand, and pointed at her long hair, smiling, “By the way, Scarlett, if you perm your hair into waves and let it cascade down, it would look much prettier.” Scarlett, who was shaking hands with Annie Fletcher, was taken aback, while Wang Yang shrugged, “Just a personal suggestion, don’t mind me; but for ‘Sweetheart,’ I imagine your look would be something like that.”

Alright, OK!” Scarlett nodded cheerfully, wondering if her wavy hair would really look good.

After formally confirming the signing intentions of Annie Darren and Scarlett Johansson, Flame Movies announced the news on their official website. The fame of both the relatively unknown Annie Darren and the somewhat famous Scarlett shot up suddenly, with many moviegoers commenting, “The girls Wang Yang introduces, just like his movies, when have they ever let us down?

Less than two days later, Flame Movies announced another actor joining “Sweetheart” —James Franco, born in 1978, who would play Scarlett Johansson’s brother “Hogan”. Then, within two days, the “Sweetheart” crew announced the last of the main cast to join, none other than Joseph Gordon- Levitt.

With that, the main cast of “Sweetheart” was fully revealed: Jessica Alba, Scarlett Johansson, Annie Darren; Michael Pitt, James Franco, and Joseph. As for other supporting roles, it was confirmed that Jessica’s brother Joshua Alba would appear. Still, what excited many fans was the rumor that Justin Timberlake might also take a role, and Britney Spears was likely to make a cameo!

Wang Yang is fully confident about his produced work ‘Sweetheart,’ saying, ‘We have a lot of excellent actors joining us, and it will be interesting to see their acting talents clash.’ However, with Annie Fletcher taking the helm for the first time and the movie seemingly catering to ‘girlfriends,’ will Wang Yang’s $20 million investment be a success? Let’s wait and see.” — “Daily Entertainment”.

Having settled on the director and lead actors, Wang Yang engaged in multiple discussions and exchanges with Annie Fletcher, talking about the film’s visual style, color tone, and the scene style of the dance city, essentially concluding his preliminary work. For “Sweetheart,” the next steps involved Annie Fletcher writing the shot-by-shot script, the main actors developing and understanding their characters, and starting their street dance classes.

Once Annie finishes the shot script, Wang Yang will join her in editing and finalizing it. Once the leads master the dancing, they will move on to the filming stage, where Wang Yang will accompany the crew for a few days to oversee the actual shooting. He will also participate in the crucial editing during post-production.

But for now, all work on “Sweetheart” is progressing smoothly without any need for his involvement, and he can detach himself to focus on the work for “District 9”. (To be continued)