Chapter 10, the selection of the female protagonist

Rachel nodded: "Alright, I'm just a bit hungry, so I'll have a hamburger as well"

Jessica absentmindedly said: "Anything is fine, you decide."

"What’s wrong? Is there an issue?" Rachel asked in confusion as she noticed Wang Yang frowning and staring at her.

Wang Yang and Rachel were both very happy, but no one noticed Jessica, who sat quietly on the far right of the chair, looking gloomy. She lowered her gaze, holding a hamburger in both hands, chewing gently, lost in thought.

Rachel also took the hamburger, while Wang Yang sat down on the chair, eating the hamburger and said to Rachel: "So let's start the interview now. Rachel, if you encounter a ghost at home in the evening, what would be your first reaction?" This question was exactly what he had asked Annie Daren in the morning, without a single word changed.

With her eyes closed, Rachel furrowed her brow, slowly and drowsily opening her eyes. She then blinked forcefully several times, her expression dazed, slightly tilting her ear as if listening to the footsteps outside the bedroom. With each step, her breathing began to quicken, becoming somewhat labored, her head remaining still while her hand shook Jessica beside her.

Mark Ronsdell rolled his eyes and shrugged, saying, "OK, OK! It’s my fault, all my fault, I am the sinner"

Rachel nonchalantly said: "One week or two weeks is still acceptable. Our university definitely encourages its students to have more performance experience, and performing also helps with the papers I write." She laughed again, showcasing her humor: "Of course, four thousand dollars is enough for me to live in Los Angeles for another week."

"No, I am from Toronto, Canada, and I am currently studying drama at York University," the girl said with a smile. "I came to Los Angeles for some field research for a paper, and then I saw your job posting today, so here I am." She briefly introduced her situation and then added, "Oh, by the way, my name is Rachel McAdams."

Looking at Annie Daren's previous response to the same question, her reaction was merely a scream, which is certainly a manifestation of being "startled"; however, regrettably, that was just the typical first reaction of an ordinary person. She failed to grasp the character's personality, thus missing Rachel's second reaction, which is a mix of fear and curiosity as she asks, "Are you a ghost?"

I admire your confidence. Just imagine me suddenly appearing on the big screen in a movie theater, oh, it's truly a dream, I don't seem to be ready for it yet! Rachel exclaimed with a smile, "However, before I came to Los Angeles, I had no idea I would be cast as the lead in a film, but now I'm about to sign the contract. So, what else is impossible?"

So, you don't need to return to Toronto for the time being? Filming will take at least a week, you know. Wang Yang wore a constant smile; he had finally met someone who understood DV films, and he was in a great mood

Watching Wang Yang and Rachel chatting and laughing, discussing DV films, they seemed to have a deep connection as if they had just met. On the other side, Jessica felt completely left out of the conversation. She experienced a strange feeling inside, anxious and wanting to say something but unable to express it. She glanced at Wang Yang and Rachel a few times, then lowered her head to walk, glancing again...

"Jessica..." Wang Yang murmured, but then he did not know what to say next

"Oh, young director, you are in trouble!" Mark Langston anxiously shook his head for Wang Yang, arms crossed, and spoke in an educational tone: "If it were me, I would definitely choose Jessica as the female lead in the film. Please, I can't see any difference between her and Rachel. Yes, she looks a few years younger, but who cares? Why cause your girlfriend to be upset over this?" Please, I can't see any difference between her and Rachel. Yes, she looks a few years younger, but who cares? Why cause your girlfriend to be upset over this?

Rachel was originally set to make her debut in the campus comedy film "Mean Girls" in 2002, and subsequently delivered outstanding performances in "The Notebook" and "Mean Girls," which skyrocketed her popularity and overnight made her a youth idol across the United States

Well, as long as you don't stay in the presidential suite

The promotional poster for the movie "Sherlock Holmes," released in 2009, features the character Irene Adler, portrayed with curly hair, dressed in an elegant purple outfit, and wearing a confident smile... The actress who plays Irene Adler is none other than Rachel McAdams

Rachel remarked, half analyzing and half sighing, "I believe the emergence of DV films will become a trend in the future; it allows many young people to create their own films without the constraints of funding, showcasing their talents. Wow, I don't know why, but this makes me feel very romantic"

Jessica came to her senses, suppressing the inexplicable sadness within her. She recalled the situation from the morning's interview and thought of the girl named Annie Daren, along with several other girls who were all rejected by Wang Yang for the same reason. She said, "The performance was too theatrical; many people were eliminated for this. Mr. Yang always emphasizes the need for natural and life-like performances"

However, despite the fact that Rachel will become famous in the future and her acting will receive unanimous acclaim, that is the future and does not represent the present. Currently, she is just a student at York University; who knows how her acting skills are at this moment? Furthermore, in the future, she will almost exclusively star in comedies and romantic films, whether she is suitable for horror films remains to be seen

Let us talk about that character. Wang Yang quickly finished the large hamburger in a few bites, and then enthusiastically narrated the story of the movie, as well as the personality traits of the female lead and so on

So, does this mean I have obtained the female lead of the movie? Rachel was quite looking forward to it

Upon hearing Wang Yang's question, Jessica, who was biting into her hamburger, immediately perked up. She looked at Rachel with a hint of nervousness, eager to gauge Rachel's performance level, wondering if she might be able to turn the tables here

Damn it! ... Anyway, it's this guy, always saying things he shouldn't ... Wang Yang looked at Mark Langster, who was leaning against the back of the chair, gritting his teeth in anger. He slammed the coffee table with a bang and shouted, "Mark, she is not my girlfriend. I also hate this kind of joke, OK? Just because someone comes to help doesn't mean she is my girlfriend!"

Is walking together enough to be considered as being in a relationship? Is this really Jessica's thought? Wang Yang furrowed his brows tightly, his previous good mood disrupted. But why is she so angry? Is it because of the female lead's situation? Or is it simply because of Marc-Langster's joke?

"Awesome!" Rachel exclaimed excitedly, giving Jessica a hug and then hugging Wang Yang. She laughed happily and said, "Looks like I’ll be staying in Los Angeles for a while. Fortunately, I’m not missing Toronto too much yet. DV film? It’s really an interesting attempt; to be honest, I’m looking forward to it."

I think, I think that's right. Jessica forced a smile.

Rachel smiled and replied, "I am 20 this year, but I haven't had my birthday yet." Looking at the two dimples that blossomed on her face, Mark exclaimed, "Wow! What a sweet smile! And at such a young age, from my years of experience as an agent, Miss McAdams, you have a bright future ahead.

On the contrary, Rachel has gained some recognition in figure skating. Since the age of four, she has demonstrated exceptional potential in this sport, which led her to continue practicing figure skating and participating in competitions for several years

"Alright, but I apologize, I won't be treating anyone, haha!" Wang Yang said with a smile, then walked into the fast food restaurant

More importantly, Rachel's performance overshadowed all the girls who came for the interview that morning. Is it possible to find the most suitable candidate for the leading role with four thousand dollars? Clearly not. Yet now, a top student from York University can be found, a professional actor whose performance, though still immature, is already sufficient to handle the role.

"OK." Rachel nodded

"And *the* picture *book* and so on..." Rachel chewed her hamburger before swallowing it. She slowly closed her eyes, then suddenly opened them again, handing the hamburger wrapped in oil paper to Wang Yang, and said with a smile: "Could you please hold this for me? It affects my performance. Also, if possible, could you help by tapping your feet to simulate that kind of footstep sound? It would help me get into character better"

"A realistic performance?" Rachel furrowed her brows in thought, then immediately broke into a smile and said, "I understand now, yes, Yang is absolutely right! In a DV film, if it's in the first person, the performance must be realistic, with that awareness of being in front of the DV camera, because that is what makes it authentic"

She added with a smile: "Of course, this is just my personal preference"

Wang Yang is now filled with thoughts of movies and dreams for the future, completely oblivious to the fact that Jessica's smile is a facade. He glanced at his watch; it was almost one o'clock, so he stood up and said, "It's about time; let's head back to the café." He then smiled at Rachel and said, "My leading lady, come with me for a moment. I need to inform the agent sent by the actors' guild that I have found you."

After losing her temper, Jessica was also taken aback. With a grim expression, she lowered her head and did not look at anyone, saying, "I'm sorry, I... I need to go to the restroom..." Then, she quickly stood up and walked away at a hurried pace as if she were escaping

Wang Yang snapped back to reality with a soft "Oh," cutting off the thoughts in his mind. He shook his head and smiled, saying, "It's nothing. So, Rachel, why did you suddenly come for the interview? What made you want to perform?"

Rachel nodded frequently, then raised her questions and thoughts. She is a drama student and has a certain understanding of DV films, so her conversation with Wang Yang flowed smoothly, making for a light and enjoyable discussion

Sunset Terrace Street is a bustling commercial pedestrian street, lined with various clothing stores, restaurants, and cafes. Three people are walking along the street, with Wang Yang in the middle, flanked by two girls who both exude star quality. This draws the attention of many tourists, who frequently glance over to see if they are any famous actresses.

Indeed, after reviewing some information about her, Wang Yang confirmed his thoughts

Good! Wang Yang couldn't help but be captivated, and before she finished her performance, he exclaimed: "This is it, this is the performance I wanted!"

On November 17, 1978, Rachel was born into an ordinary family in Ontario, Canada. Her father was a truck driver, and her mother was a nurse. From a young age, Rachel had a passion for acting, participating in numerous stage plays at school. After graduating from high school, she was admitted to York University to study drama. As of now, she has not gained any fame and has yet to make her debut on screen

She nudged Jessica with her arm and asked, "Jessica, what do you think?"

She gazed at the sky, her clear eyes following the clouds, and softly said: "I still prefer the tranquil life in Toronto. Every day, all I need to do is ride my bicycle when I go out. Everyone on the street knows you, and they greet you warmly. Which family's puppy was born, which garden has laid new sod... Hmm, that kind of life is very comfortable; that is what is suitable for long-term living."

She recalled the moment when she first heard Wang Yang say he wanted to make a film, and that the production budget was only 10,000. Her reaction was one of disbelief, filled with doubt and confusion. Even now, she still feels that making a film this way seems somewhat trivial. She merely chose to believe in Wang Yang, but he never said that she was "very good".

At one o'clock, Marcus Langte returned on time. Upon seeing him, Wang Yang excitedly said, "Hi, Mark, I found the female lead, it's her, Rachel McAdams!" He pointed at Rachel and, half-jokingly and half-mockingly, added, "But unfortunately, she is not a member of the actors' union, so you won't be able to get her commission."

Hi, hello. Rachel politely greeted Mark Ronsd.

Mark Langston let out a soft "Oh," as he looked Rachel up and down, nodding and saying, "Not bad, not bad. But you don't look very big. If I may be so bold to ask, Miss McAdams, how old are you?"

Rachel McAdams? ... Wang Yang couldn't help but furrow his brow as he looked at the girl's face, her high nose, large mouth, and when she smiled, two dimples appeared, exuding a pure and sweet charm that felt very familiar ... ? ... The more he looked, the more familiar she seemed, but who was she ... ? He quickly searched in his mind, Rachel McAdams, Rachel. ... ... Then, a poster gradually emerged in his mind. He quickly searched in his mind, Rachel McAdams, Rachel. ... ... Then, a poster gradually emerged.

Jessica observed the elegant and intellectual aura emanating from Rachel. The nature of women led her to secretly compare herself with Rachel in this regard, and she found herself defeated, thoroughly so. She had not attended university, she did not understand DV films, and at times she could not even comprehend what Wang Yang was saying.

"You also surprised me!" Wang Yang said excitedly, as Rachel's words expressed his innermost thoughts. It is rare to find someone who understands DV films and sees the future prospects of DV films; most people hold a dismissive attitude towards DV films, and some have not even heard of what DV is. Finally, someone understands him, which makes Wang Yang feel both excited and comfortable, and he couldn't help but praise, "You are wonderful, you are wonderful! I like what you said, yes, it is very romantic!"

Wang Yang had not yet spoken, when Jessica, who had been silent, suddenly furrowed her brows and shouted loudly at Mark Langston: "I said, I am not his girlfriend! I hate this kind of joke, OK?! Just walking together means being a girlfriend? Why do you men always think about these things all day long?!"

In principle, it is acceptable. Upon hearing that the girl was here for an interview, Wang Yang smiled slightly with a hint of happiness. This girl gave him a very special feeling, and she looked quite familiar to him. He understood what this meant; this blonde girl was very likely to become a future star

I am here to attend your movie audition. May I ask if it is still possible to audition now

His thumb bent towards the street behind, and he said: "However, we are just about to go to the fast food restaurant over there to buy lunch. Come on, let's talk as we walk."

"I like that sentence too, haha!" Wang Yang burst into laughter.

Rachel smiled slightly, her two dimples becoming increasingly sweet to behold. She shrugged and said, "I thought you liked the phrase 'very courageous, very talented.'"

"It's very simple, I became interested, and I want to take on this role," Rachel said with a smile as she walked. "Although horror films are not my favorite genre, what intrigues me is DV films. The history of home video cameras is quite short, and the first home DV camera was only released to the market earlier this year. Making a film with a home DV camera? Oh, what a surprising innovation! The person who thought of doing this is very talented and very brave." The history of home video cameras is quite short, and the first home DV camera was only released to the market earlier this year. Making a film with a home DV camera? Oh, what a surprising innovation! The person who thought of doing this is very talented and very brave.

In the end, she jokingly remarked, "Of course, that four thousand dollars is also one of the reasons I am interested."

Thus, the three returned to the "Sweetheart" café. As soon as they settled down, Wang Yang eagerly wanted to continue discussing the movie with Rachel. Although Rachel noticed that Jessica was not engaging in the conversation, she consciously tried to steer the topic towards Jessica. However, Jessica seemed unresponsive, only offering casual replies of "YES" or "NO," becoming increasingly expressionless.

The two ladies remained outside, sitting down on a bench by the street. Rachel sat on the bench, stretched her arms in a leisurely manner, and then turned her gaze to Jessica beside her, smiling and saying, "Hello, Jessica"

Wang Yang nodded. Rachel came from the job listing, not through the actors' guild notification, so she naturally did not receive that simple script introduction. He briefly explained the story: "A pair of ordinary couples and a book move into a new home, but various supernatural events occur. They decide to investigate thoroughly. Therefore, they always keep the DV camera recording in the house, trying to capture the ghosts."

Rachel was momentarily taken aback and curiously asked, "A movie theater? I thought this was just your graduation project."

With the female lead in the film, he truly felt a great weight lifted off his shoulders. In "Paranormal Activity," the female lead is the one possessed by a spirit, while the male lead typically holds the DV camera. Therefore, the female lead has significantly more screen time and importance in the narrative compared to the male lead. Her performance directly influences the ultimate success or failure of the film

She smiled and hugged Jessica beside her, saying, "Oh, I thought Jessica was my partner."

Ah, it seems my commission is out of the question!" Mark shook his head regretfully, looking at Wang Yang, and said, half-jokingly and half-discontentedly: "Young director, I really can't understand. Miss McAdams and Jessica, they seem to be of similar age, both sweet in appearance, why didn't you choose your girlfriend?" He shrugged: "Oh, Rachel is certainly fine, but she cost me my commission, I hate her.

Wang Yang asked Rachel again, "Do you want something to eat?"

This film plays on psychology, so we need to let the audience scare themselves, which requires a high level of immersion. Of course, this is also the advantage of first-person perspective in DV films. Imagine a dark cinema, with a large screen in front, where the audience follows the male protagonist's perspective, as if they themselves are the one holding the DV camera, and then suddenly... wow! I believe the audience in the cinema will be so frightened that they will be thrown back in their seats. Wang Yang spoke with enthusiasm, reflecting on his imagination for the future.

Everyone was stunned; Wang Yang did not expect it, Rachel did not expect it, and the instigator Mark Langston certainly did not expect it either... Why did Jessica suddenly explode with such anger

OK. Wang Yang took her hamburger, and as she closed her eyes, he began to step rhythmically beneath her feet

I finally know who she is; it turns out she is the female lead in "Sherlock Holmes"! Wang Yang immediately became interested, as actors who achieve fame possess exceptional skills. Being the female lead in a film with a budget of 90 million clearly indicates that Rachel McAdams will undoubtedly have an impressive track record in the future

"Good! Well said!" Wang Yang, holding three hamburgers, just walked out of the fast-food restaurant when he heard Rachel's words. While distributing the hamburgers to the two ladies, he smiled appreciatively and said, "That's exactly what I wanted to say!"

Wang Yang asked again: "So, suppose it is now late at night, and you and your boyfriend are sound asleep in bed, but suddenly you hear a series of footsteps outside in the hallway, and you are startled awake. Please demonstrate your expression after waking up." This performance prompt has also been tested on Annie Daren.

As they spoke, the three of them had already arrived outside the fast food restaurant on the street. Wang Yang asked Jessica, "Jessica, do you want a hamburger? What flavor?"

"So, do you have a resume?" Wang Yang asked the blonde girl on his left as he walked.

"By the way, you must have interviewed quite a few people this morning, right?" Rachel playfully winked at Jessica and whispered, "Jessica, give me some tips. I really don't want to be eliminated by that young director."

"Hollywood is truly beautiful!" Rachel took a deep breath as she looked around at the scenery and remarked, "I have been wandering here for a few days, yet I haven't explored the entire Hollywood. It seems that wherever I look up, I can see that iconic sign; the view is really fantastic." She smiled as she continued, "Moreover, the clothing stores are filled with beautiful clothes, making it hard to leave. However, it is precisely because of this that I find it quite enchanting and surreal, so for me, a few days of wandering is enough."

Jessica, who had been left out, suddenly exclaimed "Oh," as if she had just realized something. During the previous discussion between Wang Yang and Rachel about electricity and the influence of books, she had wanted to interject several times, but each time she held back her words, feeling that what she had to say was dull and lacking in substance. The two who had been engrossed in their lively discussion were oblivious to her presence, making her feel as though she had been isolated, filled with a sense of discomfort.

Thank you. Upon hearing Wang Yang's praise for Rachel, Jessica felt an inexplicable tightness in her heart. As soon as she took the hamburger that Wang Yang handed her, she bit into it, taking a large chunk out with great force.

This girl speaks in a coherent and logical manner, neither servile nor arrogant, truly deserving of being a top student at York University, and her sincere tone evokes a strong sense of goodwill.

Wang Yang nodded with a smile and said, "It's you."

Jessica also smiled slightly and replied, "Hello, Rachel"

Graduation project? Isn't it a "dismissal project"? Wang Yang smiled and shook his head, confidently stating: "No, it is not a graduation project; it is a film, a film that can be shown on the big screen. I believe it will be released, and the box office will be quite good"

Rachel laughed without thinking and said, "Me? Maybe I just fainted." After a hearty laugh, she became serious and said, "To be honest, I need to know the script, because the reactions vary depending on the different character personalities."

Well... strange supernatural events have occurred at home, yet they are thinking about capturing the ghost on camera. This suggests that they must be quite interested in ghosts, at least not the type to be frightened at the mere mention of them. Rachel analyzed the character's personality from Wang Yang's words, and she immediately grasped the essence of the role, which made Wang Yang nod in agreement. Once she received confirmation, she smiled and said, "In that case, my reaction would be to be startled at first, then trembling and fearfully asking, 'Oh my God, are you a ghost?'" She immediately grasped the essence of the role, which made Wang Yang nod in agreement. Once she received confirmation, she smiled and said, "In that case, my reaction would be to be startled at first, then trembling and fearfully asking, 'Oh my God, are you a ghost?'"

Wang Yang knows that the female lead of "The Haunting - Ghost Shadow Chronicles" is none other than her, the Canadian girl named Rachel McAdams

Recruitment board? Oh right! Wang Yang remembered that after leaving the actors' union that day, he had printed a few recruitment posters nearby and then posted one on various recruitment boards. After all, there are still many actors who are not union members or are members of other unions, just trying their luck. He looked at the girl and asked, "So, you are not a member of the actors' union?"

"Okay." The beautiful blonde girl nodded, looking at Jessica with a hint of curiosity. Jessica explained to her, "No, I am not the lead actress, nor am I here for an audition. I am Yang's friend, Jessica." The blonde girl nodded in understanding.

I am also looking forward to it said Wang Yang excitedly Your performance has filled me with confidence

That is acceptable, Wang Yang mentally checked a box. The purpose of asking this question was primarily to observe Rachel's comprehension of the script, as only if she truly understands the script and what the director desires will she be able to deliver a good performance

Unlike Annie Dalen, who is influenced by stage plays and tends to express herself through body language, Rachel's series of expressions, reactions, and movements are very natural, almost performed through micro-expressions. She understands the director's intention for this scene; the suppressed breathing will heighten the audience's tension. Although her breathing becomes rapid a bit too quickly, it must be considered that this is taking place on the street, rather than in a controlled setting. Her ability to convey this is indeed remarkable. She understands the director's intention for this scene; the suppressed breathing will heighten the audience's tension. Although her breathing becomes rapid a bit too quickly, it must be considered that this is taking place on the street, rather than in a controlled setting. Her ability to convey this is indeed remarkable.

The blonde girl shrugged, indicating no, and said: "I just saw your job posting over there at the recruitment board. I'm quite interested in DV films, so I came over to give it a try"

Uh... uh, sorry, my mistake..." Mark-Ronster scratched his head, feeling inexplicably confused, yet still offered an apology

I will go see her. Rachel stood up, gave Wang Yang a reassuring smile, and followed suit

The blonde girl appeared to be just in her early twenties. Due to the height difference, she needed to slightly tilt her head upward to look at Wang Yang. She displayed a smile, and her two sweet dimples gave her a unique charm