Chapter 005 Audition (I)
In fact, this role was taken on by a newcomer. Chen Daoming, who portrayed Kangxi, himself raised objections; however, due to various factors, it was ultimately confirmed by the two directors.
This is the status of a top-tier actor! Others may not act for years, but when they do, it must be a classic. Lin Xiao knows that the Emperor Trilogy has indeed become a classic, yet acting alongside Chen Daoming, even though he is actually in his thirties, he cannot help but feel nervous.
"Hmm." The two said in unison, still staring intently at CAMI, both aware that today was the day to announce the interview.
The most remarkable progress has been made by Lin Xiao, whose acting skills have surpassed 200, even rivaling many third-tier actors, and his performance has caused Wei Donghai to nod in agreement repeatedly
Lin Xiao nodded. Even though his acting skills were not the best, at this point, given his actual age of over thirty, he truly had no worries.
However, no matter how much discussion there is with Wei Donghai, it cannot compare to actually filming a scene. Even considering the previous life, he never had the opportunity to engage with such a grand production. Only in this era, when the new generation of actors has yet to emerge and the old generation of seasoned performers is still holding up the stage, is there a chance for them to touch this grand play.
Lin Xiao was momentarily taken aback; this scene was undoubtedly one of the most challenging to portray. In his memory, the moment in the Kangxi era when he directly faced Chen Daoming was the most difficult of all. The grave crime of deceiving the emperor, the joy of survival, and the embarrassment in front of the generals all had to be expressed perfectly
In ten days, the final decision audition will take place. Lin Xiao remembers that the main filming location for "Kangxi" is the Huangcheng Xiangfu in Shanxi, while the palace scenes are shot at the Wuxi Film Base. This audition is scheduled to be held at the Huangcheng Xiangfu in Shanxi.
"May I ask who you are?" A staff member wearing a name tag approached.
With a bang, CAMI pushed open the dormitory of Lin Xiao and Li Hao without knocking. Just as she was about to say something, she rolled her eyes and said, "Next time, you must keep the dormitory clean and tidy! Pick up all the things you’ve thrown around! Also, what is that instant noodle container from a few days ago? Throw it away"
Oh, over here. You are the second group to arrive. Old Chen has already seen the first group and is in a very bad mood now
In the time that followed, both individuals were diligently reading Master Er Yue He's "Kangxi Emperor," striving to achieve the best possible mastery of the material
CAMI's lips moved slightly, as if she wanted to say something but hesitated. In the end, she merely waved her hand gently and said, "Take your time to ponder."
Finally, five days after the photo was submitted, the phone call from the China International Entertainment Company came in
This set of photos, along with clothing and makeup, costs several thousand. If they do not sign a full contract, this amount must be paid out of pocket, and there is no refund regardless of whether they are selected or not, which is certainly unaffordable.
"Can you find a more suitable candidate?" The man waved his hand to indicate that she need not continue: "Let both of them be submitted."
Three months, neither long nor short, passed quickly under their daily rigorous training, and soon it was the third month
At first, Li Hao was overjoyed, but within three days, he was taught by Lin Xiao to remain unaffected by external circumstances and not to be swayed by personal emotions. He officially embarked on his acting career
"Sister CAMI, please stop teasing us. Just tell us quickly," Li Hao urged impatiently
"How is it? Is it not going well?" CAMI asked
Lin Xiao and Li Hao both nodded, recalling that the later evaluation of the Kangxi Dynasty was "I completely outshine my son" and "It's all Lao Chen's solo performance." This is not to say that the other supporting characters were lacking, but rather that Chen Daoming's portrayal of Kangxi was exceptionally brilliant, with only a few other characters like Mingzhu and Suo'e Tu being memorable.
Therefore, even though he is the major supporting character, he is not significant. Throughout the entire play, he appears for no more than 40 minutes.
Unfortunately, he prepared for so long, investing all his savings, just to gain the favor of the "Emperor's First Person"
A few days later, Lin Xiao flew to Yangcheng County in Shanxi with CAMI
At the end of April, they began taking photos, and they had already shaved their heads. This is the first step; only after sending it over and receiving approval from the other party will there be a subsequent interview. This small photo serves as the artist's resume
Lin Xiao's money has been completely spent, and the training system resembles an unending black hole, incessantly devouring his savings. Of course, he would never borrow from Li Hao. Fortunately, sometimes after Wei Donghai's explanations, the system would suddenly pop up with a message: Performance skills increased by 2 points.
Li Hao has already freed himself from his sense of loss. In his view, he is still young, and as long as he works hard, there is hope. On the other hand, Lin Xiao goes to discuss the life of Yin Xu with Wei Donghai every day, as well as the changes to the script and his emotions in that particular scene. CAMI specifically collected all the passages about Yin Xu from the original work and bound them together for his review
Last month, when the casting news for the Kangxi Dynasty was released, he could already guess how much of a coveted project this major production featuring big stars was in the industry. Established actors looking to elevate their careers, aspiring newcomers, and the favorites of the companies were all closely watching and vying for this production. Unfortunately, he did not have the time to pay attention to any of this
When the car arrived at the Imperial City Xiangfu, it was precisely 1:00 PM. The place was already bustling with activity, having been completely refurbished, with many plants and trees even shaped into artistic forms. Several areas had also been adorned with plaques unique to the palace, which had been artificially aged.
"We would have called you earlier if it were necessary." The staff member smiled wryly and said, "Mr. Chen's seniority is well established, his acting skills are renowned, and his perspective is naturally high. Everyone understands the status of this supporting role, which is why arrangements were made. Since yesterday, Mr. Chen has only been shaking his head, and later, one person simply got up and left."
Moreover, it is quite difficult to feature overly handsome characters in programs intended for CCTV. This could lead to a loss of attention from a segment of the female audience. What they seek is depth, storyline, and control. A handsome character that overshadows the main narrative is, in fact, a fundamental flaw.
In fact, the two individuals who received this audition outline are already on the list of candidates for the role. However, until the final results are announced, no one can confidently claim victory. The director often selects from a few suitable actors. CAMI also explained this on the side
CAMI presented her identification: "Huaxia Entertainment Company, here for an audition"
Li Hao's photo has a better appearance. However, Lin Xiao's photo appears more mature. As the eldest son, Yin Rui naturally does not possess much innocence; as the saying goes, once one enters the noble gates, it is as deep as the sea, and from then on, one's conscience becomes that of a bystander. Personally, I am more optimistic about Lin Xiao's photo. In Huaxia, CAMI was discussing with a man.
In a year and a half, the most glorious years of television dramas will arrive, during which countless dazzling stars will make their appearances.
CAMI adjusted her expression: "The call from the Chinese entertainment industry has come through, and we have now narrowed it down to eighteen individuals. Lin Xiao is one of them. Li Hao, I will contact you regarding the next project."
Seeing her leave, Lin Xiao's lips curled into a faint smile. CAMI's concerns were evident; for a newly transitioned actress to directly face a Chinese film emperor and win his favor was no small feat.
He calculated that on average, attending classes for five days could improve his training points by one day, so by the time the Kangxi Emperor sent out the announcement, his points had already reached 226.
Cameras are set up everywhere, and various props from the Qing Dynasty are piled in many places, including dragon carriages, phoenix carriages, and other items such as "water hyacinth," "tailcoat," and "large wings" used for the hairstyles of women in the Qing palace. Additionally, there are boxes upon boxes of hairpins, red hairpins, and more. Reporters from all over the country have gathered here to secure first-hand news, engaging in quiet discussions. However, the residence cannot afford to rest; the actors' rooms are located far from the residence, as this is a cultural heritage protection area.
CAMI sighed: "The appearance is good. What I am worried about is their acting skills. Three months is indeed too short for two newcomers in the film and television industry; we can only provide targeted training."
Compared to other companies, Huaxia is much quieter. One cannot see the bustling scene of preparations for Kangxi here; newcomers are unable to take the stage. Currently, the only ones who can make a mark are the two of them. He has devoted all his energy to the preparation of this play
CAMI smiled and said, "What, do you want to know the result?"
Dongzhu, jade, prayer beads, hanging beads, and the four-tufted, five-clawed true dragon. The props of Huaxia are astonishingly complete. Although he has not yet met Chu Yiming, the stylist specially hired by the company has also arrived, indicating that the company has high hopes for the two "former entertainment industry figures".
The man, with a slicked-back hairstyle and dressed in a designer suit, glanced at the two photos and tapped the table as he analyzed: "Li Hao probably doesn't have much of a chance. The eldest brother performed from start to finish; he is too young to overshadow the latter part."
However, this is not the worst news. CAMI pushed up her glasses and said: "The scene is the meeting after the battle between Kangxi and E'erdan."
Do not celebrate too early. CAMI tapped the table: We have just received news that the director has finalized the lead roles. However, for the fourteen actors who will perform alongside Mr. Chen Daoming, he has requested to personally select all of them, except for the younger ones. Directors Chen Jialin and Liu Daying have also agreed to this.
Oh. Li Hao's expression darkened, and Lin Xiao patted his shoulder, about to say something, but the other party smiled and said: "It's nothing, Brother Xiao, just go ahead. Don't forget to look out for your brothers when the time comes."
CAMI nodded to indicate her understanding. As a thoroughly competent agent, she would not allow her own emotions to affect the artist. She led Lin Xiao into the dressing room. Before entering, she reminded him with a single phrase: "When acting alongside a big star, you absolutely must not be nervous; otherwise, it's over for you"
Lin Xiao smiled wryly. If it weren't for the years of experience he had accumulated in his previous life, the company's hasty and desperate measures would surely have been in vain. However, now he felt a sense of confidence.
Seeing CAMI let out a barely noticeable sigh, Lin Xiao teased, "Sister CAMI, do you really have so little confidence in me?"
In the remaining two months, the two began to seriously study the play. Wei Donghai continuously assisted them in analyzing Yin Zhen's mindset. After the first month of reading the play concluded, Lin Xiao requested that Li Hao and he perform a scene for one hour every night.