The filming of has entered its final stages and is now in intensive post-production. This is the director’s and editor’s domain, so Qin Miaomiao hasn’t been involved. However, a teaser trailer was released online, instantly attracting plenty of fans, especially Rong Lan’s fans. Moreover, the director’s influence is undoubtedly strong.
After all, he’s an Academy Award-winning director. Still, there’s plenty of skepticism – after all, isn’t a typical art film or straightforward commercial movie. Crime-themed projects are hard to execute well, let alone bringing a fresh take to the genre.
On top of that, Rong Lan is playing a villain this time, which has raised quite a few eyebrows.
"I just watched the trailer, but it doesn’t look promising. The color palette is so dull – not appealing at all."
"Why would Emperor Rong take on this kind of role? Is it because he’s broke and had to come out of retirement? The production company seems pretty average too, isn’t it a new one? I bet this movie is going to flop big time."
"The production company is just Yaoguang, isn’t it? The one that was on the brink of bankruptcy but survived thanks to an investment from the Long Ting Group, and then shifted gears to film production? The boss is even a woman. How good can her judgment really be?"
"It’s definitely going to flop. What a waste for Director Gao Hu and Emperor Rong. With such a solid cast, this still might turn out to be a disaster!"
"Don’t talk nonsense. Our Emperor Rong has never made a bad film."
"Exactly! Where do all these haters keep crawling out from? If you don’t want to watch, just leave. Stop talking crap!"
Qin Miaomiao scrolled through the critical comments, the corner of her mouth curling slightly. This wave of negativity seemed oddly off.
"Young Madam, it’s clear these are hired trolls. Someone’s out there deliberately sabotaging the film."
Little Fourth, holding his fingers delicately, said. Qin Miaomiao shot him a sidelong glance:
"You seem to know a lot about online stuff?"
Little Fourth squinted and grinned, "Of course I do. I’m a professional hacker. Want me to block these trolls’ IPs?"
"Of course I can, but Young Madam, I, Little Fourth, never work for free. Since this is outside my bodyguard responsibilities, it’ll cost extra. Given you’re Young Madam, I’ll give you a 50% discount. Final offer, how about 200,000?"
Qin Miaomiao silently turned her head aside, "Little Fourth, I’ve always thought I was stingy, but I guess you’re even stingier."
"Alright then, 100,000, and I’ll make sure it’s all fixed up for you."
"Final offer, 50,000."
Little Fourth glared at her, "Young Madam, you sure know how to bargain. Fine, 50,000 it is. Deal."
Saying this, he grabbed a computer and started typing rapidly. As for what exactly he was doing, Qin Miaomiao didn’t bother to check.
"Also, another 50,000. Find out who’s behind all this manipulation."
"Got it. I’ll take care of it for sure. Rest assured – I always deliver results, guaranteed satisfaction. And once it’s done, Young Madam, don’t forget to leave me a five-star review!"
Just then, Qin Miaomiao’s phone rang. It was Lu Qing.
"My dear, what’s up?"
"There’s a film festival you need to attend. Tonight at seven. Han Shu will pick you up. There’ll be someone to handle your outfit and styling."
Qin Miaomiao was stunned, "But it’s already six o’clock!"
One hour? And she still had to show up properly prepared for the festival? It seemed impossible.
"Little Fourth will take care of everything. The car is already downstairs. I’ll be waiting for you at the venue."
And with that, he hung up the phone. Hey, hey, hey – you can’t just leave me hanging !
She was still in her lounge clothes, with no time to prep for anything!
Little Fourth grinned mischievously at her, "Young Madam, call me ’Big Brother,’ and I can solve all your problems for you."
Qin Miaomiao scoffed disdainfully.