468: UNEXPECTED NEW WORK

UNEXPECTED NEW WORK

"I'LL send you the script then," Ellis said after hearing what Astrid said. "Read it at your own pace, since they will wait for our decision until next week. If you like the script, just call me."1

Astrid nodded. He wasn't familiar with the novels written by One Leaf, so he wasn't sure if the story would be to his liking. But from what he could remember from their guesting in [New Star], the theme of her works was usually young love. Then, this novel that would be turned into a movie must be a teen love story.

He had never really acted in a teen romance before in his past life. It was because he didn't really fit the image the directors and producers were looking for in that type of role. Aside from that, he was someone who started at the very bottom. By the time he had a significant role, he was already past his mid-20s.

That's why, if ever, this would be his first time playing a role in a romantic youth movie. And from what Ellis had said, they're offering him the lead role. If he agreed, then it would also be his first lead role in this life.

He couldn't help but feel excited at that thought. Although, he still had to see if the script was good. That's the most important part. There's also another thing he had to check first.

"Who's going to be the director?" he asked Ellis.

No matter how good the script was, if the one handling it was incompetent, then it would be like letting an amateur handle a high-spec camera.

"You know her, Director Hale. You worked with her on that MV of Miria Lane's song."

Astrid was slightly surprised when he heard that. Director Hale was more known in the field of advertisement and music video. No wonder Ellis said earlier that this would be the director in charge's movie debut.

But he was relieved even after hearing that. He had worked with Director Hale before. Even if it was only for an MV, the other was very professional and had a good aesthetic. Despite only working with the other for one MV, he could tell that she had a pretty good vision of how she wanted her work to be. As testament to the final result of the MV.

Even if directing an MV and directing a movie was different in a lot of ways, the underlying principles of storytelling, visual communication, and creative direction were similar in both mediums. A director who's good at one, couldn't possibly do that much of a worse job on the other.

Besides, Director Hale wouldn't start the move from MV/advertisement to movie without being prepared. She must have felt that she was now ready to take on the challenger of movie making. After all, this would be her directorial debut. There's no way she would do a subpar job of it.

"I've seen some of the MVs and ads she directed. They're all good," Ellis added. "If she keeps up with that quality, then I think you'll be in good hands if ever you took on this role."

Astrid nodded. "Yes, I agree as well."

They talked for a while more before they ended the call.

Astrid then opened the script that he received from Ellis. He started reading it while eating his lunch.

---------

By the time Astrid returned to his apartment, he had already finished half of the script. If not for his classes, he would have already finished it by now. It's because he was so engrossed in reading it.

The title of the movie, or the novel it's based on, to be exact, was [Serendipitous Summer]. It's about the story of two teenagers named Abby and Jace. It was set in a coastal town called Harborview.

Abby, a reserved, and introspective teenager, had always found solace in books and nature. She carried a burden from her past, a secret that weighed heavily on her heart and inhibited her from fully embracing life. Jace, on the other hand, was a spirited and adventurous individual, seeking excitement and freedom beyond the boundaries of his everyday existence. 

When Abby and Jace crossed paths at a local seaside café, they were drawn to each other's contrasting yet complementary personalities. Recognizing a shared longing for exploration and escape, they embark on a series of exhilarating adventures along the breathtaking coastal landscape. Together, they immersed themselves in the beauty of nature, witnessing awe-inspiring sunsets and discovering hidden treasures and secrets within the town.

As the two spent more time together, their connection deepened, providing them with the courage to confront their personal challenges. Abby found solace in Jace's infectious spirit and began to slowly open up about her past, allowing herself to heal and embrace the present. Meanwhile, Jace found inspiration in Emma's quiet strength and learned to let go of the societal expectations that had been holding him back.

Throughout their journey, the two would encounter a diverse cast of characters—local artisans, wise elders, and fellow teenagers—who impart valuable life lessons. They discover the importance of friendship, forgiveness, and the beauty of embracing the present moment. The town's vibrant community and the serenity of the coastal landscape served as catalysts for their personal growth and mutual transformation.

As the summer drew to a close, Abby and Jace realized the profound impact they had had on each other's lives. They made promises to carry the lessons they had learned and the newfound strength within them beyond their unforgettable summer. Their love story became a symbol of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of connection.

Ultimately, the story was about exploring themes of self-discovery, healing, and the profound impact of human connections. Through their shared experiences, Abby and Jace learned to embrace life's challenges, seized the beauty of the present moment, and embarked on a journey of personal growth that would help shape their futures.

If this could be transformed properly into the big screen, then it would be a very good coming-of-age story.

As he finished reading the script, a decision was already made in his mind.

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