106: Sorkin's challenge, a peak dialogue

“Aaron Sorkin…”

When Allen Parker, from the other end of the phone, spoke that name, which resonated throughout Hollywood and the global screenwriting community, with a tone that was a bit solemn and a bit… schadenfreude, Lin Da’s heart felt as if a depth charge had been dropped into it, instantly stirring up a monstrous wave!

Aaron Sorkin!

He was the Hollywood golden scriptwriter who, with “divine works” like “The Social Network,” “The West Wing,” and “The Newsroom,” had won countless top awards like the Oscar, the Emmy Awards, and the Golden Globe Awards, known for his sharp and information-dense dialogue, complex and thought-provoking plots that critiqued current affairs, and… an almost obsessive control over his scripts!

Collaborating with such a screenwriting giant was undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for any actor, but it also… meant an unprecedented challenge!

Lin Da knew that Aaron Sorkin’s scripts were always known for their dense dialogue, rigorous logic, and extremely fast pace, placing almost abnormal demands on an actor’s line delivery, comprehension, and… stress resistance.

Moreover, this time it was about adapting a Chinese historical drama, full of Eastern cultural heritage and historical weight, into an international series for a global audience. The difficulty involved was imaginable.

“Lin, are you… alright?” On the other end of the phone, Allen Parker seemed to notice Lin Da’s silence, with a hint of undetectable concern in his voice. He knew that the name Aaron Sorkin meant… a tough battle for any actor.

“I’m fine, Allen.” Lin Da took a deep breath, his eyes burning with a fiercer flame than ever before. The passive effect of [Actor Emperor Halo (Intermediate)] made his voice at this moment full of convincing power and… an unquestionable confidence. “In fact… I can’t wait.”

He knew that this was not just a collaboration with a screenwriting master, but also… an excellent opportunity to showcase the charm of Chinese culture to the world, and… his true strength as an actor, Lin Da!

“Haha! I knew it, you kid, you’re a born challenge-loving lunatic!” Allen Parker laughed heartily on the phone, his voice full of admiration and anticipation, “That old guy Sorkin does have a weird temper, and his desire to control the script is indeed abnormally strong. However, he has always favored actors with real talent and ideas. I believe that with your strength and wisdom, you will definitely… conquer him!”

He paused, his tone becoming a bit more serious: “Netflix has confirmed that next week, Aaron Sorkin will personally fly to Beijing for the first formal script discussion meeting with you, Director Zhang Jingzhi of “iron-blooded censor”, and Art Consultant Wu Tianming. This meeting is very important and will directly determine the tone and direction of “iron-blooded censor”’s international adaptation. You… must prepare thoroughly.”

“I understand, Allen.” Lin Da nodded, his eyes shining with firm resolve.

After hanging up the phone, Lin Da did not immediately delve into reading the existing script of “iron-blooded censor.” He knew that facing a screenwriting master like Aaron Sorkin, merely relying on an understanding of the existing script was far from enough.

He needed… a deeper insight and mastery of Hollywood scriptwriting logic and international narrative techniques.

“System, use [Hollywood Script Golden Rules (Knowledge Infusion)]!”

“Ding! [Hollywood Script Golden Rules (Knowledge Infusion)] activated! Relevant knowledge is being transmitted to the host’s mind…”

As the system prompt sounded, a vast and exquisite body of knowledge about the golden rules of scriptwriting, narrative techniques, character shaping methods, and… the “Sorkin-style” screenwriting secrets of how to cleverly embed foreshadowing, drive the plot, and reveal character in high-information-density dialogue, summarized by top Hollywood screenwriters, poured into Lin Da’s mind like a sudden enlightenment.

He felt as if a brand new door had been opened to his mind. The script of “iron-blooded censor,” which he had previously seen as full of Eastern subtlety and blank spaces, now presented itself to him as… a completely new interpretive space with a more international perspective.

He began to try, using “Sorkin-style” thinking, to re-examine the character of Song Qi, to consider how to retain his Eastern integrity and loyalty while imbuing him with more universal human brilliance and… a more dramatically tension-filled fate.

He unhesitatingly invested the 1200 newly acquired Acting Points, along with a portion he had saved previously, into improving the proficiency of the three core skills: [Spirit Speech (Advanced)], [Aura Control (Intermediate)], and [Character Essence (Advanced)]. He knew that facing a screenwriter like Aaron Sorkin, who had extremely high demands for dialogue and performance rhythm, he had to maximize both his “hardware” and “software.”

A week passed quietly amidst Lin Da’s almost “sleepless” preparation.

When he reappeared at the preparation office of “iron-blooded censor” production team, ready to welcome the “inspection” of the Hollywood screenwriting master, his eyes were completely different from a week ago.

No longer the previous calmness and introversion, but rather… a composure and… sharpness belonging to a top strategist before a high-stakes game.

Inside the meeting room, the atmosphere was solemn and… slightly tense.

Director Zhang Jingzhi, Art Consultant Wu Tianming, Producer Liu, and several senior representatives sent by Netflix were all sitting upright.

And at the head of the conference table sat a man with graying hair, wearing black-rimmed glasses, with eyes as sharp as an eagle’s, exuding a powerful aura that kept people at a distance… it was Aaron Sorkin himself.

He didn’t engage in much small talk, merely glanced indifferently at Lin Da as he walked in, then went straight to the point, speaking in his characteristic, information-dense and oppressive rapid-fire manner:

“Mr. Lin, I’ve seen your material, and I’ve seen some clips of you in “the last silk road echo” and “lost lighthouse.” I must say, your performance is very talented, and very… Eastern in charm.”

He paused, a subtle arc forming at the corner of his mouth, his eyes carrying an undeniable pickiness:

“However, if the story of “iron-blooded censor” is to succeed in the international market, it must undergo… a complete transformation.”

“What I need to see is not just an ‘upright official’ full of Eastern integrity, but also… a complex individual struggling in a whirlpool of power, questioning the darkness of human nature, someone who can make audiences worldwide feel deeply for and resonate with.”

“Are you… ready to accept my ‘challenge’?”

Aaron Sorkin’s gaze, like two sharp scalpels, pierced directly into Lin Da’s heart.

Lin Da’s heart, at this moment, involuntarily began to beat faster.

He knew that this screenwriting master was… issuing a challenge to him!

A showdown about art, about culture, about… the soul of a character, was about to begin!

And he, too, was ready to meet this challenge, to unleash his own… dazzling brilliance in this clash of top-tier intellects!

Late autumn in Beijing, the chill was biting, but it couldn’t dampen the almost boiling creative passion and… a hint of undetectable tension within the preparation office of “iron-blooded censor” production team.

Around the long table in the meeting room, several influential figures in the Chinese film and television industry—Director Zhang Jingzhi, Art Consultant Wu Tianming, Producer Liu, and several senior representatives sent by Netflix—were all sitting upright, their expressions focused.

Their gazes were all fixed on the head of the conference table, on the Hollywood golden scriptwriter—Aaron Sorkin—a man with graying hair, wearing black-rimmed glasses, with eyes as sharp as an eagle’s, exuding a powerful aura that kept people at a distance.

And Lin Da sat quietly opposite Aaron Sorkin, his posture upright, his expression composed. He knew that this script discussion meeting today, for him, was not just a “pinnacle dialogue” with an international top screenwriter, but also… a crucial game concerning the character of Song Qi, and even the future fate of the series “iron-blooded censor.”

"Mr. Lin," Aaron Sorkin began, his signature rapid-fire delivery, dense with information and full of pressure, echoing like a machine gun in the conference room. "I've seen your profile, and I've watched some of your performances in 'the last silk road echo' and 'lost lighthouse.' I have to say, your acting is very talented, and very... Eastern in charm."

He paused, a subtle curve playing on his lips, his eyes holding an undeniable critical edge. "However, for 'iron-blooded censor' to succeed in the international market, it must undergo... a complete transformation."

"What I need to see is not just an 'upright official' full of Eastern integrity, but a... complex individual who struggles in the maelstrom of power, who is questioned in the darkness of human nature, and who can make audiences worldwide feel deeply for him and resonate with him."

"Are you... ready to accept my 'challenge'?"

Sorkin's gaze, like two sharp scalpels, pierced directly into Lin Da's heart.

Lin Da's heart, at this moment, involuntarily sped up. But he showed no sign of retreat or panic. He took a deep breath, met Sorkin's sharp gaze, his eyes firm, his voice calm yet imbued with a convincing power. The Spirit Speech (Advanced) skill quietly activated at this moment:

"Mr. Sorkin, it's a great honor to have the opportunity to communicate and learn from a top-tier screenwriter like you. Every one of your works is a classic, and your insights into human nature and analysis of social reality have greatly benefited me."

He first expressed full respect, giving the other party ample face. Then, he changed the subject, his tone becoming confident and composed:

"Regarding the international adaptation of 'iron-blooded censor' and the portrayal of the Song Qi character, I also have some... rudimentary ideas that I hope to discuss with you."

"Oh?" Sorkin raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of imperceptible surprise flashing in his eyes. He hadn't expected this young Eastern actor to dare to proactively propose a "discussion" in front of him.

"Please speak," Sorkin said with a hint of playfulness in his tone.

Lin Da smiled slightly and said calmly, "Mr. Sorkin, I fully agree with your positioning of Song Qi as a 'complex individual.' In my opinion, Song Qi's integrity does not stem from an ethereal aloofness, but from his deep love for his country and its people, his infinite compassion for the common folk, and... his stubborn adherence to 'doing what is impossible' in the dark officialdom."

"His heart is full of contradictions and struggles. He possesses a righteous dignity when facing powerful figures, yet also experiences loneliness and vulnerability when confronting his inner demons in the dead of night. He harbors bitter hatred for corrupt officials but also a subtle, almost imperceptible sympathy for those small figures who are forced into difficult situations and go astray."

"If we want to bring this character to the international stage and make audiences from different cultural backgrounds resonate with him, perhaps we can... start from the common ground of 'humanity.'"

Lin Da paused, his eyes growing deeper. Knowledge from Script Insight (Advanced) and the "Hollywood Screenwriting Golden Rules" rapidly circulated in his mind, perfectly blending with his understanding of Eastern culture and his insights into the Song Qi character:

"We can delve deeper into Song Qi's inner struggles when making each difficult choice, showcasing his dilemmas between family affection, friendship, love, and the greater good of the nation. We can use more dramatically tense plots to depict his ups and downs and his steadfastness in the maelstrom of power, and... the most genuine and touching human brilliance he displays as a 'person' when facing temptation, betrayal, and even the threat of death."

"As for those cultural elements and historical backgrounds full of Eastern charm," Lin Da's lips curved into a confident smile, "we can skillfully integrate them into the plot using a more international narrative approach, making them highlights of the story, rather than... obstacles to understanding."

His words were clear and logically rigorous, demonstrating his deep understanding of the character while skillfully incorporating Hollywood's narrative techniques and market considerations. With the enhancement of the Spirit Speech (Advanced) skill, every word he spoke seemed to carry a magical power, making everyone present involuntarily convinced and moved.

Aaron Sorkin listened quietly, and a hint of... genuine appreciation and... surprise gradually appeared in his sharp eyes!

He hadn't expected that this young actor from the East would not only be fluent in English but also possess such an astonishing level of understanding of scripts, character portrayal, and even... Hollywood's creative logic!

He had originally thought he would have to spend a lot of effort to persuade these Chinese creators, who clung to traditional Eastern narrative styles, to accept his "transformation" concept. Yet, unexpectedly, Lin Da actually... agreed with him, and even... thought deeper and further than he did!

The atmosphere in the conference room became exceptionally warm due to Lin Da's brilliant exposition.

Director Zhang Jingzhi and Art Consultant Wu Tianming looked at Lin Da with undisguised admiration and... a hint of awe for the younger generation. They knew that this young man's future was limitless!

Producer Liu Feixu was so excited she almost jumped out of her seat! She knew that this time, she had truly... unearthed a "peerless genius" capable of changing the entire landscape of Chinese film and television!

Several senior representatives from Netflix also nodded, their gazes at Lin Da filled with pleasant surprise and... a determination to win him over.

After a long pause, Aaron Sorkin slowly spoke, his voice carrying a hint of barely concealed excitement:

"Lin... you... you're simply a genius!"

He suddenly stood up from his seat, walked quickly to Lin Da, extended his hand, and firmly, tightly grasped Lin Da's hand, his eyes filled with the excitement of meeting a worthy opponent and... the appreciation of kindred spirits:

"I take back all my previous doubts and prejudices! The international adaptation of 'iron-blooded censor' and the 'rebirth' of the Song Qi character will follow your ideas! I... Aaron Sorkin, am willing to work with you to create a... truly world-shaking epic work!"

This was more than just a simple collaboration invitation.

This was more like a screenwriting deity issuing a... most sincere and grand... "hero's invitation" to another future superstar with unlimited potential!

Lin Da's heart also swelled with an unspeakable sense of pride.

He knew that he had once again... conquered this top figure from Hollywood... with his strength!

And his "actor emperor road" had become clearer and more... brilliant because of this "peak dialogue"!

Just then, the system's exciting prompt sounded in his mind again:

"Ding! Congratulations to the host for successfully gaining high recognition and deep cooperation intent from Hollywood's golden screenwriter Aaron Sorkin in the 'peak dialogue' with him, thanks to your excellent wisdom, eloquence, and deep understanding of the script!"

"[actor emperor road system 2.0] Core Mission Chain First Link: 'The Battle for a Foothold in Hollywood,' mission evaluation receives an additional significant bonus!"

"Ding! Host's reputation value (international and professional fields) has greatly increased! Current reputation value: 20000 points!"

"Ding! Due to the host's excellent talent and great potential shown in cross-cultural script adaptation and character shaping, the proficiency of the [Script Insight (Advanced)] skill has greatly increased! The proficiency of the [Spirit Speech (Advanced)] skill has increased!"

"Ding! Special Reward: [Oscar Road · Screenwriter's Favor (Passive Skill, Primary)] activated!"

"[Oscar Road · Screenwriter's Favor (Passive Skill, Primary)]: When the host cooperates or communicates with top international screenwriters, it is easier to gain their appreciation, trust, and... 'inspiration,' and there is a certain chance to get the opportunity for them to 'tailor-make' exclusive roles for the host."

A new passive skill! And it's "Screenwriter's Favor"!

Lin Da's heart pounded wildly again!

He knew that his life was about to embark on a brand new, even grander, and more... infinitely possible journey!

And he was ready to meet the even more challenging and more... anticipated challenges from the pinnacle of world cinema!