75: Hollywood's "Feast", a First Look at the Star Factory

In a private dining room beside Santa Monica Beach, the soft lighting and gentle sea breeze, carrying a hint of salty romance, filled the air.

Director Marcus Lee's enthusiastic embrace, coupled with the seemingly friendly yet scrutinizing gazes of several producers, made Lin Da acutely aware that this evening's "welcome banquet" was far from a simple dinner.

It was a silent contest, a comprehensive "assessment" from Hollywood's top production team.

"Lin, please have a seat, please have a seat." Director Marcus Lee, still maintaining his uninhibited artist's demeanor, personally pulled out a comfortable armchair for Lin Da. "Try the seafood here, it's very fresh. We're not talking business today, just chatting and relaxing."

He said "not talking business," but Lin Da knew that truly important information was often hidden within these seemingly casual conversations.

The producers present, men and women, old and young, all exuded the confidence and shrewdness of successful individuals. They were the helmsmen in Hollywood's vast arena of fame and fortune, controlling the life and death of countless film projects.

"Mr. Lin," a senior producer named David Green, who appeared to be in his fifties with meticulously combed hair, spoke first, a professional smile on his face, "We've all seen your audition footage, it was excellent. Marcus also speaks highly of you. However, we are a bit curious, you don't have much experience in large-scale commercial productions, and the role of An Si Yuan requires high physical fitness and action scenes from the actor. We wonder if you have made any special preparations in this regard?"

This question, seemingly about Lin Da's preparations, was subtly questioning his experience and capabilities.

A faint arc appeared on Lin Da's lips. He knew the real "assessment" had begun.

"Mr. Green, that's an excellent question." Lin Da's tone was calm and confident, his Speech Manipulation (Intermediate) skill quietly activating at this moment, making his voice full of persuasiveness. "Although most of my previous works were domestic TV dramas, in every single one, I fully immersed myself in the role, striving to do my best. Whether it was a dramatic scene or an action scene, I received professional training."

He paused, a flicker of determination in his eyes: "For the role of An Si Yuan, I specifically consulted a large amount of information on Tang Dynasty border wars and Western Regions martial arts, and conducted some targeted physical and action training. While I can't claim to instantly reach the level of a professional martial arts actor, I am confident that with the help of professional martial arts guidance, I will be able to perfectly complete the action scenes required for this role."

His words were neither humble nor arrogant, acknowledging his shortcomings while showcasing his effort and determination, and subtly expressing trust in the crew's professional team.

Producer Green's eyes flashed with approval upon hearing this. This young man not only had talent but also a rare clarity and pragmatism.

"Very good." Another shrewd and capable-looking female producer named Susan Miller also nodded, then posed an even sharper question, "Mr. Lin, we all know that Hollywood's production model and work pace are very different from those in China. Furthermore, the role of An Si Yuan requires you to have extensive scenes with actors from different countries and cultural backgrounds. Do you think you can quickly adapt to this cross-cultural work environment and establish good collaborative relationships with other actors?"

This question was undoubtedly testing Lin Da's adaptability and teamwork spirit.

Lin Da smiled slightly, his Aura Control- Affinity skill quietly releasing, making him appear even more gentle and charming:

"Ms. Miller, I completely understand your concerns. Cultural differences do exist objectively, but I have always believed that art knows no boundaries. Truly excellent performances can transcend language and cultural barriers and reach directly into people's hearts."

"I am very much looking forward to collaborating and learning with excellent actors from all over the world. I believe that under the leadership of an outstanding helmsman like Director Marcus Lee, we will certainly be able to jointly create a truly great work. As for myself, I will approach this new environment with the most open mind, to learn, to adapt, and to integrate. I believe that sincerity and professionalism are the best bridges for communication."

His words were flawless, expressing reverence for art, showcasing his open-mindedness and learning ability, and cleverly complimenting Director Marcus Lee.

Marcus Lee, listening nearby, showed a satisfied smile on his face. He knew he hadn't misjudged the person. This Lin Da not only had outstanding acting skills, but his emotional intelligence and adaptability were also first-rate.

In the time that followed, several producers posed seemingly casual but subtly insightful questions to Lin Da from different angles. Some were about his understanding of the script, some about his views on the Hollywood market, and some even touched upon his stance on sensitive international issues.

Lin Da maintained a calm and composed demeanor throughout, relying on the insights of Eye of Truth, the enhancement of Speech Manipulation (Intermediate), and the flexible use of Aura Control, answering each question perfectly, showcasing his professional competence and personal charm, while skillfully avoiding potential pitfalls.

He did not deliberately try to cater to or please anyone, but simply expressed his love for the art of cinema and his desire for this role with the most sincere attitude.

This "welcome banquet" was less a relaxed dinner and more a "job interview" without the smoke of battle.

And Lin Da was undoubtedly the most outstanding "candidate" in this "interview."

As the dinner drew to a close, the producers' gazes towards Lin Da had shifted from initial scrutiny and pickiness to genuine appreciation and… a hint of admiration.

They knew that this young actor from the East was no ordinary talent. His talent, his wisdom, and his demeanor were enough to earn him a place in the highly competitive arena of Hollywood.

"Lin," Director Marcus Lee raised his glass, a sincere smile on his face, "Welcome to the family of the last silk road echo! I'm very much looking forward to our collaboration!"

The other producers also raised their glasses, offering congratulations and welcome to Lin Da.

Lin Da knew that he had finally… succeeded!

He not only won the recognition of these Hollywood moguls, but more importantly, he secured a valuable opportunity for himself, and for Chinese actors, on the international stage of Hollywood!

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

"Ding! Congratulations to the host for a perfect performance in the 'assessment' by a top Hollywood production team, successfully gaining unanimous recognition from all core producers!"

"[Road to Golden Supporting Actor] Advancement Mission: 'Hollywood Stepping Stone,' current completion significantly increased!"

"Ding! Host's reputation value significantly increased! Current reputation value: 7000 points!"

"Ding! Due to the host's excellent adaptability and personal charm demonstrated in cross-cultural communication and high-pressure environments, the proficiency of [Aura Control (Intermediate)] skill has significantly increased! The proficiency of [Language Talent (Intermediate)] skill has significantly increased!"

"Ding! New items unlocked in the System Shop: [Hollywood Survival Guide (Beginner)], [Cross-Cultural Communication Compendium (Beginner)]."

The generous rewards filled Lin Da's heart with joy and hope, like the Pacific Ocean shimmering in the sunset outside the window.

He knew his Hollywood journey had just begun.

And an even more magnificent journey was about to unfold beneath his feet!

The "welcome banquet" filled with probing and competition finally concluded successfully with the sincere congratulations and welcome from Director Marcus Lee and the producers.

Lin Da returned to his hotel room, standing before the large floor-to-ceiling window, overlooking the dazzling, star-like nightscape of Los Angeles, his heart still surging with an uncontainable excitement and ambition.

Hollywood!

This cinematic mecca, which once existed only in his distant dreams, now, he was truly going to leave his mark here!

"[Hollywood Survival Guide (Beginner)], [Cross-Cultural Communication Compendium (Beginner)]…"

Lin Da opened the system shop, looking at the two newly unlocked items, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. He knew that these two "guides" and "compendiums" would be crucial aids for him to gain a foothold in this unfamiliar country and in this fiercely competitive arena of fame and fortune.

He chose to redeem and learn without hesitation.

Instantly, countless pieces of information about Hollywood industry rules, interpersonal interactions, cultural differences, and even… some unknown "unspoken rules" and "survival skills" flooded into his mind like a tide, confirming and merging with his experiences from two lifetimes.

Although it was only the beginner version, the amount of information contained within it was already enough to give him a preliminary and clear understanding of Hollywood, this massive "star factory."

"It seems the waters of Hollywood are deeper than I imagined…" Lin Da murmured, a confident smile playing on his lips.

The deeper the water, the more likely it is to nurture true dragons!

The next morning, Emily arrived punctually at Lin Da's apartment, bringing the official actor's contract for the last silk road echo, along with a detailed filming schedule.

"Mr. Lin, this is your actor's contract, please review it carefully. If there are no issues, we can officially sign today." Emily said with a professional smile, handing Lin Da a thick, all-English contract.

Lin Da took the contract, but instead of immediately flipping through it, he first looked carefully at Emily. The passive effect of Eye of Truth allowed him to clearly catch the fleeting… business-like and subtly kind glint in her eyes.

It seemed this young director's assistant had no particular prejudice or malice towards him.

Lin Da nodded and began to meticulously read each clause of the contract.

Hollywood actor contracts have always been known for their strictness and complexity. They not only detailed the actor's remuneration, working hours, rights, and obligations, but also involved portrait rights, merchandise development, and various non-disclosure agreements, among other things. A slight oversight could lead to falling into a trap.

Fortunately, Lin Da had the "blessing" of the Hollywood Survival Guide, allowing him to quickly grasp the key points and… potential pitfalls within these seemingly cumbersome clauses.

As he read, he occasionally posed questions to Emily, each question perfectly timed, showcasing his professionalism without appearing overly nitpicky.

Emily secretly admired Lin Da's professionalism and meticulousness. She had encountered many actors from around the world, and many newcomers, when facing Hollywood contracts, either became completely confused due to language barriers or overlooked many important details due to their eagerness to succeed. Someone like Lin Da, who was both knowledgeable and composed, was truly rare.

After nearly an hour of careful review and communication, Lin Da finally signed his name solemnly on the last page of the contract.

From this moment on, he, Lin Da, officially became a member of the crew of the Hollywood epic production, the last silk road echo!

"Pleasure working with you, Mr. Lin!" Emily's face broke into a genuine smile as she extended her hand.

"Pleasure working with you, Emily." Lin Da smiled and shook her hand.

After the signing ceremony, Emily took Lin Da to a large film and television production base located in Burbank. This was one of the main filming locations for the last silk road echo.

Upon entering the base, Lin Da was immediately struck by the grand and professional scene before him.

Huge soundstages, advanced filming equipment, and a constant flow of staff, each performing their duties yet working in perfect coordination… everything demonstrated Hollywood's immense power and professional standards as the world's film industry center.

Here, he met more core crew members, including experienced executive producers, talented art directors, and… several internationally renowned actors with whom he would have extensive scenes in the film.

Although their languages and skin colors differed, Lin Da could feel a common love and dedication to the art of cinema from them.

He skillfully used the techniques learned from the Cross-Cultural Communication Compendium, along with the assistance of Aura Control- Affinity and Speech Manipulation (Intermediate), to proactively engage with everyone, showcasing his friendliness and professionalism.

His fluent English, humble demeanor, and unique insights into the role quickly earned him the goodwill and respect of many present.

Of course, he also keenly noticed that behind these friendly smiles, there were also some subtle scrutinies and… a faint hint of competition.

After all, Hollywood is a place where strength speaks for itself.

In the afternoon, the crew arranged a small script reading session, primarily for "An Si Yuan," played by Lin Da, and several core characters who would have important scenes with him.

Director Marcus Lee personally presided.

When Lin Da uttered An Si Yuan's first line in his fluent and magnetic English, the entire conference room fell silent.

He poured his understanding of the character and the powerful infectiousness of his Speech Manipulation (Intermediate) skill into these seemingly ordinary lines.

At times, he was full of heroic spirit, like an eagle soaring over the grasslands; at other times, he was melancholic and profound, as if burdened by the weight and helplessness of his nation and the world.

He vividly portrayed the inner conflicts and struggles of An Si Yuan through his voice and subtle expressions.

The internationally renowned actors present, after listening to Lin Da's rendition, showed a fleeting hint of surprise and… seriousness in their eyes as they looked at him.

They knew that this young actor from the East was no ordinary person.

Director Marcus Lee nodded repeatedly, his eyes filled with undisguised appreciation and… a hint of relief. He knew that this time, he had truly struck gold!

After the script reading session, Director Marcus Lee specifically asked Lin Da to stay behind.

"Lin," he looked at Lin Da, his eyes full of anticipation, "Your performance exceeded my expectations. I believe you will perfectly portray the role of An Si Yuan on the big screen."

He paused, his tone becoming a bit more mysterious: "And, I have a little 'surprise' here that I'd like to give you."

A surprise?

Lin Da's heart stirred slightly.

He knew what kind of "trick" this eccentric director was up to again.