Chapter 104: Chat
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Tan Ming knew that Director Dong had no intention of targeting her, so she smiled nonchalantly.
However, this was the first time Tan Ming had heard what Director Dong had said. The teacher who had joined the production team with her was mostly teaching her how to read the script and figure out how to express her role. Hence, she clarified her doubts, “Then what do you mean by serving yourself?”
Director Dong replied, “Let me ask you, aren’t there many actors on set nowadays who rely on others to get things done, from minor things like putting on clothes and makeup to the major things like straightaway finding a stunt double?”
Tan Ming nodded. “That’s right, but I noticed that many of those experienced actors come on their own. I only found out after chatting with them that some experienced ones even know how to wear their own ancient costumes.”
Ancient costumes were different from modern clothes. They were complicated to wear, and men’s clothes had to be covered with headgear. Most actors did it with the help of the staff.
When Director Dong saw that Tan Ming was observing and learning, a satisfied look appeared in his eyes. “Not bad. Actually, only you know what state you’re most comfortable in. Some, in the midst of changing scenes for even only ten minutes, have to sit comfortably and play with their phone or do other entertainment activities in such a short time. This is the inertia from enjoying being served by others. They won’t think about watching and learning more on the set.”
“Everyone’s profile and height are different. You have to adapt to the environment on the set in advance. Those actors with good acting skills will take the initiative to understand the behind-the-scenes matters. For example, the positioning I told you about before. Some people choose to keep learning and improving until they become all-rounded actors. Many young actors always complain that actors can only rely on their youth. They’re very wrong!”
“The people who said these words were eliminated by this industry because they didn’t improve. They wanted to be famous and rely on their youth and good looks to become celebrities. They wanted to earn quick money. Being an actor was just a tool for them to reap money and fame. However, actors are not celebrities. They don’t understand their position. Acting is a skill. It takes ten years of practice for one minute on stage!”
Tan Ming had really thought about this matter carefully. “Director Dong, I really agree with what you’re saying. Using beauty is a single card. It’s a certain killer to serve someone with l.u.s.t. However, if it’s paired with intelligence, talent, education, and strength, any card will become a king.”
“There are still many active old actors in television dramas and movies. In the suspense drama that was trending last month, there were no celebrities who only had popularity. They were all actors with acting skills but not much popularity. This means that the audience’s aesthetic standards have improved.”
“Everything can be lost. Only the knowledge in your head can truly belong to you. Others can’t s.n.a.t.c.h it away. You have to have something that others don’t have. If you turn it into your own strength, you can also become an evergreen tree in this industry.”
Director Dong was very gratified to see that Tan Ming had realized this as soon as she entered the industry. “Well said! As long as you can maintain your original intention, I believe you will definitely make a name for yourself. Spring for good actors is coming! It’s changing for those who want to get fans through their looks only. Everyone has begun to like to see works with meaningful performances.”
The two of them chatted happily. Director Dong’s impression of Tan Ming was getting better and better. He was willing to promote such a young woman even if she did not have a background. He had already planned to see if there was a suitable role for Tan Ming the next time he filmed a drama. At that time, he would leave a spot for her to audition.
Time pa.s.sed very quickly. A month pa.s.sed in the blink of an eye. After Tan Ming finished the filming, she brought Li Mei and the babies back to Sea City first. Jiang Huai still had to continue filming on set.
As Si Cheng was busy stabilizing the stock prices and had to split his attention to deal with his date with Bai Ting, he was extremely busy and did not have time to hara.s.s Tan Ming recently.
When Tan Ming received the news that her aunt was returning to the country, she jumped up happily. She chatted with her aunt on WeChat and learned that she was returning to the country to meet her family and friends and celebrate her birthday. The two of them agreed on a time and address.
Tan Ming excitedly ran to Li Mei’s room and leaned against the bedroom door. She knocked lightly on the door and said to Li Mei and Jiang Hai, who were talking softly inside, with a smile, “Dad, Mom, I want to trouble you to help me take care of the babies for two days. I’m going to Xiyun..”