As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting an ethereal glow upon the film set, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. The meticulous hands of the set decoration department meticulously aligned every element to match the script's vision. Minjoon and his fellow co-stars, an additional quartet of lethal assassins, patiently awaited the arrival of the director and esteemed screenwriter following a brief break for another scene. As the set decoration department diligently attended to the accurate alignment of the shooting location in accordance with the script, Minjoon and his fellow co-stars, an additional quartet of lethal assassins, patiently awaited the arrival of the director and esteemed screenwriter following a brief break for lunch.
As Minjoon quenched his parched throat with a sip of water, he observed with admiration as the respected screenwriter, Lee Jihyun, accompanied by co-director Xue Meihui, returned and found themselves encircled by a gathering of crew members and representatives from various departments, all intent on confirming the meticulously crafted setting. Curiosity sparked among Minjoon's co-stars, leading one to inquire about the absence of Director Kim Minjae overseeing the scene.
"Is there any particular reason why Director Kim Minjae is not overseeing the direction of this particular scene?" inquired one of Minjoon's co-stars, seeking insight from the group. Just as Minjoon was about to respond to her, Han Jiyeon, a crew member who had been present with Minjoon, interjected with an explanation, stating, "Apart from the principal cast, none of us have laid eyes on him."
Prior to her utterance, the assistant director summoned them to draw nearer and convene with the cast. As they approached the designated gathering spot, Minjoon inhaled deeply, conscientiously ensuring his posture was impeccably aligned. Positioned directly across from director Xue Meihui, Minjoon cast a fleeting glance at his fellow co-star, and under the guiding presence of his leader, they gracefully inclined in a bow and commenced their introductory remarks. Following the preceding co-star, it was finally Minjoon's turn to step forward and convey his introduction. "Greetings to the director. I am Kim Minjoon, entrusted with the portrayal of The Silver Shadow. It is an utmost pleasure to make your acquaintance, and I humbly place myself under your care."
"My, my, aren't you the adorable one? We must certainly take good care of you. But tell me, are you the individual Director Bae Hosook has recommended?" Director Xue Meihui stated, her gaze fixed directly upon Minjoon while clutching the portfolio containing the cast details for this scene.
"Yes, ma'am. Director Bae Hosook graciously recommended me to the casting director, Han Yujin. Following several rounds of interviews and auditions, I was fortunate enough to secure the role," Minjoon conveyed, endeavoring to maintain a respectful demeanor and deflect attention away from himself. Given that he had obtained the role through a recommendation, it was unavoidable that discussions would arise regarding his presence on set.
"I have realized that you are the very person I witnessed in the production The Empress's Serenade: Secrets of the Forbidden Palace. Undoubtedly, you possess a captivating presence in period dramas. It was a truly remarkable drama, albeit unfortunate that the Chinese government has imposed restrictions on palace dramas. However, with your remarkable talent, you have the potential to ascend as a burgeoning star in China." the director expressed, her countenance imbued with sincerity and a touch of melancholy.
"If this opportunity does not come to fruition for you, ensure that your agent establishes contact with me. I would be delighted to witness your presence in future endeavors," the director stated, leaving open the possibility of crossing paths once again. Before preparing a response, screenwriter Lee Jihyun interjected, addressing Miss Xue with a firm tone, "Miss Xue, our purpose today is not to engage in actor-related negotiations, but rather to focus on the scene at hand. Kindly abstain from further personal discussions." His irritation was evident, as reflected in his countenance that conveyed a strong desire to discontinue the conversation.
Without pausing for a reply, Lee Jihyun swiftly made his way toward the tent, initiating a conversation with the representatives from the decor department regarding the intricate details of the settings. Director Xue uttered with a pointed tone, securing her voice resonated within earshot of those present, particularly emphasizing writer Lee, "Ah, this someone, the very embodiment of work, seemingly devoid of any semblance of feeling. It comes as no surprise that you remain single."
As Minjoon caught the sound of giggles emanating from his co-stars, he joined them at the shooting scene, patiently awaiting the forthcoming introductions from director Xue. "Now, shall we commence our work, gentlemen, and ladies? I trust that you are well aware of your respective roles. Two of you, please position yourselves by the tent as guards, while the other two should stand behind the seat," Director Xue directed, indicating the designated positions for the male actors near the tent entrance. With a careful eye, she ensured that the female actors were positioned correctly, guiding them while attentively observing the monitoring camera, striving to capture a flawlessly symmetrical scene.
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"Excellent, everything seems in order. Minjoon, please take your seat at the designated spot, and we will be ready to commence shooting. Now, let's go over the scene once again. As The Silver Shadow replaces the internal documents, sudden arrows will be hurled toward the two individuals surrounding him. Have you all received the fake blood from the special effects department? Perfect. After the initial two arrows, the three of you should swiftly retrieve your weapons and converge, forming a triangular formation while facing the entrance of the tent. Is the plan clear thus far?" Director Xue clarified, ensuring everyone understood their roles and the sequence of actions.
"Afterward, two additional poisonous darts should strike two of you. Until the darts hit, do not remove your masks. Once hit, remember to portray the struggle for breath and endure visible pain. The Silver Shadow,' your task is to swiftly reunite them. Positioned at the forefront of the tent entrance, you will hold a total of eight needles. As soon as their torment subsides, an arrow carrying a message will be halted at your feet. Without delay, release your needles, seize the arrow, and swiftly retreat towards the rear of the tent. Utilize the dagger concealed beneath your belt to tear open the tent, and before making your escape, cast one final gaze upon the tent. Have I adequately conveyed the instructions?" Director Xue articulated, seeking clarity and understanding from the cast.
Minjoon nodded in acknowledgment, his surprise was evident as he observed the noticeable transformation in Director Xue's demeanor. Previously, she had been pleasant and playful, but now, as she assumed her position, a remarkable passion emanated from her. Even her eyes seemed to undergo a shift, exuding a deeper and more intense gaze than before.
"Is everything in place?" Director Xue inquired, receiving affirmative nods from her assistant and the crew members. With preparations complete, each member took their designated position. Minjoon concentrated on stilling his leg, which had been shaking nervously, and settled into his seat, focusing his gaze on the documents before him, awaiting the director's signal. Upon hearing the command " Act 1, Scene 1. Action! " he immediately began his search through the documents, mentally counting from 0 to 10. Meanwhile, the arrows struck the girls positioned behind him, triggering the release of fake blood concealed around their chests as they simultaneously activated the corresponding buttons. Reacting swiftly, Minjoon sprang from his seat and swiftly moved towards the other two individuals, who were also converging towards the center of the tent. With urgency in his voice, Minjoon delivered his line, "Both of you, assume the Tianlong Triskelion Triad formation immediately!" Simultaneously, all three participants drew their weapons, fully embodying their roles within the formation.
"And cut! Exceptional work, everyone. Remain in your positions; I believe we have successfully captured the essence of the first scene. It was executed brilliantly. What are your thoughts, Senior Lee?" Director Xue inquired, turning towards writer Lee, her voice brimming with satisfaction and genuine admiration for the outstanding performance delivered by the cast. Writer Lee nodded in agreement, maintaining a composed facial expression. Yet, behind his composed demeanor, his eyes betrayed a glimmer of excitement and satisfaction that couldn't keep hidden.
"Now, Act 1, Scene 2. Action!" With the director's command, Minjoon seamlessly transitioned into his role. His gaze fixated on the entrance of the tent, and within moments, two darts swiftly found their mark, striking the two actors. In response, Minjoon deftly replaced the needles he held in his hands with another set of eight. Barely three seconds later, the two actors commenced removing their masks, revealing their contorted, purple-greenish faces and hands. Their portrayal of agony and suffocation was so convincing that it would be sent shivers down the audience's spines. Stealing a brief glance at them, Minjoon suddenly heard the distinct sound of an arrow landing near his boots. Reacting swiftly, he retrieved the arrow, which bore a small white paper attached to its shaft by a thread. Holding the arrow in his left hand, Minjoon swiftly made his way to the backside of the tent, brandishing the hidden dagger from his belt. With a swift motion, he cut through the fabric of the tent, taking a step forward before casting a lingering glance behind him for approximately two seconds. Finally, he vanished from sight, leaving the scene behind.
"CUT! That's a wrap. I can't believe we captured such an extraordinary scene in just one take. I had mentally prepared myself for at least ten takes to approach perfection, but you all delivered an exceptional performance. Each one of you did an incredible job," exclaimed Director Xue, her voice brimming with astonishment and appreciation for the cast's outstanding work. "I must wholeheartedly agree with Director Xue. This scene unfolded in my imagination as I penned it, and witnessing your portrayal has exceeded my expectations. Each and every one of you have done an outstanding job," affirmed Writer Lee, expressing his heartfelt appreciation for the cast's remarkable execution of his vision.