Chapter 567 - Online Spectacle

Today, not only would military weapons be used, but the streets would also be blocked off. This meant that Laila had to complete all the required shots within the time of the street closure. Otherwise, the obstructed public wouldn't care if you were a genius director; they would still criticize you thoroughly.

In this scene, Downey needed to perform actions while wearing the metal armor. The armor was heavy, even if made from relatively light materials. Performing actions freely in it was challenging.

"Downey, try your best, and I'll minimize the actions you need to do," Laila instructed. She set up several cameras to capture him from all angles, preventing the need for repeated actions.

"Don't worry, Boss!" Downey, clad in the armor, struck a pose like a fitness coach. "I'm ready!"

"OK!" Laila nodded and didn't waste any more time, instructing the various departments.

During the shooting, although the streets were blocked off, it couldn't prevent residents on either side of the street from witnessing the scene. As a result, some photos from the shoot were quickly posted on websites and social media, sparking a wave of attention.

While Laila had previously shared Iron Man's armor photos online, it didn't satisfy everyone's curiosity. People wanted to see more photos and learn more about the movie. This time, the person who uploaded the photos not only fulfilled their desires but also captured images of Laila on the set, exciting numerous fans.

"If I remember correctly, this is the first time seeing Laila directing a movie, right?"

"Laila is so cool!"

"I wish I could be there in person."

"Did anyone else notice that Downey seems to be doing pretty well?"

"Wait a minute! Why do I feel like that's the military's latest weapon?"

Various comments flooded Facebook and forums, creating a buzz that made many celebrities and movie companies envious. Why did their movies not attract as much attention, and they had to spend a lot of money on promotion? Meanwhile, Laila didn't even need to share her own photos; people spontaneously helped with her promotion.

Celebrities were even more jealous. They thought, as a director, couldn't she just sit behind the camera and be content? Why did she have to compete for attention every time, as if she didn't have to spend money to buy publicity?

At the end of the day's shoot, the streets finally reopened. The remaining task was for the film crew to clean up, ensuring that all traces of the shoot disappeared.

Laila knew that news about her had already made it to the trending topics on Facebook when the sky had turned dark.

The news was brought by her secretary, Demi, accompanied by Louise.

While Laila looked through documents, they explained the situation.

"There's a lot of content about the movie shoot on Facebook and some forums. Should we do something about it?" Louise asked.

"No need to worry, just leave it be." Laila signed a document and handed it to Demi. "If we didn't want people to know, I would have shot everything in the studio. Releasing occasional behind-the-scenes footage is beneficial for our publicity, isn't it?"

Many movies engage in hype before shooting, building anticipation during production, and releasing when the audience can't wait any longer. Thirsty marketing often proves effective. Laila hadn't shied away from using such strategies in her publicity.

"Alright." Louise didn't dwell on that topic and shifted to another matter. "I got some information. It seems that many movies have coincidentally received investment from the same company, and many of them have high potential for awards."

Laila raised an eyebrow, lifting her head from the documents. "Which company has so much money?"

"Well..." Louise looked around before leaning toward Laila's ear. "It's the Saudi company that invested in 'Catwoman.'"

"Faiza?" Laila chuckled and shook her head. "They must have suffered a loss and decided to change their strategy, right?"

Louise, being well aware of their relationship, remembered the back-and-forth clashes. "I'm not sure if they've stopped competing with you. Perhaps casting a wide net is their way of investing now?" She expressed uncertainty.

Laila didn't care much. If she were to invest in movies, she probably wouldn't choose those with no potential for high box office numbers. But considering that Faiza had suffered losses investing in three major films consecutively, it wasn't surprising that he turned to art films to avoid more losses.

Laila also felt that it wasn't that simple, but she didn't bother much about it. When an army comes, the general blocks the water, and when the earth comes, the general hides. Who would she be afraid of?

If she couldn't even beat someone like Faiza, who knew nothing about movies, she might as well not be in this business. She never considered him as her opponent; the only ones she thought could compete with her were the large Hollywood movie production companies.

However, the subsequent information surprised her. Louise, with her extensive Hollywood connections, provided unexpected news: Cooper was working for Faiza!

Laila hadn't expected those two to team up. But thinking about it, both of them had fiercely competed against her but always ended up defeated. Joining forces didn't seem like such a formidable move.

"Laila, don't take it lightly. I used to work with Cooper, and I know his capabilities well. He just lacks the means to deal with you. Once he finds a powerful ally, it could be troublesome for you and the company!" Seeing Laila's carefree demeanor, Louise sighed and explained the seriousness of the situation.

"Don't worry, Louise." Laila waved her hand nonchalantly. "Cooper and Faisal, they've both been defeated by me every time. Whether it's tarnishing my image or competing with me in movies, the final result will always be the same!" One only needed to see who considered whom as an opponent. They always saw her as an enemy, while she had never considered them as rivals.