Chapter 650 - Playing Dumb

Jackie Chan, upon seeing the situation, was somewhat curious: "Could it be true what the news says? Is Cheung really going to star in your new movie, Laila?" He originally thought it might be the paparazzi making forced associations, taking a photo of them having a meal together, and then starting to use their imagination to create stories. He had encountered many similar situations before and thought this might be another one.

"Yes, I sincerely invited Mr. Leslie to participate in my movie, but it hasn't been finalized yet. Mr. Leslie wants to decide after reading the script, and I appreciate his professionalism."

Not being blinded by invitations from Hollywood, this alone was enough for anyone to show respect to Leslie Cheung.

Many actors present quietly asked themselves, if faced with the same opportunity, would they have the perseverance to read the script before deciding to participate? After a moment of contemplation, they found that they couldn't! It was an invitation from a Hollywood director for a potentially huge film. Regardless of the role, even if they had to play a beggar, they would hope to be part of it. Because, after returning from Hollywood, they could shed the title of a domestic star and don the crown of an international star.

While acknowledging Leslie Cheung's admirable decision, they secretly thought he was a bit foolish.

Jackie Chan laughed and patted Leslie Cheung on the shoulder. "You're always so serious." Then, he turned to Laila. "I have to admit, Laila, your judgment is excellent. Choosing him won't make you regret it. You can trust him with any role."

He was a bit concerned that Leslie Cheung's usual serious work attitude might make Laila reconsider using him, so he deliberately praised him. Hong Kong, or the entire East, needed more people who could establish themselves in Hollywood.

However, those Hollywood folks were a cut above the rest, and he, having spent a few years there, understood the difficulties. If it were an ordinary person, he wouldn't recommend rashly venturing there, as someone unfamiliar with the rules might only end up hurting themselves.

But if it was Laila, he strongly supported it. After working together once, he had a high regard for her character and filmmaking abilities. What was even more valuable was her goodwill towards Easterners. Even if she were a mediocre director, he still believed it was worth cooperating with her for that reason alone.

Laila understood his underlying message and smiled. "I've seen Mr. Leslie's films, and I agree with Jackie Chan's words."

Shu Qi sat next to her, occasionally helping her with food. If she were to name the person she was most grateful for in the world, Laila would definitely have a place. She was very thankful to her; without the opportunity Laila gave her, she wouldn't have the smooth and successful life she had now.

She knew she didn't have much to offer, so she could only do what was within her power, such as taking meticulous care of Laila during dinner, allowing her to enjoy a delicious and abundant meal.

Laila had liked her since her past life, and, being girls, they had many common topics, making their conversations quite harmonious.

However, she didn't know that while she and Shu Qi were chatting, people at other tables were secretly observing her and Roy.

Roy, not to mention, just that face and his recent status as an Oscar winner, was enough to attract attention. Especially from the women—whoever saw him would find it difficult to look away when trying to leave. A person who looked like a living painting in such a casual manner was truly captivating.

Everyone present had seen a lot and was in the entertainment industry. They had seen many handsome men and beautiful women. Still, Roy's appearance was a cut above the rest.

Laila, initially to increase his value, had brought in many teachers to transform him. His words and actions, even his walking posture, were professionally trained. Prolonged and rigorous training allowed Roy to integrate elegance into his soul, so even in casual moments, he could make the most appropriate movements.

So, it was inevitable for people to be drawn to him.

In this situation, Laila was not inferior at all. Compared to Roy, she also had her own halo. Others might achieve greatness in one aspect, but she had taken everything. Wealth, beauty, talent—she even had the world's most handsome and sexy boyfriend.

If she were just the daughter of the Moran family, people might say she was a rich second-generation, and she is nothing without the support of her elders.

However, she also had talent. Through movies, she created her influence worldwide. As a result, many people around the world might not know much about Oswald Moran, the man who built the massive conglomerate, but they know a lot about Laila Moran's life.

Actors wanted to establish good relations with her, hoping to land a role. Businesspeople also hoped for a good exchange with her. Most of the businessmen present, who could be here, had intricate connections with the entertainment industry. They were well aware of her influence in the East and her ownership of one of the largest private cinema chains in the country.

If Hong Kong films wanted to be shown in mainland China, establishing a good relationship with her was undoubtedly a wise move. Just a wave of her hand could bring in hundreds or even thousands of screens. Those additional screens could bring them considerable revenue! 

Originally, when she accepted the dinner invitation, Laila thought it would be a nice gathering. Later, when she learned that more people were coming, she didn't think much about it.

However, as time passed, she began to feel a bit overwhelmed.

During previous dinners with her mother and grandfather, although they attracted attention, it was never to this extent. People in the hall were now enthusiastically staring at her. During the meal, there were occasional jokes or chat-like attempts to inquire about her new movie and role.

At this point, she was grateful that she was a "foreigner," and she also appreciated the modest and humble virtues of the Eastern people. In any case, for those probing and indirect questions, she only needed to pretend not to understand.

She could speak Chinese, but that didn't mean she had a deep understanding of the East. She could easily ignore any insinuations, double entendres, or questions as long as they didn't openly recommend themselves. 

But would anyone brazenly approach?

The answer was definitely no!

If there were no onlookers, maybe there was a possibility. But here, everyone was a big-name celebrity or business elite. They could recommend themselves, but if rejected outright, they would undoubtedly become a laughingstock in the industry. It was better not to speak up in the first place.

So, after the meal, Laila felt that her ability to play dumb had skyrocketed. She might even win an Oscar for it.

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Oscar: Best Dumb Act — Laila

Laila: Thank you, thank you, everyone. Thanks to CCTV, MTV, thanks to the cute little fans for the rewards, thanks to the little angels for the votes. Thanks to everyone, love you all ~