บท 161: Chapter 161: Breaking Stereotypes
Li Gen once again expressed his gratitude to Hardy and Director Nolan before leaving. Nolan turned to Hardy and asked, "Mr. Hardy, would you like to choose the supporting role of 'Carl'?"
Hardy waved his hand dismissively. "You decide. I'm not interested in choosing a supporting actor."
Nolan nodded and then inquired, "Mr. Hardy, what kind of person do you think would be more suitable for the psychic role: white, black, or South American?"
Hardy, momentarily considering the implications, realized that it was 1947 and racial attitudes were far from progressive. Originally, the psychic in the film was envisioned as a black actress, Ubi Goldberg. But Hardy saw an opportunity to challenge prevailing stereotypes.
He contemplated the idea of replacing the psychic with an Asian character. In America, Asian people were often depicted negatively, influenced by outdated stereotypes. Changing the psychic to an Asian person could offer a fresh perspective and help counteract these negative images.
Hardy also envisioned adding a character who practiced martial arts—a guard who could come to the rescue later in the film. This would not only showcase the mystique of Asian culture but also portray Asians as formidable and capable, potentially paving the way for future martial arts stars.
The cost of such a film wouldn't be excessive, perhaps around four or five million dollars. Hardy wasn't concerned about the financial return; he saw it as an investment in cultural representation. With a significant Asian population in the United States, there was also a potential market.
He said to Nolan, "Find an Asian actress for the psychic role."
Nolan raised an eyebrow. "An Asian actress?"
"Yes. Asian culture has its own unique mystique. I think it would be fitting for this role. Find a female actor in her 30s or 40s to shoot in Chinatown."
Nolan hesitated. "Finding someone in Chinatown might be a bit tricky. There are concerns about working with local groups there."
"What's the issue?" Hardy asked.
"Chinatown is controlled by a local gang. They are quite conservative and may not be willing to allow us to film there," Nolan explained.
Hardy smiled. "Don't worry. I'll handle it. The local community will assist us."
After discussing the matter, Hardy left HD Media and headed to the auction company. He planned to talk to Bill, as there were business connections between the Chinatown community and his company.
However, Hardy reconsidered. This was a formal business matter, and it would be more effective to ask Han Yezhen for assistance. She had direct connections and could facilitate the process more smoothly.
Han Yezhen and Irina, both recent graduates, were now working at the auction company. Han Yezhen, who had shifted her focus to antiques after initially pursuing architecture, was well-connected and efficient.
"Yezhen, please call the local contacts in Chinatown and let them know that HD Film Company is planning to shoot a scene there. We need their help to coordinate," Hardy requested.
"No problem. What movie are you shooting?" Han Yezhen asked.
Hardy explained the plot of "Human Ghost Is Coming," and both Han Yezhen and Irina were intrigued. The romantic element in the story was particularly appealing.
"I like the idea of the story. It's nice to see a strong, positive representation of the psychic character," Han Yezhen said.
Hardy assured her, "The psychic will be portrayed as a strong, mysterious, and just character. She plays a crucial role in resolving the crisis in the film."
Han Yezhen smiled and picked up the phone to call the local contact in Chinatown. The call was quickly connected.
Han Yezhen informed Tang Zheng about Hardy's request. Tang Zheng agreed to assist and also mentioned an actress who might be suitable for the role.
"Is there a particular actress you have in mind?" Hardy asked.
Tang Zheng mentioned an actress known as Butterfly, renowned in China and recently arrived in Los Angeles. Hardy recognized the name and was excited about the possibility.
"Please invite her for an interview at HD Pictures," Hardy said.
Tang Zheng also offered to provide a candidate for the martial arts guard role. Hardy agreed to meet in the afternoon to discuss both.
After hanging up, Hardy found Han Yezhen looking at him with bright eyes.
"What's up?" Hardy asked.
Han Yezhen asked excitedly, "Did Mr. Tang mention Butterfly? I've seen many of her films. I can't believe she's in Los Angeles. Can I join you for the interview?"
"Of course. It's nearly noon. Let's have a good meal first and then head to the film company," Hardy suggested.
"Sounds great," Han Yezhen agreed.
Irina chimed in, "I'd like to go too."
"Certainly, join us for lunch," Hardy said with a smile.
Irina beamed at the prospect.
Meanwhile, Tang Zheng informed Butterfly about the opportunity, and she agreed to come for the interview.
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