Angela's refusal to take on the role has nothing to do with her dislike for it. On the contrary, she has a deep connection with the character of Emily, having personally crafted her and being intimately familiar with the film's plot from her past life.
However, it is precisely this familiarity that gives her pause. What if she fails to deliver a convincing performance? The entire movie depends on the dynamic between Emily and David, and in her revisions, Angela has heightened the importance of these roles even further.
She is well aware of the immense significance of these characters, to the point where someone once remarked that《Hide and Seek》would be a disaster without the likes of Dakota Fanning or Robert De Niro.
This comment not only alluded to their exceptional acting skills but also emphasized the pivotal nature of these roles. Moreover, Angela acknowledges that she doesn't possess the same acting prowess as Dakota Fanning, even though Dakota hasn't been born yet and may never be born.
While Angela might feel comfortable taking on a role in a romantic comedy like《The Parent Trap》, tackling a thriller poses a formidable challenge for her.
After politely declining, the little girl shrugged and flashed an apologetic smile. "Given that filming《The Parent Trap》has already occupied a significant portion of my time, I believe it would be more appropriate for me to focus on my current commitments."
Her words were carefully chosen, but Tucker couldn't help but question the validity of her explanation. Despite his doubts, he knew it would be futile to seek confirmation from the Masons.
After all, what difference would it make? It was only natural for parents to have a biased perspective when it came to their own children. Nonetheless, he was determined to make one last attempt.
"Miss Mason, please understand that as the screenwriter, you hold a unique insight into the character of Emily. We have made no alterations to the script, and the role suits someone of your age perfectly. I implore you to reconsider," Tucker urged, hoping to sway her decision.
Angela finds herself caught in a dilemma. She recognizes that Tuckers' words hold truth, and deep down, she truly desires to take on the role. Furthermore, Warner Bros.' unwavering faith in her work, without making any alterations to the script, is a tremendous show of respect and recognition.
In Chinese culture, this concept of "giving face" holds significant importance. Angela believes that if she accepts the role, it would be a way to reciprocate their gesture of giving her face.
Adding to her inner conflict is her usual inclination to rarely say no. This makes her decision even more challenging, as she wrestles with the conflicting desires within her heart.
As Angela flips through the script, her gaze fixates on the name of the actor portraying the father. After a few attempts, she manages to pronounce the name: Al... Pa... Pacino, Al Pacino?! Surprised, she sets the script down abruptly, her eyes widening with excitement. She turns her attention to Paul Tucker, her voice filled with anticipation, "Is it true? Is Al Pacino going to play the role of the father?"
Nonetheless, he quickly responds, "Yes, that's the plan. We have already had discussions with Mr. Pacino, and he has given a verbal agreement to take on this role. However, the contract has not been finalized yet as he is currently adjusting his schedule."
The little girl ponders for a moment, her excitement stemming from her deep admiration for Al Pacino. His rise to fame through《The Godfather》and his exceptional acting skills have left an indelible impression on her.
Although his brilliance may have been overshadowed by Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro in《The Godfather》series, Angela cannot help but admire his incredible talent. From portraying the blind Captain in《Scent of a Woman》to the daring cop in《Heat》and even embodying the devil himself in《The Devil's Advocate》Al Pacino's versatility as an actor is unparalleled.
His innate ability to bring characters to life is reminiscent of Robert De Niro, making him a true role model for young actors in Hollywood. For Angela, he is undoubtedly her favorite male actor and a source of inspiration.
"Okay, here's the deal. If Mr. Al Pacino officially signs on to play the role of the father, then I will gladly accept the role of Emily," Angela declared firmly, her tone leaving no room for negotiation.
Tuckers inwardly sighed but nodded in agreement. "Very well, I will relay this decision to the team."
...
Jessica, her little mouth stuffed with a lollipop, eagerly asked, "And then what happened?"
"A week later, he came again. Mr. Al Pacino officially agreed to play the role of the father, so naturally, I agreed," Angela shrugged, looking at the bustling crowd in the amusement park. "But due to scheduling issues, filming won't start until the end of next month."
"But earlier, you said you were afraid of not performing well. Why did you agree then?" Jessica asked again.
"Because I've already acted alongside Mr. Al Pacino in my mind. I love his movies, and since he's willing to be part of it, I thought it would be a challenge for myself," the little girl's eyes sparkled as she spoke. There was one more thing she didn't mention: if the heavens can let Al Pacino replace Robert De Niro's role, then there should be no problem with me replacing Dakota.
"I really don't understand you. Hasn't Mr. Al Pacino made many movies?" Jessica shook her head.
Angela rolled her eyes. She didn't know how to explain it. Talking about《The Godfather》with a ten-year-old like Jessica? Don't be silly. And as for the other movies, Al Pacino's acclaimed《Scent of a Woman》wouldn't be filmed until next year - although it's already 1992 - and the highly anticipated《Heat》wouldn't come until '94. Besides, those weren't movies she could discuss with Jessica.
The little girl sighed inwardly and looked at Jessica, who was slowly licking the lollipop with relish.
Watching her small tongue twirl around the lollipop, Angela suddenly felt an inexplicable and intense desire welling up inside her. Her heart seemed to be beating faster, and there was something she wanted to say but couldn't put into words.
"Why aren't you saying anything?" Jessica asked, turning to look at Angela. However, the little girl was preoccupied, turning her head from side to side and looking around.
"Angie?" Jessica called out, curious about her behavior.
"Oh, Jessie, how about we go play over there?" Angela pointed casually at something, despite the lack of cold winter weather in Los Angeles. Her cheeks had a slight rosy tint.
"That?" Jessica hesitated, still chewing on her lollipop. "Is it appropriate for us?"
"What?" Angela turned her head to see what Jessica was referring to. To her embarrassment, she had actually pointed at the roller coaster.
Angela cleared her throat and said, "Um, well, let's go somewhere else. There must be something else fun to do."
"Angie~" Jessica drawled out her voice, "Daddy told us to wait here."
"Oh, right, right, I forgot," Angela hurriedly responded, feeling annoyed with her scattered thoughts.
"By the way, I bumped into Lindsay yesterday, and she still wants your phone number," Jessica continued her lollipop still in her mouth.
What was she thinking just now? This was a public place! She couldn't imagine what would have happened if she had kissed Jessica. Curse Lindsay Lohan! Curse her flirtatious nature!
She sneakily glanced at Jessica, who had her head lowered and an unreadable expression, but the blush on her face was still evident.
Surely she wouldn't read too much into it, right? She wouldn't think too much!
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