novellhall Chapter 220 Thor's Assistance [5000]
Chapter 220 Thor's Assistance [5000]
Chapter 220 Thor's Assistance [5000]
Justin Lin's worries vanished instantly, replaced by an excitement that seemed to thrive on chaos: "Well done, Chen! That's how it should be! Use solid, good projects and good roles to give a resounding rebuke to those damned racist scumbags and their jealousy!"
Ultimately, Hollywood is all about the quality of the work and the talent!
When will you announce this news?
"It should be soon; Marvel is preparing official announcement materials."
"Okay! If you need any assistance with promotions or if you need me to say anything, just let me know!"
Justin Lin said confidently, "Now all of Universal's little worries are completely useless! They'll just be happy that they bet on the right horse!"
"Alright, you can focus on preparing your new play. The noise online now looks more like a one-man show by a bunch of clowns!"
After hanging up the phone, Chen Xun walked to the window.
Los Angeles is ablaze with lights at night.
He opened his phone and scrolled through the posts on Twitter under the hashtag #WeSupportChenXun#.
You can see fans using sincere and dedicated English to refute, clarify, and promote the product.
They even created a mashup of his performances with Chinese and English subtitles, which was then distributed on YouTube.
A warm feeling and strength welled up inside him.
These complete strangers are protecting him in their own ways, and also protecting their own belief in fairness and support.
He logged into his Twitter account and retweeted a fan-made montage video, adding the text: "I was very moved and ashamed to see this. The best way to repay you is to live up to your expectations. Thank you all. I will continue to work hard and meet you with better works. #WeSupportChenXun#"
This tweet was instantly liked and retweeted countless times, with comments in both Chinese and English flooding in, almost drowning out the popularity of the previous malicious smear posts.
Fans were moved and heartbroken.
The comments section became a massive wave of comforting messages: "Brother Xun, we'll always support you! Just be yourself!"
"Seeing you say you felt ashamed almost brought tears to my eyes. You've already done so well! We should be thanking you for bringing us so many wonderful works!"
"Ignore those sour grapes! They just can't stand to see others succeed! We're waiting for your new movie!"
"Thank you for your hard work, sisters in the translation team! Let's continue our organized and disciplined efforts to combat negative publicity and promotion!"
The trolls intensified their mockery: "Oh, so the celebrity is playing the victim now? And the fans are getting all emotional? What a drama!"
"Besides thanking fans, what else can you do? Let the box office speak for itself!"
"Looks like they're really desperate; they're even personally directing their fans in the battle?"
"I'm waiting for Fast & Furious 6 to flop, then let's see how you guys brag about it!"
A few days later, Matthew McConaughey appeared on the couch of The Tonight Show.
He wore a well-tailored casual suit, his hair was neatly combed, and he wore a smile befitting a Southern gentleman.
He was there to promote Interstellar, which is about to begin filming and is part of Warner Bros.' promotional plan.
Host Jay Reno began by making his usual jokes about Matthew's well-maintained appearance and his increasingly composed demeanor after winning the Oscar.
The conversation naturally turned to the Interstellar project.
"Matthew, we all know that director Nolan is very strict in casting. How does it feel to play Cooper in 'Interstellar'? Is there a lot of pressure?"
Matthew leaned forward slightly, his hands clasped on his knees: "Of course there's pressure, but there's more excitement and honor."
"Director Nolan has created a very grand world, and the character of Cooper is also very complex. He is not only an astronaut, but also a father, facing an ultimate choice in the dimensions of time and space. This is a role that every actor dreams of."
"I heard there were other candidates for this role before?"
Jay Reynolds posed the question.
Such hearsay is often an unspoken prelude in Hollywood interviews.
Matthew's smile remained unchanged. He adjusted his posture slightly, appearing more relaxed, as if sharing a universal life philosophy: "Yes, I've heard that. Countless projects and roles come and go in Hollywood every day. Some people get them, some people miss out, and that's normal."
He paused, then said meaningfully, "This industry is very special. It gives some opportunities, but it also takes away some, especially for actors who need to overcome more obstacles."
Jay Reno knew who Matthew was talking about, but pretended not to know: "You mean?"
Matthew shrugged, his tone gentle, even carrying a hint of seasoned experience: "You know, Hollywood has its own traditions and rules of the game, and it also has its ceiling."
"For an actor, especially one from a different cultural background, to reach a certain level and get involved in a project of the caliber of Interstellar is already a very rare thing."
"This requires both skill and luck, as well as recognition from all parties."
"I think for actors like this, it's important to cherish the opportunities they have and to play the roles they already have well."
"Performing solidly is the most important thing."
"Be content with what you have. Hollywood is a big stage, but not every corner is suitable for everyone to explore."
He turned to face the camera: "Sometimes being too eager to prove something or challenge established norms can actually make you lose your footing. Focusing on the performance itself might be a safer path."
After he finished speaking, there was a moment of silence in the studio, then Jay Reno chuckled and steered the conversation toward the scientific settings in the film.
But many people watching on TV and in online live streams heard the underlying meaning.
"Some actors need to overcome more obstacles."
Cherish the present moment
Contentment brings happiness.
Not every corner is suitable for everyone to explore.
"Challenging the established ecosystem"
The combination of these words makes their meaning crystal clear.
Moreover, it was said in a seemingly well-intentioned but actually condescending manner.
Matthew McConaughey, the newly crowned Oscar winner and star of "Interstellar" handpicked by Warner Bros. and Nolan, gave Chen Xun a piece of advice, almost by name, on a mainstream television program.
As a Chinese actor, you're already lucky enough to have even gotten a chance to be in "Interstellar".
Don't be ungrateful, and don't try to challenge the rules!
Just stick to your action movies and popcorn films; you have no place on the big stage of Hollywood.
The interview clip was quickly edited and circulated on social media and entertainment news websites.
Matthew McConaughey talks about Chen Xun
"Industry advice from an Oscar-winning actor"
The title is particularly eye-catching.
Warner's PR department was clearly pleased with this outcome, as it was far more sophisticated and damaging than them personally attacking Chen Xun.
Those who support Warner and Matthew think this statement is insightful and shows a broad perspective: "Matthew is right, focusing on the present is what really matters."
"The words may be rough, but the principle is sound; Hollywood isn't an easy place to make it in."
"The Oscar-winning actor was just trying to be helpful, so some fans shouldn't be so sensitive."
Chen Xun's fans and many bystanders were furious: "His blatant sense of superiority and paternalistic attitude are practically overflowing the screen!"
"What do you mean it's not suitable for everyone? Do you think Hollywood is your private property?"
"You still cherish the present? Does Brother Xun need to cherish the opportunity you're giving him?"
"They're all in cahoots! The people Warner Bros. chose all speak with the same tone!"
Robert immediately sent the interview link to Chen Xun.
"Matthew, that old bastard, usually acts like a philosopher, but he's quite adept at putting people down."
Matthew McConaughey's words were more direct and arrogant than he had expected.
The kind of advice that is based on industry status and a sense of superiority based on skin color is indeed very uncomfortable.
But he didn't feel angry; instead, he felt like laughing.
Hollywood has used this formula far too many times.
He picked up his phone and texted Rob: "Typical white glove tactics, letting someone of status say nice things, characterize, belittle, and draw lines, without needing to respond."
"Of course I won't respond!"
Rob quickly replied: "It's beneath you to argue with him. Your battlefield isn't here. This is a wake-up call for us. Warner Bros. is determined to label you as unqualified and clear the way for Interstellar in terms of public opinion."
"We need to choose a good time to officially announce our Guardians of the Galaxy movie!"
Chen Xun put down his phone and looked at himself in the mirror again.
Sweat-dampened hair, focused eyes, and a body with more defined lines from training.
Matthew McConaughey gave advice on television about ceilings and footholds.
Chen Xun is currently here, designing action sequences for a space thug who can freely roam the Milky Way and leads a group of freaks who are constantly causing trouble.
Whose stage is smaller, and whose vision is more limited?
He took a deep breath and stopped thinking about the studio lights and the words.
In front of the mirror, Star-Lord's smile slowly appeared.
[Emotional Control (When Facing Provocation) +4]
[Goal Focus +5]
[Character's conviction (in situations against prejudice) +10]
Chen Xun opened the panel:
[Highly praised by 92%]
The aftershocks of Matthew McConaughey's contented interview continue to circulate widely online.
The haters took this trivial matter as gospel, treating the newly crowned Oscar-winning actor's words as golden rules of the industry, and using various methods to mock Chen Xun for being out of touch with reality and urging him to listen to the advice of his seniors.
Chen Xun ignored him, focusing on his 80s playlist and special effects training.
His fans, however, were furious and argued fiercely with those people on foreign websites.
At this critical juncture, Marvel Studios' official Twitter account dropped a bombshell without warning.
A meticulously crafted 15-second animated short video.
The background is a dazzling and psychedelic cosmic nebula, and the video is accompanied by a rhythmic melody with retro synthesizer effects.
Several silhouettes flashed across the screen quickly.
A humanoid wearing a tattered helmet and wielding two guns, a green-skinned, agile female warrior, a raccoon baring its teeth and carrying a large gun on its shoulder, and a tree-man waving its branches.
Finally, the image freezes, and the logo appears:
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY
Below is a clear list of the cast:
Star-Lord Peter Quill – Chen Xun, Gamora, Zoe Saldana: "A new cosmic saga, a most unconventional team of heroes, is ready to take off."
Almost simultaneously, Marvel's main actor accounts, major movie news accounts, and partner media all reposted this official announcement.
The scale of the event was comparable to the Avengers' assembly back in the day.
"WTF?? Chen Xun? Star-Lord? Marvel, are you serious?"
"Wait a minute, let me sort this out—Chen Xun was just kicked out of 'Interstellar' by Warner Bros., and then he got the lead role in Marvel's 'Guardians of the Galaxy'?"
"This slap in the face came so fast, like a tornado! Matthew McConaughey was just being content with his lot the other day, and now he's in the Marvel Cinematic Universe!"
"Marvel is really daring with their casting! But why am I kind of looking forward to it?"
"Zoe Saldana! My Gamora! She just broke the global box office record, with her there, it's a sure thing!"
"Where are Chen Xun's fans? Come out and show yourselves! Who dares to say your idol doesn't have resources now?"
Chen Xun's fan club is going crazy.
One second they were arguing with haters and burning with anger, the next second they were hit by a windfall.
"Aaaaaaah! Marvel! It's Marvel!"
"Star-Lord! The lead actor! I knew my brother Xun was awesome!"
"Sisters, cry! Everyone cry! Then go control the comments! Promote him! Throw all of Xun Ge's works in the faces of those haters!"
"Brother Xun is awesome, let's get this trending! Happy Chinese New Year!"
Half an hour after the official announcement was posted on Twitter.
Chris Hemsworth, who plays Thor, retweeted the message on his personal account and tagged Chen Xun's Twitter account: "Welcome to this crazy universe, bro! @ChenXun I know you'll bring that arrogant space jerk to life. Can't wait to see you and Rocket clash. #GuardiansoftheGalaxy"
This is not over yet!
A few minutes later, he posted another message.
It's an old photo from the set of "Thor" a few years ago.
In the photo, Chris, dressed in Asgardian armor, has his arm around Chen Xun, who was just playing a supporting role as Fandral and looked quite young at the time. The two of them are smiling a bit silly at the camera.
"From Asgardian warrior to the galaxy's most wanted criminal, I'm proud of my brother. A true warrior shines wherever he is."
At that time, neither of them had achieved their current status, and Chen Xun had not yet given up drinking.
-
Back then, after filming every day, the two of them would have a big feast.
About ten minutes later, the third update appeared.
This time it's a short video. Chris is dressed casually, sitting in the gym's rest area, looking at the camera with a serious expression: "I've been hearing some noise lately about this industry, about who can do what, who can't do what. What I want to say is that true qualifications in Hollywood come only from your talent and hard work, and your respect for your work."
"I've known Chen Xun for many years, ever since he was a newcomer who was learning hard on set. He has all of these qualities, and even more. Congratulations, brother. The galaxy needs a guardian like you."
Three updates!
Each wave is more direct and more powerful than the last.
Especially the last video, which was almost a direct response to Matthew and those sarcastic remarks from the previous two days.
Given Chris's status in Marvel and his influence in Hollywood, this public support carries far greater significance than ordinary mutual flattery.
"Is Thor directly joining the fray?"
"So touching! What an incredible brotherly bond! From Thor 1 to now!"
"Chris's words were powerful! They've given a slap in the face to those sarcastic people!"
"I declare myself a Thor and Chen Xun shipper starting today!"
"Even someone of Chris's caliber has stood up for him, which shows that Chen Xun has a really good reputation and connections in the industry."
Marvel's official announcement and Chris's official announcement instantly silenced those still active haters.
Warner was a bit confused.
They expected Chen Xun to take on new projects, but they didn't expect that despite Warner Bros.' clear suppression, Chen Xun would still be able to get a big Marvel production.
This is undoubtedly going against them.
But on the other side are Marvel and Disney, which are much stronger than Warner Bros. in terms of reputation, awards, and box office performance.
This makes Warner's previous attempt to marginalize Chen Xun seem somewhat ridiculous.
Matthew has not commented on the topic since.
His advice now sounds more like the murmur of an old era about to be swept away by the tide of the new era.
Director Justin Lin sent Chen Xun a text message with just one word: "Awesome!"
Rob's phone was ringing off the hook!
They were all there to gather information or seek cooperation.
He sounded extremely excited on the other end of the phone: "Bro! Do you know what the foreign media calls you now?"
"The latest Hollywood Cinderella story: kicked out of one castle, immediately welcomed into another, more magnificent one, to become a prince!"
"Chris's a real shill! This support is a hundred times more effective than any PR we'd spent money on!"
Looking at the constant notifications on his phone and Chris's three updates, Chen Xun felt a warmth in his heart.
He sent Chris a private message: "Thanks, I'll treat you to dinner sometime!"
Chris replied almost instantly: "Just don't even think about my Thor's hammer!"
"I'm happy for you. I'm waiting to see you run wild in the galaxy."
The effects lasted for several days.
Chen Xun's name, along with Guardians of the Galaxy and Star-Lord, trended on Twitter and appeared on the front page of various entertainment sections.
Those voices that had previously criticized him disappeared along with Matthew McConaughey's sarcastic remarks.
The focus of media and forum discussions has now shifted to: "What will Chen Xun's version of Star-Lord be like?"
Will Marvel's bold casting this time be a success?
"What kind of sparks will fly between him, Zoe Saldana, and that grumpy raccoon?"
Warner Bros. was unusually quiet.
A series of follow-up interviews and promotional events originally scheduled for Matthew McConaughey were quietly canceled or postponed.
The award-winning actor who spoke eloquently on "The Tonight Show" recently made a public appearance without mentioning anything about Chen Xun or industry rules, only talking about the scientific concept and performance challenges of "Interstellar".
Warner Bros. Interstellar Project Office.
The vice president, who had been riding high, stared at the latest public opinion report.
The above clearly shows the huge change in public opinion index after Marvel's official announcement.
"It's pointless to say anything now."
His voice was weary and tinged with suppressed anger: "How's the filming progress with Nolan?"
"It went very smoothly, and the director was very satisfied."
The assistant quickly reported this.
"That's good!"
The vice president tapped his fingers on the table: "The only thing we can do now is to make Interstellar a flawless masterpiece, and use the box office, the awards, and all the hard metrics to get back on track."
"Let everyone know what truly top-tier cinematic art is, and what choices stand the test of time!"
He paused, his voice cold and hard: "As for the noise, we don't need to pay attention to it for now. Once our movie is released, everyone will have their own opinion."
Warner Bros. was determined to prove themselves right with the success of Interstellar and overshadow Chen Xun and Marvel's unexpected move.
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