Chapter 974 - The Dark Knight Premiere (Part 3)

Not to mention that the youngest ever Oscar-winning Best Actor came out of her tutelage—just look at the rest of the cast in this movie. When had they ever displayed such remarkable acting skills in their previous films? Especially Christian—even in Batman Begins, his earlier collaboration with Nolan, he hadn't delivered such a refined performance as he had just now.

No wonder so many actors, including many big-name stars, are eager to be part of films directed by Laila. It's not just that they don't have to worry about being dragged down by a flop—more importantly, it's because of her exceptional ability to train actors. If you want to make it big, and more importantly, stay big, looks and physique aren't enough. Acting is the foundation for survival in Hollywood.

To improve their craft, actors often go to lengths unimaginable to ordinary people. Locking themselves in hotel rooms, getting thrown in jail, even checking into psychiatric hospitals or going off the grid to remote rural areas—all to experience life as their characters would.

These methods help them get closer to their roles, but they can also be quite damaging. In comparison, if simply being coached by Laila could lead to that kind of improvement, then that's practically a dream come true.

Of course, that's just wishful thinking from those who've never worked in Laila's crew. There's no such thing as a free lunch in this world. Even winning the lottery requires you to buy a ticket first. No effort, no reward. "Opportunities always come to those who are prepared"—that's one of Laila's favorite sayings.

She did indeed help many actors discover their weaknesses and improve during filming—but that's still the result of their hard work. Just being on her set without actually doing what she says? That won't get you anywhere.

When the movie ended, everyone in the theater stood up, giving a rousing round of applause for what they had just witnessed. Fans cheered without restraint, and even the critics clapped with smiles on their faces.

The reporters were probably the busiest—they had to capture the moment while already thinking up catchy headlines for their reports. "Batman Returns in Glory—Moran Set to Top the Box Office This Week"? Or "The Greatest Superhero Film—The Heaviest Hitter of the Summer Blockbusters"?

As the press flocked to interview Laila and the other core creatives, some reporters who couldn't squeeze through began approaching nearby critics and audience members.

"Excuse me, what brought you to watch this movie today?"

A young man being interviewed pointed excitedly to the logo on his T-shirt. "Of course it's Batman! He's the best superhero ever—my idol!"

"And are you satisfied with how Director Moran portrayed Batman this time?"

"Satisfied! She is the best director in Hollywood. She gave us the Batman we've always wanted—so powerful! And his Batmobile? Super cool!"

The reporter, seeing that the fan was about to launch into an even longer string of praise, quickly thanked him and moved on. He had a feeling that if he didn't cut him off, the kid would've gone on forever.

Film critics were among the journalists' favorite interviewees. They could usually offer more insightful commentary that sparked discussion.

"What's your opinion of Director Moran's latest film?"

The critic rubbed his chin thoughtfully before responding, "Outstanding. I haven't been this blown away by a superhero movie in a long time. It's not just about a hero beating up villains and saving the world—it carries a much deeper, more thought-provoking message."

"Do you have any predictions about the film's box office performance? Can it continue Director Moran's track record of record-breaking numbers?"

The critic knew exactly what record the journalist was referring to. "For a film like this, hitting over $300 million should be a sure thing. I believe even $500 million or $600 million is within reach. At the very least, her box office magic will continue this year." He added with a touch of regret, "It's just a shame that after such momentum, her next film Blood Diamond probably won't do nearly as well."

"Could you comment on the performances of the cast? Director Moran is known for drawing out the best in her actors—did she deliver this time as well?"

The critic nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely. Director Moran has a unique way of unlocking an actor's potential. It seems like every actor under her direction gives a better performance than ever before. Christian's acting this time completely blew my mind—he was phenomenal. Powerful, and compelling—he met the film's needs and exceeded the audience's expectations. Easily the best performance of his career."

"And I just have to mention Roy. His performance was unparalleled!"

"Wait a minute!" The reporter looked at him in confusion. "Roy? Roy Seasonstar? I heard he had a cameo, but I didn't see him in the film at all…"

Some nearby fans chimed in, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, I was wondering if maybe all his scenes were cut."

The critic was speechless. "Roy played the Joker. Are you all telling me you didn't realize that?"

"What?!"

"You're kidding, right?"

"No way!"

The reporter and surrounding fans all gasped in disbelief. Only a few bystanders wore smug expressions that said I knew it all along.

"I told you it was Roy, but you kept arguing with me!"

"Seriously, you could not tell! He looked nothing like Roy!"

"Exactly! I was terrified while watching, and I couldn't recognize him at all. Roy's supposed to be handsome!"

Amid the growing chatter, the critic chuckled with the calm demeanor of a true connoisseur. "Being able to completely transform into another persona—that's the mark of truly outstanding acting. Don't forget, he's the youngest Best Actor in Oscar history."

Hearing that, even the reporter was stunned—everyone nearby looked as if they'd just been hit with a thunderbolt.

"His acting is insane! And he's good-looking and talented? Roy is just too cool!"

"I seriously didn't realize he was the Joker—not even his voice gave it away."

"At first I thought it might be him, but the longer I watched, the more I was convinced they were two different people."

Laila had been quietly observing the commotion around her. Naturally, the chorus of shocked exclamations hadn't escaped her ears. The moment she heard Roy's name mentioned alongside "the Joker," she knew that his performance had completely won everyone over.

And with that, she could now move on to the second phase of her plan!