2

After the two decided to shoot The Forest of Fireflies, they immediately got to work.

They requested a two-month leave from their usual courses, which the instructor approved since the competition was sanctioned by the academy.

The Northern Film Academy was renowned as a cradle of film and television talent. Its management style was lenient, allowing students the freedom to explore their creativity. The academy even provided sufficient funding for student projects.

Lucas Nolan and Julia James didn't have to worry about money.

In addition, Julia came from a wealthy family. She patted her chest confidently and said, "If we run out of money, just come to me!"

As they made their way off campus, Lucas began outlining the shooting plan.

Producing a film, at its core, involved four steps:

1. Finalizing the script.

2. Preparing props, sets, and casting actors.

3. Filming.

4. Editing and post-production.

Julia drove them off-campus and suggested, "Let's scout for a location first. I'm not sure if there's a forest nearby like the one in your script."

Lucas smiled confidently. "There is."

Julia glanced at him skeptically. "You're a freshman too. How would you know the area so well?"

Lucas chuckled. "I've explored the area a little during my free time."

The truth was, Lucas didn't know the area at all. The system interface had already provided him with the best location for filming.

Following the system's directions, the two soon arrived at the foot of a mountain.

They got out of the car and began exploring.

The lush greenery and scenic beauty were breathtaking. The trail up the mountain was a series of bluestone steps, just like those described in the script.

The area seemed to be a popular tourist spot, as there were other visitors climbing the mountain.

Julia turned in a circle, admiring the surroundings with wide eyes. "I didn't expect to find a place this perfect…"

Lucas marveled at the system's accuracy. The location was even better than what he had imagined from the anime.

After confirming the filming location, Lucas and Julia returned to campus to discuss casting.

The area around the academy had a bustling market for film extras. They only needed to provide character descriptions and requirements to find suitable candidates.

Lucas decided to play the male lead himself. His temperament and appearance perfectly matched the character.

Julia would take on the role of the female lead, as her looks and demeanor were ideal.

As for the supporting characters, they recruited actors from the film and television market.

Thanks to the academy's reputation and a bit of help from the system, Lucas and Julia spent an afternoon assembling the perfect cast.

Next came the issue of costumes and props.

By the time they left the casting market, it was already dusk.

Julia looked a bit troubled. "For the costumes, we'll need professionals to design them. How will Sophie and Alan dress? What should their appearance be like?"

Lucas smiled. "I've already got it covered. When I was writing the script, I had their looks in mind."

After dinner, the two headed to the study room.

Lucas took out pen and paper. With the system's help, he began sketching designs for the costumes and props.

Each design—whether it was Alan's mask or Sophie's dress—came to life on paper, detailed and vivid.

Julia watched in awe. "Lucas, your designs are incredible! Are you good at everything?"

Lucas scratched the back of his head modestly. "Not everything… just a little."

Julia felt a twinge of envy. She knew she had her strengths in acting and appearance, but Lucas seemed to excel in every area.

It was infuriating.

As she stared at Lucas's focused profile, her heart began to race.

Blushing, she quickly looked away. Get a grip, Julia. How can you already be falling for him?

---

The next day, Lucas handed the costume and prop designs to a professional company affiliated with the academy.

The Northern Film Academy had longstanding partnerships with these companies, offering affordable rates for students.

Lucas spared no expense, knowing how important costumes and props were to bring out the right atmosphere and emotion.

While waiting for the costumes and props to be completed, Lucas and Julia used the time to rehearse the script with the hired actors.

Most of the extras had minor roles, so they didn't require much training. The main focus was on Sophie's younger counterpart, portrayed by a short-haired, innocent-looking little girl named Lily Warren.

Julia knelt to Lily's level, offering her a lollipop with a warm smile.

The little girl accepted it with a polite "Thank you."

Lily had been handpicked by Lucas and Julia after hours of searching the casting market. Her age and appearance were a perfect match for young Sophie.

Julia turned to Lucas. "Lily looks great for the role, but what about her acting skills? Also, shouldn't we hire a professional director to guide us?"

Lucas sighed. Julia's wealth showed in moments like these—her solution to every problem seemed to involve throwing money at it.

Pointing at himself, Lucas said, "We don't need a professional director. I'll handle it."

Julia looked doubtful. "Are you sure you can do it?"

Lucas nodded confidently. With the system's assistance, he knew he could.

Julia's expression turned serious. "Lucas, I really love The Forest of Fireflies. I want to make it perfect. Let's not cut corners. We should at least hire a crew to help."

Lucas knew it would be hard to explain his abilities, so he relented. "Fine. We can bring in a team to assist, but I have the final say on everything."

Julia smiled. "Of course. It's your script, after all."

Lucas grinned. "Didn't you say you knew some seniors in the photography department? Ask them to help out. It'll save us some money."

Julia's eyes lit up. "Good idea! I'll go find them right away!"