Chapter 240 - Tidal Wave (7)

Translator: Dreamscribe

At Kim So-hyang’s proposal, the eyes of the ‘Beneficial Evil’ team slightly changed. However, the demeanor and gaze of PD Song Man-woo, looking at Kim So-hyang, remained as serious as ever. He was a giant in the drama industry. Such a proposal wouldn’t shake him.

‘Well, it’s the first time with Netflix, though.’

As PD Song Man-woo had always been affiliated with broadcasting stations, it was his first time being openly approached by an external platform. However, he had already been contacted by other OTT platforms, so he had anticipated Netflix’s approach. Anyway, currently, PD Song Man-woo was free.

It didn’t matter whether it was a broadcasting station or Netflix.

The important thing was the conditions.

Soon, PD Song Man-woo smiled lightly and continued speaking.

“Thank you for the proposal, Executive Director. You get straight to the point, haha.”

Kim So-hyang also showed a relaxed smile.

“We know we are the last ones. However, we moved quickly as soon as we got the news. Internally, we held a lot of meetings to present enticing conditions to you, PD.”

“I see. I was just about to decide on a destination.”

“I expected that, and in the meantime, after seeing the script and synopsis for part 1 of ‘Beneficial Evil’, I became even more eager. Ah, the title ‘Beneficial Evil’ hasn’t been announced to the public yet, right?”

“No, we are waiting to announce it along with the chosen platform.”

Kim So-hyang nodded and received a transparent file from a staff member sitting next to her. Then she spoke again.

“I’ll be honest. Even though Netflix was the second choice for ‘Hanryang’, it achieved great success in Japan. It’s still maintaining a top position. And that was directed by you, PD Song Man-woo, and Writer Choi Na-na has already proven her ability with ‘Male Friend’.”

“I’m well aware. She’s currently writing scripts of exceptional quality.”

“Just with you two, it’s already enough. But when I heard that Actor Kang Woojin joined, I couldn’t resist. I felt we had to get this at all costs.”

Not only Executive Director Kim So-hyang but all other places that had met with PD Song Man-woo, including broadcasting stations, were similar. After the news that Kang Woojin joined ‘Beneficial Evil’ broke out, PD Song Man-woo’s phone didn’t stop ringing.

Anyway, Kim So-hyang continued.

“Of course, the content of the script and synopsis made me even greedier. It was incredibly interesting. I wanted to read the script for episode 2 right away. Moreover, the refreshing and exhilarating action was sophisticated, and the story was solid. The Korean design and artistic charm also stood out.”

She pushed the transparent file towards PD Song Man-woo.

“Since this work combines the talents of three great individuals, it will surely achieve tremendous success domestically. But PD, I see ‘Beneficial Evil’ as having high potential for global success. It doesn’t feel good to confine it to the domestic market. Why don’t you take a look at our conditions and aim for a global hit?”

PD Song Man-woo opened the transparent file. Although he couldn’t grasp everything at once, even a quick glance showed significant conditions.

‘Indeed, their sincerity shows through the conditions.’

Compared to the conditions from broadcasting stations, it wasn’t overwhelmingly superior, but it certainly had many standout aspects. Especially in terms of funding. At this point, Kim So-hyang resumed her briefing.

“While Hallyu is gaining strength, globally, KPOP is dominant, and K-content hasn’t yet stood out significantly. Of course, there are risks for you as well. But you have already achieved tremendous success domestically, and in my humble opinion, you might be getting bored of it. Especially since this is your first independent project.”

“······”

“Actor Kang Woojin, who will be the lead, is also continuously expanding his international presence. He’s going to Cannes with Director Ahn Ga-bok, and recently, there was news of a Hollywood casting call.”

Kim So-hyang’s voice grew more powerful.

“I believe ‘Beneficial Evil’ can turn the world upside down, PD.”

These words resonated with PD Song Man-woo’s heart. More precisely, they reminded him even more and spurred him on.

‘The world, huh- That’s right, I did think I should take on a challenge before it’s too late.’

Originally, it was the goal of PD Song Man-woo. Although he was called a giant in the Korean drama industry, PD Song Man-woo himself felt a bit lacking. Of course, when his work exploded domestically, he felt a rush of joy. However, sometimes he felt trapped in a well.

PD Song Man-woo was someone who poured his soul into the drama production, driven by his passion for directing.

At some point, even before ‘Hanryang’, he had thought: Could my direction be successful overseas beyond Korea? Could they find our work enjoyable?

Should I stay here?

‘This might be that moment I’ve been delaying.’

In fact, considering the overseas potential for ‘Beneficial Evil’, Netflix was the perfect destination. PD Song Man-woo, driven by his ambition, wanted to hold a meeting about launching it globally immediately. However, this matter concerned the very fate of ‘Beneficial Evil.’

‘Not to mention Writer Choi Na-na.’

At least two people needed to grant permission.

‘I need to hear Kang Totem’s. No, Woojin’s opinion.’

A few minutes later, back at the small theater for the ‘Leech’ audition.

There were roughly 30 people gathered in the small theater. Interestingly, the atmosphere among them had become heavier compared to the beginning. The entire theater was heated. It wasn’t because of the strongly blasting heater.

It was because of the acting of the two actors on stage.

Kang Woojin, possessed by Park Ha-seong, and Yoon Ja-ho no, Jin Jae-jun, who accepted that Park Ha-seong. The intensity of the acting performed by the two actors was rich, and the energy they emitted shocked everyone in the small theater.

Not only those who watched it with their eyes, but also those who witnessed it through the camera.

The cameras placed in front and on both sides of the stage.

The cinematographer watching the actors’ performances through those cameras.

‘······Is that really the quality of audition acting?’

With a protruding belly, he was someone who had been working with Director Ahn Ga-bok’s team for over ten years. He had been through many works and experienced countless actors. All were filmed by his camera. However, now the cinematographer felt electricity running through his body for the first time.

Should he call it a thrill?

The cinematographer was also familiar with the ‘Leech’ scenario. No, all the key staff would be. Therefore, they each imagined and built the world of ‘Leech’ in their respective areas. Especially, the cinematographer spent significant time drafting storyboards with Director Ahn Ga-bok.

But now, the reality of ‘Leech’ was unfolding before his eyes.

‘Even though it’s the first time for both actors in this scene – Especially, that Kang Woojin… He’s really a crazy bastard.’

The first moment a part of the world of ‘Leech’ was realized. Thanks to this, it was also the first time for the cinematographer, Director Ahn Ga-bok, Sim Han-ho, and the rest of the key staff. However, Kang Woojin and Jin Jae-jun were expressing that unfamiliar world without any sense of alienation.

Of course, the one holding the brush and painting the picture was Kang Woojin. At least, that’s how it seemed to the cinematographer.

‘No- Is it possible to suddenly show that Ripley syndrome without prior emotions?’

Ripley syndrome was the core and entirety of the character Park Ha-seong, gradually built up throughout the ‘Leech’ scenario. Park Ha-seong gradually deteriorates. In other words, it’s not an emotion that can be suddenly displayed.

However, Kang Woojin was as clear as if he had lived as Park Ha-seong for the past few months.

‘It’s not just that he’s good at acting… It feels like my imagination of Park Ha-seong was lacking.’

It was at that moment.

-Swish.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

While the actors were acting, Director Ahn Ga-bok, who had been sitting in the judges’ seat, approached the cinematographer.

“······”

With a very stern face, he didn’t say much to the cinematographer. He just looked at the monitor attached to the camera. There was not even a slight movement behind him.

This movement brought the managers, who were absorbed in watching the acting, back to their senses.

‘Moderately?! That? I’m pretty sure I heard him say he’ll do it moderately earlier??’

‘This isn’t an audition… This is just a play, isn’t it?’

‘Damn, no wonder they call Kang Woojin a monster of acting.’

‘How are we supposed to survive this audition hurdle??’

It was then.

“Cut.”

Director Ahn Ga-bok, standing in front of the camera, gave a signal and spoke in his old voice.

“Let’s go again from the beginning.”

A re-action request. It wasn’t because Kang Woojin and Jin Jae-jun’s acting was lacking. Director Ahn Ga-bok wanted to see those actors through the camera, not just with his eyes. Soon, Woojin and Jin Jae-jun stopped acting and moved back to the initial positions of the scene.

Meanwhile, Director Ahn Ga-bok was.

‘······Kang Woojin.’

He was watching Woojin place the chair back to its original spot.

‘I understand Director Kwon’s feelings.’

His gaze was intense.

‘Which director wouldn’t be excited to see something they created come to life so vividly?’

On the other hand, Kang Woojin, who had just placed the chair, was deep in thought. He was contemplating another role, not Park Ha-seong.

‘Chairman Yoon Jung-bae—portraying him as he is might be a bit much. Should I try a character fusion?’

About an hour later. In one of the waiting rooms of the theater.

During the ongoing ‘Leech’ auditions, among the actors waiting for their turn, one actor stood out. A new actress with a somewhat unfamiliar face. Sitting on a sofa in the waiting room, reading the script, her expression was intense.

“I will. I will definitely make it.”

Her eyes were filled with determination. Perhaps even ambition. It was understandable. Among the numerous top actors here, she was the only newcomer.

Her name was Han So-jin.

With long black hair and sharp eyes. Her skin was clear, and her arms and legs were long, making her a striking visual. A mole on the tip of her nose added to her charm, giving her an elegant yet decadent aura.

Han So-jin debuted about three years ago.

However, she started gaining public attention about two years ago. If you compare, it was earlier than Kang Woojin, but not by much.

The interesting part was.

『[Film Festival] ‘Monsterous Rookie’ Kang Woojin Sweeps Awards at the Blue Dragon, Including Best New Actor, Best New Actress Goes to ‘Han So-jin’』

She won the Best New Actress Award at this year’s Blue Dragon Film Awards. She followed Kang Woojin as the next rookie to be highlighted. From an ordinary perspective, Han So-jin’s achievements were remarkable as well. She grabbed the Best New Actress Award after a short period of being relatively unknown post-debut.

But.

『‘Kang Woojin’ Set a Record with 8 Awards, No One Can Stop Him!』

Her impact was minimal. Naturally, she was overshadowed by Kang Woojin’s massive presence. She was celebrated since her entry into the entertainment industry, and her beauty and acting were at their peak, but Kang Woojin suddenly appeared. Since then, Han So-jin’s media exposure decreased. Public attention on her waned. It wasn’t that Han So-jin was lacking.

It was just that Kang Woojin’s influence was overwhelming.

Han So-jin was still actively working. Despite being overshadowed, her achievements didn’t betray her. However, at some point, she began to observe Woojin persistently. On social media, YouTube, articles, works, and rumors. He was an unbelievable presence.

So what?

‘How great can he be? If he’s right in front of me, I can surpass him too.’

Even though the entertainment industry demotes those who lag in skill or attention, Han So-jin wasn’t willing to give up easily. Instead of accepting it foolishly, she turned her sense of defeat into determination.

“I can do it, no, I will do it.”

Thanks to that, she was here, refusing works that she could join without an audition. It wasn’t out of arrogance or jealousy but a desperate effort to prove herself. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have put herself in this difficult situation. It was a competitive spirit or something similar.

At that moment.

-Knock knock.

A knock sounded in the waiting room, and a staff member of the ‘Leech’ audition team poked his head in.

“Han So-jin-ssi, it’s your turn for the audition.”

“Oh, yes.”

Lowering her script, she stood up smoothly. She straightened her long hair. She took a small breath, in and out. She walked slowly, step by step. The hallway leading to the theater was quiet.

‘It’s a good thing that the actor is willing to act opposite me.’

As a result, Han So-jin’s resolve hardened. Her heart pounded with tension, but she somehow managed to suppress it. The role Han So-jin was aiming for today was ‘Yoon Ji-min’, the youngest daughter among the three children in ‘Leech.’ Moreover, she was the first actress to perform today.

Soon.

-Swish.

Han So-jin entered the small theater filled with hot air. She saw many people. She first bowed 90 degrees to the judges seated in the front.

“Hello! I’m Han So-jin!”

Director Ahn Ga-bok, who had a stern face, smiled slightly.

“Hoho, alright. I’m looking forward to your acting.”

“Thank you!”

She replied energetically. Han So-jin felt a jolt when she saw not only Director Ahn Ga-bok but also the veteran actor Sim Han-ho. They were immensely influential figures.

‘Calm down, calm down.’

Han So-jin steadied herself and stepped onto the stage. She saw Kang Woojin, who had a nonchalant expression. No, he was her target. No matter how desperate it might be, she had to stick to it. Han So-jin approached Woojin and greeted him.

“Hello, I look forward to working with you.”

Kang Woojin responded in a low tone.

“Yes, I look forward to it.”

At this point, Han So-jin lowered her voice and whispered to Woojin, conveying her determination.

“And I will definitely beat and surpass you, Woojin.”

“······”

Kang Woojin looked at her impassively. Han So-jin couldn’t gauge his expression.

‘What is he thinking?’

She immediately understood why people said this man was unpredictable. Kang Woojin then replied briefly without any change in expression.

“Sure.”

“Huh?”

“As you please.”

“······”

He dismissed her determined resolve so lightly. Han So-jin bit her lower lip subtly, her fighting spirit rising. She then informed everyone of the scene she had chosen, and Director Ahn Ga-bok raised his hand to give the signal.

“Hi- action.”

The scene she chose depicted the conflict between ‘Yoon Ji-min’, the youngest daughter of a conglomerate family, and her father, Chairman Yoon Jung-bae. Soon, Han So-jin suddenly tousled her long hair with both hands and shouted at Woojin, who stood in front of her.

“Ah!! Why!! I told you it wasn’t me! Why would I like that servant and leech? Am I crazy? Am I insane?”

There was a madness in her eyes. On the other hand, Kang Woojin, with one hand in his pocket, was calm. His deep eyes were full of composure. He was already Chairman Yoon Jung-bae himself.

“Calm down. I was just asking. If anything, your reaction makes it seems more certain, right? Huh?”

Kang Woojin took a step closer to Han So-jin. His expression, gestures, tone, and gaze had all changed. Park Ha-seong was nowhere to be found. His low tone, imbued with a serpentine charisma. If you closed your eyes, you could only think of Chairman Yoon Jung-bae.

Han So-jin, seeing him up close, felt it keenly.

‘Wasn’t he playing Park Ha-seong? How can he portray Chairman Yoon Jung-bae so vividly too?’

Sim Han-ho flinched for some reason. Director Ahn Ga-bok’s eyes widened. The commotion spread throughout the small theater. Meanwhile, Han So-jin delivered her next line.

“Ah, what are you saying? No! No!! Get out! Get out of my room!! You reek old man! You are disgusting like that leech bastard, stop saying weird bullshit and get out.”

Her scream was almost a desperate wail. But Woojin, watching her, was unmoved. Then he tilted his head slightly. A faint smile spread across his lips. He took another step forward. Woojin, now closer to Han So-jin, leaned his face towards hers.

Their faces were so close that she could feel his scent and breath.

At that moment.

‘······What?’

Just a second ago, Kang Woojin had been Chairman Yoon Jung-bae to the point of giving chills, but in an instant, he transformed. Han So-jin felt it more clearly than anyone.

“My daughter, my beloved daughter.”

The atmosphere around him changed mysteriously in an instant. The intensity and tone of his voice lost all emotion. However, there was still a rhythm. Most notably, his mouth maintained Chairman Yoon Jung-bae’s characteristic smile.

“Look straight into my eyes and say it again, is it really not like that?”

Kang Woojin’s eyes were utterly empty. His mouth and eyes were disconnected. As a result, Chairman Yoon Jung-bae felt like a different person. Or was he actually someone else?

‘It’s as if… something else has merged with him.’

Regardless, Kang Woojin exhaled deeply through his nose and asked Han So-jin. It was in a dry tone, as if talking about ‘homework.’

“Because to me it does seem like that, my daughter. Right?”

In that instant.

“······Ah.”

Han So-jin froze.

‘What on earth is that-’

The veteran actor Sim Han-ho had stood up from his seat.

******

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