The Best Director

The neatly arranged living room displayed a pristine flat-screen TV where Wang Yang, clad in a beige plaid shirt and jeans, and Robert Downey Jr. in a brown dress shirt were seated on a red couch, both sporting grins, while Conan O’Brien sat behind the wooden side table—this was the scene of NBC’s “Late Night Talk Show.”

After finalizing the theatrical version of “District 9”, Wang Yang began participating in talk shows booked by the distribution department. Although viral marketing is often exceptionally effective, these mainstream promotion channels are also necessary. A significant portion of the audience still learns about movie information from channels like print media and TV shows and selects what to watch accordingly.

In fact, promotions for “District 9” had already started much earlier, with key creators such as art department head Patrick Tatopoulos, art designer Kevin Cavanaugh, visual effects supervisor Richard Kidd, computer graphics supervisor Sean Walsh, and Robert Downey Jr., all hustling about. It wasn’t only in North American cities, but also box office bastions like London and Paris where their presence could be felt.

As director, producer, and the biggest marquee, Wang Yang naturally stepped forward, completing countless phone and website interviews, and recorded several well-known and obscure talk shows, with “Late Night Talk Show” being one of them.

I was scared to death that day. I was driving and saw a signboard, that should be an ad space for things like skincare products, pretty shoes, weight-loss pills…” Conan O’Brien enumerated with hand gestures before resigning, “Everything that drains a man’s wallet.” Wang Yang shrugged on the couch, “Oh, you should be glad there was no virility drug.”

The audience immediately burst into laughter. Evelyn Barry, watching the TV screen from the couch, snorted with laughter. On the screen, Conan O’Brien responded swiftly, “Nothing to be happy about, I can handle that. Anyway, I didn’t see any ads, but there was something about a $10,000 reward for capturing aliens. What the hell was that?”

Advertisement for ‘Men in Black 2′”, Wang Yang stated evenly and nodded firmly. Before he finished speaking, the audience erupted into laughter. Downey spread his hands in feigned surprise while Conan laughed heartily as well. Evelyn, hugging a sofa cushion, laughed with her head thrown back and turned up the volume with the remote control. His talk shows were always so entertaining!

The audience’s laughter continued for a while before Conan, regaining composure, said with a laugh, “That ad looked like a government slogan, like a no smoking sign. But then I kept seeing those signs everywhere, at bus stops, parks, even on benches, and I even saw them when going to the bathroom, oh my god!” He furrowed his brows looking at the audience, “I even suspected they had been stuck inside my house, and I did check around my place thoroughly. Can I not escape aliens in my life?”

On the screen, Wang Yang smiled, “I think so, aliens are the guys with the most film contracts in Hollywood, you can see them at least three times a year.” He smiled again before discussing the viral marketing of “District 9”, “It was fun, mainly because we wanted to give everyone a strong sense of immersion. Even though you know it’s not real, you get more engaged, and thus better appreciate the fun and charm of the movie.

He shrugged and continued with a smile, “Just like ‘Paranormal Activity’, it offers fun and experiences that regular horror movies can’t give. Unfortunately, it only happens once; haha, it’s different from a few years ago now…”

Paranormal Activity’?” Evelyn immediately laughed out loud, shaking her head while looking at the TV, her ears turning a bit red under her blonde hair. Four years ago, at 14, she believed the online stories about “psychic murder cases” and “demonic possessions” were real, and spent the entire summer vacation following the case, the websites, those interviews, and then there was a “real” DV movie coming out.

She was there on the first day of the first week for the first show with her brother Fulton, and in the end was so frightened she had no idea what had happened, coming to in a hospital. Supposedly she was nearly paralyzed and close to death, that was her experience.

Evelyn coughed and shifted her body, continuing to watch the magic of Yang on the screen. Back then, Lionsgate had also invited her and Fulton to play in Santa Monica, Los Angeles for a few days; afterwards, the truth about the ghost emerged—it was all a hoax by an 18-year-old guy. At first, she was shocked and angry, feeling tricked, but soon she found the guy quite impressive.

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There was no way not to feel that way, because six months later “High School Musical” came out and all the girls at school were talking about it, and she began to like this magical director. Then a year later, “The Pursuit of Happyness” moved her, leading her to become an absolute fan of the Amazing Yang with “Juno”. She loved “Juno” to death but never thought of imitating a teenage pregnancy. She was almost scared to death! Wasn’t that enough?

Now, four years had passed and she was 18, but the ever-amazing Yang was only 22, and it felt like he had grown up with her. It was such a peculiar feeling! Yang wasn’t far away, a fellow San Franciscan, and she shared the same high school with him, Lincoln High School, where he had become a legend, the most famous senior. Everyone knew about him and his high school stories were legendary.

So many facts and myths surrounded him: his incredible basketball skills, his photography awards, his reign as prom king, his reputation as a playboy with numerous girlfriends… She figured the girlfriend part was false, otherwise, how could he have been with Jessica for so long, especially when Jessica became hotter and hotter.

This movie, it will make you feel…” Wang Yang pondered for a moment, leaning back on the couch, and said with a smile to Conan, “No, I can’t reveal that. It’s best for everyone to watch it without any prior knowledge.” Conan, with a skeptical expression, replied, “So you don’t have any guarantees? How can I be confident walking into the theater?”

Evelyn waved her hand dismissively and said to the TV, “Come on, isn’t the Amazing Yang guarantee enough?” Amid the audience’s jeering, Wang Yang nodded with a smile, “Alright, guys! It’s fantastic, you’ll love it, I promise!”

I’m definitely going to see it!” Evelyn jumped off the couch, excitedly and started dialing on the phone, “I’ve been watching the Amazing Yang grow up ‘since I was little,’ and last year without any of his movies was a lot less fun. And now with ‘District 9,’ there’s no way I’m not seeing it. Thankfully, the R rating is just for those under 17, or else it would be such a hassle to have a parent tag along.”

As soon as the call connected, she laughed and said, “Hey, it’s me. Going to the movies on Friday? Of course we’re watching the Amazing Yang’s film!” She sat back on the couch and continued, “God, he’s so cool! I’m watching ‘Late Night Talk Show’ right now, you didn’t know he’s on tonight? Haha, I feel sorry for you…”

August 2nd, another weekend unfolded, and countless excited movie fans rushed to the theaters. ‘The Omen’ and ‘District 9’ were released! For the latter, it felt like they had been waiting for a century. From the fans who had gone through several rounds of viral marketing to those lured in by the ubiquitous promotional posters, all swore to watch it at the first opportunity tonight. Nothing could stop them!

Hey, are you guys lining up?” Under the dim night lights, a long line formed outside a small cinema, with young people chatting and laughing about something. Blonde girl Clair, Janet, and Alison strutted by the queue when Clair suddenly saw the girl who had cursed them on the day ‘Sweetheart’ was released and laughed smugly, “Hahaha! We’re going to see the Amazing Yang, D-9!”

As the three girls were about to enter the theater, the dark-haired Caucasian girl shouted angrily, “Why can they go in?! That’s not fair, not fair!” The young people around also shouted and the line became chaotic, with boos echoing, “This is illegal! Shame on you!” ” so, that shouldn’t matter!”

Are they the theater owner’s daughters? Even

What are you all fussing about?” Clair laughed at them, holding up three movie tickets, “I bought these early this morning, be proud of me! Sisters, let’s go watch the first screening of ‘District 9.”‘ With that, she strode into the cinema, followed by Janet and Alison who smiled at the crowd as they entered.

See, they have tickets.” The black, heavyset security guard looked innocent as he watched the young people fall silent and line up again, advising, “Kids, you’ll get to see it, a movie usually plays for at least a month! We have it here for two weeks.”

The young people laughed in unison, then vented their frustration on him, “Clear that up, who are you calling kids?” “Buddy, don’t you know it’s best to see a movie right when it’s released?” The dark-haired Caucasian girl nodded in agreement and cursed, “See it tomorrow? The day after? Who can tell me I won’t get spoilers? The Amazing Yang said the greatest joy is watching without any knowledge! But those damned newspapers and websites always spoil things…”

What, sold out?!” In a Chicago theater, Cliff Marlowe leaned on the ticket counter, eyes wide in disbelief that such a large theater had no tickets left?!

The Caucasian ticket seller nodded and said calmly, “Yes sir, there are plenty of tickets for ‘The Omen’ and lots for ‘Men in Black 2,’ which are also about aliens; but for ‘District 9,’ only the midnight screening has some left for the first show. Interested?”

Cliff Marlowe reached out without a second thought, exclaiming urgently, “Of course I want it, give me the ticket now! I don’t want to miss out on the midnight screening.” He was a part of those who had cracked the “Mysterious Visitors” website and then the “Alien Research Center” and “Aliens’ Secret”, and now he was at risk of not seeing it on the first day? If he were to speak out about this on his blog, it would be laughably embarrassing.

Seeing the curly-haired young man walk away with the movie tickets, the crowd behind him scrambled to buy tickets for the midnight show as well.

A youthful-looking, twelve- or thirteen-year-old brunette girl turned to the tall dad beside her with a sweet smile and said, “Papa, let’s watch ‘The Omen’ first and then the midnight screening of ‘District 9’, okay?” Her father, Hans, frowned and hesitated, “Alice, we will only get home after midnight if we watch the midnight show.” Alice wrapped her arm around his, smiling, “What’s the problem? You’re watching over me, please!”

All right,” Hans agreed with a smile and nodded his head, Alice cheered with a laugh, “YES, that’s why I say you’re a cool Papa!” Hans asked with some confusion, “But isn’t that movie just starring Robert Downey Jr., the has-been star?” Alice shrugged nonchalantly, “We’ve got the amazing Wang Yang!” Hans let out an “Oh,” suddenly laughing, “Right, him.”

Although there was still some time before the movie started, the 300-seat theater was already packed with people sitting in the audience seats, holding buckets of popcorn. Evelyn Barry and her good friend Kelly Doyle walked into the hall, found a nice spot among the remaining seats, looked at the big screen in front of them, where a movie trailer was currently playing.

It’s almost time to start.” Evelyn Barry smiled in anticipation, picking up a few pieces of popcorn and tossing them into her mouth. Kelly Doyle asked with a laugh, “I wonder if there will be any funny parts?” Evelyn gave her a look, “How could that be? Are slums supposed to be funny? I’m all braced for a heavy heart.” Kelly teased, “Just don’t become paralyzed again, I’m not doing CPR.” Evelyn tilted her head back and gestured dismissively, “It’s not a horror movie.”

The same queuing, the same purchasing of midnight show tickets prepared to stay up all night to watch, the same sitting in the theaters looking at the screen waiting for the start… these scenes were happening in 3,550 theaters in cities big and small across North America, where a large number of movie fanatics led by their faith in the “Wang Yang” brand were exceptionally interested and excited about his big-budget science fiction production.

Many had followed along with the viral marketing campaign, blog articles, dressing up as aliens for photos, searching for letters, solving puzzles, mini­games… It wasn’t just a promotional campaign—these activities were entertainment in themselves. While playing, they had already developed a connection with ‘District 9’, and many habitually refreshed Christopher Foersten’s blog every day.

And the ubiquitous “Humans Only” and “No Aliens Allowed” posters that flooded cities during recent months had infected cities like a virus, catching the attention of ordinary movie-goers.

This was not only happening in North America, movie fans all over the world knew about ‘District 9’ and were ready to step into theaters at the first opportunity. However, in cities with significant time differences that couldn’t catch the midnight show, they had to wait until the evening after the premiere to screen the film. Hong Kong, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, South Africa…

Movie buffs around the globe were in a state of eager anticipation.

The premiere of ‘District 9’ was scheduled to take place at the Xuelan Theater in Los Angeles. Dressed in a suit, Wang Yang was accompanied by Jessica in her light blue evening gown at the red carpet event during the late afternoon and evening. As for the stars of the movie, to save on the costs of special effects, the actors chosen for ‘District 9’ were cost-effective, which also resulted in little media interest apart from Robert Downey Jr., the infamous junkie.

Wang Yang then invited a host of L.A.-based, available friends to add to the support, including Zachary Levi, Tom Willing, Michael Pitt, Anne Hathaway, Scarlett Johansson, Anne Darren, Michelle Rodriguez… along with the ‘The Hangover’ comedic quartet of Zach, Bradley, Ed, Matthew Forbes that still had no fame, and the stunning and sexy Charlize Theron.

Will Smith, who had a special relationship with him, was also on the guest list, but due to the sensitive similarity to ‘Men in Black 2’, he did not attend; Natalie Portman, who was in New York, didn’t come either, not because of any connection with ‘Star Wars: Episode  – Attack of the Clones’, but merely because she didn’t want to make a special trip just to join the crowd, and Wang Yang didn’t mind.

Dusk had fallen, and outside the Xuelan Theater, the red carpet lay empty except for the occasional passer-by and patrolling security personnel, and the sporadic traffic on the streets outside. Inside the theater’s screening hall, however, not a single seat was unfilled. Cast and crew of “District 9,” along with invited guests, sat in the front rows, including family and relatives; a large swath of media journalists and film critics occupied the middle; and fans filled the rest of the space.

The movie was about to be shown, and the theater was still buzzing with a low hum of conversation. Wang Yang, sitting in the front row center, stared at the enormous screen, lost in thought. A myriad of scenes from the past year flashed on the screen: New York’s prisons, the slums of Soweto… He whispered softly, “It wasn’t easy.” Jessica, who understood his feelings all too well, having been with him every step of the way, said, “Yang, tonight belongs to you and everyone from the ‘District 9’ crew.”

Although she knew early on what the story was about, including the details and shots, she hadn’t watched the theater version in advance. He had said, “It’s more interesting to watch it at the premiere.” Her face full of anticipation, she looked at him and laughed, “I’m about to see the amazing Yang’s fifth directed film!”

11

Be careful not to get too scared,” Wang Yang said in a gruff voice, holding her hand and smiling, “I’ll be your guardian.” Robert Downey Jr., sitting to his left, cleared his ears and interrupted their playful banter, “Hey, young folks, shouldn’t you be praising me saying your acting was fantastic?”

Harry George, dressed in an oversized black suit, watched the screen without blinking, many of the shots were his work! Michelle Rodriguez, with a playful smirk, had heard Wang Yang say this film would be very oppressive. But she didn’t quite understand how someone who could make a movie as wildly comedic as “The Hangover” could be oppressive? Zack, Bradley, and Charlize Theron shared the same doubt.

In the pitch-black New York night, in the packed theater, no one noticed that the incognito Queen Amidala was among them. Natalie, in undistinguished attire, sat with her arms crossed, leaning on the chair back, muttering under her breath, “Let’s see how impressive you are, keeping it so secretive that you won’t even talk about the content.”

At that moment, the screening hall fell into sudden silence, as the preview trailers on the big screen ended and gave way to darkness, the time for the main feature had arrived. Natalie instantly became focused; Evelyn, Clair, countless fans, all perked up; in the quiet Xuelan Theater, impatient journalists and critics, Downey, Michelle, Jessica… everyone turned to the big screen, “District 9” had arrived!

A moth fluttered into the flames in the darkness, entering a beautiful pastoral world below the blue sky and white clouds, its wings shimmering as it danced with the lovely butterflies. After playing the opening animation for the Flame Movie, all of North America’s 3550 theaters returned to silence, not a sound to be heard, only the screen displaying black background with white text: “Director: Young-Wang, Producers: Young-Wang, Stephen-McCawm, Starring: Robert-Downey-Jr….”

This direct introduction method, as opposed to intertwining the credit information with the story scenes, was chosen because it minimizes the impact on the immersive experience of the audience.

We can see that there is a massive alien spaceship hovering over the skies of Los Angeles!” Following the main credits, the first image shown was of an NBC channel, where a female reporter holding a microphone said seriously, “It’s been only 15 hours since NASA discovered its trail. Right now, we have no idea what its intentions are…”

The audience couldn’t help but be impressed by the realism of the massive spaceship. The special effects of these shots were very tactile, not the slightest bit cartoonish or ethereal, especially the scene that featured the Hollywood sign. The spaceship in the sky seemed simultaneously distant and eerily close, making one feel as though it really existed—an effect that was already known from the trailers.

Many background details were revealed for the first time in the following scenes. Although the government urged the public not to panic, people still evacuated Los Angeles en masse. Human beings had no idea how to deal with it. NASA and the military tried to communicate, to approach, and it seemed the spaceship was sending out a distress signal… After months of discussion and public resolution, it was decided to forcibly open the doors of the spaceship… and then humans rescued the dying aliens. Humanity cheered with excitement, and clusters of volunteers kept busy.

As the screen changed and the story deepened, the aliens shifted from a pitiful image to one of disgust, which quickly turned human attitudes hostile, eventually segregating them to the Mojave Desert’s Area One, which, 20 years later, became known as District 9- Now, MNU planned to relocate them to the even further “better” District 10. Robert Downey Jr.’s character, Wikus, the site manager of District 9, entered the alien slums in a mighty procession of armored vehicles and helicopters, along with his subordinates.

The real story is about to begin, right?” Natalie said, her face bursting with excitement. She grabbed some popcorn and put it into her mouth, glancing at the people beside her, seeing them all engrossed in the movie.