The place where we met was Kim Won Seok's. It was a barbecue restaurant called 'Cheongju'. It was located in Sangam-dong, Mapo District. This was Ji Kyung-won's first time visiting this restaurant, and it was not in a bustling commercial street.
, but in a fairly lively alleyway branching off next to it.
After he arrived, he knew why Jin Yuanxi chose this place. This place is very close to the location of TVN. It is probably because this guy has been busy with work recently, so he found a familiar place nearby, and the sign is the beer here.
It should be pretty good too.
Chi Jingyuan did not bring an assistant. Under the guidance of the waiter, he walked into the reserved box and met Director Kim Won-seok, whom he had not seen for a long time.
"Jingyuan, here we come."
Seeing Chi Jingyuan come in, Jin Yuanxi was not very enthusiastic. Instead, he waved casually, motioning for him to sit across from him, and at the same time beckoned the waiter behind him to serve the food. He seemed to be quite familiar with this place.
This guy was wearing a dark coat, and with his obvious nasolabial folds and slightly bitter face, he didn't look like a well-known director who was very popular in the industry. Instead, he looked a bit like he was experiencing a mid-life crisis.
The unlucky uncle who has everything going wrong.
While he was greeting the waiter to serve the food, he unzipped and took off his coat. He was obviously ready for barbecue and drinking later.
Although I haven’t seen them much in recent times, Chi Jingyuan had experienced a lot of gatherings such as private barbecues and drinking before and after the filming of "Misei", so he didn't see many outsiders and naturally sat across from him.
, while placing the tableware in front of him in a convenient position, he looked at Jin Yuanxi and said with a smile: "It feels like PD has gained a little weight recently."
"Haha, I haven't worried about it for a long time..."
Jin Yuanxi laughed as soon as he heard this, and he did not shy away from lowering his head to take a look at his belly, which was a bit thick after taking off his coat, and pursed his lips: "After a while, I will naturally lose weight after starting work."
As he said that, he also looked at Chi Jingyuan carefully: "I don't think you have changed much, Jingyuan. You are almost the same as when you were in Baixiang."
When Chi Jingyuan heard that Hehe was joking, he seemed a little dissatisfied and said: "How could it be? Brother, you can't be wrong, my fans say that I have become a lot more handsome."
"Hahaha, idols really need to pay attention to appearance management... I took a look, Jingyuan, you haven't filmed since "Misborn"?"
"Well, just like my brother, I haven't been active in this area for more than a year."
"But I heard that there are a lot of scripts sent to you by the industry. I only know a few scripts. Why, you didn't like them?"
"No, it's mainly because I was busy throughout the first half of the year..."
Before the food was served, the two of them started chatting naturally. Mainly because Jin Yuanxi was asking about Chi Jingyuan's current situation and some work matters. Occasionally he made a few jokes and gossiped, and the atmosphere gradually became warm.
Got up.
Although these TV drama directors are very authoritative in the industry, many agencies and actors with average resources are trying to fawn over them, but in private they are not much different from ordinary people. At least Kim Won-seok likes to chat about gossip from time to time.
This guy is almost forty years old this year, and he is still relatively young among directors. Although he looks rough in appearance, he is a little soft-spoken when he speaks. He has no airs when facing familiar people and promising actors. If
If you wear black-rimmed glasses, you will look a little more elegant.
But after drinking, this illusion will disappear.
As the charcoal stove, dishes and the most important wine were brought to the table by the waiter, the two began to eat at Jin Yuanxi's greeting. While chatting over the table, the other party took the initiative to bring up the topic of the meal within a few words.
Jin Yuanxi put down the drink he had just taken two sips from, pulled a briefcase from the side, took out a medium-thin document and handed it over to him. When Chi Jingyuan saw this, he immediately stood up and took it with both hands.
"This is what I told you on the phone, the script and information of the drama that I am currently preparing." He raised his glass again and took a sip: "According to the process, it should be sent to SM, but the scenery
Yuan, you said before that if there is a script like this, just contact me directly. Now that this drama has entered the casting stage, I thought about it and asked you to come out and meet..."
After listening to Jin Yuanxi's words, Chi Jingyuan lowered his head and glanced at the script in his hand, flipping through it. The title "signal" in black letters on a white background was very eye-catching on the title page.
signal...signal?
He translated it silently in his mind.
Of course it was impossible at this time, and there was no time to read the script carefully. Chi Jingyuan glanced at the title and closed the information, while Jin Yuanxi took the initiative to introduce: "This drama is mainly about
Two criminal policemen from the past and present connect through time and space through an honest walkie-talkie that can connect signals between the present and the future, and work together to investigate long-term unsolved cases that have been ignored by the police. The title of the play, signal, means signal."
"A suspense mystery TV series?"
Chi Jingyuan blinked and blurted out.
Since his debut, he has acted in several dramas, including youth dramas, rich second-generation love dramas, and workplace dramas, but this is the first time he has been exposed to this type of suspense film.
"Well, it's a crime drama. The screenwriter is writer Jin Eunxi. You must know her..." Seeing Chi Jingyuan nodding, Jin Yuanxi continued: "The script of this drama is really good. The biggest feature is
The cases used in the script are all real cases that have occurred in our peninsula. These real unsolved cases have been adapted by the writer and some original plots have been added, which perfectly blends the script and reality. Go back and read it carefully.
Just check the information and you will know..."
"I received the script of this drama very early, and I have been waiting for the writer to perfect the script. I have been preparing for it for more than half a year."
"The production company of this drama is A Story, and the broadcasting station has been confirmed. It is still tvn. You should be familiar with it... By the way, I forgot to mention..."
As he spoke, Kim Won-seok's tone brought a smile: "This "Signal" is a special project for the 10th anniversary of TVN's launch."
Chi Jingyuan listened very carefully, and when Jin Yuanxi introduced it, he also became very interested. When he heard the last sentence, he was stunned and couldn't help but repeat it: "Tenth anniversary, special plan?
"
"Haha, yes, the 8th anniversary special project is also ours..."
Jin Yuanxi raised his glass and clinked it with him, laughing loudly. Chi Jingyuan also found it very interesting after realizing it and couldn't help laughing.
The special project for tvn’s 8th anniversary is "Misheng". I didn’t expect to find them again for the 10th anniversary.
"Well..." He drank two sips of wine happily, packed two barbecues and swallowed them. Jin Yuanxi's face was already a little rosy. He paused for a while and then continued: "After all, it is a special project for the 10th anniversary. TVN is investing in it."
In terms of content and intention, it is even more thoughtful than last year's "Misato". Both the TV station and the production company are very ambitious in this "Signal", with large investments in all aspects. There is no need to worry about funding. According to the script,
There will be a total of three main characters, and according to the roles, it should be a female protagonist and two male protagonists."
"Three protagonists, so many?"
"Well, apart from you, the first two protagonists have been confirmed, and the crew is in close contact. Who do you think it is?" Jin Yuanxi gave up.
"Brother, how can I guess this..." Chi Jingyuan smiled bitterly.
He hasn't even read the script, and he doesn't even know the general setting of the character. It's just a guess.
"Haha, apart from you, the other two protagonists we are contacting are Zhao Zhenxiong and Kim Hye Soo." He smiled reservedly. Jin Yuanxi said two names. Just by looking at his expression, you can tell that he is very satisfied with this starring lineup.
It even has a little bit of a show-off feel.
"qgjia?"
Chi Jingyuan thought he heard wrongly and asked in surprise.
"Hahaha..." It seemed that he was very satisfied with Chi Jingyuan's expression and reaction. Jin Yuanxi laughed and drank two more sips. Although he didn't say anything, his expression was already an answer to him.
"Dafa, these two seniors are not ordinary actors."
After receiving the confirmation, Chi Jingyuan's face couldn't help but be stained with surprise, and he murmured in extreme surprise.
When Jin Yuanxi gave him a rough introduction to the script just now, Chi Jingyuan listened very carefully and nodded from time to time. He knew that a director like Jin Yuanxi, whose last drama was a hit, was preparing a work after a year.
It is definitely not a general person, and it is impossible for him to call him specifically for ordinary TV dramas. After all, Chi Jingyuan is one of the most talented actors among the younger generation.
When I found out that it was a special project for TVN's 10th anniversary, I raised my expectations a lot, and I was still very surprised when I finally heard about the cast.
Zhao Zhenxiong is a well-known actor who is mainly active in movies. He has been nominated for several major awards over the years. At the Baeksang Arts Awards in May this year, he just won the award for "The End" in front of Ji Kyung-won.
When it comes to the best actor in a movie, he is also the best actor.
Needless to say, Kim Hye-soo has been one of the most influential actresses in the Peninsula film and television industry for a long time. She wishes she could have become the three major film and television stars of Blue Dragon, Daejong and Baeksang in just ten years.
The actress has won numerous award shows and is one of the extremely high-level local actresses who has already achieved Grand Slams.
Although Chi Jingyuan can barely be called the best among the younger generation of actors, with his own popularity and enthusiasm, and every movie he plays is popular, when it comes to celebrity status, he is on par with these two seniors.
Compared to others, especially Kim Hye Soo, he immediately pales in comparison. At least he doesn't have the three highest awards that he can win.
If Yoona sunbaenim had such achievements as an actress, Girls' Generation would have only seven members left, and they wouldn't be filming any TV dramas.
"Has it been confirmed?" Chi Jingyuan took the initiative to pour a glass of wine for the director.
"The contract has not been finalized yet, but the talks are almost complete."
Jin Yuanxi and Chi Jingyuan didn't hide much. They explained the current progress very honestly. Judging from his confident appearance, there should be no problem.
Chi Jingyuan nodded, thinking in his mind.
The selection of these two protagonists is considered luxurious for a TV series, and their participation actually proves the prospects of this drama and the strength of the creative team from the side, plus the script that Kim Won-sik was very optimistic about just now...
…
Just from listening, Chi Jingyuan is actually very interested. He has not filmed a movie so far this year. In fact, both he and the company have read a lot of scripts, but they have never found one they like.
And this one feels really good.
No, let’s go back and read the script, and by the way, ask about the company’s recent arrangements for the acting performances of its artists, especially Yoona sunbaenim’s...
"The candidates for the other two protagonists, whether it is the crew, the TV station or the production company, are relatively unified. Now we just have to negotiate and formally sign the contract. But the last protagonist is the one I said is more suitable for you Jingyuan...
"
After chatting for a few more words about the drama, the smile on Jin Yuanxi's face softened slightly. Although his face was slightly red due to the alcohol, he also became a little serious: "This protagonist is different from the previous one.
Two, they need young actors, and the requirements for acting skills are very high. After all, if they are paired with the other two protagonists, if their acting skills are not good, it will easily make the audience look very awkward in comparison, which will directly affect the image of this character.
It collapsed..."
"But your role is actually quite controversial. There are currently some candidates besides you. Writer Kim Eun-hee prefers Lee Je-hoon, and there is also Lee Jong-suk. His agent is looking for connections from A Story...
But the main say is still in the hands of the creative team.”
"We have worked together in "Misheng". Of course I know your ability. I think you are the most suitable person for this role in terms of acting skills and popularity. Besides, let's..."
As he spoke, Jin Yuanxi picked up the wine glass, touched it lightly and took a big sip without saying a word.
"Jingyuan, please read the script carefully when you get back. If you have any ideas, call me as soon as possible and I will arrange an audition."
Kim Won-seok said the last sentence seriously, and after Ji Kyung-won solemnly nodded in agreement, he ended the topic about the new TV series and talked about some relaxing things in the industry.
…
"The person Park Hae-young talked to through the walkie-talkie was Police Officer Lee Chae-han 15 years ago. He told him the clues to the Kim Yun-jin abduction case that could not be solved 15 years ago..."
After the dinner with Kim Won-seok, Chi Kyung-yuan, who was a little drunk, returned to the dormitory, washed his face, sat on the bed and read the script carefully.
What he got was the scripts of the first few episodes. Kim Won-seok did not brag. The story was very exciting. Overall, the plot unfolded very quickly. After explaining the general background, he immediately entered the first incident. According to
The 1997 Jeon Joo-hyun case that happened in Peninsula reality was changed, and the various suspense settings were also very good. The walkie-talkie that can carry out conversations through time and space was also very interesting. The script made him fascinated while watching it.
After reacting, the lights in the living room outside had been turned off.
Chi Jingyuan turned to the first two pages of the script and carefully looked at the character settings and some information about the drama again.
The role Kim Won-seok found for him was the policeman named Park Hae-young in the script. He was a young police officer in his twenties. Although the drama said there were three protagonists, according to the description in the script and the scenes in the previous two episodes, this
The role can even be said to be the male lead. In the character information, Park Hae Young is ranked at the top, and she is also treated as the male lead.
In such a large-scale TV series with a very strong cast of characters, Kim Won-seok, who can take the initiative to give Ji Kyung-won the opportunity to be the male lead, thinks highly of him.
It’s just that after reading the scripts of the previous episodes, he always felt that although Park Hae Young, the male lead, had a lot of roles, his character was not very outstanding. He felt that compared to Lee Jae Han, the character who was going to be played by Zhao Zhenxiong, in terms of characteristics,
Or the depth is slightly inferior.
But after all, the number of episodes is too small, and not much can be seen.
Overall, this drama called "Signal" is really good. The investment is huge, the script is wonderful, and the cast is also great. The participation of Zhao Zhenxiong and Kim Hye Soo has already indicated that this drama will definitely not be simple.
If you add Chi Jingyuan, it will be full of gimmicks, and you can attract a large audience just by looking at the actors.
The creative team is also very capable. Director Kim Won-seok worked with him on "Misborn" and Ji Kyung-won is also familiar with him. He is a very powerful and thoughtful director. Although he is not familiar with screenwriter Kim Eun-hee, he has experience in film and television.
He is also very famous in the industry. "Ghost", which he wrote in 2012, received very good ratings, and last year's "Three Days" also performed well.
And being able to attract the interest of Jo Jin-woong, Kim Hye-soo, and Ji Kyung-won has already proven the potential of this drama.
Looking over the script in his hand, Chi Jingyuan felt that his desire to star in the role was getting stronger and stronger.
If it is determined, we need to consider competition issues.
He remembered what Kim Won-seok told him about his competitors, Lee Je-hoon and Lee Jong-suk...
While he was thinking, Do Kyung-soo looked at him and asked curiously:
