Chapter 444
After her last setback, she learned to be cautious. Backed by the Diamonde Group, she carefully researched the market and identified shared e-bikes as the next big opportunity. If executed well, it could rival Aubree’s success. This time, she was determined to win.
Meanwhile, Trevor, who was preparing to film on set, dismissed all of this with a sneer. “Are people online really this crazy? They believe this poorly made, hastily thrown-together content is better than real TV dramas?” he scoffed, rolling his eyes in disbelief as he read the comments.
No matter how poor a TV show became, it still maintained specific standards. These mini dramas were filmed on minimal budgets and completed in just a few days, offering very little in return. While they did excel at quickly engaging viewers compared to longer series, they lacked depth beyond that.
Skyler, his agent, had a different perspective. He believed that anything gaining traction online had its reasons and felt it was unfair to dismiss them outright. In his view, many TV dramas at the time weren’t as engaging as mini dramas.
He enjoyed watching them in private. However, it was clear that Trevor had an issue with them solely because Aubree was involved–he was being contrary for her sake.
“This has nothing to do with us, so let’s simply watch the drama unfold. What truly matters is delivering a great show–it’s your first project since your comeback, so concentrate and do it well,” Skyler said, suppressing what he wanted to express.
He was about to tell Trevor not to cause trouble again, but changed his mind. Managing Trevor had its benefits–he brought in significant revenue–but the downsides were clear. Skyler’s opinions were often ignored, and even when he sensed trouble ahead, speaking up made little difference. In the end, it was Skyler who bore the consequences when things went wrong.
However, Trevor dismissed him. The show was a fantasy epic with a strong male lead and a solid plot–his looks and acting made success almost inevitable. “How is this not my business?” he said. “Aubree was never involved in entertainment, but now she’s using mini dramas as her way into showbiz.”
Trevor pondered, “If she manages to get a foothold in the entertainment circle, there’s no doubt I’ll be the next one she comes after.” Trevor rubbed his chin. “I need to figure out a way to put a stop to this mini drama craze.”
Mini dramas had been rapidly gaining popularity, which was hardly surprising. The film and TV industry had long been stuck in a rut, recycling plots and delivering lackluster performances. At least with short dramas, viewers would find the content entertaining. Though the actors weren’t superstars, they fit their roles well and gave their best effort.
“I’m going to challenge Aubree to a showdown,” Trevor said, inspiration lighting up his eyes. “I’ll prove to everyone that these haphazard, second-rate mini dramas can never compete with real film and TV productions,” he thought.
“What?” Skyler stared at him in disbelief. Has he lost his mind? he thought.
“Don’t tell me you want to shoot a mini drama too?” he blurted out, his voice rising in pitch. Is he thinking of making a high-quality mini drama? Skyler wondered, his mind racing.
Trevor looked appalled. “Me? Shoot that kind of nonsense? Please, I’m not about to compromise my standards like that. Isn’t this show based on a novel as well? Let’s discuss airing episodes as we film them with the director,” he said casually.
This script had been chosen explicitly for Trevor, who was the largest investor. If he requested something, the director had no choice but to comply, regardless of his reluctance.
Skyler felt numb; he truly believed Trevor had lost touch with reality. Fantasy dramas relied heavily on special effects, and when episodes aired while still in production, post-production couldn’t possibly meet expectations. With Trevor’s attitude, it was difficult to predict what kind of disaster might follow.
Skyler tried to talk him out of it, but Trevor didn’t even bother listening. “What’s the worst that could happen? Are you doubting my acting skills?”
Skyler was at a loss for words. It’s impossible to reason with a stubborn fool, he thought. Let him do what he wants. Perhaps it’s time for me to start looking for a new artist to manage.