The casting method ensured that the characters in the drama were lifelike and exceptionally outstanding, leading to the rise of many extras.
Extras could directly step into leading roles, something unheard of in other productions, but common in Hua Ruyi’s.
After becoming famous, these fortunate individuals expressed their gratitude for Hua Ruyi’s recognition and offered their full support whenever she faced difficulties.
This, in turn, elevated Hua Ruyi’s status within the industry.
Hua Ruyi wanted Jiang Ling to play the lead not because of her platinum artist status or massive fan base, but because it was the first role Jiang Ling played after transmigrating.
Jiang Ling’s first role after transmigration was Tianshan Tonglao in "Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils." At sixteen, she played a ninety-six-year-old woman.
The age span was indeed considerable.
In the drama "The Twin Sages of the Great Tang," the character Wu Meiniang transitioned from a mere talent in the harem to Emperor Consort, who abdicated and died at the age of eighty-two, a challenge of immense proportions.
As Hua Ruyi began preparations for "The Twin Sages of the Great Tang," she searched extensively but couldn't find a suitable actress for the role.
It wasn't until she accidentally saw Jiang Ling’s portrayal of Tianshan Tonglao that she became increasingly impressed and immediately decided Jiang Ling was the only choice for Wu Meiniang.
Jiang Ling smiled and said, "Director Hua, you are straightforward, and I appreciate that. I accept this role. Name your price for the compensation, but I have one condition: the filming must adhere strictly to the script and not be easily altered."
"No problem!" Hua Ruyi readily agreed.
"Let’s sign the contract!" Jiang Ling said.
Upon hearing this, Ge Ying immediately produced the pre-prepared contract.
The compensation in this contract had already been negotiated and stamped by the company and the production team represented by Hua Ruyi; all that was missing were the signatures of Hua Ruyi and Jiang Ling.
Jiang Ling picked up the contract, not looking at the compensation details, but merely scanning the crucial clauses. Once she was satisfied, she took the pen offered by Ge Ying and signed her name.
Ge Ying offered a professional smile and politely shook hands with Hua Ruyi. "It was a pleasure working with you!"
"Likewise!"
After signing the contract, Jiang Ling and Ge Ying departed. Hua Ruyi, however, turned and entered another private room.
Inside, a middle-aged man of similar age to Hua Ruyi was calmly sipping tea.
This person was none other than Chen Mingzhang, who was as renowned as Hua Ruyi.
Chen Mingzhang asked with a smile, "How did the discussion go? Was it smooth?"
Hua Ruyi smiled slightly. "It went smoothly. So many artists grovel and beg for a significant role in my dramas. I offered the lead, a great prize, so why wouldn't she accept?"
Chen Mingzhang snorted. "Don't flatter yourself. From what I know of Jiang Ling, she only considers good scripts for her work. If "The Twin Sages of the Great Tang" wasn't a well-written script, she wouldn't even acknowledge you if you went to her home on your knees."
"Heh heh, in that case, we are kindred spirits. No wonder the conversation was so pleasant, and the contract was signed so quickly."
Chen Mingzhang took a sip of tea and poured another cup for Hua Ruyi. "This is top-grade Da Hong Pao. Try it."
Hua Ruyi accepted without ceremony, taking a gentle sip. "It truly is excellent tea. You are usually so tight-fisted, why are you being so generous today, even bringing out your treasured tea leaves?"