LIGHTNOVELONLINE Chapter 74
For the promotion of the movie, participating in variety shows is more aligned with the intentions of the movie’s publicity team rather than individual choices. The genre of the film matters.
And deciding which variety show to appear on for maximum promotional impact is the most important factor to consider.
In this context, personal preferences are just for reference.
Seo-yeon was aware of this to some extent.
‘The easiest option would be Running People.’
Essentially, the premise of Running People revolves around “chasing and removing the name tag stuck to the opponent’s arm.”
This allows for various concepts that could effectively showcase [The Chaser].
‘What show did [The Chaser] promote on in its past life?’
As she pondered, she couldn’t recall seeing it on any variety show.
It did make headlines during the 9 o’clock news.
‘Hmm.’
Prior to completing the filming, they hadn’t really engaged in promotion.
They probably intended to promote the film only after finishing all the shooting.
‘Of all times, Ji-woo revealed the Swordmaster ending beforehand.’
Before they could even promote it properly, it hit the 9 o’clock news.
Of course, it had a far greater promotional effect than appearing on any variety show.
There was just a minor issue of delay in its release.
‘Ugh…’
Actually, Seo-yeon didn’t mind variety shows too much, but…
‘I need to protect my image.’
Once the film is released, Cha Seo-ah’s image would certainly influence her.
To defend against that influence, her existing image needed to be stronger.
She couldn’t rely solely on being the Yeonhwa princess for defense forever.
‘So, I want to avoid physically demanding variety shows for now.’
Seo-yeon was confident in her physical abilities.
Way too confident, sometimes it was a problem.
In that sense, Running People was somewhat of a blunder.
‘I definitely want to appear on it later.’
It’s a popular variety show, after all.
With her arms crossed, Seo-yeon pondered, but…
‘But worrying about it won’t change anything.’
As she was deeply lost in thought, she sighed heavily.
Nearby, she sensed a few students flinch.
“……”
Was it just her imagination?
Ever since the school festival ended, it felt like more students were reacting strongly to her words.
It’s been just a week since the festival ended.
However, the class president was now able to chat with Seo-yeon.
‘Why is that?’
After having a great time together, there was a strange distance now.
Interestingly, the female student who flinched just now was a friend who played the ghost role with Seo-yeon on the second floor.
Of course, the student didn’t particularly want to avoid Seo-yeon.
It’s just that she had witnessed something during the school festival.
Something crawling on all fours chasing the boys.
‘It definitely looked like Seo-yeon.’
But who could chase boys on all fours?
That thought nagged at her, especially since they escaped toward where Seo-yeon was.
Moreover, Seo-yeon’s acting during practice was truly impressive, giving off a strong ‘actress’ vibe.
After the festival, Seo-yeon hadn’t been coming to school due to filming, making it feel even more pronounced.
‘That’s strange…’
But at least she was in the class chat, so it’s one step forward.
Yet, she couldn’t shake off the feeling of retreating, which left her troubled.
Meanwhile, while Seo-yeon was lost in her thoughts,
“Isn’t Running People the best option?”
The production team of [The Chaser] was busy looking for variety shows for promotion.
“I think the best way is to carry out a chase based on the film’s concept. Actor Joo Seo-yeon, I heard you’re athletic, right?”
“Hmm, that’s true.”
There was some validity to that statement.
Running People often proceeded with two teams, sometimes the concept changed.
If Seo-yeon was placed in the same role as Cha Seo-ah…
“That won’t do.”
At that moment, Producer Cha Dong-jin, who had been listening quietly, spoke up.
It was an unexpected objection.
“Excuse me? It seems to fit the film’s style perfectly?”
“It does, indeed.”
Cha Dong-bin agreed with that statement.
However,
“Unless we keep Cha Seo-ah’s character hidden.”
“Ah.”
Now that she mentioned it, she was right.
Currently, Joo Seo-yeon was only known as a supporting character, “convenience store part-timer.”
Nothing else had been deeply covered, hence, various speculations about who the culprit might be.
In thrillers, the antagonist must shine just as brightly as the lead.
Naturally, promoting the antagonist is just as important.
“I believe we can reveal that after the release or somewhere in between.”
They wouldn’t shoot just one variety show.
At least two would be appropriate.
Too many appearances might turn the audience off, and scheduling could prove troublesome.
“Are there any suitable shows available? Promoting as just a convenience store part-timer feels a bit iffy.”
“It’s also fine to have all four promote together. It could look like they just naturally blended in.”
Later on, when the truth comes out, it becomes a twist.
Joo Seo-yeon is currently a relatively hot actress, so it wouldn’t be surprising if she joined the promotion.
“Well then…”
Avoid physical variety shows.
While stirring enough buzz on the show.
“Nowadays, it feels good to be raw. Showing an actress not holding back her image can also be a topic of interest.”
“Really?”
“How about this?”
Cha Dong-bin suggested a particular show.
The production team was left in awe.
Actors Kim Dae-heon, who played detective Im Seung-cheol, and Park Hee-jun, who played detective Seo Kwang-il, might manage since they were both guys.
But, for Jung Si-hyun playing Han Ye-hwa and Seo-yeon, it might be quite a task.
“Will everyone be going? The filming…”
“Currently, it’s just Park Hee-jun and Joo Seo-yeon. We thought we’d focus on them first.”
“Hmm.”
But just Seo-yeon alone might work too.
Mainly because Director Bae Jin-hwan praised her exuberantly.
In fact, even Kim Hong-baek, the martial arts director from Cheonghong Action School, said,
“If Seo-yeon genuinely pursues being an action actress, she would definitely become a big star.”
That came from someone who had collaborated with numerous action actors, even overseas.
If he says that, it probably means Seo-yeon’s physical abilities are beyond merely excellent.
Kim Hong-baek was well-known in the industry for his stern evaluations.
The fact that he praised Seo-yeon lavishly left a significant impression on the production team, leading them to consider several factors.
That’s why Running People was the first mention.
“I think it would be alright. Since Park Hee-jun is originally from the special forces, he could help even if Joo Seo-yeon finds it challenging.”
At those words from the production team, Cha Dong-bin nodded.
It felt decided.
“Then the show will be [Deserted Island Survival].”
Deserted Island Survival.
A variety show where participants live for four nights and five days in uninhabited areas or jungles.
Naturally, Seo-yeon didn’t see that coming at all.
*
“Wait?! [Deserted Island Survival]?!”
The one who exclaimed in shock was not Seo-yeon.
It was her manager, Park Eun-ha.
She was flabbergasted that Seo-yeon would be promoting the movie on [Deserted Island Survival].
“Isn’t it too harsh for a female lead to go on a deserted island survival show? The skin damage and filming to come…”
“I heard Seo-yeon’s scenes were all shot already.”
“Well, that’s true, but…”
Park Eun-ha sighed at her superior’s words.
If only she could confront the director, she would, but there was no time.
Most importantly, Seo-yeon had to actively object for her to argue.
‘She’s not reacting at all.’
Sometimes, she thought this was an advantage and a disadvantage of Seo-yeon.
Her emotional shifts were subtle, making it difficult to read her thoughts.
Even after mentioning [Deserted Island Survival], Seo-yeon only widened her eyes slightly, showing no signs of dislike.
Of course, [Deserted Island Survival] was a show frequently used for movie promotions.
It often allowed actors to showcase their true selves, leading some to exhibit appealing twists.
However,
‘Not for female leads.’
Firstly, the filming locations were hellish.
Even at best, it’s a sun-soaked deserted island.
Naturally, this could be fatal for a female actress who needs to manage her skin.
Moreover, female leads often struggle to sleep properly, often being a nuisance in such scenarios.
But conversely, showing a proactive stance could easily garner sympathy…
‘Seo-yeon should handle it well, but…’
Since she was praised by Kim Hong-baek.
But using physical skills and survival were entirely different things.
‘Hmm.’
Unlike Park Eun-ha’s worries, Seo-yeon didn’t have a single thought about [Deserted Island Survival].
On the contrary.
‘This sounds fun.’
Although slightly taken aback, sunlight and all that didn’t matter to Seo-yeon.
Her skin was invulnerable to sun exposure, so no blemishes or freckles would appear.
‘Plus, there’ll be breaks where I can share stories about the movie.’
She had initially thought Running People would be the show, so this was unexpected.
They might consider participating in Running People afterward or something.
“Seo-yeon. Just to be safe, don’t overdo it, okay?”
“Yes.”
Seeing Seo-yeon nod casually made Park Eun-ha feel a strange anxiety.
Thus, the decision to join [Deserted Island Survival] was made.
‘Filming starts a week later.’
What an ironic coincidence.
The last day of filming fell on a rather significant day for Seo-yeon.
It was the day of Ramiel’s first broadcast.
And also, it was Seo-yeon’s birthday.
*
“Wow, hello, Shin PD! It’s been a while.”
“Ah, our Park actor! You’ve grown so much. It really has been a long time.”
Park Jung-woo awkwardly smiled at the bright greeting from PD Shin Young-woo.
Perhaps because he had often appeared on Shin Young-woo’s shows since childhood.
Because of that, Shin Young-woo tended to treat Jung-woo as if he were his nephew.
Especially since he was also close to Jung-woo’s father.
“Thanks for all your hard work.”
“Please, don’t mention it. It’s been a struggle since I moved to [Deserted Island Survival]. It’s so hot… ha…”
[Deserted Island Survival] was a tough show for both the staff and the PDs to produce.
In fact, it had already seen several PDs come and go.
The only one who hadn’t changed was the main MC, Jung Dae-hyun.
“Jung-woo, why don’t you come on our variety show? I can set up a spot for you.”
“Ah, definitely. I’ll consider it.”
Of course, he had no intention of actually going.
Park Jung-woo wasn’t interested in physical variety shows.
Especially [Deserted Island Survival], which tested both physical and mental endurance.
Filming in some deserted area would probably lead to a sunburn on his skin too.
“By the way, I’m already worried. This time, two movie promotional actors are coming for the shoot.”
“…Movie promotion on [Deserted Island Survival]?!”
That was quite a daring move.
But it seemed like something actors would avoid, so he asked,
“It happens to relate to you. They’re quite young, so I’m already concerned that if they fuss and want to go home, it’ll be tricky.”
In reality, many young actresses or idols often did this.
Getting exhausted during filming, some even lay down or withdrew.
“…May I ask who it is?”
At Shin Young-woo’s words, Park Jung-woo felt something nag at him.
Actors connected to him.
Especially young ones.
There was only one possibility for that.
“Joo Seo-yeon. She’s appearing on our variety show this time.”
At that statement, Park Jung-woo squeezed his eyes shut.