[Chapter 4: Filming the Baby MV with Cameron Diaz]
After recording the three songs, the date had already reached March 22. They had expected to finish the recording work by 25th, but it was completed three days ahead of schedule. This freed up more time for the upcoming MV shoot.
The filming team was soon organized, with the male lead, Linton Anderson, producer Carson from Universal securing the project, director Zack Snyder, and choreographer Annie forming the core of the crew.
Today's task was to cast the female lead. Linton and Mira Cecchi arrived at the Universal rehearsal studio, which was packed with many flashy and beautiful girls.
"Cameron Diaz," Annie called out a name.
A tall blonde stepped out from the crowd. With a radiant complexion, sparkling big eyes, and an impressive figure, Linton's eyes lit up immediately.
As she nervously positioned herself in front of the male dancer, waiting for the command from the host, he felt a rush of excitement.
"Let's begin."
As the music played, the two began their performance. This girl indeed had solid ballet training; her movements were precise and her expressiveness captivating.
Perfect! The way she executed her moves was stunning. Linton made his decision instantly -- it was her. In his past life, Cameron Diaz had skyrocketed to fame, becoming one of Hollywood's leading actresses.
It seemed she had first gained recognition in 1993 with the fantasy comedy film The Mask. Now, in 1991, she was probably still modeling. Since fate had brought them together, Linton thought, why not help her get ahead a bit earlier? Perhaps it would even help accelerate his own journey.
He didn't pay any attention to the performances of the others. After everyone had auditioned and the four leaders discussed the choice for the female lead, Linton firmly advocated for Cameron Diaz.
Though others had their own connections, they ultimately agreed with Linton's choice, especially since Cameron's audition had been the best.
---
Zack's version of the Baby MV was straightforward: the first half showcased various dance scenes, some in school, some on the beach, and others in the plaza, highlighting the chemistry between the handsome male lead and beautiful female lead, all while suggesting a romantic relationship.
The second half shifted to intimate shots of the couple against various stunning backdrops, with close-up shots that revealed their subtle feelings of sadness, hinting at a breakup but still showing lingering attachments. Overall, it aligned well with the mood of the song Baby. Of course, there were many extras involved, but Linton had no part in their selection.
---
Three days had passed. That night at the Hilton Hotel, two figures engaged in intense activity from dusk to dawn, pausing only to consider they had filming the next day.
By then, Linton realized that at this point, Cameron was a minor figure in the entertainment world. During their encounters, he hardly felt any significant improvement in his abilities; the progress was just a tad faster than usual.
Now it was time to see how Cameron performed. If she did well, he thought that perhaps he could assist her in gaining fame more quickly; it might even benefit him.
On their first day of practicing positions, facing the sway of Cameron's hips as she approached him with a catwalk, Linton felt a warmth stir in his heart, but he quickly suppressed it with willpower.
The second day marked the official filming of the MV. As the music for Baby began, he embraced Cameron at the waist, the feeling of her smooth, toned abdomen and delicate skin against him was electrifying, especially with her inviting demeanor, yet he managed to hold back.
By the third day, during the dance shoot nearing its end, Cameron leaned against him, her upper body slightly arched back as she rested her head on his shoulder. Leaning down, he lightly kissed her shoulder, evoking soft giggles from her and a kiss in return.
Unable to resist any longer, once filming wrapped up, he took her to the nearest Hilton Hotel.
...
After donning a bathrobe, Linton emerged from the bathroom to see Cameron still blissfully asleep. He felt a surge of pride; it had been a month since he had arrived, and he was finally experiencing the thrill of being with someone he had only dreamed of in his previous life.
He picked up the phone, "Hey, what's for breakfast?"
"Alright, send up two sandwiches and a plate of strawberries."
In less than three minutes, the doorbell rang. "Now that is some quick service..." He pulled out a tip from his wallet and opened the door.
After sending off the hotel staff, Cameron was already awake. Linton pulled her into his embrace, "Let's grab something to eat."
They cuddled up together while finishing breakfast, and by 9:30, they rushed to the set, arriving just in time to hear Carson shout, "I won! Zack, pay up!"
Zack reluctantly pulled out a hundred dollars and handed it to Carson, muttering that he thought they wouldn't get up in time.
...
Since the group dance shots were already completed, the remaining scenes were strictly individual shots. The following filming went smoothly. But by night, the two found themselves glued together in the hotel.
Linton couldn't help but admire Cameron's resilience and stamina, as they routinely stayed up until after 2 AM. He enjoyed both the experience and the subtle enhancement to his skills, albeit minimal.
The makeup artist on set even asked Cameron what products she was using, as she hadn't noticed any changes initially. But later, she realized it must have been the vigorous activity with Linton that revitalized her appearance. She felt a sense of joy knowing this not only came from Linton's support in her role but also from his good looks and talent. She thought their bond should be sustained over time.
Given how much Universal valued Linton, it was likely he would rise to stardom quickly. Although their paths were different -- Linton pursuing music and she aiming for film -- who could say what the future would hold? She realized Linton was someone worth investing her time in.
...
After a week, Zack announced the completion of the MV, and that evening they all had a simple wrap party before he dissolved the crew and left with the film to edit.
That evening, following the usual pattern, they dove into more intimate moments at the Hilton. After a month of intense work, the next day was a rare day off. When she revealed her schedule, learning she had a day to herself, Linton took her to Disneyland for some fun and relaxation until evening.
Fortunately, as they were both newcomers in the entertainment world, they weren't swarmed by reporters, avoiding any rumors. Linton suspected this might be the last time he could roam freely in public until he became powerful enough to influence people's thoughts to ignore him, a prospect that felt far off.
...
After leaving Disneyland, they shared a candlelit dinner, and Linton brought Cameron back to his new home. Upon entering the small villa, Linton showed her around his house, and after that, they were intertwined again. This time, their interaction was even more passionate, likely due to the realization of impending separation, which ignited Cameron's enthusiasm.
They didn't rest at all, continuing until dawn.
...
Only getting a few hours of sleep, Linton was the first up, quickly preparing breakfast. After eating, it was time for Cameron to leave.
Her agent had arranged an audition opportunity for her. For a newcomer entering Hollywood, it was vital not to miss any chance, a survival rule in the industry.
Despite only two hours of sleep, Cameron felt extraordinarily invigorated, filled with energy and confidence.
Before she left, Linton sincerely encouraged her to enroll in an acting class to hone her skills. They exchanged personal phone numbers, with Cameron asking, "Can I reach out to you anytime?" Linton replied that she was always welcome to do so. Satisfied with the exchange, Cameron departed, her agent already waiting with the car outside.
*****
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