Chapter 787: Film Production Begins (2)
"Director Yeo Ik-Hwan's recent career is the problem."
President Shin Jong-Ki said that Director Yeo Ik-Hwan's image as a director who ruined his last three films would negatively affect public opinion.
Worried Yeo Ik-Hwan might be hurt, I quickly turned my head.
Yeo Ik-Hwan only gave an awkward smile. "It's okay. I already talked to Mr. Shin before you arrived, Mr. Jung."
"You did?"
"Yes. I was concerned that the failure of my last three films might drag this project down."
Yeo Ik-Hwan had written and directed his debut film The New Employee, which became a massive hit with five million viewers. It was a phenomenal success, especially for a low-budget film made with just one billion won.
Yet, after that, all three of his following works flopped badly. Yeo Ik-Hwan gave up on directing and took a professorship at Seoul National University of the Arts. He said he was worried that this track record might hold back the success of the new movie.
Shin Jong-Ki, looking apologetic, backed up Yeo Ik-Hwan's point. "Hey, if Chief Jung vouches for someone, I trust them without question. I mean, The New Employee brought in five million people. That alone proves your talent, Director Yeo. It's just bad timing. Isn't Hoop Entertainment about to go public?"
Even under normal circumstances, this would be a sensitive issue for the stock market. But right before an IPO, it could become a major liability.
Shin Jong-Ki carefully continued, "That's why... even if we go ahead with production, how about we delay announcing the director until after April 1st? This was Director Yeo's suggestion too."
Yeo Ik-Hwan said he made the proposal himself, wanting to help me and willing to set aside his pride. I was deeply grateful, but I had already prepared for this from the start.