Chapter 31: Industry Shock—This Man Wraps Up Filming

At Warner Bros. Pictures, in his office, director Tim Burton and his assistant, Parson, were watching the trailer. When the trailer ended, they watched it again. Neither spoke. Clearly, the visual effects of Jurassic Park had stunned them.

"How?" Parson finally asked. "How is it so realistic? Since when did Universal have such a formidable special effects team?"

Tim Burton leaned back in his chair and murmured, "Spielberg, and that assistant director-turned-screenwriter, Qin Feng—they are truly remarkable to have achieved such effects in such a short time." He shook his head slightly. "I admire them, I truly do."

"Parson, the film opens on the 20th of next month. Our own production must avoid that window. Do you understand?"

"Understood," Parson replied, looking somewhat helpless.

Tim Burton chuckled. "At the very least, this is a good thing for our film industry. The rise of effects-driven cinema will revitalize the entire industrial chain. Parson, we need to move our fantasy project up on the schedule."

Parson’s eyes lit up. "You mean Alice in Wonderland?"

"Yes, we need to accelerate our efforts," Burton said, gazing at the dinosaur poster on the screen.

...

Qin Feng arrived at the Universal Pictures office on Monday. Just as he stepped out of the conference room, he received a call from Peter Jackson.

"Hello, Director Jackson!"

"Hahaha! Qin Feng, I’ve seen the trailer for your film; it’s absolutely stunning! Those dinosaurs look like they’re alive!" Jackson’s voice was filled with excitement.

"Thank you. Have you started preparing for your new film?"

"I’ve already begun. I flew straight back home after leaving Hawaii. The company is currently recruiting, writing the script, scouting locations, and crafting props. I want to be meticulous with the pre-production work."

"You’re right to do so, Director Jackson. I wish you an early start on The Lord of the Rings."

"And I wish your Jurassic Park a massive box office success!"

...

Time passed quickly. The filming of The Man from Earth was nearing its end.

One morning, the cast and crew sat around the sofa with cups in their hands, a fire crackling in the fireplace. Qin Feng stood in the center.

"Everyone, if today’s filming goes smoothly, we will wrap up," Qin Feng said. "This is the first film I have directed independently since coming to the United States. Even though the setting is simple and the budget modest, the core of this film remains exceptional. I am very grateful for all your support during this time."

They had spent so much time together, reciting lines every day, that it had become a habit. As the end approached, everyone felt a sense of reluctance.

David Smith was deeply moved, his eyes glistening. "Director Qin, it has been a long time since I played a lead role. Thank you for casting me in this film."

Scarlett was also touched but remained silent, looking toward the others.

Harry added, "Director Qin, no matter where you go, your talent will always shine through."

Dan smiled. "Young man, you are hardworking, and we have all seen it. I wish you success soon."

Qin Feng bowed slightly. "Thank you all."

Linda, sensing the somber mood, tried to lighten the atmosphere. "Director, I just want to know: if we want to have Chinese hot pot later, can we still come find you?"

Everyone laughed. Qin Feng replied, "Of course. Whenever you want to eat, you are welcome to come find me and Scarlett. Now, let’s shoot these final scenes!"

Ten minutes later.

"E063, Take One! Ready... Action!"

The tension in the room was palpable. According to the deductions, the protagonist, John, was actually Jesus. The cast’s worldviews were shattered.

"No! No!" theologian Edith cried, her eyes filled with despair. "You aren't! You aren't!"

The psychologist stepped forward, shouting at John, "Enough! This is preposterous! I don't believe you're insane. It’s time—you must admit it’s a hoax, a lie! If you don't stop this, I will have you committed for observation. I demand you tell these people the truth and end this!"

Everyone looked at John, waiting for his conclusion.

John took a deep breath, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. "The story ends here. Everyone, please leave."

"What?!" Everyone was stunned again.

John stood up, his tone calm. "It’s a story. It’s entirely just a story."

The others were flabbergasted, their logic completely unraveled. "It’s all... just a story? You made us doubt your sanity, and it was just a story?"

John said coolly, "The antiques gave me inspiration, so I just kept spinning the tale for you. I wanted to see your reactions; I went too far. I had the perfect audience—experts like you."

Art could take no more. He stood up and pulled Linda toward the door. "Okay, we’ve had enough."

Harry muttered, "At least I don't have to throw away half of my biological knowledge."

Dan sighed, "What a beautiful and moving creative exercise—so rich, so full of possibilities."

Grumbling at John, everyone rose and left the room.

"Cut!" Qin Feng shouted.

After a few more takes, the scene was finished. According to the script, there were a few more outdoor shots confirming the protagonist was indeed a prehistoric immortal, but those night scenes had already been filmed.

With that, the film wrapped. Qin Feng let out a long breath and hugged each of the actors in turn.

"Thank you, you performed brilliantly!"

"Thank you, Director."

After dinner, Qin Feng saw the actors off one by one. Standing outside the house, he felt Scarlett’s warm hand on his shoulder.

"Qin Feng, time flies. Another film is in the can."

"It does," he said, turning to gently wrap his arm around her waist. "You’ve worked hard these past few days, too."

They gazed up at the night sky as a shooting star streaked across the darkness, leaving a long trail in its wake. Qin Feng thought to himself: *I have two films about to be released. To the audiences in America and around the world—see you at the cinema.*

...

The 17th marked the global premiere and early screenings of Jurassic Park. At 4:00 PM, at the Hollywood film complex, a red carpet was laid out, and music blared. Dozens of entertainment media outlets had arrived early, setting up their cameras. Dozens of reporters jostled for position to report on the event.

Thanks to the momentum built on television and the internet, hundreds of fans had gathered. Some held movie posters, some wore dinosaur-themed t-shirts, and others were dressed as T-Rexes, creating a comical spectacle. Amidst the lively atmosphere, everyone waited for the film's creators to arrive.

A male host stood in the center, holding his cue cards, his voice resonant as he spoke:

"Ladies and gentlemen, dear guests, welcome to the global premiere of Jurassic Park!"