Chapter 953: Press Conference (1)
As soon as the floor was opened for questions, reporters eagerly raised their hands, waiting for the host to call on them.
Of course, the host had to prioritize their people first. The first journalist selected was from a South African domestic media outlet.
"Hello, I'm from South African Free Press. As one of Hollywood's top directors, why did you choose South Africa as your filming location?"
Well, because it looks the most like Sierra Leone. But Laila couldn't say that outright—it would've been an insult. Everyone knew Sierra Leone had been ravaged by civil war, leaving it in ruins, with no suitable filming locations left. If she admitted she chose South Africa because it resembled Sierra Leone, wouldn't that be tantamount to calling the place a warzone?
So, Laila opted for a more diplomatic approach, first expressing her admiration for South Africa before adding, "The story required this kind of setting."
The next journalist called was also from South Africa: "Director Moran, what are your impressions of South Africa?"
Laila wasn't surprised by the question and had already prepared an answer.
"South Africa is a beautiful country. From the moment I stepped off the plane, I felt the warmth of its people. I'm very grateful to the fans who came to greet me at the airport, though I regret not having the chance to interact with them more."
As a consolation, the host finally called on an American reporter.
"Director Moran, which brand designed your ring?"
The question, completely unrelated to the film, caught Laila off guard. But a glance at the reporter's badge made it clear why he'd ask—he was from The New York Post.
Yes, that New York Post—the unlucky newspaper that had been acquired by Grandpa Moran.
The fact that its reporters could still travel all the way here to dig for gossip suggested the paper hadn't undergone drastic changes and would likely continue business as usual. If it had been purged too severely, they wouldn't have bothered sending someone to indulge in their trademark nosiness.
After a brief pause, Laila replied, "This ring wasn't designed by a major brand. My fiancé found a brilliant designer to create it. I've long admired one of this designer's earlier works, so Roy tracked him down to design this for me."
This was a major revelation. Ever since she'd flaunted the ring at the Oscars, its origin had been a mystery. Now that Laila had finally addressed it, she knew this would generate massive buzz back in the U.S.
Those in the know couldn't help but envy the unnamed designer. They were well aware that once this news spread, the designer would skyrocket to fame. A new star in jewelry design was about to shine brightly.
"Director Moran, by collaborating with Leonardo DiCaprio this time, are you aiming for next year's Oscars?"
Laila nearly laughed out loud. So, Leo's desperate quest for an Oscar was now common knowledge? While that was the goal, she couldn't possibly say it outright.
"The Oscars are the highest honor anyone in film can aspire to, and of course, both Leonardo and I hope for recognition. But making a film solely for awards would be a disservice to art. Cinema is sacred—it shouldn't be tainted by personal ambition."
Her answer was so righteous that Leo, disguised and hiding backstage, almost applauded.
"This film is said to depict the bloodshed and suffering caused by diamonds. Several diamond industry companies have announced a boycott. What are your thoughts on this?"
Laila was taken aback. "A boycott? I'm sorry, I haven't heard anything about that, so I can't comment."
She turned to the government official beside her. "What is this reporter referring to?"
The official's expression darkened. In his view, the diamond companies were throwing a tantrum. Their combined influence couldn't compare to what a single Laila Moran film could do for South Africa's global reputation. A boycott? How dare they!
"It's just a few troublemakers. Rest assured, we won't let them interfere with your production."
Laila frowned at him before nodding. "I hope so."
She suddenly recalled that, in her past life, some companies had also pressured filmmakers to drop projects about conflict diamonds, fearing it would hurt sales. Ironically, demand had only surged, especially in emerging economies where diamond engagement rings became a status symbol.
She wasn't about to comment on that, though. She wasn't a saint, and she knew all too well how dark the world could be.
The next journalist stood up, repeating a question from the airport.
"Your fiancé didn't accompany you this time? Rumor has it he currently has no work commitments."
Laila, still worried about their safety, wasn't about to reveal the truth.
"He has personal matters to attend to. If time allows, he might visit the set. But this is a long trip, and our shooting schedule is tight. Honestly, I'd prefer he not disrupt my work."
"Regarding Moran Media Group's acquisition of The New York Post, some speculate it was retaliation for the paper's harsh criticism of you. Is that true?"
A sharp question—one that hit close to home. If the Moran could buy a media outlet for crossing them today, what would stop them from doing it again tomorrow?
Laila narrowed her eyes. "I consider this a standard business decision. Moran Media specializes in communications. Acquiring a newspaper is perfectly normal, isn't it?"
"Then why specifically target The New York Post right after they published negative articles about you?" the reporter pressed.
Laila smiled. "That's your second question."
The reporter flushed and sat down, frustrated.
Bold journalists weren't rare—in fact, many thrived on audacity. Otherwise, the world wouldn't have so many explosive exposés.
So when the next journalist was called, they asked the same thing: "Please explain why The New York Post was acquired immediately after publishing unfavorable coverage of you."
Ah, the joys of verbal sparring. ╮(╯▽╰)╭