In the next life, maybe ?

Chapter 1: The Chemistry Read

Sunlight poured through the tall windows, filling the casting room with a warm, golden light. I stood just outside the door, trying to calm the flutter in my chest. The air was thick with a mix of excitement and nerves. Today felt different — like the start of something big.

My journey to this moment started weeks ago with an unexpected email from my agent, letting me know about an open audition for a new film. I had almost passed on it—it was just another audition, one of many I'd been to recently. But something about this one felt different, so I went for it. Little did I know, that decision would lead me to Tim Burton's attention.

The film turned out to be about a love triangle, exploring the messy side of human emotions. My character, along with her boyfriend, would be competing for the same girl's love. Love triangles are nothing new, but queer representation like this was rare, almost nonexistent. What made it stand out wasn't just the love story—it was how the script delved into the confusion and intensity of love and rivalry, blurring the lines between where the character ended and the actor began. With Tim Burton directing and such a compelling storyline, this was the kind of role that could redefine a career—the opportunity I'd been dreaming of.

When I first walked into that audition room, I had no idea what I was getting into. I gave it my all, as I always do, but didn't think much of it after leaving. I was just focused on finding the next gig to keep things going. But then, the callback came. My agent told me that Tim Burton himself had been impressed with my performance—something about the way I brought vulnerability to the character had caught his eye. He appreciated my ability to convey depth and emotion without overplaying it, and he wanted to see more. It was a surreal moment, hearing that a director like Tim Burton saw something special in me. Yeah.. surreal

The second meeting was even more nerve-wracking. I was asked to come in and do a more detailed reading. When I arrived, I was greeted by Tim's assistant, who led me into a dimly lit room where Tim sat, reviewing notes. He looked up, his intense gaze immediately making me feel like I was under a microscope. But there was warmth in his eyes too, a curiosity that put me at ease. We talked for a bit about the character, the story, and what he envisioned for the film. Then, I read the lines again, this time in front of him. I could feel his eyes on me, watching every move, every expression. It was daunting, but I gave it everything I had.

After the reading, Tim smiled—a small, almost imperceptible smile, but it was there. He told me he liked how I brought out the internal conflict in the character, how I made it feel real. We chatted for a bit longer, and just before I left, he mentioned an upcoming chemistry read. He wanted to see how I connected with the other potential cast members. A few days later, I got an email from Tim himself, inviting me to the chemistry read. He said he had a good feeling about me and was curious to see how I'd interact with the others, especially his already chosen lead—the character I'd be falling in love with. This wasn't just a formality; it was the final step before his decision.

When I arrived today, I knew I'd be competing with four other actors, all potential cast members. The stakes were high. This wasn't just about acting—it was about finding the right dynamics, the right chemistry, the connection that could bring the story to life in a way only the perfect cast could.

And now, here I was, standing outside the door, knowing Tim and the other decision-makers were just beyond it. My hands were sweaty, and my heart pounded in my chest. This was the moment everything could change.

A buzz in my pocket jolted me out of my thoughts. It was Julien, my best friend, with his usual words of encouragement: *You've got this, sis. Just be yourself. They're going to love you.* I couldn't help but smile. Julien had been there through all of it, always knowing how to keep me grounded. I quickly texted back, *Thanks, bro,* and slipped my phone away.