NOVEL SIMPLE CHAPTER 56: Admiration
Atlas leaned back in his chair, studying John with a mix of admiration and concern. “John, you sure you want to come into the portals?” he asked, his tone serious despite the casual setting. The room was filled with the ambient noise of the flat-screen TV, where the latest episode of Hong Sha's microdrama played.
John, still caught up in the adrenaline of their recent victories, flashed a confident grin. “Atlas, we’ve done enough portal training scenarios. Don’t you see how many times I’ve come up with good plans?”
“Yeah, your plans are great. They’re wild, and I love them,” Atlas replied, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “And time and time again, they’ve been successful. But are YOU sure YOU want to go in?”
John, still under the impression that this was all part of the game, nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah, bro, I’m 100% down for going in.”
“Alright,” Atlas said, nodding back, though a part of him still wondered if John fully grasped the gravity of what they were about to face. *Does he truly realize this isn’t just a game?* he thought, though he kept that to himself. The two continued chatting, their attention flicking back and forth between their conversation and the microdrama that had taken the world by storm. Hong Sha's creation was a massive hit.
Critics like Justine Ebert had praised it, giving it a perfect score.
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**Film Review: 5/5 - Hong Sha’s Microdrama – A Perfect Blend of Realism and Ludicrousness**
Justine Ebert
Hong Sha’s latest creation, a microdrama that has taken the world by storm, is nothing short of a cinematic marvel. Garnering a perfect 5 out of 5, this microdrama masterfully combines the gritty realism of human struggle with the absurdity of its premise, creating an experience that is both intensely relatable and delightfully bizarre.
The show’s mixture of absolute realism and absolute ludicrousness aptly captures the essence of what makes this microdrama stand out. The realism comes through in the raw, emotional performances of the cast, who portray their characters with a depth and sincerity that is rarely seen in such a condensed format. The actors bring to life the desperation, hope, and determination of individuals thrust into unimaginable situations, making the audience feel every moment of tension and triumph.
The setting, too, plays a crucial role in grounding the narrative in reality. The environments are meticulously designed, with a keen eye for detail that makes the world of the microdrama feel lived-in and authentic. Whether it’s the crumbling ruins of a post-apocalyptic city or the dense, oppressive atmosphere of a monster-infested forest, the settings draw the viewer into the story, making it easy to suspend disbelief and become fully immersed.
However, it’s the ludicrous elements of the story that truly elevate Hong Sha’s work to a level of genius. The premise itself—a group of time-traveling warriors battling monsters in an alternate reality—might seem outlandish, but it’s this very absurdity that allows the microdrama to transcend traditional narrative boundaries. The outlandish scenarios, from battling grotesque creatures to navigating the paradoxes of time travel, are handled with such confidence and flair that they become not only believable but compelling.
The juxtaposition of these two extremes—harsh, gritty realism and wild, fantastical elements—creates a tension that is at the heart of the microdrama’s success. The viewer is constantly being pulled between the raw, human experience and the larger-than-life, almost cartoonish events that unfold. This dynamic makes for a viewing experience that is as unpredictable as it is engaging, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats, unsure of what will happen next.
Hong Sha’s direction is also worth noting. The pacing of the microdrama is tight, with every scene contributing to the overall narrative without any wasted moments. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with dark humor, further enhancing the surreal quality of the story. The visual effects, while occasionally over-the-top, are used judiciously, enhancing the story rather than overwhelming it. The result is a microdrama that is visually stunning and emotionally resonant, with just the right amount of ridiculousness to make it unforgettable.
In a world saturated with formulaic entertainment, Hong Sha’s microdrama is a breath of fresh air—a daring, original work that challenges the viewer to embrace the absurd while never losing sight of the human story at its core. And if you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh, gasp, and think, this microdrama is an absolute must-watch.
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The show *Atlas: Back to the Present* had become a staple before every match. Fans loved it, and Atlas relished the fact it was pure portal preparation wrapped in the candy shell of a sci fi tv show. He especially loved the “Wasteland Tips segment. He had added the tips to the end of each episode.
An old guys voice would narrate,
“Those are solid tips for surviving the wasteland! Here’s a quick recap:
1. **Always Sleep Prepared**: Portals can open at any time, so keep your gear ready.
2. **Monsters Are Real**: Be aware and stay vigilant.
3. **Don’t Be an Asshole**: Respect others and follow the rules.
4. **Listen to Atlas and the Portal Crushers**: They know what they're doing and can guide you through.
Good advice for anyone venturing into the wasteland.”
One other group loved the pre show microdrama. Sponsors. The sponsor especially loved the fact that if they had appropriate products, they were shown both in the show and in the commercials.
Atlas had also made sure at least 30 minutes of the show’s latest episodes played before each game in the arena as a pre-show. The sponsors loved it, and it increased his popcorn sales.
*People don’t realize that watching the show is more important than the upcoming match,* thought Atlas.
The door to the office opened.
“Ah, here he is,” Atlas said, his eyes shifting to the doorway. Alexander walked in.
“Well,” Atlas began, glancing at the latest rankings displayed on a nearby screen, “We’re solidly at number eight. No problems for the upcoming finals.”
Alexander, ever the strategist, wasn’t as nonchalant. *There’s a lot at stake here,* he thought, though he kept his concerns to himself.
“How’s the final four setup going?” Atlas asked, turning his full attention to Alexander.
Alexander leaned against the desk, his expression thoughtful. “I’ve got the squad somewhat picked out. As you know, I’m debating the fourth.”
“Okay, who are your choices then?” Atlas inquired, curiosity piqued.
Alexander listed them off, ticking each name with a finger. “Me, Hank, Wilfredo, Wang Bo, and Isabella.”
Atlas nodded, considering the lineup. “That’s a good, solid five,” he agreed.
“But I’m really torn between Jim and Wang Bo. I like Jim—he’s a solid off-tank and really helps Hank out. But Wang Bo with his staff? Great for damage. We could alternate them depending on the strategies the other teams might field. What do you think?”
“I’ve been thinking about that too,” John admitted. “There’s a marked difference in the amount of damage they each deal during training. But—”
Atlas held up a hand, interrupting. “Hold on a second. I know you’ve got a lot of considerations. Even though you come off as a redneck, I know you think a lot.”
Alexander chuckled, appreciating the backhanded compliment. “Mighty kind of you.”
Turning to John, Atlas asked, “John, how’s their motivation scores in the portal training? Who’s better—Jim or Wang Bo?”
John glanced at his tablet, where he’d been tracking the team’s performance. “Well, Jim fights for his family’s safety, and Wang Bo fights for the honor of China. Alicia’s ranked Wang Bo as more determined.”
Atlas didn’t hesitate. “Well, that’s it then. Go with Wang Bo. He’s a member of your final five for the SFB main team. So it’ll be Alexander, Hank, Wilfredo, Wang Bo, and Isabella.”
In his head Atlas was wondering who would be his own final five for the wasteland. *If only I had more slots. I’d love to bring more people to help.*
Alexander blinked, momentarily stunned that such an ostensibly insignificant stat from the portal training had determined the final lineup. Especially considering the stakes—they were heading into the playoffs. He had expected a more detailed analysis, maybe some deliberation, but Atlas had made the call decisively. But then again, Alexander thought, *that’s Atlas. Quick to assess, quicker to act. And so far, it’s worked out.*
Atlas, sensing Alexander’s surprise, added with a grin, “Trust me, sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.”
***
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