The filming day arrived as scheduled. During pre-production, Irene had photocopied and distributed her detailed storyboards to every crew member.
In addition, she prepared a daily shooting schedule that allowed the team to proceed efficiently. This reduced her workload and minimized the need for on-set adjustments.
"Gaffer, increase the intensity slightly. I want the effect of direct sunlight, thank you."
"Costume, the background dancer on the upper left is overexposed. Please change her into a longer skirt."
"Makeup, Britney’s braids are too tight, which makes her face appear round. Please loosen them and add some colored ties. The look should be appealing and trend-setting."
"Britney, provide more smiles during the group choreography. The audience should perceive warmth and approachability."
Throughout the morning, Irene coordinated with each department. Even for a music video, achieving the intended result required constant attention.
During a break while Britney’s makeup was being adjusted, Irene went to the break room for water. Passing the wardrobe area, she overheard her name.
"Is Irene Coppola even an adult?"
"I’m not sure. I’ve never heard of her. She was brought in."
"Why aren’t we using our usual director? This setup seems excessive. Probably another connection hire."
"Her last name is Coppola. That explains it. Besides, we’re paid daily. The longer this takes, the better for us."
"That’s true."
She did not pause or respond. Some comments did not merit engagement.
Personnel from the nearby production of Touched by an Angel also took notice.
"Another Coppola. Some people have advantages," Michael Schultz said to his assistant during a break.
"Director Michael, how can someone relying on connections compare to you? What is a music video? Our series is adapted from City of Angels. It will certainly succeed," the assistant said, handing him black tea.
"You misunderstand. Even with connections, directing independently at her age is unusual. Otherwise, the production company would have assigned an assistant director to oversee her," Michael replied calmly.
He had advanced in his career by remaining discreet. Verbal conflicts were common in Hollywood.
"Yes, we have much to learn from you."
Irene completed the day’s shooting schedule before sunset. Britney was fatigued; the work was as demanding as dance rehearsal.
"If tomorrow proceeds smoothly, once we film your solo sequence, you can rest temporarily."
That evening, the two were in Irene’s rented apartment, where professional masseuses provided treatment. Aromatherapy and fresh fruit were arranged beside the lounge chairs.
"Irene, you know how to maintain comfort, even bringing Ophelia to work," Britney said while eating fruit.
"Of course. I cannot function without Ophelia."
"Will you bring her to university?"
"Of course. Ophelia, are you willing?" Irene asked.
"My lady, I will accompany you wherever you go," Ophelia replied quietly while pressing Irene’s wardrobe for the next day.
"I’m envious. When I become famous, I will hire three housekeepers. No, ten," Britney said, feigning indignation.
"Do not worry. By next year, if you want ten assistants, the company will not object."
"But do you really think I will succeed? I’m concerned I’ll be like Aimee Mann—talented but unnoticed," Britney said, revealing insecurity.
Irene sometimes forgot that the Britney before her was still a young woman uncertain about her future, not the established performer she would become.
She took Britney’s hand.
"If you do not trust yourself, trust me. Relax and enjoy this period before your debut. Once the music video is released, you will be recognized nationwide. Personal freedom will be limited then." She spoke lightly, but she understood that pre-debut anxiety was universal for performers.
Even Britney Spears was not exempt.
At eight o’clock the following morning, filming resumed.
"Britney, your gaze lacks focus. I need to see desire. Imagine the object you want most is directly in front of you. There must be intensity."
"No, not a vacant expression."
Irene had not anticipated that, near the end of production, Britney would struggle with the expressive close-ups.
"Someone, provide eye drops to add moisture to her eyes."
Twenty minutes passed without achieving the desired shot. She decided to proceed. Some elements would be left to audience interpretation.
Once filming concluded, Irene took the footage to the editing suite at the Warner Bros. lot. The on-site facilities eliminated the need for an external location.
Working without external input, she removed several movements that suggested overt sexuality, making the choreography appear more youthful and energetic.
She added brief interactions between Britney and the dancers that conveyed camaraderie. The additions were short but enhanced her relatability.
However, when she presented the final version to Karl and others at Jive to discuss promotion and distribution, Director Nelson objected strongly.
"This edit lacks appeal. There is no attraction," Jerry Nelson said, cigarette in hand. His demeanor differed from their previous meeting.
Irene waved the smoke away, walked to the window, and opened it.
"I assumed Mr. Nelson would be aware that indoor smoking affects others’ health." She did not argue immediately. She understood he was asserting authority rather than seeking clarification.
"Oh, my apologies," Jerry said, but he continued to hold the cigarette.
"Miss Coppola, first, thank you for completing the music video so thoroughly. However, you may be too young to understand market expectations for pop performers. A degree of sensuality is necessary. I do not believe fans want an idol who appears juvenile."
Another director might have conceded. Whether the dancers’ movements were suggestive did not materially affect the director. But Britney was on camera, and Irene would not compromise.
"First, we are developing a teen idol, not a nightclub performer. Her primary quality should be youth and vitality. Sensuality can be introduced later."
"Second, because I am young, I understand the perspective of our audience. Mr. Nelson, with respect, your viewpoint may be outdated. I recommend consulting younger staff for current trends."
"Third, I am responsible for this music video. The contract specifies that I retain final cut. Please adhere to the terms of the agreement."