It's reasonable for me, a stuntman, to live a crazy life, right?

Chapter 1351 The New Year Begins! Project Boom!
Before we knew it, it was already late February.

The Winter Olympics have officially come to a close.

Nine gold medals, four silver medals, and two bronze medals—this number of medals sets a new record for China's participation in the Winter Olympics, ranking third on the medal table!

The mainland was filled with celebratory cheers.

As the director of the opening and closing ceremonies, Zhang Yimou once again gained widespread fame.

The title "National Advisor" has been used again, giving it a feel of returning to 08 and achieving legendary status in one battle.

At the same time, a Hollywood import titled "Death on the Nile" was released online.

Unfortunately, this was another film that flopped immediately upon release, failing to make a ripple in the film market.

As for the Spring Festival films, "The Four Seas" was the first to fail, with a box office of 5.42 million yuan, and was unfortunately removed from theaters.

This film is definitely the biggest setback Han Han encountered after entering the film and television industry.

Even his fans can't defend him.

It's worth noting that Shen Teng was one of the lead actors in this film, yet it still suffered a box office failure, which shows just how poor its quality was.

In contrast, the box office of films like "Miracle Kid" and "The Killer" has been steadily rising.

Happy Twist is already preparing a celebration banquet.

Seeing that another movie was about to gross 20 billion yuan, Zhang Chen was overjoyed and called Chen Fei early on, hoping that he would definitely attend.

Chen Fei readily agreed.

Inside the chairman's office at Feiyue Film & Television.

After ending the call with Zhang Chen, Chen Fei picked up a pen and signed his name at the end of the two project proposals on the table.

Immediately afterwards, he called his secretary and instructed, "Give these two project proposals to Zhong Lifang and have her arrange for them to be submitted for review."

"Okay, Mr. Chen."

The secretary nodded slightly, picked up the project proposal, and quickly left.

An hour later, the project proposals for "The Journey Home" and "Sicario 2" were sent to the Film Bureau.

The junior clerk in charge of receiving documents couldn't hide his amazement when he saw that Feiyue Films had delivered a new script, and he whispered to his colleagues about it.

"Flying Leap Films is really impressive! It's only the beginning of the year, and they've already sent us several project proposals. Their creative team is incredibly productive."

A colleague next to him replied, "This is the number one private film and television company in the Chinese entertainment industry. Do you think we're joking? I heard their screenwriting team has nearly a hundred people!"

"so much?"

"That's right, otherwise why do you think they can become the number one private enterprise? They focus on high quality and top-quality products, which is really impressive."

Rumors about the Feiyue Film and Television screenwriting team are not only frequently discussed and debated by the Film Bureau, but also whispered among many people in the industry.

For example, Dong Ping, whom he had long coveted.

Unfortunately, no matter how hard he tried, even spending a lot of money to poach them, the core "big shots" seemed to be firmly bound by Chen Fei, and he just couldn't poach them.

Those outside are easy to deal with; as long as he can afford the price, some people will agree to come to Huanxi Media with him.

But he has no use for these incompetent people!
He wants truly elite players, the kind who can write high-quality scripts for him.

Of course, his company isn't without its big shots.

For example, Chen Yu, who worked with Zhang Yimou and helped him write the script for "Under the Light," is an excellent screenwriter.

This morning, Chen Yu arrived at Huanxi Media with the script he had spent six months writing.

Zhang Yimou, who had just finished working on the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics, also came along.

With the Winter Olympics officially over, his work has come to an end, and it's time to start a new project.

Despite not being particularly well-off, he remains incredibly energetic even at 72 years old.

"Come on, have some tea, let's chat while we drink."

In the office, Dong Ping, in a good mood, personally brewed a pot of tea and poured a cup for Zhang Yimou and Chen Yu respectively before sitting back down at his own desk, his gaze falling on the script cover on the table.

The three large characters "Man Jiang Hong" suddenly came into view!

Chen Yu picked up his teacup, took a sip, and began to introduce the story: "The story unfolds during the Shaoxing era of the Southern Song Dynasty. On the eve of Prime Minister Qin Hui's meeting with the Jin Dynasty, the Jin envoy died mysteriously, and his secret letter disappeared."

Soldier Zhang Da and Deputy Commander Sun Jun are drawn into a mystery. Within an hour, they must unravel layers of conspiracy, behind which lies a shocking secret that could overthrow the imperial court…

As he spoke, he lightly tapped the script with his fingertips: "The whole story I designed takes place in the closed residence of the prime minister, and the plot is driven by dialogue and plot twists, which is a bit like a classic locked-room mystery."

Zhang Yimou took a sip of tea, put down the teacup, and analyzed based on his past experience:

"For this type of story, the whole film can use strong color contrasts to create a sense of oppression, such as dark red palace walls and bluish-gray tiles, and then use long takes to enhance the suffocating feeling."

As he spoke, he suddenly stood up and drew a line in the air with his hand:
“Key scenes can be designed with a circular composition, allowing the audience to follow the characters as they wander around the deep courtyard, never guessing who will be hiding around the next corner.”

Dong Ping didn't understand the rest, but he analyzed a key point from it.

Fixed scene, fixed characters...

Doesn't this mean that scenario costs can be significantly reduced?
Thinking of this, his gaze shifted back and forth between the two, and suddenly he slapped his thigh: "Great! This story is exciting enough! But the actors must be top-tier!"

Top influencer?

Chen Yu and Zhang Yimou both looked at him, waiting for him to explain.

Dong Ping excitedly stated, "The Winter Olympics have just ended, and the nation's patriotic enthusiasm is soaring. Let's strike while the iron is hot! Find a few popular celebrities to play patriotic soldiers, and pair them with veteran actors to support them. The box office is guaranteed!"

Zhang Yimou frowned slightly, about to retort, but Dong Ping continued to speak eloquently.

"Old Zhang, you don't know, this is what audiences are into now. Popularity drives box office, and word-of-mouth relies on veteran actors! This is the most reliable approach."

He then turned to Chen Yu and said, "The young characters in the script have all been changed into shining figures, so that fans will recommend it like crazy after reading it, and the popularity can rise even higher."

Chen Yu subconsciously looked at Zhang Yimou, only to see the latter silently drink the tea in one gulp, without any intention of refuting.

“Traffic can be used, but it must fit the role.” Zhang Yimou’s tone was somewhat compromising, but also somewhat insistent. “Zhang Da, this ordinary person, must have cunning eyes and resilience in his bones. He can’t be chosen just by relying on fan votes.”

He wanted to make money, but at the same time, he also wanted to maintain his reputation.

At the very least... don't get too badly scolded.

A hint of embarrassment flashed across Dong Ping's face, but he quickly put on a smile again: "Old Zhang is right! We'll discuss the casting again! But we need to hurry. While the Winter Olympics fever is still high, if we start filming within three months and release it during the Spring Festival, we can definitely create another blockbuster!"

He rubbed his hands together, his eyes greedily fixed on the three large characters "Man Jiang Hong" on the script cover, as if he could already see the box office numbers jumping around in front of him.

Seeing that Feiyue Films was constantly releasing hit shows, while Huanxi Media remained silent, he was really getting anxious.

If things continue like this, Huanxi's stock price will not only fail to rise, but may even fall, which is not good news.

"I'm fine on my end," Chen Yu replied first. It was just a minor adjustment to the script; it was easy.

Zhang Yimou was a straightforward person, and immediately agreed, "Let's do it this way. I'll rest for two days, and then we'll officially start the preparations for this project."

“Alright.” Dong Ping slammed his hand on the table. “I’ll have someone make a budget first.”

The three reached an agreement and immediately got to work.

Time flies, and before we know it, it's the end of the month.

That morning, the three announcements from the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television instantly attracted the attention of many people in the industry.

"The script for the drama/war film 'The Long Journey Home,' submitted by Feiyue Films, has officially passed the review and tells the story of a diplomat."

"The screenplay for the thriller/crime/action film 'Sicario 2' has been successfully approved. Building on the previous film, it continues the story of fighting drug traffickers and illegal activities."

"Chen Kaige's latest art-house drama, 'Boyhood,' has passed censorship. The film is written and directed by Chen Kaige and stars Liu Haoran, Chen Feiyu, Zhang Xueying, and Wen Qi. It tells the story of a group of teenagers striving for success."

"It is understood that 'Boyhood' has been submitted to this year's Cannes International Film Festival by China Film Group and will compete for the main awards along with 'Parasite'. Let's wait and see."

Several press releases immediately topped the trending topics list upon their release.

People have long since become immune to the news of Feiyue Films' new project approvals, since this happens almost every year at the beginning of the year.

However, many people were quite surprised that Chen Kaige's new work was being submitted to the Cannes Film Festival.

"Is Director Chen still chasing after the Palme d'Or he's been longing for?" "Ever since 'Farewell My Concubine' was released in 93, he's wanted to go to Cannes again and win the Palme d'Or to prove his talent. I wonder if he'll succeed this time?"

"Boyhood? Chen Kaige's childhood? Isn't that the period? How could this kind of subject matter pass censorship?"

"Parasite and Boyhood are going to Cannes together? Wow, it's been a long time since the industry has been this excited. I'm really looking forward to it."

"Speaking of which, apart from Chen Fei and Chen Kaige, no other director in the industry has ever won the Palme d'Or. I wonder if they'll have a chance this time?"

The discussion within the industry continues.

While busy writing the script, Chen Fei also received a lot of gossip.

For example, Ren Zhonglun secretly told him that the subject matter of Chen Kaige's film was indeed about that period.

Wang Yong then sent him a message saying that the newly appointed person at China Film Group had acted as guarantor, which is why the film was able to pass censorship smoothly.

"My dad said that the new Chairman Fu from China Film Group is probably betting everything on Chen Kaige."

When Chen Fei heard this news from Han Jianu, he wasn't too surprised.

Now, almost all of these directors of art-house and commercial films in China have found their own affiliations.

Huanxi has a coalition of top directors, Bona relies on the Hong Kong film industry, while Alibaba and Tencent are flush with cash, waving their money around to recruit talent, while Wanda has practically withered away...

In this situation, if Fu Ruoqing wants to break the deadlock after taking office, she must find a director with a big enough reputation.

Chen Kaige is undoubtedly the best choice.

Having won the Palme d'Or, "My People, My Country" has grossed over 30 billion yuan at the box office.

He's actually quite capable, but he's too arrogant, and no one can control him, which has led to this awkward situation.

"I'm actually quite curious."

Chen Fei's sudden remark immediately caught Han Jianu's attention.

What are you curious about?

"I'm curious what kind of mess China Film Group and Chen Kaige will make of getting involved together."

"What else could it be?" Han Jianu stabbed her father without hesitation. "The Promise, of course. A bloodbath caused by a steamed bun. It's been 17 years, but I still don't understand it."

Chen Fei almost lost his composure.

That girl has a sharp tongue; she can start insulting people without you even realizing it.

"What are you writing?" Han Jianu suddenly noticed Chen Fei's actions again and curiously came closer.

The next second, the words "Detective Chinatown 1990" came into view.

The story takes place in San Francisco's Chinatown in 1990.

A white woman was mysteriously murdered, and police pointed the finger at a Chinese person, bringing racial tensions to the brink of eruption.

Qin Fu, a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, is intelligent, calm, and has excellent reasoning skills, while A Gui, an Indian hunter, is humorous, impulsive, and knows Chinatown inside and out.

To clear the name of the Chinese people, the two embark on a journey to catch the murderer.

The investigation is fraught with complex clues, ranging from mysterious Chinatown gangs to hidden secret organizations, and is fraught with danger.

Qin Fu uses the traditional Chinese medicine concepts of "observation, auscultation, inquiry, and palpation" to solve cases, while A Gui uses his street smarts to outwit his opponents. Their tacit cooperation creates many hilarious moments and high-energy reasoning scenes.

As the case unfolded, it revealed a heavy history, including the Chinese Exclusion Act and the tragic history of Chinese laborers.

The leader of a Chinese gang secretly protects Chinatown, while progressive youths stand up for justice...

The story blends comedy and suspense with a strong sense of national pride, culminating in the emotional climax with the words "Save China" at the end!
Upon seeing the story outline and a portion of the plot that had already been completed, Han Jianu, a graduate student majoring in literature, immediately gave a thumbs up.

"Senior, your screenwriting skills are truly amazing! I admire you..."

Upon hearing this, Chen Fei glanced at her, frowned, and questioned, "You still haven't said what you're here for today? You've been here for over an hour. If you have something to say, just say it. If not, go play and don't bother me."

"It's nothing," Han Jianu shrugged. "I was bored at home, and Wen Muye went to Shanghai for an event, so I came to the company to hang out."

Play?
What Chen Fei can't stand the most is seeing himself busy while others are idle.

Especially since Han Jianu kept waving her cheeky face in front of him, giving him a headache.

"Alright, since you're bored, I'll give you another script..."

"No! Senior brother, you can't go back on your word!" Han Jianu jumped back two steps instantly, her face full of vigilance. "You said last month that you would give me a long vacation after finishing 'Parasite,' and now you're giving me another script? My eyes are practically panda eyes from staying up so long!"

She stood with her hands on her hips, looking very unhappy.

She was planning to go to Sanya together after Wen Muye finished his work, so she would never accept this script!

Chen Fei rolled his eyes at her, but couldn't help but smile: "Don't get so worked up yet. This script is a birthday gift for Yifei. She wants to try directing a movie herself, so I wrote her a script outline."

Since you're free lately, why not use your brain and help me fill in the plot, or make a mind map, do some research or something? That should be fine, right?

Han Jianu leaned over suspiciously, took the outline Chen Fei handed her, and finally felt relieved after glancing at it.

It's clearly a low-budget art film; this kind of plot is perfect for a new director.

"Alright, since it's for Yifei, and I happen to be free, I'll help you out."

After saying that, she put the script outline into her bag, turned around and left.

This place is no longer safe to stay; if I stay any longer, I might have to take on other jobs.

Before we knew it, it was June.

Several notices from the Spring Festival films were sent to the cinemas.

"The Killer Is Not So Calm" has had its release date extended to April 4th.

"The key to 'Miracle Kid' has been extended to April 1st."

"The release of 'Boonie Bears: Return to Earth' will be extended to April 1st."

Along with the announcement, box office figures for three films were also released.

"The Killer Is Not Calm" has successfully surpassed 25 billion yuan.

"Miracle Kid" grossed 15 billion.

"Boonie Bears Returns to Earth" grossed 11.7 billion yuan.

Overall, the stock market index wasn't particularly high during this year's Spring Festival holiday, but those who were in the know still made a fortune.

Upon seeing this, some people immediately became restless.

At iQiyi headquarters, Gong Yu convened all senior executives and announced a major event concerning the company's strategic development!

The overhead light in the conference room cast a sharp halo behind Gong Yu as he slammed three box office reports heavily onto the center of the long table, his expression extremely excited.

"The Killer grossed 25 billion, Miracle grossed 15 billion, and even animated films can break 11 billion!" His gaze swept over the tense executives in the audience, his eyes blazing. "Streaming platforms have been stuck in the quagmire of membership growth for too long. We must tear open a new battlefield. From now on, I announce that iQiyi will enter the film industry!"

Upon hearing this, the operations director instinctively retorted, "President Gong, theatrical distribution requires vast offline resources, we..."

“Resources can be integrated, and channels can be expanded!” Gong Yu pressed the projector remote control, and the large screen switched to an industry analysis chart.

He pulled up a project library that had been secretly in preparation for half a year and said to the incredulous looks of the crowd: "The number of online moviegoers during this year's Spring Festival has decreased by 18%, and users need a more immersive experience."

We have the talent for content creation and the advantage of high traffic, so why can't we create our own hit shows? From suspense and science fiction to comedy, we have a full range of genres, simultaneously developing spin-off series and games to form a closed-loop content ecosystem – that's what a truly mature ecosystem is!

The meeting room fell into a brief silence.

After a moment, the CFO swallowed hard and cautiously began, "The film requires a huge initial investment and has a slow return on investment. If it fails at the box office..."

"Nothing ventured, nothing gained!" Gong Yu interrupted him, turning to look out the window at the CBD, her eyes filled with determination. "Within three years, iQiyi must become a game-changer in the film and television industry! This is an order, meeting adjourned! All departments must submit feasibility plans within three hours!"

After saying that, he turned and left, leaving everyone looking at each other in bewilderment.

Someone asked curiously, "What's wrong with Boss? What triggered this?"

However, no one knows this at the moment.

It wasn't until the next morning, when Youku officially released its announcement, that everyone realized what had happened!

(End of this chapter)