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

Chapter 1416 "Ingratitude???"

"The Venice International Film Festival red carpet ceremony is underway, with Gong Li, Liu Yifei, and Zhang Manyu shining in Venice!"

"Yang Ying appeared on the Venice red carpet, radiating charm in a red dress..."

"Feiyue Films released a new announcement stating that 'Joy of Life,' starring Zhang Ruoyun, Li Qin, Guo Qilin, and others, is officially scheduled to premiere on the Youku platform in December."

"Several web series, including 'Hunter's Guide to Crime 2,' 'With the Phoenix,' and 'Hunter of Ice,' have been officially announced to be in development..."

"The crime film 'The Eighth Suspect,' starring Da Peng, is scheduled to be released on September 9th."

……

The venue for the Venice International Film Festival is already brightly lit.

Chen Fei led Liu Yifei, Gong Li, and Zhang Manyu across the red carpet and officially entered the venue.

Meanwhile, in China, major entertainment platforms were simultaneously broadcasting the red carpet event live.

The footage of the three walking side by side on the red carpet was repeatedly edited, and topics such as #LiuYifeiGongLiZhangManyuTogether# and #ChenFeiAttendsVeniceWithThreeBestActresses# quickly dominated the trending searches.

Looking around, the comments section is full of praise:
"This cast is a real credit to Chinese cinema!"

"A divine couple in the same frame, every frame is a masterpiece!"

"My God! This is what it means for women to hold up half the sky..."

Meanwhile, Yang Ying's team was also simultaneously following up with marketing, repeatedly emphasizing in press releases the "stunning red dress" and "international flair".

However, compared to Liu Yifei and the others' achievements and presence, they ultimately seemed to lack strength, had few supporters, and the comments section was filled with doubts such as "What's the use of just walking the red carpet without any works?"

The venue was bustling with people, a vibrant scene of filmmakers from all over the world.

Chen Fei had extensive connections in the European and American film industry, and he led the three of them through it, greeting many familiar directors and producers.

Denis Villeneuve, director of "Dune," Luca Guadagnino, director of "Call Me by Your Name," and others were all present, chatting familiarly with Chen Fei...

More than half an hour later, the red carpet ceremony came to a close, and the opening ceremony of the 80th Venice International Film Festival officially began.

Because the originally scheduled opening film, "The Challenger," was withdrawn due to the Hollywood strike, the organizing committee made a last-minute change and set "Chimera," directed by Italian director Alice Rohrwacher, as the opening film.

This fantasy film, which explores love and archaeology, added a unique artistic touch to the opening ceremony.

Meanwhile, the lineup of judges was officially announced at the opening ceremony.

The jury president is American director/screenwriter Damien Chazelle, whose representative work, "Whiplash," is known for its precise pacing and profound interpretation of dreams, and has won multiple Academy Awards.

In addition to Shu Qi from China, the judging panel also includes:

Salai Bakri, a Palestinian actress, won the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in "It Must Be Paradise" and is known for her nuanced performances that convey complex emotions.

Jane Campiss is a New Zealand director and screenwriter. Her representative work, The Piano, won the Palme d'Or at Cannes with its unique female perspective and poetic yet sharp style.

Mia Hansen-Loff is a French director whose works, such as "Things to Come" and "Bergman Island," focus on the inner growth of characters and have won the Silver Bear Award at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Martin McDonagh is a British director and playwright. His films, such as Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and the Banshee of Enisherin, explore human nature with dark humor and have been nominated for Oscars multiple times.

Santiago Mitre, an Argentine director, won the Best Screenplay Award at the Venice Film Festival for his film "Argentina 1985," which directly addresses historical wounds.

Laura Petras, an American documentary filmmaker, used "Citizenfour" to expose the Prism scandal, combining journalistic depth with artistic expression.

The host then introduced each of the films shortlisted for the main competition.

"The Room Next Door" was the only Chinese-language film to be highlighted, and when the camera panned across Liu Yifei and the main creative team, the entire audience burst into enthusiastic applause.

Female directors and female leads are currently the mainstream in the European and American markets, and they are highly likely to win awards!

As the time quietly approached 10 p.m., after the last film was introduced, Damien Chazelle, on behalf of the jury, delivered a speech, officially opening the film festival.

As the lights came on and the crowd gradually left, the opening ceremony of the 80th Venice International Film Festival came to a successful close.

After returning to the hotel, Chen Fei said goodbye to Gong Li and Zhang Manyu at the elevator entrance, and then went back to his room with Liu Yifei.

"I need to take a shower first, it stinks!" Liu Yifei couldn't help but frown and complain as soon as she closed the door.

Europeans and Americans tend to have strong body odor, and they spray perfume like it's free. When mixed together, the smell is particularly strong, which makes her always feel like she has a strange smell on her.

"I need to take a shower too." Chen Fei nodded and headed towards the bathroom.

"Oh, let me finish washing first, then you can wash." Liu Yifei reached out to push him out, her eyes filled with wariness.

She knew her husband's character better than anyone.

This guy becomes completely unruly when he's alone; who knows what tricks he'll pull next.

However, Chen Fei remained unmoved despite her shoving. Instead, he moved closer and solemnly offered his excuse:

"Let's shower together. We can use this time to talk about the PR awards... What points should the judging panel focus on next? Should we adjust the promotional language again?"

Liu Yifei hesitated for a moment after hearing what he said. Thinking that there were indeed many things to finalize, she didn't insist anymore and reluctantly hummed, "Okay, it's settled! We'll only talk about business, no other things allowed."

"Okay," Chen Fei agreed readily.

But once inside the bathroom, as soon as the hot water soaked his body, Chen Fei's hands started to wander.

Halfway through the shower, Liu Yifei was pinned against the cold glass wall by him.

With her back pressed against his burning chest, her heart skipped a beat. Her beautiful eyes welled up with tears as she turned and glared at him: "Didn't you say you wanted to talk business? How come you're doing something naughty again while we're showering?"

Chen Fei lowered his head and nuzzled her neck, his voice tinged with amusement: "We can still talk like this, it won't delay anything."

Liu Yifei felt weak all over from his action, turned her head away listlessly, and couldn't help but scold him softly: "What's the point of talking like this... Hurry up, I haven't finished washing yet."

"it is good."

Chen Fei agreed, but turned her around, picked her up, and carried her to the showerhead to rinse off the foam. Then he carried her to the bedroom.

As they passed the master bedroom, Liu Yifei asked curiously, "Why don't you go to the master bedroom?"

Chen Fei leaned down and whispered mischievously in her ear, "We need to keep the wet and dry areas separate."

Before he could finish speaking, he had already carried the person into the second bedroom, the wind he created carrying away the last muttered word: "You rascal, you're so bad."

The sound of water dripping from the bathroom behind me was still going on, but it was quickly drowned out by an even more ambiguous atmosphere...

Outside the window, the night in Venice was deep, and the sound of the waves mingled with the whispers inside the room, creating the most beautiful melody...

This ordeal lasted until late at night.

It's impossible to discuss business now.

The two went from the damp bed to the bathroom, took a shower, and then returned to the master bedroom to sleep. ...

The following morning, sunlight streamed through the gaps in the curtains and onto the bed.

Liu Yifei mumbled that she wanted to sleep in, turned over, covered her head with the blanket, and refused to get out of bed.

Looking at her languid appearance, Chen Fei smiled slightly, gently kissed her forehead, and then quietly got out of bed to go to the dining room for dinner.

Sitting by the window in the restaurant, he ate his breakfast while browsing the news.

Several breaking news items quickly came into view:
"Breaking news! China Film Group's production, 'The Chinese People's Volunteer Army Strikes Back,' has officially announced its release date of September 28. The film is directed by Chen Kaige and features an all-star cast including Tang Guoqiang, Huang Xiaoming, and Zhang Ziyi, in an epic portrayal of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea."

"Feiyue Films' masterpiece 'The Long Way Home' is scheduled for release during the National Day holiday. Kang Honglei personally directed the film, and Zhang Yi, Peng Yuchang, and Jing Tian portray the legendary evacuation of overseas Chinese."

"The film 'All or Nothing' has officially wrapped filming. Directed by Shen Ao, the film stars Zhu Yilong, Yang Mi, and Wang Jinsong, and exposes the dark side of overseas fraud..."

"The youth inspirational film 'Let's Shake the Sun Together' has wrapped up filming. It tells a healing journey full of love and strength."

"Shanghai Chinese Film Production Co., Ltd.'s 'Moscow Mission' is scheduled for release during the National Day holiday. The film is directed by Qiu Litao and stars Zhang Hanyu, Liu Dehua, and Huang Xuan in a transnational manhunt."

Chen Fei wasn't surprised that "The Volunteer Army Strikes Back" and "The Long Journey Home" were scheduled to be released at the same time, as he had already anticipated this.

Both of these patriotic films are aimed at the National Day holiday.

At this crucial juncture, igniting the audience's patriotism with passionate stories is a strategically vital endeavor.

He was quite curious about the Shanghai-based production company behind the film "Moscow Mission".

Which company is this?
How could they field such a star-studded lineup as Zhang Hanyu, Liu Dehua, and Huang Xuan right off the bat?

Chen Fei casually went online to search.

After searching for a while, he suddenly realized!

Shanghai Huaren Film Industry Co., Ltd. was registered and established in 16, with Xie Li as its legal representative.

It is a film platform under CMC Holdings, a comprehensive film company covering the entire industry chain, including the development, production, promotion, business, and domestic and international distribution of live-action and animated films.

This company maintains close partnerships with major domestic film production companies, mainstream Hollywood studios, directors and producers worldwide, and is committed to providing the film market with both local and international films.

To put it simply, this is a resource integration company with unique advantages in distribution.

……

After finishing his meal, Chen Fei didn't disturb Liu Yifei, letting her continue to catch up on her sleep, and went straight to the hotel's conference room.

The head of the public relations team was already waiting there with materials. On the table were detailed information on the members of the jury of this year's Venice International Film Festival, an analysis of past award preferences, and the initial feedback from international film critics on "The Room Next Door".

"Focus on the Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress awards; aim for second place and maybe even third..."

After sitting down, Chen Fei got straight to the point, pointing to the name of jury president Damien Chazelle with his fingertip, "His works emphasize emotional resonance and formal innovation. We need to highlight the delicate portrayal of the female characters in the film, as well as the Eastern aesthetics of the cinematic language."

Also, there's no need to contact Shu Qi; I don't get along with her. I'll focus my efforts on the other female judges..."

As he spoke, the team quickly took notes, occasionally offering specific implementation plans.

For example, arranging meetings between the main creators and jury members at the premiere, strategically releasing behind-the-scenes documentaries, and even contacting several influential international media outlets to publish in-depth film reviews in advance...

Meanwhile, back in China, in the office of China Film Group, Fu Ruoqing was staring blankly at the National Day film schedule on her computer screen.

On the screen, the release dates for "The Journey Home" and "Moscow Mission" were prominently displayed.

With its own "The Volunteer Army Strikes Back," the battle for mainstream films during this year's National Day holiday is destined to be exceptionally fierce.

During his tenure as chairman of China Film Group, although he successfully promoted the release of several films, he always felt that there was a lack of a benchmark work that could completely establish its position.

The first installment of the Fengshen series has grossed over 20 billion yuan, which seems impressive, but it is deeply mired in controversy over its "drastic alteration" and its reputation has never been unified. It is clearly unable to shoulder the heavy responsibility of "stabilizing its position".

"The Volunteer Army must achieve a remarkable box office result," Fu Ruoqing muttered to herself, tapping her fingertips on the table.

This film, directed by Chen Kaige and starring Tang Guoqiang, Huang Xiaoming, Zhang Ziyi, and others, is about the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. It features both grand war scenes and delicate character portrayals, and has been highly anticipated since the script stage.

He needed a film that could win both critical acclaim and box office success to prove China Film Group's control over mainstream themes, and "The Volunteer Army's Mighty Attack" was undoubtedly the best bet.

At almost the same time, several films scheduled for release during the National Day holiday have begun their promotional campaigns:
The first trailer for "The Long Journey Home" was released, featuring a scene where Zhang Yi, playing a diplomat, protects his compatriots during a hail of bullets, accompanied by the line "I'll take you home," successfully igniting the audience's patriotic sentiments.

The film "Moscow Mission" released a special featurette on "Transnational Manhunt," featuring intense scenes between Zhang Hanyu and Liu Dehua, and Huang Xuan's portrayal of the villain with his sinister gaze, sparking heated discussions about "a battle of acting gods."

China Film Group was not to be outdone. With the release of a set of comparison pictures of the historical figures who were the prototypes in the film "The Volunteer Army Strikes Back", the company emphasized that "every name deserves to be remembered", playing the sentimental card accurately and effectively.

The battle for box office supremacy during the National Day holiday has already quietly begun.

……

Around noon, Chen Fei came out of the conference room and paused for a moment when he opened the hotel room door.

Two familiar figures were sitting on the living room sofa!
"Oh? You two are back from your honeymoon?" he teased with a smile, his gaze falling on Han Jianu and Wen Muye.

Wen Muye quickly stood up to greet him, revealing a set of white teeth: "Director Chen."

He had traveled to many places recently, and his skin was tanned dark. His face showed signs of travel fatigue, but he was full of energy.

Han Jianu lay lazily on the sofa with her legs draped over the armrest. She rolled her eyes when she heard this: "It's still a long way off. I haven't even finished half of my world tour. I just happened to be in Europe and heard you were in Venice, so I came to check it out."

Chen Fei closed the door, walked to the sofa and sat down. His gaze swept over the two of them, and he suddenly smiled: "You've come at the perfect time."

Han Jianu's heart skipped a beat, and she looked at him warily: "What do you want to do?"

“Since we’re here, let’s not rush to leave,” Chen Fei said slowly. “It’s not too late to set off after the film festival awards ceremony.”

"The venue for the premiere of 'The Room Next Door' is still being set up, and we're a bit short-handed. You two can help keep an eye on the details, especially the lighting and sound effects; they need to be done to our own standards."

Han Jianu slumped back onto the sofa, wailing, "I knew it! I shouldn't have come! This isn't a show, it's like you've conscripted me!"

Wen Muye couldn't help but laugh and tugged at her arm: "Sure, I'll help you. It's on my way anyway."

"Of course you'd be happy, but I'm the one who's suffering. I finally get a few days off..."

Han Jianu muttered complaints, but didn't actually refuse.

She knew Chen Fei's personality; if he asked, he must really need help, especially since she was one of the producers and supervisors of this film.

Chen Fei looked at her insincere expression and raised an eyebrow, saying, "I'll write you a good script later."

"What the heck?" Han Jianu was stunned for a moment, pointing at Chen Fei with disbelief on her face. "Senior brother! You...you can't do this?! Isn't this repaying kindness with enmity?!"

(End of this chapter)