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

Chapter 1427 Now that things have come to this, we have no choice but to take a gamble!
"Shoot!"

Ultimately, it was Yu Dong who made the decision.

He slammed his hand heavily on the conference table and said in a deep voice, "We've already invested 1 million yuan in the preliminary preparations, script polishing, and location scouting."

If filming stops now, all that money will be wasted, but if we take a gamble, maybe there'll still be a chance.

In the conference room, the senior executives exchanged glances, then lowered their heads and remained silent.

Now that the boss has already set the tone, even if they still have concerns about the mainstream market, no one dares to object anymore.

After all, Yu Dong's decisiveness in the company has never been easily shaken.

Yu Dong glanced at everyone and continued, "Since we've decided to film this, we need to show some fighting spirit. Since everyone's here today, let's talk about how to move things forward."

The production manager spoke first, flipping through the cost accounting sheet in his hand: "Mr. Yu, based on the current script's length, plus overseas filming and action scene design, the total cost is conservatively estimated to be around 4 to 5 million."

"Money isn't the issue; the key is to spend it wisely." Yu Dong waved his hand, then looked at the publicity manager, "How should we plan the pre-launch promotion?"

The publicity director immediately chimed in: "Our initial plan was to take the 'nostalgia + suspense' route, first using the hype from 'Operation Red Sea' to evoke memories in the audience."

Then we'll gradually release concept art for maritime rescue scenes from "Operation Jiaolong," omitting specific plot details and only emphasizing the gimmick of "escalating naval warfare" to whet the appetite.

"Okay, let's do it."

Yu Dong nodded in satisfaction.

Although "Operation Red Sea" was produced by Feiyue Films, it's fine for them to use the popularity of the film.

Even if Chen Fei was dissatisfied, could he possibly object?
This is the "mainstream ideology," who dares to openly express dissatisfaction?

Director Lin Chaoxian, who had been silent until now, spoke up. He had just returned from scouting locations overseas, and his expression was confident as he said:
"I have a suggestion: try to bring back the original actors from 'Operation Red Sea'. After all, our film is touted as a 'continuation of naval warfare,' and familiar faces can quickly bridge the gap."

Moreover, our goal is to surpass our predecessors, and having a familiar team allows us to get into the swing of things more quickly, with lower integration costs.

“That’s a good idea.” Yu Dong nodded in approval, then his tone suddenly became more serious. “My core requirement here is just one thing: it has to be more shocking than Operation Red Sea.”

The action scenes, the scale of the rescues, and the emotional intensity all need to be improved; we can't let the audience feel like it's just "old wine in new bottles."

Lin Chaoxian immediately agreed: "Don't worry, the danger and visual impact of the naval battlefield offer more room for maneuver than on land."

I've already spoken with the action choreography team and we're preparing to design scenes like 'deep-sea diving rescue' and 'ship standoff during a typhoon,' ensuring they're thrilling. We've also got big-name international actors joining us, so we're absolutely confident everything will go smoothly..."

"Okay, let's do it this way. I trust you to handle things."

The day after the meeting concluded, Bona Film Group's official account released three announcements in quick succession, instantly stirring up the previously quiet film and television industry:
Bona Film Group officially announced the project launch of "Operation Jiaolong," with director Lin Chaoxian at the helm, to create a legendary tale of the Jiaolong special forces!

Synopsis of "Operation Jiaolong" revealed: Focusing on the overseas missions of the Chinese Navy's Jiaolong Commando Unit, the film depicts a hostage rescue operation deep underwater and the thwarting of an international smuggling ring's conspiracy. A comprehensive, all-encompassing, land, and air rescue operation is about to unfold!

"The casting for 'Operation Jiaolong' has officially begun, seeking the strongest 'Jiaolong team members' and recruiting tough-guy actors from around the world..."

As soon as the news broke, many actors in the film and television industry who had just been rejected from the casting for "The Three-Body Problem" took notice.

Having missed out on a 30 billion yuan sci-fi blockbuster, a 5 million yuan patriotic action blockbuster might be an opportunity.

As a result, many talent agencies immediately began preparing actor profiles.

Meanwhile, the internet exploded with discussion.

The hashtags #OperationJiaolong# and #OperationRedSeaUpgrade# quickly trended on social media, and the discussion forums were filled with anticipation.

"This sounds interesting. Jiaolong Commando? Is this an upgraded version of 'Operation Red Sea'? I cried when I watched 'Operation Red Sea' back then. I hope this maritime rescue will be even more exciting."

"It would be perfect if we could get Zhang Yi and Huang Jingyu back! The chemistry between veteran actors is something new actors can't match. I just hope the core cast can continue to perform!"

"Filming maritime rescues is much more difficult than filming on land. The ship battles during typhoons and the deep-sea diving rescues are just adrenaline-pumping. If we can film them well, they could definitely surpass 'Operation Red Sea'!"

"Holy crap, Bona Film Group has hit the jackpot! Although the patriotic films were a flop during the National Day holiday, Lin Chaoxian's action films have never disappointed. Maybe 'Operation Dragon' can save the patriotic film market."

"Goodness, finally another decent naval military film! Hopefully, it won't be padded with too much romance, and will be high-energy from start to finish like 'Operation Red Sea.' If it can surpass its predecessor, the box office is guaranteed."

The topic has sparked heated discussions online.

China Film Group was the first in the industry to notice Bona's moves.

On Fu Ruoqing's desk, there was still a box office review report for "The Volunteer Army: Mighty Army Strikes".

The final result of 8.6 million has left him with a furrowed brow these past few days.

As a leading company that focuses on mainstream themes, such box office performance is hardly impressive, and it even made him waver on subsequent projects.

But after seeing Bona Film Group officially announce the launch of "Operation Jiaolong," his anxiety suddenly subsided, and he regained his confidence.

"Since others are willing to gamble, we have no reason to back down!"

Soon, a high-level meeting of China Film Group was held in a tense atmosphere.

There is only one core issue: Did "The Volunteer Army: Mighty Army Attack" lose money or not?

The CFO presented the accounting sheet item by item: "President Fu, our film's total box office revenue is over 8 million, with box office revenue sharing of approximately 3.2 million. In addition, we sold streaming media rights and television broadcasting rights for 2.8 million, and merchandise licensing for nearly 1 million."

After deducting marketing and distribution costs of 1.5 million yuan, the final net profit was approximately 5000 million yuan. Although it wasn't much, it was still a profit.

"It's good that we made money." Fu Ruoqing's tense shoulders relaxed a bit, and she looked at the production director. "Some people said that no one watched patriotic films before, but now it seems that it's not that the subject matter is bad, but that the work itself is not up to par."

The production manager immediately responded, "Actually, the main problem is that there are too many competing films released at the same time, and our narrative pace is indeed a bit slower than 'The Long Way Home'..."

Upon hearing this, Fu Ruoqing suddenly slammed her hand on the table, her tone resolute: "Since you won't compensate us, then let's make a sequel! This time, we'll show our true abilities and earn back the reputation we've lost!"

As soon as he finished speaking, the assistant invited director Chen Kaige and the screenwriting team into the conference room.

Immediately, everyone started a heated discussion about "how to film the sequel".

From choosing the campaign to developing the characters, they debated for nearly three hours before finally settling on the new project.

The Chinese People's Volunteer Army: A Battle for Survival!
“The name has two layers of meaning,” Chen Kaige explained. “First, it restores the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army’s desperate defense in the Battle of Shangganling, where they fought to the death. Second, it echoes the core theme that ‘defending the homeland is to protect the survival of the nation,’ making it more impactful than the first film.”

Fu Ruoqing nodded in approval: "Okay, let's use this name then. The plot needs to be more focused, the battle scenes more realistic, and the emotional portrayals more touching." "Don't worry, this time I'll learn from the lessons of the previous work..."

Chen Kai patted his chest and immediately made another pledge.

On the same day the meeting concluded, China Film Group's official account simultaneously released three announcements, quickly seizing the spotlight:
"Reprinted from China Film Group's official website, 'The Chinese People's Volunteer Army: A Battle for Survival' has been officially approved, with Chen Kaige directing again to continue the epic tale of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea!"

"The Battle for Survival will focus on the Battle of Shangganling, using a microcosm to depict the grand scale of the desperate defense and revealing the unsung heroes behind the 'Great Wall of Flesh and Blood'!"

"Preparations for 'The Chinese People's Volunteer Army 2' have officially begun. Script polishing is underway, and casting will begin at the end of the year..."

Upon hearing the news, film producers in the industry, who had been waiting and watching due to the lukewarm reception of patriotic films, breathed a sigh of relief.

As industry "bellwethers," China Film Group and Bona Film Group have both bet on new mainstream projects, clearly demonstrating their confidence in the market.

Suddenly, those shelved mainstream scripts were brought back to the forefront.

Major companies have successively started preparations, and the "mainstream patriotism craze" in the film and television industry seems to be showing signs of recovery.

Meanwhile, in the audition studio of Feiyue Films, the lights were focused on the center of the stage.

Chen Fei stared at the monitor, conducting auditions for the last few key supporting roles in "The Three-Body Problem".

During his break, he picked up his phone and browsed the trending topics.

In a short time, hashtags such as #JiaolongOperationCastingStarted# and #VolunteerArmy2FocusingOnShangganling# appeared on the screen.

However, as he traced the discussions about the resurgence of mainstream sentiment with his fingertips, his eyes remained unmoved.

Su Guohai, who was standing nearby, noticed his expression and asked curiously, "Chairman Chen, you don't seem to have much faith in these two new projects from China Film Group and Bona Film Group?"

Chen Fei put down his phone, shook his head, and said calmly, "No, I'm not targeting these two projects, but I'm not optimistic about the current mainstream market."

"What do you mean by that?" Su Guohai was taken aback.

After all, China Film Group just officially announced the sequel, and Bona Film Group's project is also generating a lot of buzz, which is seen by industry insiders as a sign of recovery.

"It's simple, the audience's novelty has worn off." Chen Fei leaned back in his chair and explained, "The reason why patriotic themes were popular a few years ago was because the combination of 'patriotism' and 'industrialized production' was novel, and the audience was willing to pay for the passion."

However, with similar works now flooding the market, the plots are formulaic and the characters are stereotyped. The box office performance of "The Volunteer Army: Mighty Army Strikes" is a signal that the subject matter is not bad, but rather that it lacks originality.

China Film Group and Bona Film Group are now following suit, seemingly capitalizing on the "sequel nostalgia" trend. However, if they merely change the battle or the setting without truly delving deeper into the story and characters, they will ultimately be abandoned by the market.

Su Guohai pondered these words, nodded, and didn't ask any further questions.

After the break, the auditions resumed.

The competition for key roles among Chang Weisi, Yang Dong, Ding Yi, and Shen Yufei is particularly fierce.

However, in the end, they decided to use the familiar faces from Feiyue Films.

Chang Weisi was selected by Zhang Hanyu, whose inherent military toughness perfectly matched the calm and dignified demeanor of the "first commander of the Space Force".

Yang Dong then decided on Shu Chang. When she got serious, her cool and aloof aura perfectly captured the rationality and despair of this physicist.

Ding Yi handed the role to Zhu Yawen, whose delicate control over the "scholar-type role" was enough to demonstrate the uninhibited and insightful nature of a theoretical physicist.

Shen Yufei was won by Zhao Liying. She has made great breakthroughs in art films in recent years and is able to carry the role’s mystery and contradictions.

These actors are all familiar faces who have collaborated with Feiyue Films many times. They know each other well, so the adjustment cost is extremely low.

It was especially convenient for Chen Fei to use.

November 1st arrived quietly.

That morning, the official account of Feiyue Film and Television released a message on time, officially announcing that the casting for "The Three-Body Problem" had been completed, with the caption "A constellation of stars gathers to fulfill the promise of the Three-Body universe," and attached the complete cast list.

As soon as the news broke, the hashtag #TheThreeBodyProtectionFullCastOfficiallyAnnounced# instantly became a trending topic!

Fans are hotly debating the list, with some in favor and others opposed.

This is normal; after all, everyone has their own interpretation of Hamlet, and no one can please everyone.

Chen Fei ignored the online comments and went to the cinema with Liu Yifei.

Today, Zhang Yimou's daughter Zhang Mo's new film "Saving Suspects" was officially released online.

When the film premiered, Zhang Yimou had specially invited Chen Fei, but unfortunately he was busy with the audition for "The Three-Body Problem" and couldn't find the time to attend.

Nowadays, it's only natural to rent out a whole theater to support a movie during its theatrical release.

This movie mainly tells the story of top female lawyer Chen Zhiqi, who is forced to defend a death row inmate to overturn his case in order to save her kidnapped daughter. However, during the investigation, she discovers a shocking secret hidden behind the case!

As the clues are gradually uncovered, she finds herself caught in a dilemma between "justice and family ties"...

The lights in the theater dimmed, and the plot gradually became more engaging.

When Liu Yifei saw Zhang Xiaofei, who plays Chen Zhiqi, acting opposite Kara Hui, who plays Lin Shue, the mother of the victim, she turned her head slightly and said to Chen Fei, "Zhang Xiaofei seems to have suddenly become popular recently, and her resources have visibly improved."

Chen Fei smiled and replied in a low voice, "Mainly because the movie 'Hi, Mom' gave her a lot of support, and she went from being a supporting actress in a comedy to being in the mainstream spotlight all at once, and she also gained a lot of audience favor."

The moment he finished speaking, the climax of their scene together appeared on the screen.

With just a tearful look in her eyes, Kara Hui perfectly conveyed the character's pain and obsession, while Zhang Xiaofei's performance, though also decent, paled in comparison to Hui's commanding presence.

Chen Fei pondered to herself: Her fame has indeed helped her gain a foothold, but in terms of acting skills, she is still somewhat unable to compete with veteran actresses like Kara Hui.

This is also the current situation for many young actors: stuck in the middle, in a very awkward position...

But then he remembered something else.

I wonder if Jia Ling's new movie "Hot Wave" will boost Zhang Xiaofei's popularity again.
If she doesn't receive good scripts to hone her acting skills, relying solely on the afterglow of a hit show won't last long, and she'll likely only be a flash in the pan...

(End of this chapter)