Full-time actor

Werner Herzog had to shrug his shoulders, and there was a hint of melancholy on his face when he looked at Jiang Wen.

“This film is too showy, but I have to admit its savage vitality.”

When Chen Yu heard the questions from these foreigners, he tried his best to remain calm.

There are so many metaphors in this movie that it is obvious that even though Jiang Wen is of the opinion that no one can understand it, he does not want to answer them one by one.

This is in line with Jiang Wen's temperament.

"This is an irrational movie. When I was filming The Sun Also Rises, I didn't use rationality to narrate the story, but relied on my intuition and dream logic to advance the story."

Jiang Wen's voice echoed throughout the screening room, undoubtedly attracting everyone's attention.

From the moment we entered the screening room, we never stopped studying the ultimate idea that the film was going to describe.

“For those who don’t understand, you may need to read it again.”

As Jiang Wen finished speaking, Chen Yu and Zhang Yimou were the first to applaud.

This prompted other directors, actors and reporters on the scene to join in the movement, and everyone generously applauded to judge the strength of the film.

Even if you don’t understand it, this shooting technique is still amazing.

The applause died down.

As for Zhang Yimou, he had come back to his senses from his recent worries and turned to look at Jiang Wen in front of him.

After all, it’s their premiere.

“Full of passion and creativity.”

"China needs directors like you who dare to break the rules."

This is commercial mutual praise.

"..."

Chen Yu and Liu Yifei didn't take it to heart.

In foreign countries, this kind of flattering behavior is very popular, and lying is a required subject overseas; even the future top internet celebrity in a certain country is lying every day for trivial matters.

But we have to admit that the absurdity and bizarreness of "The Sun" amazed Liu Yifei.

When she heard Chen Yu's comments before, she still didn't understand.

Now after watching the film, I can only say that I only have a limited understanding of it.

Most likely, you'll have to watch it again.

"Just run away after you finish reading this, kid!"

Jiang Wen's words stopped Chen Yu from getting up. He did not think about leaving. After all, as the leading actor of "The Sun", he had to know the final answer.

Several foreign directors and superstars have left one after another, and media reporters have also prepared their own manuscripts. Naturally, everyone has their own opinions about "The Sun"; this movie is undoubtedly much more complicated than "Better Days".

But for complex films, film reviews are easy to write because there is so much to write about, so reporters are very excited.

However, Zhang Yimou did not leave immediately, and this scene further dispelled the previous rumors of discord between the two.

Chen Yu and his group had a simple meal.

The next step was to wait for the program score, and Chen Yu, Jiang Wen and others returned again.

At this time, there were already many people gathered in front of the Film Palace. The films screened in the main competition in recent days have basically been completed, and everyone is naturally very curious about the final result.

Chen Yu looked at Jiang Wen with a smile. The latter's lofty ambitions were still fresh in his mind. However, even the most arrogant person could still be seen to be nervous when facing this result.

"It's just a rating in the program book. I'm not really afraid of it."

Jiang Wen strode towards that location, while Zhou Yun just smiled helplessly.

Others may not understand, but she has been with Jiang Wen for many years and naturally knows how he feels now.

I followed him silently. Of course, I couldn't let him face it alone at this time.

“I feel like the ratings for The Sun might not be too high!”

After all, foreigners can’t understand it.

Liu Yifei's voice rang in Chen Yu's ears. The latter frowned slightly, but did not say what he was thinking.

but--

The score should not be too high, and I am not jumping to conclusions.

Chen Yuyou has observed that the emotional value given by the audience watching the movie at that time is enough to know the final score.

The two did not come forward, but waited not far away.

Jiang Wen and Zhou Yun have already received the program brochure. Several leading actors of "The Sun Also Rises" have all set their sights on that position, and everyone is looking forward to it.

but.

As everyone looked over, Jiang Wen's expression seemed to be a little disdainful.

Apparently, the ratings are not very good.

Looking at this expression, Jiang Wen felt as if these idiots didn't understand the movie I made at all.

"How about it?"

When they noticed the two people coming over, someone came forward to ask them.

"3.38."

The final result was stated directly, but after hearing the answer, some people in the crowd couldn't help but sigh.

Of course Chen Yu knew the reason behind this.

The movie "The Sun Also Rises" is an extremely well-made one, and at least it is of great significance to Chen Yu.

It’s just that many judges can’t understand the implicit meaning.

Even if I am curious, I cannot understand the history of China from the beginning.

This means that even if they are looking forward to the movie very much, they will still have to face the situation of low scores when they have no way of understanding the true theme.

Chen Yu had already guessed this when the film was screened.

After receiving the program brochure from Jiang Wen, Chen Yu then read some film reviews written by foreign filmmakers.

Variety’s film review was the first to catch my eye.

"The film is 'full of wild imagination and visual wonders', but 'non-linear narrative and dense metaphors will make ordinary audiences lost and lose patience!'"

"Jiang Wen's directing style is 'both romantic and violent', but the story structure is 'too personal'."

This sentence goes straight to the point, and Chen Yu still remembered it in later generations.

Jiang Wenyou said that this movie was a gift to himself, so whether in terms of shooting techniques or narrative, he did it according to what he had in mind.

As for The Hollywood Reporter, it also stated the real reason for giving this score.

"The film's symbolism is so heavy that it weakens the film's emotional resonance."

However, it is acknowledged that Joe Hisaishi's score and Zhao Fei's photography created unforgettable movie moments.

Everyone recognized the film's art, connotation and metaphor. It was indeed grand and complex, just like Jiang Wen's previous style.

Just looking into the ultimate cause.

Not understanding is the original sin.

“The Sun Also Rises does not belong to 2007, but to all those who are willing to enter its dream again and again.”

"???"

Chen Yu put the program brochure back on the table. After saying this, Jiang Wen in front of him turned from gloomy to cheerful: "You are not trying to flatter me, are you?"

"Do I need to flatter you as a Grand Slam actor?"

"Hahaha!"

Chen Yu’s words are so philosophical.

Jiang Wen never restricts herself because of other people's ratings, even though "The Sun Also Rises" only scored 3.38 points this time.

"Good boy, you still understand me!"

Chen Yu smiled. He couldn't tell Jiang Wen that he knew what happened in the future.

When you watch "The Sun Also Rises" for the first time, you will naturally find it obscure and difficult to understand, but only after a deep interpretation can you discover its rigorous internal logic.

This journey is certainly not easy.

The sun rises as usual, and every time it rises, it illuminates a new corner.

This is a film that is worth watching over and over again.

***
In the next few days, everyone was busy with the premiere, and Chen Yu and his team were very busy.

I finally had some free time and was lying on the bed preparing to take a nap when a text message popped up on my phone.

"Brother Yu, I hope you can attend the Venice Chinese Film Night tonight!"

Chen Yu grabbed a handful of hair. The gathering of Chinese filmmakers organized by Sina has been held since last year.

He had been notified a long time ago, but Chen Yu had been so busy attending the premiere that he had forgotten the news.

To be precise, it was just a dinner where directors, actors and producers exchanged ideas and collaborated with each other.

It seems that there is no way to rest.

Chen Yu stood up, tidied himself up, and went out to look for Liu Yifei.

to the scene.

Chen Yu only then learned that Sina was planning to interview him and several directors including Zhang Yimou and Jiang Wen.

This is a segment that has been discussed before, and the whole process is just about talking about Chinese films and works.

boring.

But you can still learn some knowledge from it.

"I'll be back as soon as I go."

"Don't move here, I'll go buy it... No, remember to wait for me to come back." Faced with Chen Yu's instructions, Liu Yifei couldn't help but laugh.

"Do you think I'm a child?"

No, I just want to be your dad!
The interaction between the two people was too much for everyone present to watch, but Tang Yan was rather envious.

After all, Chen Yu and Liu Yifei have been together for four years and their relationship has not been affected at all.

On the contrary, they are becoming more and more loving.

"It was just an interview, but it was treated like a life-and-death farewell."

"You two are really enough..."

Jiang Wen secretly complained, not noticing Zhou Yun's helpless sigh beside him.

This rough guy never says sweet words.

Sina's media reporters are already ready. I have to say that leaving aside Chen Yu who is to be interviewed today, the collaboration between Zhang Yimou and Jiang Wen alone is eye-catching.

After all, there had been rumors of a discord between the two in the early years, but the premiere a few days ago actually broke the rumor.

“We are very happy to invite three directors to attend our Venice Chinese Film Night today!”

"The three generations, old, middle-aged and young, symbolize the continuous development of Chinese films!"

"Hey, hey, hey!"

Jiang Wen was the first to disagree, pointing at Chen Yu: "I am also an old man, and he is the newcomer!"

"Hahaha!"

Everyone present laughed.

In fact, what the host said is correct.

Strictly speaking, they symbolize the old, the middle-aged and the young, also in terms of age, but Jiang Wen debuted early, and as a result, he has only been a director for more than ten years.

Zhang Yimou has been making movies for nearly 40 years.

Absolute seniority.

"Go ahead, it's just a joke!"

"Director Zhang, Brother Yu, you don't mind, right?"

Chen Yu: "As long as you are happy!"

This little episode immediately made the interview smoother.

"All three directors have deep roots in Venice. What new feelings do you have when you return to Venice this time?"

Faced with inquiries from Sina Media, the three of them were humble towards each other.

"This question must be answered by our Golden Globes actor first. This time he is aiming for the award."

Jiang Wen spoke in a hoarse voice and looked at Chen Yu beside him, who kept waving his hands.

Although he has a very high influence now, Zhang Yimou and Jiang Wen are still considered seniors, so they must have priority when answering questions.

Seeing this situation, Zhang Yimou had no choice but to speak first.

"Venice is one of the starting points of my film career. Every time I come here, I can feel his respect for his work."

"Although the market environment has changed, the standard for a good movie has not changed."

Zhang Yimou's answer can be regarded as being realistic. As the most pragmatic director from beginning to end, Zhang Yimou's answer can be said to be flawless.

"Hey! Director Zhang always says Venice is his lucky place. But if you think about it carefully, it is really true."

“Even though they don’t understand my movies.”

Chen Yu couldn't help laughing. He could tell that Jiang Wen was standing up for him.

The camera and microphone turned to Chen Yu's position, as if expecting his next answer.

"Coming to the Venice Film Festival this time can be regarded as a breakthrough in my career."

"I used to participate as an actor, but today I am participating as a director, so my state of mind is definitely different."

The people present nodded, naturally agreeing with what Chen Yu said.

The mood must be different.

It's only been a few years?

Chen Yu has already made a qualitative breakthrough.

From an actor to a director, I have given myself more intensity.

It is absolutely true that we make great progress every year.

Not to mention in China, it is rare to see a filmmaker who became famous so quickly even in the world.

In just a few years, he went from an unknown little actor to a world-renowned director. Although it was only his first film, it was an unprecedented success.

"So what do you think of Chinese films now? Can Chinese films break through cultural barriers and go global?"

Faced with this problem, the three people naturally have different opinions.

Zhang Yimou looked at Chen Yu, with a hint of inquiry in his eyes.

He was very curious about Chen Yu's thoughts.

“We are constantly improving our technology, but the way we tell stories still needs to find the greatest common denominator of human empathy.”

After hearing this question, Jiang Wen clicked his tongue, and it was obvious that he had some doubts about this question.

"Don't keep thinking about breakthroughs. First, explain your own things thoroughly."

"Shakespeare wrote about the king as well as the shoemaker, and the humanities were spot on, and the Italians applauded anyway."

"I feel that it is because there are no aircraft carriers in the country!"

"If we have as many aircraft carriers as the US, our culture can spread abroad!"

This is indeed a rough truth.

Chen Yu nodded, naturally agreeing with Jiang Wen's point of view.

"In my opinion, 'technology' and 'story' are both indispensable. Chinese films are not inferior in visual effects, but what really touches people's hearts is the story."

“Chinese films will always find international expression.”

“Technology is the wings, and stories are the soul!”

"But the premise of everything is actually national strength. When national strength increases, they will regard what we say as wrong as right!"

“This is the right to speak, this is cultural invasion!”

Wonderful! It is really wonderful!

Jiang Wen couldn't help but applaud and looked at Chen Yu in surprise. The comparison made his answer seem a bit nonsensical.

The people from Sina were obviously stunned by the two people's answers.

Talking about movies, how come we end up talking about national strength?!

Journalists always fantasize about Westernization, and Jiang Wen and Chen Yu's answers obviously puzzled him.

He quickly changed the subject: "Then both of you have works in the Venice Film Festival this time. I wonder what Director Zhang thinks of these two works?"

But this question is a bit tricky.

Netizens should like it.

Pulling down and criticizing other works is a basic practice in later generations.

Fortunately, the relationship between the three people is extraordinary. If it were any other director, they would probably have made the same mistake.

"You may not understand Jiang Wen's movies the first time you watch them, but after watching them over and over again, you will feel——"

"This kid is awesome."

The words of the person in front of them made everyone present laugh. After all, Zhang Yimou's personality made him say such things, and it was obvious that the two of them had a close relationship.

"As for Chen Yu——"

"It's rare for a new director to produce a work like this. Compared to his acting talent, the director is the most gratifying thing!"

It has to be said that Zhang Yimou can be said to be a master of balancing things. He indeed answered this question very cleverly, without deliberately praising anyone, nor belittling anyone's work.

“The visual language and narrative ambition of The Sun Also Rises are absolutely perfect. Jiang Wen dares to break the rules!”

Zhang Yimou added: "I can't film it, but I admire his courage."

"In my opinion, he is one of the most distinctive directors in China."

Jiang Wen waved his hands, looking a little flattered by the praise.

"The courage of Chen Yu in facing social issues in 'Better Days' is definitely worth encouraging."

"He found perspectives that we had never seen before, and perfectly presented us with insights into school violence and the psychological difficulties of teenagers."

“Skills are greater than depth.”

"Especially the two protagonists have extremely strong explosive power."

“In my opinion, both of these works are excellent and are worth watching over and over again.”

Chen Yu nodded.

As for Sina Media, it naturally seized on Zhang Yimou's answer.

"So Director Zhang, as the chairman of the jury, do you think these two films have a chance of winning an award?"

To be precise, this is not just something that media reporters are curious about.

In comparison, Jiang Wen was more urgent, and Chen Yu was not indifferent either.

As the chairman of the jury, Zhang Yimou must have known some inside information, but when he heard the question from Sina Media, he shook his head.

The old man is still very old-fashioned and fair. (End of this chapter)