During my years at China Entertainment

Chapter 775 The Talents of Old Wang's New Project Assistants
With the booming development of the domestic film market, major film release periods have become fiercely contested battlegrounds, either dominated by leading companies in the industry or reserved by renowned directors.

As a result, small and medium-sized production companies in China have no choice but to turn their attention to the next lower release window.

For example, during the three-day Qingming Festival holiday, several movies were released at the same time!

Examples include "The Storm Riders," "The Angry Mountain," "Midnight Garage," and "Everything Grows."
"Storm Whisperer" boasts a strong cast, starring Liu Yingdi, a passionate citizen, alongside Huang Xiaoming, and featuring Alex Fong and Fiona Sit in this action thriller.

However, it did not perform well after its release. During the three-day holiday, the box office only reached 20 million yuan, which was far from the 500 million yuan target previously announced by the producers.

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, it will likely be taken off the screens ahead of schedule in just a few days.

And Yinghuang's investment in "The Angry Car" was even worse!

Even with the addition of veteran actors like Francis Ng and Simon Yam, it couldn't save the decline of traditional Hong Kong police and gangster films, with box office takings of less than 1000 million in three days.

It's unclear how much Yinghuang will lose in this wave, but its stock price will definitely experience a sharp drop.

Of course, the worst was "Outcast".

To be honest, Wei Jin never expected that even after being rejected by him and Liu Yifei, and after the news spread, Chen Jinfei would still be able to fool a large group of investors, including the Yunnan Film Group.

However, those wealthy patrons who were tricked into joining must probably be itching to kill Chen Jinfei right now.

Because the Sino-US co-production, with an investment of over 2 million yuan, only grossed less than 1500 million yuan in the three-day holiday, its reputation also collapsed, with an Impression.com score of less than 5 points.

In this situation, even a god couldn't save us!

Of the several films released, only the art film "Ever Since We Love," which Fan Bingbing rejected, performed reasonably well.

After three days, the box office barely exceeded 70 million.

But thinking about it, it's understandable. Although Fan Bingbing didn't act in this film, Han Geng, Qi Xi, and Tang Wei are all quite famous, and there's also Li Yu, a director who specializes in art films, so the cast is pretty good.

Furthermore, during the promotional campaign, the production company emphasized the explicit content, using phrases such as "Han Geng and Qi Xi's explosive car sex" and "Han Geng and Tang Wei's beach tryst."
With all these gimmicks, LSPs will definitely flock to the cinema to appreciate the film with a magnifying glass, naturally leading to a surge in box office revenue at the start.

However, precisely because of the excessive publicity, most viewers felt deceived, as there were no explicit scenes at all, and it was far inferior to Liang Caowei's real sex scenes!
As a result, the film has not received good reviews, with a score of only 5.5 on Impression.com, and its subsequent box office performance is not expected to be optimistic.

With the release of numerous films, "Gone Girl" has essentially stalled, with its daily revenue dropping to only three to four million.

Fortunately, the total box office has surpassed 7 million yuan, reaching 7.06 million yuan, which can be considered as achieving the initial target.

"The inspirational, romantic, and comedic comic book adaptation film 'Go Away Mr. Tumor,' exclusively produced by Shanhe Media, directed by Yu Feihong, and starring Luo Jin, Gao Ye, and Ma Sichun, has successfully wrapped up filming today. The crew held a high-profile wrap party in Beijing."

"The dark comedy suspense film 'The Chaser,' exclusively produced by Shanhe Media, directed and written by Cao Baoping, and starring Deng Chao, Zhang Yi, Wang Ziwen, Tan Zhuo, and others, has wrapped up filming today, and the crew will soon return to Beijing!"

When news of two films wrapping up filming one after another appeared in film news and spread throughout the film and television industry, many people in the industry felt numb.

Since the beginning of the year, there has been a lot of news related to Wei Jin and Shanhe Media, especially the successive completion of film projects.

To list them all, Shanhe Media has three films scheduled for release but not yet released: "Wolf Warrior," "Bad Genius," and "Monkey King: Hero Is Back."

The remaining five films, namely "Project Gutenberg", "Seattle 2", "The Mermaid", "Black Coal, Thin Ice", and "Fame", will most likely also be released this year.

Meanwhile, "Detective Chinatown" is about to start filming, "Yunnan Insect Valley" should be nearing completion of post-production, "The Witness" has been greenlit, and "Love Like a Bouquet" and "Chasing the Dragon" are currently filming.
From the perspective of the entire film and television industry, Shanhe Media is acting like it's on drugs, leaving no way out for the industry!

Wei Jin was unaware of the gossip circulating within the industry, but the completion of two consecutive films reminded him that it was time to set a release date for his films in the second half of the year.

During a break in filming, he made a phone call to Zhong Lifang.

"Mr. Zhong, could you please take some time to visit China Film Group and confirm the release dates for the films that have already been completed?"

At this point, Wei Jin paused, "Also, from now on, all matters involving China Film Group will be handled by you."

Zhong Lifang on the other end of the phone was clearly taken aback, but she didn't say much. She just asked, "Mr. Wei, will you be attending the wrap party for 'The Chaser' tomorrow at noon?"

"Never mind, you can make the arrangements."

Yu Feihong finished filming in the morning, so the wrap party was scheduled for noon. Wei Jin couldn't attend because of filming commitments.

But if he went to Professor Cao's place, it would be somewhat inappropriate.

Besides, everyone knows they're filming a movie, so they won't overthink it.

"Okay, Mr. Wei."

After hanging up the phone, Wei Jin handed it to his assistant and strode towards the film set to begin his new scene.

Wei Jin himself didn't expect that after declining the wrap party for "The Chaser," he would receive an invitation from Lao Wang the very next day, with the time specifically set for the evening, which left him no choice but to accept.

After the film crew wrapped up, Wei Jin asked Jing Tian what she thought. Since the young girl wasn't interested, he simply instructed Lao Zhu to pick up Liu Yan and enjoy her gentleness that evening.

"Boss, what brings Chairman Wang to dinner?"

As soon as she got into the car, Liu Yan became curious, but Wei Jin did not answer her immediately.

Instead, he rested his head on her plump thighs and waited for Liu Yan to massage him before replying, "I don't know either. He won't tell me when I ask him. He's acting all mysterious."

But it's probably a good thing, otherwise, given Old Wang's stinginess, why would he have chosen this location?

Wei Jin couldn't help but complain when he recalled Lao Wang's words "Let's get together" after receiving his share of "Detective Chinatown" during the Spring Festival.

It's been over two months and there's still no news. Only Wei Jin, who disliked socializing, didn't take it seriously.

Liu Yan couldn't help but laugh, and while massaging Wei Jin, she said, "Boss, Chairman Wang is just a bit frugal."

"He's quite frugal; he eats boxed lunches at the company. I don't know what he does with all that money."

As Wei Jin spoke, he became somewhat restless.

"Boss, stop messing around."

Although the barrier in front had already been lowered, Liu Yan still couldn't help but stop Wei Jin, "We still have to eat later, how can I face anyone~~"

"Sorry, I'm used to it."

Wei Jin gave a jokingly apologetic remark, then stared into Liu Yan's eyes, "But when we get back tonight, you'd better let me have a good taste."

Upon hearing this, Liu Yan gave him a charmingly glaring look and whispered:
"Okay, whatever you say."

About fifteen minutes later, the Maybach stopped at a quaint, private restaurant.

Wei Jin and Liu Yan, who were already disguised, were led by a waiter to their reserved private room.

Wei Jin was surprised to find that Xie Nan, who was expected to come and liven up the atmosphere, was not there. Instead, Deng Chao, who had just returned to Beijing, was there, and he even brought Sun Li with him.

This led Wei Jin to speculate about Old Wang's dinner party.

However, since the host did not speak, Wei Jin did not dare to ask rashly. After exchanging pleasantries, he sat down with peace of mind.

"Mr. Wei, this toast is for you. I didn't get a chance to meet you when I came back before. Teacher Cao's play is very good. Thank you for thinking of me, Mr. Wei." "Yes, thank you for your support of my husband, Lao Deng. Toast to you."

After all the dishes were served, Deng Chao raised his wine glass, and Sun Li next to him did the same.

The couple's tone was full of gratitude. Although they hadn't collaborated many times over the years, the collaborations on "Running Man" and "The Breakup Guru" were enough for them to be deeply grateful for.

"You're too kind. It's because you're so capable. If I were to recommend someone else, Professor Cao probably wouldn't even consider them, hahaha."

Wei Jin smiled and replied, then picked up his small wine cup and drank it all in one gulp.

"Brother, the main reason I invited you out this time is because the company has a movie project in development. It's directed and starring Deng Chao, and Sun Li will also be joining the cast. The box office performance is sure to be better than 'The Breakup Guru.' How about we continue our collaboration?"

Old Wang held up his wine glass, in a very good mood.

The husband-and-wife team of Deng Chao and Sun Li, and it's a comedy, just thinking about it is enough to generate a lot of buzz.

It's worth noting that Sun Li rarely acts in comedies; she's only done one, "A Chinese Odyssey Part Two: Cinderella" and "The Fairy Tale of the Immortals."

Well, although neither of these two films were big hits, it has nothing to do with Sun Li.

"I'm grateful that you thought of me, brother. Did you bring the script?"

"Of course, that goes without saying."

As soon as Lao Wang finished speaking, Deng Chao respectfully handed over the script. Wei Jin took it and saw that it was indeed the script for "The Villain Angel".

Wei Jin glanced at Deng Chao, and his lips twitched slightly. Was he really going to go down this path to the bitter end?

But thinking about it, it makes sense. To quickly become capital, you always have to make some sacrifices.

However, Deng Chao misunderstood the meaning of that look and explained, "President Wei, the script has nothing to do with me; it was Lao Bai who wrote it himself."

It's following the same path as "The Breakup Guru," an adapted stage play. Could you please give your opinion and see if there's anything that needs improvement?

"."

Deng Chao's praise left Wei Jin speechless. This was even worse than "The Breakup Guru," how could it be improved?
Seeing that Wei Jin remained silent, Old Wang made a slight guess and added at the right time, "Brother, the budget this time has reached fifty million, and Deng Chao will also participate in the investment. How about you take forty percent?"

I gave Old Wang a deep look. This old guy clearly knew what was going on and was afraid I would refuse.

To be honest, while the script for "The Villain Angel" was terrible, its box office performance was quite good, and based on that budget, it was bound to make a lot of money.

After some deliberation, Wei Jin had an idea. "Brother, Brother Chao, as you know, the group has been pushing for the listing of celebrity studios."

It was decided at the beginning of the year that future overseas investments would be tilted towards Yang Mi and Bai Bin's companies. I plan to hand over this project to Bai Bin; 30% should be enough. What do you think?

Wei Jin gave a reason that was 80% true and 20% false, and he spoke very seriously. Deng Chao believed him and nodded immediately.

"I have no problem. President Wei really treats Xiaobai exceptionally well. It's been quite a while since I've seen her, haha."

Wang Changtian, however, saw through it but didn't say anything. In any case, it was all about deepening the relationship with Wei and Jin, and as long as the favor was done, that was enough.

"also."

"Then I'll thank you both on behalf of Xiaobai. Let's start eating. Chairman Wang is rarely so generous, hahaha."

"Good grief, bro, are you targeting me?"

Wang Changtian glared at him, feigning displeasure, "We should drink more tonight, come on, let's have a drink."

Deng Chao and Sun Li also raised their glasses, saying, "Chairman Wang, President Wei, please."

"Dry!"

As expected, as the leader of the assistant team, Liu Yan always tries to get benefits for her fellow female members.

When Wei Jin, having eaten and drunk his fill, brought her back to the villa in Yanjiao, they found that his assistant, Bao Tianqi, had already prepared a bath.

"Well"

Immersed in 39-degree hot water and gently enveloped from head to toe by Bao Tianqi, Wei Jin couldn't help but let out a sigh.

Wei Jin asked, "I haven't asked you yet, how's the 'Back to the Countryside' program going?"

Wei Yang has now been weaned, and Liu Yan joined the variety show department as deputy director after the New Year, and she was put in charge of this slow-paced variety show.

"It's alright. The project team has already confirmed the filming location, which is near Miyun. Also, Teacher He and Teacher Huang..."

When it came to serious matters, Liu Yan became very serious, showing no signs of being affected by the constantly changing situation, and explained the situation in detail.

The format of this variety show is very simple. Wei Jin had already decided on He Jiong and Huang Lei at the annual meeting, since the two of them did work very well together when I watched it in my previous life.

However, because He Jiong is busy filming "Gardenia in Blossoms", it will probably take until he finishes filming and post-production to coordinate his schedule. It is expected that filming will be able to start after the summer vacation.

Just a few months is enough time to do all the necessary research and preparation, as well as to invite other guests.

Wei Jin did not expect that Liu Yan and Zhang Yipei would disagree on the third permanent guest.

"What's the specific situation?"

"Director Zhang's idea is that this kind of slow-paced variety show still needs to build up its reputation in the early stages, and he hopes that Lu Han or other top celebrities, preferably those with talent, will join the show."

I think the combination of Ho and Huang, plus the company's brand recognition, is already sufficient. Inviting a female artist would be more appropriate.

Hearing this, Wei Jin understood what Liu Yan meant. After all, the regular guests were all men, so the invited female guests would feel a little awkward since they would be staying overnight.

In fact, the addition of Zhang Zifeng to the show "Back to Field" in its later stages was partly due to this reason: it made the female guests feel more comfortable.

"Hmm, your considerations are all correct. Why not compromise? Aren't there any female artists who are popular and talented? What do you think of Tianqi?"

Suddenly being called upon, Bao Tianqi was somewhat tempted, but still looked up and said, "Boss, I can't do it. I have no popularity and no talent."

Wei Jin reached out and pinched her chin, teasingly saying, "Who said Tianqi has no talent? Didn't you perform quite well just now?"

"Boss, you... Waaah..."

The assistant's complaints were cut short by Wei Jin's retort, after which he gave instructions to Liu Yan.

"You and Director Zhang should discuss it again and decide on the way I suggested. If you really can't find a suitable match, a man and a woman will do. Don't be so rigid."

"Okay, boss."

"Okay, now that we've finished talking about work, let's focus on life. Tianqi has worked so hard for so long, she's probably about to cry, hahaha."

What can Liu Yan do now that the boss has spoken?
(End of this chapter)