Extracting skills from movies

Chapter 526 A blessing in disguise?

Du Sheng was a little surprised and asked:
"Pearl River Film Studio, a joint venture film?"

Wang Jinhua got straight to the point:

“Yes, it is preparing a new action film with Century Warner and Media Asia Entertainment, and it is rumored that the investment is over 100 million.

The director is Li Rengang, who has directed "Black Knight", "Star Moon Fairy Tale" and "Ah Hu"..."

A movie with an investment of over 100 million is quite rare in this era.

"You can talk, but don't rush to answer it."

Du Sheng was thoughtful and almost guessed which movie it was.

In particular, Wang Jinhua also mentioned "Black Mask", which was Jet Li's last work in Zhengdong.

He also attracted the attention of international film producers with this film, which made him eligible to develop in Hollywood.

In fact, this film was not only a joint venture between Hong Kong and the Mainland, but it also had distributors in Germany, Singapore and other regions already found early on.

It is for this reason that we dare to invest over 100 million yuan.

In addition, in order to expand into the international arena, it will also invite new generation actors from across the Taiwan Strait, Hong Kong, the Lighthouse Country, the Korean Country, Japan, etc. to perform.

While Wang Jinhua was communicating with Du Sheng, the film director and producer were also communicating.

A coffee shop in Hong Kong.

Li Rengang put down his drink cup, looked across and asked:
"Stephen, who do you think is more suitable to play the leading role?"

His appearance is rather ordinary, but his eyes reveal a kind of confidence that is different from ordinary people.

Even with framed glasses, this confidence is still clearly visible.

Sitting opposite him is Steven Seagal, who is as famous as Stallone and currently serves as producer.

"I think Du is good. His popularity in Asia has soared recently, and his image as a boxing champion is also quite suitable for the role."

Stephen put a lot of effort into this film and personally invested 10 million US dollars.

Obviously, there are high hopes for the film's performance in the Asian market.

"Du Sheng from the mainland?"

Li Rengang was a little confused.

Du Sheng’s image has always been that of a gentle and elegant idol.

If he is cast in a cold role, the effect may not be so good.

Because the protagonist is a kid from a wealthy family, and that kind of temperament is very picky.

Du Sheng is a grassroots person and only became famous in the last two years.

Before "Infernal Affairs 2" was released last year, he had never even heard of this person.

"Yes, he is very popular in Asia recently."

Although Stephen could tell that the other party had a potential candidate, he still insisted:

"If he is chosen, the movie will do very well at the box office in the Asian market."

"No, no, no, I think Ling Zhiying and Wu Jianhao are more suitable."

Compared to Du Sheng, with whom he had never worked before and whom he knew nothing about, Li Rengang preferred actors with whom he had worked before.

The two people he mentioned are not necessarily less famous than Du Sheng in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

And to be honest, in all the years he has been making movies, he has never used mainland artists as the leading actors.

"You can talk to Du first. He doesn't have to be the only option. He can be a backup."

The rest of the funds for this film were raised by Li Rengang. In order to avoid a rift, Stephen simply made a compromise suggestion.

"In that case, then ask everyone. Others may not be free yet."

Although Li Rengang is very confident about this film, he is not a dictator:
"If neither he nor Ling Zhiying are available, then just use Wu Jianhao."

This is a Sino-US co-production film combined with popcorn elements.

The style of the whole film is closer to Hollywood action movies, and the plot is relatively simple and direct.

The name is "Dragon Special Police Team".

……

When Du Sheng received the call from Li Rengang, he had already understood the situation.

He hesitated for a moment and said euphemistically:
"Sir Li, I am currently filming The Return of the Condor Heroes.

It is estimated that it may take another two months, and the schedule may not be able to accommodate it. "

"The Return of the Condor Heroes has just started filming, right?"

Although Li Rengang called to give Stephen face, he didn't expect the other party to refuse so directly:

"Do you think a TV series can be more influential than our international blockbuster?"

"And this film will be collected by the Oriental Museum. It will be the only film to enter the National Museum..."

Du Sheng smiled and said:

“Thank you Mr. Li for your appreciation. To be honest, I am also very tempted.

But Chinese people value credibility first, and I have signed a contract, so it would be bad to go back on my word hastily."

Of course, if he really wants to act, there are actually ways for him to do so.

This is just another euphemism.

After all, there are domestic artists who have regretted signing contracts.

For example, Huang, the star girl of "Kung Fu", will unilaterally announce the termination of her contract next year.

There was also Yang, who took on the TV series "Xuan-Yuan Sword: Han Yun" for a salary of tens of millions. He asked for his salary to be doubled that year. The production team agreed after considering it, but he refused to act when the filming started.

The reason why I don't want to act in this movie is very simple.

That sucks.

With an investment of HK$1.2 million, the film only managed to take in HK$11 million at the box office 200 days after its release in Hong Kong.

The situation in the mainland is probably slightly better, but it has not exceeded 300 million.

This is not just rotten, it's a sinkhole.

The investor was so defrauded that he lost his temper and ran away overnight.

It is worth mentioning that this movie is the representative work of Star Girl Huang, in which she plays the leading role.

It is also a stain that they don't want to mention.

There are probably three reasons for this.

First, the film's explanation of the villain's motives and background is vague.

For example, key information such as why the robbers wanted to go against the Duan Group and how they formed the special agent team was missing, leaving the audience confused.

Secondly, the plot develops too suddenly and lacks reasonable preparation, giving people a feeling of being anticlimactic.

Third, the acting skills of the main characters are not good enough, resulting in the characters not being fully fleshed out.

For example, a certain artist in Bay City can’t even pronounce his lines correctly and speaks in a long-winded manner.

Huang was even more exaggerated. He closed his eyes while shooting during a gunfight scene. It was simply child's play.

Facing such teammates, even if Du Sheng can lead the team, he can't lead this group of great players.

However, even though I don't want to act, I can't offend anyone rashly.

After all, Pearl River Film Studio, one of the investors of this film, is an old friend of ours.

The reason why Li Rengang called was probably because it was they who asked.

When Stephen saw Li Rengang hang up the phone, he asked in confusion:

"Li, what did Du Sheng say?"

"He declined, saying his schedule was too busy."

Li Rengang habitually complains in Cantonese:

"Turning down an international blockbuster worth over 100 million yuan for a costume drama with an investment of 30 million yuan is pure stupidity."

Stephen doesn't understand Chinese or Cantonese:
"What are you talking about?"

"His schedule is too busy, and Ling Zhiying hasn't responded yet. In my opinion, we can just let Wu Jianhao play the role."

Li Rengang replied in English.

This in itself is the best candidate in his mind.

He can still breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Du Sheng and Ling Zhiying are not performing.

Otherwise, if we invite two great masters and they still don't listen to his instructions, what's the point of filming?

"Wu Jianhao is also a good candidate, so let's use him."

Stephen hesitated, but nodded.

Li Rengang ignored all this, his eyes flickered:
"If you feel that your popularity is not enough, I think you can still take advantage of the situation to hype it up..."

On the other side, Wang Jinhua looked at Du Sheng with a hint of surprise:

“Why turn down this movie? Is it not a conflict of schedule?

The fact that this film is going to be included in the National Museum’s collection is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and even if it doesn’t do well at the box office it will still be considered an achievement.”

Du Sheng did not directly express his inner thoughts, but just chuckled and said:
"I'm busy enough right now, and this movie isn't really for me."

“…Although I trust your judgment, for a movie of this high budget, the quality must be guaranteed.

You can use it as a springboard to Hollywood!
Besides, the producer is Stephen, who is as famous as Sylvester Stallone, so this is also a good opportunity to expand my network."

Wang Jinhua felt somewhat regretful and helpless:
"It's okay to refuse, but I'm afraid someone will take advantage of it."

As expected, news about the incident began to circulate the next day.

[Du Sheng declined the invitation from Hollywood, even Stephen’s personal appearance was useless]

[Top lineup from across the Taiwan Straits and Hong Kong, "Dragon SWAT" enters the National Museum before it is released]

[Mainland pop star Du Sheng gives up his contract for "Dragon SWAT" and focuses on "The Return of the Condor Heroes"]

[After the failure of "The Promise", "Dragon SWAT" was favored by the National Museum] Renren.com, the headline news was even more noisy:
"What's going on with Du Sheng? He declined the popular 'The Promise' some time ago, and now he has rejected 'Dragon SWAT' which is designated for the collection of the National Museum?" "I know, there is no beauty in this movie that he likes!"

"To be honest, Du Sheng gave up a top film contract to support Girls' Generation. This treatment is really unmatched."

"Four beautiful girls are so pleasing to the eyes, and the combination of the Fairy Sword lineup means their popularity won't necessarily be low."

"I think Liu Yifei and Du Sheng are a good match, and I am also looking forward to The Return of the Condor Heroes."

"Giving up blockbuster movies and turning to martial arts dramas, I have to say that making such a decision also requires great courage!"

"The Promise is mostly a bad movie, and its design style is neon. It's normal that it's not selected for the National Museum!"

……

Major media outlets reported that Du Sheng rejected the role in "S.W.A.T."

At this time, Du Sheng was busy filming in Yandang Mountain and just laughed it off.

"Brother Sheng, this matter has spread. Do you want the media to guide it?"

After reading the report, female assistant Cui Yayi couldn't help but ask.

"It doesn't matter. Just think of it as investing in the Pearl River Film Studio to boost its popularity. In the end, we are the ones who benefit."

Du Sheng's words were not empty words.

When it comes to large-scale co-productions between China and the United States, the popularity is there.

Although the other party may have intended to create a topic, the public is more curious about why Du Sheng refused.

In addition, there haven't been any explosive highlights in his recent filming, so his popularity is bound to decline. This kind of report can increase his attention.

In addition, social platforms such as Renren and YY Voice are in urgent need of hot news, so this is also good news for them.

Especially since Renren is in the critical period of preparing for its IPO, this topic comes up at a timely moment.

"If we let it go like this, won't we just be doing the wedding dress for others in vain?"

Cui Yayi was still a little confused.

Du Sheng didn't care about it and said with a smile:
"Just let the media pay attention to it. If the other party continues to make trouble, it won't be too late to step in."

Although Li Rengang is a bit arrogant and eccentric, he was able to attract investment from China and the United States and even let the museum act as a guarantor. He doesn't believe he would be so stupid.

Even if Li Rengang really wants to pull himself down to gain popularity, does that mean that Pearl River Studio and Stephen are all crazy?
The consequences of offending Star Media will be learned from the case of Huayi Media and Bada Media.

As for the idea that this movie can lead to huge success by going straight into Hollywood,
That's too idealistic.

Let’s not talk about how likely it is that “Raptors” will achieve a major reversal in this life.

Apart from Jackie Chan, is there any Asian artist who can successfully break into Hollywood?

Jet Li?
A bit inferior.

Especially after the flop of his latest film "Danny the Dog", he is almost abandoned by the extremely realistic Hollywood.

In addition, with the gradual decline of the entertainment industry in Hong Kong and Taiwan, the rapid rise of the mainland, Japan's closedness and conservatism, and the rampant Korean culture in Asia, it is currently even more difficult for anyone to break into Hollywood and achieve remarkable results.

Cheng Long is indeed a legendary figure...

Do not!
He is not just a legend, he is a legend who has earned it all in his own right.

This is also the reason why he was able to endorse the web game "Legend".

Attack cities and capture strongholds, no one can defeat you!
Cui Yayi nodded thoughtfully and said:
"This is indeed a blessing in disguise. I don't know if it was because of the international attention Stephen's interview attracted, or because Sony promoted your new album with sales exceeding 300 million, and Time magazine noticed you.

They are publishing a special issue with Asian stars on the cover, and are choosing between you and Kimura Takuya..."

.........

After the shooting ended in the evening, the girls from Girls' Generation returned to the hotel and were browsing today's entertainment news online.

When I saw those comments saying that Du Sheng became a little "love-brained" in order to support them, I couldn't help but feel a subtle joy in my heart.

But to be honest, this does seem like losing the big picture for the small!

They all have this view.

At this juncture, a big-budget Sino-US co-production is far superior to domestic dramas like "The Return of the Condor Heroes" in terms of both scale and market prospects.

This is really puzzling...

Since Du Sheng was still out filming, the girls had no choice but to sit together and chatter.

Tang Yan patted Liu Yifei's head gently and said with a smile:
"Brother Sheng must have his own plans. If he really gave up such a big production because of us, doesn't that prove one thing?"

"What does that mean?"

Liu Shishi gently tapped Liu Yifei's forehead with her fingertips and said softly:
"I guess he put us in a very important position and even felt that filming with us was more meaningful than participating in a Sino-US co-production."

Well, she was just guessing out of boredom.

"Haha, that cousin is really kind-hearted!"

The girls were chatting happily and the atmosphere was very joyful.

Yang Mi even kissed Liu Shishi on the cheek twice intimately and exclaimed:

"Shi Shi is indeed a top student, she has a lot of reasons and evidence!"

Liu Shishi: “…”

Aren't you always very smart? How could you believe this?
Tang Yan smiled slightly and reminded:
"This is just a possibility. Don't be too happy too soon. Who can guess what a man is thinking? The more handsome and capable a man is, the more tricks he has."

This time, Liu Yifei's views were surprisingly consistent with Yang Mi's, with a bit of silly laughter:

"I don't care. Isn't it reasonable for my cousin to choose us?"

Tang Yan laughed, with a hint of sarcasm:

"Ling Zhiying and Chen Kun have worked with you a lot before. Why didn't you show such concern when I saw their news?"

"How can a cousin and a friend be the same?"

"Well, you're invincible."

.........

At this moment, Du Sheng had actually returned from filming on location.

It was just that Wang Jinhua sent a notice saying that Time Magazine had made a choice and asked him to take time out the day after tomorrow to be interviewed and shoot the cover.

As one of the three major current affairs publications in the Beacon Country, Time Magazine was founded in 1923. It has a wide influence throughout the world and is known as the "World History Library."

The cover with a red border and a portrait of a person is the iconic brand feature of Time magazine.

Being on the cover of Time magazine is seen by many as an important recognition and honor.

The reason for choosing Du Sheng this time is probably due to multiple considerations.

First, "Yi Sheng You Ni" has sold over 3 million copies in Asia within four months of its release!

Ranked among the top 50 Chinese album sales in the world.

Secondly, the metamorphosis influence of "Chinese Paladin" and "Full House" is not only conquering Asia, but also radiating to America.

According to Wang Jinhua, "Full House" has been noticed by TV stations in the United States, the United States of America, Australia and other countries, and they are in the process of negotiating the copyright.

Except for "2046" this year, Takuya Kimura is not as good as Du Sheng in other aspects.

Although it is only the Asian edition, only Jackie Chan, Chow Yun-fat, Jet Li, Stephen Chow, Gong Li, Wang Fei, Zhou Jielun and others have appeared on it since its founding.

It can be said that the portion is absolutely great.

On this day, Time magazine went to the beautiful Yandang Mountain Scenic Area and conducted an exclusive interview with Du Sheng at a local hotel.

The magazine cover was shot in a professional studio.

On that day, Du Sheng wore a simple white ancient costume, with long hair draped over his shoulders and fluttering clothes, looking particularly elegant and handsome.

That’s right, this is Yang Guo’s outfit.

Out of the idea of ​​promoting the show, he didn't even change his costume.

But I have to say, it is indeed chic and unrestrained, very charming.

The Time Magazine reporter who came to interview was impressed and asked the first question:
"Mr. Du, what do you think is the reason behind your popularity in Asia?"

Du Sheng smiled and replied:

“I think this is mainly due to the support of my fans, as well as my own persistence and hard work.

I have always believed that as long as we work hard, we will have a better future.

At the same time, I also hope that people all over the world can see high-quality TV series and movies from China."

The reporter then asked:
"I heard that you gave up the opportunity to star in the movie "Dragon SWAT" and chose to film the TV series "The Return of the Condor Heroes". What was your consideration?"

"I think the mainland has a lot of cultural heritage to be proud of, and martial arts dramas are one of them."

Du Sheng said truthfully:

“The production standards of these works are quite high, but unfortunately they are not well known abroad.

I hope that through my influence, more overseas audiences can understand and love mainland dramas, and at the same time pay attention to our excellent local actors."

"It is rumored that Tyson's successor will cross over to challenge you. Will you accept this?"

“It has not been finalized yet, but I personally look forward to it and welcome challenges from top boxing champions from all walks of life.”

Afterwards, the host mentioned the current issue of the declining influence of the Hong Kong and Taiwan entertainment industry in Asia:
"Do you think you are qualified to replace the Four Heavenly Kings, or are you worried that there will be new competitors who will surpass you?"

Du Sheng smiled faintly and replied:
“I believe that as the entire entertainment industry continues to develop, the mainland market will catch up.

As for whether I can replace the Four Heavenly Kings, I have never thought about such a thing.

Of course, it would be a gratifying thing if someone could surpass me.”

Replaced by latecomers?
This international joke is not very funny.

I really haven’t thought about it.

As for replacing the Four Heavenly Kings, that is hard to say.

But the pace of catching up has never stopped.

"It is rumored that several well-known rich girls in North America will participate in the production of your English version of the new album MV. Is this true?"

"You can say that, please keep an eye out for next January, my new album will probably be released then."

.........

(End of this chapter)