Extracting skills from movies

With this in mind, Zheng Zetao patted his chest and guaranteed:

"Don't worry, Ah Sheng, I'll handle this perfectly and make sure the beauty enters the house with a smile!"

Du Sheng didn't think much of it, assuming that Zheng Zetao understood his intentions.

With "Painted Skin" as his stepping stone, Yang Jiong's decision to switch jobs was practically a done deal.

In fact, if it weren't for Huayi Brothers' intervention last year, Yang Ying would have had the opportunity to star in "Taken".

This is a blockbuster that grossed $3.4 million worldwide.

If she had acted in it, she would have become internationally famous long ago.

She always felt that the role should have been hers.

After all, she debuted in Japan and has some popularity there.

As a result, Keiko Kitagawa took it, and now Kitagawa is soaring to great heights, while I am not doing as well as before.

The resentment in my heart had been building up for a long time.

Besides, Huayi was a sinking ship, so why would she want to drown with Wang Zhongjun?
I had already planned my escape route.

Join Star Media!

Du Sheng was naturally happy to accept it. Yang Jiong had both popularity and commercial value, so signing her would be a sure win.

It could also hasten Huayi's collapse.

With the departure of first- and second-tier artists, coupled with financial crisis and a collapse in reputation, Huayi is now almost an empty shell.

If Du Sheng were to target Feng Xiaogang again, I'm afraid no one in the entire industry would dare to invest in his films.

Just like the current "If You Are the One" program, the project has been completely halted, and no one has taken over for a long time.

Feng Xiaogang himself also considered leaving Huayi again.

After discussing "Painted Skin," Zeng Jiayan continued:
"Mr. Du, we are planning to hold a grand 'entertainment extravaganza' at the Beijing Theater in March."

Our goal is to create the most prestigious industry-wide awards in the Chinese entertainment sector.
From the stage to behind the scenes, everyone should be honored, and the development of our entertainment industry should be recorded.

I hope that Interstellar Media can provide strong support at that time, and it would be even better if you could attend in person.

After all, you're the most influential person in the industry right now. Without you there, this grand event just doesn't feel right.

Zeng Jiayan showered Du Sheng with praise, but she never expected him to actually condescend to attend any awards ceremony.

His plan was actually quite practical: as long as Interstellar Media could send a few of its hottest celebrities to the event to make it look lively and impressive, that would be enough.

These days, if you can't even find anyone from Star Media when you're organizing a big event, it's like declaring that you have no status or connections.

Look at the artists Du Sheng has brought out; they're not just popular in China, they're successful throughout the entire Pan-Asian region.

Liu Yifei and Jia Jingwen gained global exposure through "The Lone Agent," while Yang Mi and Kitagawa Keiko's overseas popularity also soared.

These artists benefited from Du Sheng's fame, leveraging his international reputation and various promotional channels to smoothly gain a large number of overseas fans.

Just by going out for a short trip, their net worth immediately skyrockets.

Therefore, the artists of Star Media are inherently superior to others, and their status naturally rises accordingly.

Previously, the company's male artists might have been lacking, but things are different now.

Huang Bai, Wang Baoqiang, Tong Dawei, Zhang Jin, Liu Yunlong, Peng Yuyan, Sun Yaowei...

In addition, quite a few male singers have emerged.

With this lineup, who would dare to hold an event without inviting Interstellar Media?
Of course, this is a win-win situation.

Such award ceremonies can boost the exposure of the company's artists, and Du Sheng is no fool; naturally, he's happy to support them.

After listening to Zeng Jiayan's words, he waved his hand and said:
"I expect to be filming in March, so I might not have time."

Don't worry, some of the company's artists will definitely go.
"Just have your subordinates contact Sister Hua to find out who's available."

Upon hearing this, Zeng Jiayan quickly clasped her hands in thanks.

Seeing that the conversation had nearly concluded, Song Shu coughed and reminded them:
"Boss, you have a short meeting to attend later..."

Upon hearing this, He Guohua and the others immediately understood and smiled as they got up to take their leave.

Song Shu saw the person to the door, and when he returned, he couldn't help but laugh:
"These people are so troublesome, one after another, it never ends."

Du Sheng shook his head:
"If you hadn't reminded them, they could have been chatting here until dark!"

Now that Interstellar Media's business has expanded so much, everyone wants to get on board and make a fortune.

Song Ji rolled her eyes at him and said:

"Don't think you'll have a break just because someone's gone. There's a lunch party waiting for you, to help you set up your beautiful ladies."

Du Sheng burst into laughter upon hearing this:
"Your words have a really strong sour tone. How about we go together later?"

Song Shu pointed to the music room and said:

"I still have an OST to record, so I won't go. I'll come find you this afternoon."

Du Sheng smiled and reached out to pull her into his arms, everything understood without words.

Just as Du Sheng was settling down the last few trivial matters before leaving the country, Zheng Zetao went directly to Yang Jiong at a Chinese restaurant in Beijing.

He got straight to the point:
"I have a big-budget movie here with an investment of over 100 million yuan. I'll reserve the lead role for you."

But there's one condition.

You need to terminate your contract with Huayi Brothers and sign with Star Media. You mentioned that to Du Sheng before, right?

"Is this what Brother Sheng means? I understand!"

Yang Jiong nodded repeatedly, her beautiful eyes lighting up.

In her opinion, even if she were given a role in "Painted Skin" or nothing at all, as long as she could get into Interstellar Media and get on Du Sheng's ship, it would be worth it!

Yang Jiong has always been shrewd, and looking back on his decision to sign with Huayi Brothers, he now feels it was the biggest mistake of his life.

Look at the woman who's with Du Sheng now.

Tong Liya, Song Shu, Beichuan Jingzi, Deng Ziqi, Zhang Liangju...

Which one didn't start as an unknown nobody and then rise to become a superstar?

Zheng Zetao was eloquent and made a few well-timed remarks, which greatly impressed Yang Jiong.

She immediately pledged to fully cooperate and ensure Du Sheng was happy.

After settling things off with Yang Jiong, Zheng Zetao left with a beaming smile, ready to make arrangements for the follow-up.

Yang Jiong was equally delighted at this moment, feeling that since Du Sheng was interested in him, he didn't need to put on airs.

She eagerly pulled out her phone, found Du Sheng's number, and pressed the dial button with slightly trembling fingers...

That morning, two days before Du Sheng was to leave the country, he came to the office as usual.

Today, Zhang Jingying is filling in as secretary. She is wearing a dark blue business suit, which makes her look tall and has a neat demeanor.

She even wore a pair of black-rimmed glasses without lenses to put on a serious "career elite" look, but instead she appeared both intellectual and a little sexy, attracting people's attention.

For someone like Du Sheng, who lives a simple life and keeps a low profile, rotating secretaries is as easy as playing around.

Today it's Song Ji, tomorrow it's Fan Bingbing, and the day after tomorrow it might be Deng Ziqi.

Since they are all popular actresses from their own company, they take turns coming to the office to "experience life," which is both helpful and novel.

Du Sheng was admiring Zhang Liangying's new look, feeling quite pleased, when Zhang Liangying opened her mouth and immediately made him sigh:

"Boss, Wu Jing was caught driving under the influence of alcohol last night and was taken to the police station by the traffic police."

One breathalyzer test showed an alcohol content of 123 mg/100 ml, which was definitely drunk driving.

His agent, Liu Yiyan, rushed over overnight to handle the situation…

Wu Jing is a man with a strong sense of chivalry and martial arts background. He has a forthright personality, but he also loves to have a drink.

Well, this time, the alcohol hit him hard, he acted rashly, and ended up getting himself into trouble.

Upon hearing this, Du Sheng raised an eyebrow:

"Did you try to use your connections to suppress the issue?"

Logically speaking, given Interstellar Media's current resources, it wouldn't be impossible for them to cover this up if they really wanted to.

Besides, Wu Jing was a promising prospect he admired, and they had a good relationship, so it was normal for him to lend a hand. But what Du Sheng feared most was "making an exception."

Once a precedent is set, anyone who makes a mistake will try to pull strings, and how will the company manage?
Artist management may seem lucrative, but it's also fraught with pitfalls.

There are countless celebrities in the entertainment industry whose careers have collapsed; Du Sheng has seen it all.

Don't assume that everyone in the entertainment industry is shrewd. In fact, many of them are just bold, thick-skinned, and daring, but they may not be very bright.

Wu Jing is considered outstanding in the industry.

Du Sheng had always thought highly of him because he was hardworking, dedicated, and ambitious, but she never expected him to fail.

Zhang Liangying quickly shook her head:
"She didn't use any back channels; Liu Yiyan followed company regulations."

She only went to the law enforcement station to help Wu Jing with some personal matters, such as retrieving her personal belongings.

According to regulations, Wu Jing was fined 2000 yuan, had 12 points deducted from his driver's license, had his license suspended for three months, and was also subject to seven days of administrative detention.

The media has already started reporting on it.

Upon hearing this, Du Sheng frowned.

Wu Jing is not an ordinary artist.

"The Man from Nowhere" brought him international recognition, and with the popularity he gained from classic action films like "SPL" and "Flash Point," he is now one of the top action stars in mainland China.

His drunk driving will definitely be sensationalized by the media, and the reputation of Star Media will also be affected.

Du Sheng thought for a moment and said:
"Let Wu Jing and the company issue an apology statement together."

He and Liu Yiyan had their year-end bonuses deducted and donated to 'Huabang Charity' in their names.

The donation must be stated in the declaration to ensure transparency.

In addition, the company issued an internal reprimand, and all artists were required to attend a meeting to learn from the incident and take it as a warning…

Wu Jing's income has increased significantly this year, with a ton of endorsements and commercial performances, and her year-end bonus is at least seven figures.

This deduction is enough to make him feel bad for a year.

Liu Yiyan is similar.

As a frontline agent in the company, my income is already high, and my year-end bonus is even more generous.

Being punished along with others this time is like having a lock placed over one's head.

Du Sheng wanted to establish a rule that if an artist makes a mistake, the agent should also be held responsible.

From now on, whoever manages an artist will be held responsible if something happens to them.

Inadequate training and lax management will come at a price.

After listening, Zhang Jingying nodded and turned to arrange the notification.

.........

On the last day before departure, Du Sheng made a special trip to Shanghai.

For no other reason than to attend the opening ceremony of the Shanghai branch of Interstellar Media.

Secondly, Song Hye-kyo arranged a meeting.

He couldn't very well refuse someone who flew all the way from South Korea to endorse a new product line from Goldlion Group, owned by Zheng Zetao.

Zheng Zetao walked in with a smile right after the meeting ended in the afternoon:
"Ah Sheng, everything is arranged for you."

He placed the room key on the table; the number "609" was clearly printed on the card.

The Peace Hotel, a landmark five-star hotel in Shanghai, has hosted countless political and business figures, as Du Sheng knows.

The 6th and 7th floors are all executive suites, with exquisite decoration and good privacy. It is no exaggeration to say that they are the favorite place for "old money" people.

Du Sheng took the card, glanced at it, and immediately understood most of it. He smiled and said:

"Old Zheng, you're awesome! You're a true friend!"
I'll treat you to a nice meal another day, you absolutely have to.

Upon hearing this, Zheng Zetao was overjoyed and waved his hands repeatedly:
"Oh, don't be so polite with me, it's nothing!"

After saying this, he cupped his hands in a respectful gesture, then turned and left, knowing the situation.

Not long after, Du Sheng led Song Hye-kyo up to the sixth floor, swiped his card, and pushed open the door to room 609.

This executive luxury suite is indeed exceptional.

Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious living room, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the Bund and the Yangtze River.

Soft jazz music played in the room, a faint scent of cedar wafted in the air, and warm yellow light shone down, making the whole space cozy and intimate.

The moment Song Hye-kyo walked in, her eyes softened.

Her cheeks flushed slightly, clearly overwhelmed by the atmosphere.

Du Sheng originally planned to take a gradual approach, like "boiling a frog in warm water,"

Unexpectedly, after not seeing each other for half a year, this usually gentle and dignified K-pop goddess was surprisingly proactive today.

As soon as the door closed, she stood on tiptoe, wrapped her arms around Du Sheng's neck, and kissed him passionately, like a ball of fire.

Where is there even a trace of the shy little girl from "Full House"?

Song Hye-kyo casually opened the wardrobe against the wall, inside which was a full-length mirror.

The mirror reflected her slightly flushed face, her heaving chest, and her mysterious posture.

It was clearly a "battle ritual," how could Du Sheng remain unmoved?

Just as the two entered a sparring session, their fists and feet clashing with a series of resounding blows, the bedroom door creaked open.

Yang Jiong, wearing a lace nightgown, peeked out, her hair slightly disheveled, clearly alerted by the noise in the hall.

Du Sheng was taken aback, then instantly understood.

Wow, it turns out that the "arrangements" Zheng Zetao mentioned didn't just include rooms.

Yang Jiong had seen ring battles before, and although the scene before her was a bit unexpected, she reacted quite steadily, though her eyes were a little glazed over.

Song Hye-kyo, on the other hand, was startled by this sudden incident and lost her focus, so she was easily defeated by Du Sheng and fell to the ground.

Du Sheng, who had put away his boxing stance, was somewhat surprised.

He had thought that since they hadn't sparred for more than half a year, Song Hye-kyo might pull off some "high-energy moves".
Unexpectedly, perhaps due to being busy filming and commercial performances, this girl's physical strength and condition did not keep up.

Du Sheng, whose interest in sparring had been piqued and whose hands were itching to play, was both amused and exasperated.

We've just entered battle mode, we can't just give up halfway through, can we?
His gaze shifted and landed on the substitute player at the door...

The next morning, the first thing Du Sheng asked as soon as he opened his eyes was:

"I have to catch a flight in a bit. Have you thought it through?"

Yang Jiong was still snuggled in the blankets. Upon hearing this, he disregarded his aching body and, with a hint of delight, playfully pouted:

"I heard Zhou Xun is also vying for the female lead role in 'Painted Skin.' I'm afraid I won't be able to win. Could you help me out then?"

Du Sheng nodded and then asked about her contract.

He truly hadn't expected Zheng Zetao to go this far.
Even more unexpectedly, Song Hye-kyo, who had been living in seclusion for half a year, still performed so poorly in the competition.

Just as he was about to leave, Song Hye-kyo woke up, rubbing her eyes. Her face was still flushed, and her voice was so low it was almost a mosquito's hum.
"I'm sorry... I didn't perform well last night..."

Du Sheng took a tissue to wipe his mouth and said half-jokingly:

"I need to practice."

If you don't want to practice Crane Fist, then go for a 3-kilometer run every morning, and your physical fitness will definitely improve.

Otherwise, it would be such a waste to have such a good foundation.

Actually, Song Hye-kyo can't be entirely blamed for this.

The key is Du Sheng's physique. Over the years, through training, filming, and honing his physical abilities, he is far beyond what ordinary people can achieve.

To put it bluntly, it's not that she's incapable, it's that her opponent is too "inhuman".

Look at Yang Jiong, he's still lying in bed and can't get up, doesn't that say something?
These days, there aren't many who can really go toe-to-toe with Du Sheng.

…(End of this chapter)