The literary era since 1979

The charity concert officially opened, and the TVB hosts came on stage, a man and a woman coordinating their opening remarks.

Fang Yihua asked casually, "Mr. He from Jiahe seemed to have talked to you, Yanzi, for a long time just now?"

Fang Yan said: "We didn't talk about anything, he just told me about the promotion plan for Die Hard."

"Speaking of this, I never thought that Golden Harvest would have another chance to enter Hollywood after Bruce Lee."

Run Run Shaw said meaningfully, "I wonder if we at Shaw Brothers have such good fortune?"

"Yes, of course there will be."

Fangyan said that Fox was very optimistic about "Baby Smart Star" and they could organize a group and get Shaw Brothers to invest in adapting the film into an American version.

Run Run Shaw and Fang Yihua smiled at each other, "Okay, okay, Yanzi, your Sixth Aunt and I will remember this favor of yours."

Fangyan still reminded that although Shaw Brothers had risen again thanks to gambling films, its foundation was unstable. It would be better to take advantage of the opportunity that Golden Harvest was focusing on the Hollywood market and that Cinema City was about to dissolve to expand Shaw Brothers' presence in Hong Kong and even the Asian market.

"Your idea is exactly what we want."

Fang Yihua has asked Wang Jing to prepare "Baby Smart Star 2" on the one hand and the second part of the gambling movie universe, "God of Gamblers" on the other.

Hearing this, Gong Xing and Wang Zuxian, who were originally whispering, couldn't help but glance at the three people from Fangyan a few more times.

"But Uncle Six, Aunt Six, I also have a request."

"But it doesn't matter."

“I wonder if TVB is interested in importing some quality TV series from the mainland?”

There was an intriguing light in Fangyan's eyes.

“Are TV dramas imported from the mainland broadcast on TVB?”

Fang Yihua said bluntly that TVB executives had indeed held a meeting to discuss the matter, because they heard a rumor some time ago that ATV had already contacted CCTV and was preparing to introduce "Dream of Red Mansions" to Hong Kong for broadcast, and as a competitor, TVB naturally could not sit idly by.

But unfortunately, ATV had previously given "Huo Yuanjia" to CCTV for broadcast free of charge, and the two TV stations have a close relationship.

"If that's the case, I can recommend some TV series to TVB that are worth introducing."

An example of speaking in dialect is the TV Art Center's "The Inspector General of the Song Dynasty".

When Fang Yihua heard that it was a TV series adapted from his novel, he immediately became interested. When he heard that the first season of "The Inspector General of the Song Dynasty" had ratings in mainland China far exceeding "The Legend of the Condor Heroes" and "Huo Yuanjia", he agreed to introduce the TV series without thinking twice.

After all, with Shaw Brothers' experience of introducing "The Ring" and making huge profits at the box office, there was no need to worry about low ratings.

"In order to avoid acclimatization, it is best to do Cantonese dubbing."

He said it in a serious tone.

Run Run Shaw nodded and said that if it weren't for the fact that "God of Gamblers" set off a gambling-themed craze in Hong Kong, and TVB turned its production resources and energy to gambling TV dramas, it would have long wanted to adapt suspense and mystery novels such as "Song Ci, the Inspector General of the Song Dynasty" into TV dramas.

Fang Yan is certainly willing to authorize the adaptation rights of "Song Ci, Chief Inspector of the Song Dynasty" and other works to TVB. This will not only boost the sales of novels, but also cooperate with the plan to revitalize the Joint Publishing Company in Hong Kong, and promote the opening up of suspense, mystery, criminal investigation and other types of novels in Hong Kong and expand the market.

Even when the time is right, we can use the Sanlian Bookstore as the only window to introduce the "Mystery World" magazine into Hong Kong.

Thinking of this, he suddenly said, "I just want to give some suggestions on the adaptation of "Song Ci, the Chief Justice of the Song Dynasty"."

“Just speak up if you want to say anything.” Run Run Shaw gave her an encouraging look.

"It's like this..."

Fang Yan said that the Television Art Center produced "The Inspector General of the Song Dynasty" in the form of a serious drama, so the style is heavy and serious.

If TVB wants to shoot, it would be best if it can produce a TV series that is unique to TVB and can go in the direction of popular humor.

After all, official history may not be true, but unofficial history must be wild enough!

"What Yanzi said does make some sense."

Fang Yihua hesitated for a moment and said, "I'll do as you say. I'll find someone to discuss the adaptation plan you proposed later."

Fangyan picked up the cup, took a sip of orange juice to moisten his slightly dry throat, and then soothing music came to his ears.

The programs scheduled for the "Thousand Stars" charity concert were performed one after another.

Soon, it was Li Zhi and Zhang Guorong's turn to go on stage, and they sang in harmony with the melody of "Second Hand".

"Xiaoxiang, if you have nothing to do when you come to Hong Kong with Yanzi, why don't you just do it like before?"

Fang Yihua held Gong Xing's hand affectionately. Whether it was joining the crew as an assistant director or going to film a movie, they could arrange it.

"Thank you for your kindness, Aunt Six."

Gong Xing politely declined, saying that he came to Hong Kong with a mission. First, he represented Shanghai Film Studio to discuss with Xu Ke and Shi Nansheng the plan for the co-production of the second part of "Once Upon a Time in China". After "A Chinese Ghost Story" was released, Xu Ke would go north again to Chedun Film and Television City to prepare for the filming.

Second, as a director appointed by Xi'an Film Studio, I had to start organizing and preparing the preliminary work for "Farewell My Concubine".

"We're going to film Farewell My Concubine?!"

Fang Yihua and Run Run Shaw were not immune to surprise.

"Yes, two male protagonists have been decided."

Gong Xing directly mentioned "Jiang Wen" and "Zhang Guorong".

Fang Yihua didn't know Jiang Wen, but was surprised that Zhang Guorong's agent was willing to let Zhang Guorong take on the role in "Farewell My Concubine".

"Chen Shufen originally disagreed, but fortunately Guorong did not waver and finally came forward to persuade her."

Fangyan smiled and took the opportunity of the charity concert to sit down with Gong Xing, Zhang Guorong and others to discuss the signing matters.

Gong Xing said: "It doesn't matter if Guorong refuses. We still have other candidates, such as 'Zunlong'."

"I've also heard of this 'Zun Long'. He has made quite a name for himself in Hollywood in the past two years after starring in 'Year of the Dragon' and 'The Last Emperor'." Fang Yihua was very curious. If she were asked to cast the role, her first choice for "Cheng Dieyi" would definitely be Zun Long instead of Zhang Guorong.

"Zun Long's temperament is a bit tough and lacks tenderness, so his image is a little worse than Zhang Guorong's."

Gong Xing explained.

“The other thing is the cost.”

Fang Yan said that Zun Long made his mark in Hollywood with "Year of the Dragon" and now it is very likely that his salary will increase significantly with "The Last Emperor".

Inviting Zhang Guorong might cost millions of Hong Kong dollars, while inviting Zun Long would cost tens or even hundreds of millions of US dollars.

One person's pay may account for one-third or even one-half of the entire film, which is a bit of a loss.

It is also a good thing for Zun Long. He no longer has to be involved in the controversy of "Farewell My Concubine" as he did in his previous life.

"It makes sense."

Fang Yihua and Run Run Shaw looked at each other, but did not mention a word about investment.

Fangyan knew very well that, just as Cheng Long said, Hong Kong's film companies were only interested in movies that could make money.

………………

After Li Zhi and Zhang Guorong finished singing together, Zhang Guorong's solo performance followed, singing two songs in a row. One of them was the theme song of "A Chinese Ghost Story", which was considered to be an advance promotion and exposure for the movie that will be released soon.

"Whoa whoa whoa whoa."

After the song was finished, there was a burst of applause.

Zhang Guorong walked off the stage, waving to the audience, and then walked straight back to his front seat.

He was seated just to the right of Fangyan, sharing a table with He Xin, He Chaoqiong and other members of the gambling king's family.

"Mr. Fang, Xiaoxiang, regarding the contract, I would like to add a condition. Is that possible?"

Zhang Guorong said politely.

Fang Yan, like Wang Zuxian, Gong Xing and others, thought it was pay for the film.

These days, the pay of Hong Kong stars has begun to soar. Chow Yun-fat, who was previously dubbed "box office poison", made a comeback with "A Better Tomorrow", and his pay increased from 50 to as much as to million Hong Kong dollars. The same is true for Stephen Chow, who became famous with "God of Gamblers".

It was with this in mind that I prepared to sign a film contract with Zhang Guorong before the release of "A Chinese Ghost Story".

Today, Zhang Guorong has just become a little famous in the film industry, and his pay is almost the same as that of Tan Yonglin, nearly 100 million Hong Kong dollars.

“It’s not about the pay.”

Zhang Guorong said that if the filming of "Farewell My Concubine" was short of funds, he would be willing to reduce his salary.

Even if you are extremely short of money, you can invest money yourself, or attract investment, like He Chaoqiong.

"What are those conditions?"

Fangyan asked in surprise.

Zhang Guorong hoped that the contract would clearly state that the filming period was four months, because he planned to hold a "Sleepless America and Canada" North American tour starting this year, and would also hold concerts in Hong Kong afterwards, so it would be best if "Farewell My Concubine" could be completed in four months.

"What do you think?"

Gong Xing couldn't make up his mind, so he left the decision to Fang Yan.

Fangyan does not advocate including the filming period in the contract, "I don't want the quality of the film to be affected by time constraints."

Zhang Guorong was embarrassed for a moment: "This... this..."

"Let me put it this way. Since you want to film Farewell My Concubine, you must master the skills to play the role of Cheng Dieyi."

Fang Yan said that before filming began, Zhang Guorong would be arranged to come to Beijing several months in advance to learn Peking Opera and Mandarin from a Peking Opera master.

Zhang Guorong thought it made so much sense that he was speechless.

Fang Yan said seriously, "To be honest with you, after filming Farewell My Concubine, I am not only planning to release it in mainland China, but also preparing to apply for participation in the Cannes Film Festival in France and the Oscars in the United States."

"Cannes Film Festival? Oscars?"

Wang Zuxian, He Chaoqiong, Zhang Guorong and others looked at each other and exclaimed in surprise.

You should know that there are not many films from Hong Kong and Taiwan that can make it to the three major European film festivals and the American Oscars. One of the few is King Hu's "A Touch of Zen", which won the highest comprehensive technical award at the Cannes Film Festival and became the first Chinese director to win a major award at a Western A-class film festival.

"I can assure you that as long as you make Farewell My Concubine well, this movie will become your masterpiece of your life."

Fang Yan said: "It will also allow the main creators involved in the film to leave a strong mark in the history of film. What do you think of this?"

Wang Zuxian and the others stared at him intently, and then turned their attention to Zhang Guorong.

His face was full of confusion, but gradually, the hesitation disappeared bit by bit, and it was obvious that he had made a decision in his heart.

"I understand, Mr. Fang, I'll toast to you."

The two drank a glass together, and at the following charity concert, there was no further discussion of the scheduled filming time.

…………

On the day the charity concert ended, the specific terms of the contract discussed with Zhang Guorong were almost agreed upon and they were just one step away from signing the contract.

The next day, Gong Xing came to Mingkong Film Company and ordered people to draft a contract. At the same time, he began to prepare for the preliminary work of "Farewell My Concubine".

At such a busy time, the arrival of Han Yuemin and Fang Hong's family made Fang Yan and his friends put down their work temporarily. They rushed to the dock as soon as possible, took them to the car, and chatted and reminisced along the way. The atmosphere in the car suddenly became harmonious and cordial.

"Sister, I have already arranged the house for you. It is right next door to ours, so it is very convenient for you to visit."

Gong Xing arranged everything perfectly.

Fang Hong held her daughter in her arms and said "OK" repeatedly, her eyes constantly glancing at the tall buildings on both sides of the road, feeling them to be extremely marvelous.

"Brother-in-law, please stay with me in Hong Kong for a few more days." Fang Yan smiled.

"to make!"

Han Yuemin grinned, "Yanzi, there is something I want to ask you."

After asking in Fangyan, I found out that Pengcheng was going to publicly sell RMB common stocks, which were the "A shares" that were used to make money from investors in later generations.

But unlike the Shanghai Stock Exchange in the 80s, it did not issue blank subscriptions, but instead required purchases to be made in the form of free subscriptions.

Before the 90s, a total of five stocks were issued, namely "Shenzhen Development", "Shenzhen Vanke", "Shenzhen Jintian", "Shenzhen Anda" and "Shenzhen Yuanye". Although the total market value of these five stocks was not much in the eyes of later generations, they did allow the first generation of investors to earn their first pot of gold.

However, according to Han Yuemin, the "Shenzhen Development" warrant with a face value of 20 yuan was almost ignored and was difficult to issue.

So far, Shenzhen Development has only completed less than half of its issuance, and has now mobilized people from relevant departments to use their salaries to buy the bonds.

"If that's the case, brother-in-law, we must not miss this good thing."

Fangyan's eyes lit up.

Han Yuemin hesitated and said, "But can this stock really make money? If it really can make money, why can't it be sold?"

"Because stocks are a new concept to people in the mainland, no one dares to be the first to try it, but in Hong Kong, it is indeed a common thing." Fang Yan said, "It is precisely because of this that once people think that stocks are profitable, more and more people will try their best to buy and sell stocks, and the stock price will naturally rise..."

Han Yuemin was enlightened and benefited a lot from listening to him explain the basic knowledge of the stock market.

“What if the stock price drops?”

"It can't fall. The mainland stock market has just been established. There are not many stocks that can be bought and sold. There are only a few stocks that investors can trade."

If Fangyan remembers correctly, the share price of "Shenzhen Development" rose by 4% four months after its issuance, and continued to rise higher and higher afterwards.

The citizens of Pengcheng who bought the original shares earned several years' wages in just a few months, which triggered the first "stock craze" in the mainland.

"Since you've said that, I have no worries."

The last trace of hesitation in Han Yuemin's heart disappeared.

"But brother-in-law, I have to remind you that it's okay to make a fortune in the stock market, but don't lose the big picture for the small one."

Fang Yan said seriously, "Your business focus is on industry."

Han Yuemin nodded, "Don't worry, I know what's going on. I will never do something that takes advantage of others." (End of this chapter)