Actor: Thank you.

Zhang Yuan was well aware of the situation at the crosstalk troupe, so he adopted a strategy of both attacking and withdrawing.

With his big heart and big ambition, Cao Yunjing's artistic level and fame have improved a lot in recent years.

Especially after seeing the dazzling world outside, it's easier to look back at the place where you studied.

It's not that it's bad, it's just that the income is too low!

Even if you do two shows a day for a whole month, you'll only make a few thousand yuan.

Commercial performances, in particular, can generate at least hundreds of thousands of yuan in revenue, and sometimes even millions.

But his performance fee was still only a few thousand yuan.

This makes me feel unbalanced.

They feel they do a lot of work but receive little reward.

Well, out of more than a billion people in China, why is there only one Yu Donglai and only one Pang Donglai?

Why is it that out of thousands of bosses, only a handful are willing to share the lion's share of profits with their employees?

Most companies are stingy with employee salaries, even if it's just a few dollars, but when it comes to year-end bonuses for top management, they often distribute hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars.

Employees, mentors, and bosses—their thoughts will definitely change depending on their roles.

Moreover, young people, like Cao Yunjing in his twenties, are at the age when they spend money.

One more thing, why does Brother Qian only smoke and not talk?

Because Cao Yunjing's lack of money was related to him.

Brother Qian lent Jinzi 10 yuan so he could take out a loan to buy a house.

So a large part of this kid's monthly expenses goes towards paying off his loan.

Otherwise, why is it that a master isn't for life, but Brother Qian's godfather is for life?

So Yu Qian remained silent, unable to say anything.

And it's just like how a homeroom teacher might talk to students to discipline them.

Teacher Guo also discovered that Luan Yun could use this apprentice to manage the other apprentices.

This guy is from the capital, so his conditions are better than the other apprentices.

Moreover, in the beginning, Teacher Guo even made him his driver.

The relationship between the driver and the boss is definitely better than that of the average employee.

Although this person is from the capital, he doesn't understand Taoism.

Finding a way around is purely a talent.

Those who are born with a sense of direction can recognize a place after walking it only once; a dynamic map naturally forms in their minds.

If you don't know the way, you can easily get lost even with navigation; all the streets look the same.

So Luan Yunping stopped being a driver.

He initially partnered with other apprentices, but later Master Guo arranged for him to be Gao Feng's straight man, while also letting him get involved in the group's work arrangements.

It's a deliberate attempt to elevate him, pairing him with a senior figure so that his status would naturally be higher than other apprentices, making him easier to manage.

In addition, this person had a strong personality and a clear understanding of why his master made such arrangements, so he was "impartial and incorruptible" to his fellow disciples.

Cao Yunjing later said that there were treacherous officials and villains around his master, and that he needed to "purge the emperor's inner circle"—he was referring to him.

It's no wonder that people in the crosstalk industry are all poorly educated.

First of all, if someone doesn't understand the phrase "清君侧" (qing jun cè), it's not a good phrase.

It was essentially the same as the slogan of a prince's rebellion.

Moreover, throughout history, the target of "purging the emperor's inner circle" has always been the emperor's favorite ministers.

The power of a favored minister comes from the emperor. His actions may not be in the best interests of the people, but they mostly align with the emperor's wishes.

Therefore, you must read more books, especially history.

By learning from the past, we can understand the rise and fall of dynasties.

If Cao Yunjing had read more history books, he would have realized that he had misjudged the point of contention.

What Zhang Yuan did was to support him as a "vassal king" and slightly suppress his favored ministers in order to balance the internal power.

But his balance was only temporary; as long as human nature remains unchanged, things will not change.

Many things that seem accidental are actually inevitable.

Fortunately, he didn't intend to change the inevitable...

I rested at home for two days and then went to Shu Chang's house.

It wasn't for a date; it was to retrieve the "saint's robes" that she had entrusted to him for safekeeping.

"Brother Yuan, how much is this clothing worth now?" Changchang asked curiously as Zhang Yuan personally inspected the clothes, making sure there were no moth holes or tears.

"Prices have probably gone up recently."

"But a wave of counterfeit products will also emerge on the market to ride the wave."

Zhang Yuan thought for a moment and said, "My costume is made of silk and doesn't have any important decorations like diamonds or gold."

"Fortunately, it's a complete set."

"I estimate that it can be more than 100 million US dollars now."

In addition to completeness and authenticity, another factor to consider when determining the price of celebrity items is whether the context in which they were used is well-known.

For example, the red jacket Michael Jackson wore when filming the "Thriller" music video in 83.

Because MV is so famous, a single item costs around 200 million US dollars.

The zip-up jacket he wore at the 87 concert was so famous that it cost $300 million.

He even got Jackson to sign his stage outfit.

With this signature, the price doubles.

The $100 million he mentioned is the most conservative estimate, and it comes at a time when auction items are being released in quick succession, and everyone is trying to make a quick buck from Michael's death.

"That's quite expensive," Shu Chang nodded thoughtfully.

“What matters is not the price, but the value.” Zhang Yuan raised his index finger.

"In the eyes of the superstar's fans, this is priceless."

"So selling it is actually the most wasteful way to use it."

"Keep it; its value will continue to increase, and maybe one day you can use it to exchange for something good."

Zhang Yuan frowned as he glanced at the replica performance costume that Shu Chang had bought; the quality was terrible.

Call Yee Chung-Man, the costume director of "The Warlords," the one he introduced to work on "Curse of the Golden Flower."

Ask him to make a replica for me to display at home.

This guy's craftsmanship is such that it looks perfectly fine from afar, but upon closer inspection, you'll notice something's wrong.

"Making a copy of this...you're not planning to auction it off, are you?"

"Looks like you've had quite a few people looking for you lately," Zhang Yuan replied with a smile.

He only agreed after I assured him that I didn't want him to help me fabricate evidence or cause trouble.

The older brother also thought, "Zhang Yuan's net worth shouldn't be enough to justify making this much money."

He plans to decorate a security-equipped showroom in his new house to display his valuables.

We'll move it over there once it's finished.

After having a meal with Shu Chang and staying overnight, he began his daily work the next day.

Besides the previously missed business deals and endorsement activities, I also have to attend the press conference for "The Founding of a Republic".

He was dragged there by Lao Han, who knew he couldn't escape once he was in the capital.

Zhang Yuan was reluctant to go, mainly because there were too many celebrities involved.

Most people weren't there, but I went anyway; that would have been too much of a show-off.

He plans to keep a lower profile recently.

But Lao Han wouldn't allow him to keep a low profile.

"A warm welcome to the creative team behind 'The Founding of a Republic'!"

With the host's introduction, Zhang Yuan followed the crowd and was the last to appear.

He felt immense pressure from everyone in front of him, whether they were leaders or senior colleagues.

Teacher Tang Guoqiang was there, and Sun Nan, who sang the theme song, was also there.

Vivian Wu, who plays Soong Mei-ling, also arrived.

She looks much younger in everyday clothes than in the movie.

Fortunately, Xu Qing wasn't there, and Zhang Yuan escaped unscathed.

Zhang Yuan knew he was just a figurehead, so he should talk less and smile more.

Because everyone here today is a heavyweight.

Zhang Heping, the director of Beijing People's Art Theatre, is an advisor and the composer of the theme song.

Old Han is here, Director Huang Jianxin is here, the director of the movie channel is here, and Eagle King sent the vice president.

The CEO of DMG, the major conglomerate behind China Film Group, also came.

Even the sponsor of this place is extraordinary; it's Tsinghua Tongfang.

Many young people may not know this brand, but it was quite famous in the civilian market in its early years.

Along with Lenovo and Founder, it is known as one of the three driving forces of China Computer.

Later, they gradually disappeared from public view.

But it didn't go bankrupt; it was completely acquired.

Primarily responsible for providing advanced civilian and military software and hardware technical support.

He was involved in almost every national project, especially in nuclear technology.

The company's current major shareholder is China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

This group of people together doesn't look like a movie premiere.

The whole thing was a patriotic symposium.

Old Han spoke first, talking about his original intention in making this film.

"One night many years ago, I had a dream."

"I dreamed that China could also make its own blockbuster movies."

"I didn't expect it to happen so quickly."

"And this blockbuster was made for our great motherland, which makes me very proud as a film industry professional!"

After Lao Han started, things went wrong.

After that, everyone started talking about things in a very high-sounding and serious way.

Moreover, the "format" is the same for all of them.

"Mr. Wang from Tsinghua Tongfang, our sponsor, what was your original intention in sponsoring 'The Founding of a Republic'?"

The manager, Wang Xiangdong, picked up the microphone, glanced at Lao Han, and then spoke.

"One night, I dreamed that President Han was leading a group of big shots to celebrate my mother's birthday."

"We at Tongfang are also big names, and we wanted to join in the fun."

The host then turned to Vivian Wu.

My older sister smiled, squinted her eyes, and took the microphone.

Those who can make it in the entertainment industry are all very shrewd and worldly-wise, and she is no exception.

"Actually, I also had a dream. I dreamt that President Han called to invite me."

"I didn't expect him to actually call."

Zhang Yuan: …

You three are all dreaming.

When it's my turn to speak, wouldn't it seem like I'm out of place if I didn't dream?
You guys are all so too much like office workers!

My maternal grandfather's surname was also Bi, right?
All I can say is that I dreamt that the bald man appeared to me in my dream, saying that I look like his son...

Zhang Yuan felt uncomfortable listening to this; the dead memories of my workplace attacked me again.

This feeling of having to just echo what the boss says...

At this point, it has to be the "Prime Minister".

When asked about Mr. Tang Guoqiang, the conventional format of "I dreamed" was broken.

"Although I have portrayed great figures many times, my level of understanding is still far from reaching theirs." Zhang Yuan breathed a sigh of relief. It was good that he hadn't mentioned that the late emperor had appeared to him in a dream, asking for his help in restoring the Han Dynasty.

He was finally able to express his thoughts freely, saying that he felt the character of Ching-kuo was very complex.

His thoughts underwent several changes throughout his life.

He was only portraying his youth.

When asked by a reporter whether he enjoys playing villainous roles, he replied...

Zhang Yuan was speechless for a moment. Who likes to play a villain?

Does Feng Yuanzheng enjoy acting out domestic violence?

Does Hou Tianlai like playing perverts?

Even Li Mingqi, who played Rong Momo, didn't like to use voodoo dolls.

"As an actor, whether I play a hero or a villain, I am just a character."

"I've taken on this role, so I'll do my best to play it well."

"I am also very grateful to President Han for giving me the opportunity to play such a historical figure."

Old Han smiled and nodded.

This one sounds really good.

Although they care about appearances, most of what they say is just for show, and they express their patriotism in a somewhat cheesy way.

But he agreed with some of what Lao Han said.

Finally, he added value, which also served to showcase his achievements.

"China's film industry has made great strides."

"Whether it's developed countries like Europe and North America, or neighboring island nations like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand."

"In recent years, copyright transactions with China Film Group have increased significantly."

"Chinese commercial films are also more popular in the international market."

"This is Chinese cinema rising by taking advantage of the country's rising status."

"It is about progressing together with the motherland."

That sounds a little cheesy, but that's the truth.

As the leader, Lao Han saw things clearly.

They only care about the dignity of ordinary people, not the development of a major power.

What literature has no borders?

Everything depends on the support of a powerful nation.

In the past, during the Tang Dynasty, when all nations paid tribute to China, even a lacquered tea caddy was taken back by the Japanese and treated as a national treasure.

During the Edo period, a gold seal was unearthed in Japan.

The inscription reads "King of the Han-Wa-nu".

It was bestowed upon the island nation by Emperor Guangwu of Han.

They were given the name Wa, and called Wa slaves.

Even so, the other party was moved to tears as they wrote their memorial, and finally, they gained the recognition of the Celestial Empire.

The prerequisite for all nations to pay tribute and submit is abundant martial virtue.

The Tang Dynasty was the global center at that time, and Li Shimin was the governor of the Eastern Hemisphere.

Therefore, everyone wanted to learn about the culture of the Tang Dynasty.

North America after World War II was like the modern-day "Tang Dynasty".

The Japanese have now recognized the Westerners as their fathers again.

All nations came to pay tribute, vying to learn their culture and admire their literary works.

Of course, their situation was similar to that of the Tang Dynasty, especially the later Tang Dynasty.

However, the Tang Dynasty survived for another 150 years, from An Lushan's uprising to Zhu Wen's usurpation of the throne.

Therefore, the theories of swift victory and collapse are unacceptable.

As Jiang Wen said, the number of aircraft carriers is the guarantee of copyright and intellectual property.

There is no need to worry about Chinese culture going overseas.

When the aircraft carrier sets sail, culture will go to sea with it.

Wherever powerful ships and cannons go, culture will spread there; this is the truth.

After the press conference ended, Lao Han specifically sought him out.

"You've got a lot going on lately, haven't you?"

"No."

"Not yet, I've heard about it." Old Han was in a good mood, his face beaming.

"We can't figure things out with the island nation, and we're also in litigation with domestic companies."

"You'd better watch out. Lately, a lot of people have been telling me that you're too arrogant."

That's right, they've never seen such an arrogant person in their entire lives.

Zhang Yuan just wanted to show them what it was all about.

"Can you handle this?" Old Han asked, arms crossed.

"Let's give it a try."

"Alright then." Old Han thought to himself, if you really can't do it, I'll give you another hand.

That way you'll be more obedient.

Now, let you do whatever you want until you're battered and bruised, and then we'll see.

After the break, he went home and started exercising, practicing boxing.

Afterwards, I need to go to Stallone's place and get some work done, especially in terms of physique; I need to get in better shape.

North America prefers physiques with defined muscle lines.

After practicing for only a few days, Chenlong suddenly called him.

Wow, you've been doing great lately.

"You acted very well?"

"Which movie?" Zhang Yuan scratched his head.

Uncle Long thought to himself that he had become famous, since everyone was asking which movie he was in, which meant that he had too many movies being released.

"I went to see 'The Founding of a Republic,' and it was very good."

"Your performance is no worse than those of your predecessors."

"No, no, I'm still far from it, I have a lot to learn."

"You're welcome. I happen to have a new project here, which is on a similar theme."

“I watched your performance as Mr. Jiang and I think there’s a role that would suit you.”

"Are you interested?"

"What drama?"

"We're making a film about the Xinhai Revolution, planning to release it in 11. It's perfect for commemorating the 100th anniversary of the revolution."

Another tribute film; Zhang Yuan knew what was going on.

This film has quite a few stars, but it's clearly not as good as "The Founding of a Republic" and "Bodyguards and Assassins".

Well, at least there are many positive historical figures in this film.

If I could act in one, it would be a way to make a name for myself in film history.

Students might even see stills from the show during their history classes someday.

“Great, it’s the actors’ responsibility to make a tribute film.”

"I am willing."

What kind of role do you think I'm suitable for?

"Wang Jingwei," Chen Long, the co-director, replied with certainty.

Zhang Yuan: …

Okay, okay, you're messing with me like this?

I remember you had your son play Zhang Zhenwu, the first martyr to die heroically after the Wuchang Uprising, who was murdered by Yuan Shikai.

Your son plays a martyr, so you make your father play a major traitor?

A biological son is definitely different.

Uncle Long also explained that he was approached because Wang Jingwei was known as a handsome man of the Republic of China era, and he needed to have a good image.

Later, he defected to the Japanese, and Zhang Yuan was able to speak Japanese.

Moreover, the character Xiao Jiang he played had a quality that was difficult to distinguish between good and evil, and the two had something in common.

Zhang Yuan felt that these words might be a compliment to him, but it was unlikely that they were actually praising him.

Does being handsome mean you have to play a traitor?

Isn’t this bullying honest people?

"Uncle Jackie Chan, I'd like to play a positive character recently."

"Wang Jingwei was just too much..."

Throughout five thousand years of history, there have been very few who have been so infamous for ten thousand years.

What if my image and temperament become fixed after I perform it?

From now on, those who come to me will be like Lü Bu, Qin Hui, and Wu Sangui. Then I'll be finished.

Refuse immediately.

Playing a villain is fine, but playing a villain who is too famous is annoying.

"I'll pass on to you, but how about I recommend someone else?"

"Who?"

"Chen Kun!"

"He's handsome, but also has a bit of an effeminate air about him."

Zhang Yuan was almost moved by his own actions. "I'm really taking good care of my friends!"

He wasn't talking nonsense; Kun Kun is indeed suitable for this kind of role.

On the contrary, he doesn't seem like a very upright person.

He is especially suitable for situations where it is difficult to distinguish between good and evil.

This film was produced by Shanghai Film Group, because Eagle King has a cooperative relationship with Shanghai Film Group.

The producer is Wang Yuan's biological father.

So this boss also called him after the Dragon Boat Festival, wanting him to play Wang Jingwei as well.

He rejected me again.

I should have known better than to play Ching-kuo; my reputation has been ruined!
I still recommended KunKun and contacted the other party.

Chen Kun was also moved!

Since his illegitimate child was exposed, he has had far fewer jobs.

He was thrilled when Zhang Yuan recommended him to work on such a big production.

"I've already spoken to the director and the producer."

"Why don't you give it a try?"

"Thank you so much. I'll treat you to hot pot sometime." Kun Ge thanked him repeatedly.

Find someone to replace me, so they won't bother me anymore.

Zhang Yuan sighed, "The acting profession is too dangerous."

If a character is not played well, it is easy to be misunderstood.

It makes me seem like I'm particularly good at playing villainous roles.

Even if I'm a villain, I'm a cute and charming villain.

After dealing with this matter, he rested for a few more days before boarding a plane to Singapore.

He was going to discuss the role with actress Gong Li… (End of Chapter)