Actor: Thank you.

"Boss, thank you for your hard work."

In the morning, I ate with my subordinates at the hotel restaurant.

When people go out to play, most of them get up late.

Especially for celebrities, whose lives are already irregular, this is even more chaotic.

But some of his artists also get up early.

Zhao Liying waved goodbye to him as he ate a little something and prepared to leave.

Jiang Xin was also there.

Zhang Yuan strongly suspected that the two of them got up early simply because they didn't want to miss the hotel's free breakfast...

From meeting to hardship, there is bound to be a bond between people.

At least Xiao Zhao has a conscience.

"He's quite hardworking," Jiang Xin muttered.

"Yeah yeah."

The two employees praised their boss for working hard, then continued eating.

Zhang Yuan took a car across the border to Guangdong Province to attend a meeting of the Bureau of Human Relations.

At this point, the closing process was not yet simplified, and it was quite troublesome.

Furthermore, very few people travel from south to north; most travel from north to south.

Some people from mainland China go to Hong Kong to work and make money.

Sitting in the car, Zhang Yuan felt it was a bit absurd.

It's the same country, but the process is more complicated than leaving the country by plane.

Who to guard against?
But thinking back to 10 years later, when the situation changed and many Hong Kong people crossed the border to spend money in Guangzhou.

It's not just a matter of price; Hong Kong businessmen also feel that the Hong Kong service industry is all about making customers suffer.

Upon arriving in downtown Shenzhen, I first met with Chen Jiashang at the press conference venue.

This film was produced and invested in by Shenzhen Media Group, so a press conference had to be held locally.

"Thank you very much."

Chen Jiashang, that little old man, was always very polite. Upon seeing him, he immediately stepped forward to express his gratitude.

"With you here today, we are all very relieved."

"Let me introduce you, this is a leader from Shenzhen TV..."

First, I got to know everyone in the group.

Of course he didn't have to come. After all, although the movie and TV series versions have similar names and content, they are almost completely unrelated in terms of production.

Chan Ka-sang was only the producer and art director.

The person actually in charge of the camera was Liang Shengquan, an old acquaintance of Zhang Yuan and a member of the directing team for "Chinese Paladin" and "Chinese Paladin 3".

This person is also one of the go-to directors for Sugar Man.

The remaining partner is Kwong Man-wai, Chen Jiashang's old friend, who has been working with Director Chen on films for the past few years.

Zhang Yuan remembered that he later went to Enlight Media, and his position was not low.

This is why Chen Jiashang continued to work with Enlight Media; it was through an introduction from an old friend.

In this line of work, it's all about mutual support.

The development of the TV series version of "Painted Skin" is not only because the movie was a hit and they wanted to leverage the IP to create more content.

I also saw that Brother Chenlong and Shanghai Film Group are developing a TV series version of "The Myth".

The show just started airing, and the ratings are quite good.

Zhang Shi's portrayal of Gao Yao and Li Yixiang's portrayal of Liu Bang were both quite convincing.

Bai Bing's Yu Shu and Jin Sha's Lü Su also left a deep impression.

The role of Yu Shu represents the peak of Bai Bing's beauty.

Zhang Yuan met this woman a few years ago when filming "Love Transfer". He thought she was tall and thin with a decent figure, but her appearance was average.

It seems she's not suited to modern clothes, but she really shines in period costumes.

The reason Eagle King signed Bai Bing was because they felt that her features resembled Kim Hee-sun.

This time, playing the same role, it's even more convincing.

The fact that the male actor was a strong actor and the female actor was beautiful made Hu Ge seem very immature.

It's definitely not quite there yet.

Seeing how popular "The Myth" was, "Painted Skin" couldn't hold back any longer.

Get the project started as soon as possible.

"You mentioned before that you wanted to make a film similar to 'Painted Skin'." Director Chen sat down and chatted with him while drinking tea.

The "Painted Skin" IP is also somewhat controversial, but not as much as the "Lost in..." series.

Anyway, Pang Hong isn't asking Chen Jiashang to make a second film, and they've stopped talking to each other.

However, Shenzhen Broadcasting Corporation secured the rights to Ningbo Film Studio, so a TV series of the same name could be filmed.

Since they won't let me make a sequel, I'll just do it myself!
Zhang Yuan had spoken with this person before, but Director Chen had been busy.

He also used the opportunity to discuss the matter with Chen Jiashang, putting some pressure on Pang Hong.

Now that they have some free time, the other person remembered what he said.

"Yes," he replied readily.

"I've thought about it, and it seems promising."

"Then let's find some time to talk about this in detail alone."

"Okay, let's discuss it in detail!"

This finalized the initial agreement.

As for Gordon Chan, you can't say he's that highly skilled.

But anything that comes out of his hands is almost never a loss.

Once the intention is decided, then hold a press conference.

The scheduled main cast members took the stage first and introduced themselves one by one.

Finally, they managed to get him, this "Master Wang," to come out.

"I am very grateful for Director Chen's invitation, and I am also very grateful for everything that the movie 'Painted Skin' has given me."

After going on stage, he exchanged pleasantries for a while and then looked at the main cast.

The TV series version cast Ling Xiaosu as Wang Sheng, and well...

Wang Sheng is a complex character; he possesses both loyalty and righteousness, but also has the problem of "straying from his wife's wishes."

Ling Xiaosu's appearance lacks loyalty and righteousness, but he certainly has a strong sense of greasy and slutty charm that suggests infidelity.

It is in a dual state that is both inappropriate and appropriate.

However, this person's expression became somewhat unnatural upon seeing him.

After all, he had a conflict with his wife.

After Zhang Yuan thought about it in his mind, he figured that the two of them were probably already doing their own thing.

However, Yao Cheng later used her strengths and leveraged public opinion, especially Weibo, to portray her ex-husband as a complete villain.

Actually, you two are about the same, so neither of you should criticize the other.

Zhang Yuan narrowed his eyes.

One of my strengths is that I don't hold grudges.

So you could take this opportunity to get in touch with Ling Xiaosu and lend him a hand at a crucial moment.

Mainly because I'm kind-hearted and like to say a few "fair words".

They especially like to speak the truth when certain people are saying "wrongdoings."

Ling Xiaosu is somewhat acceptable, but Pan Yueming is truly pitiful.

Therefore, when choosing a wife, one should choose a virtuous one. The most important thing about the people around you is not their ability or talent, but their character.

Thinking of this, Zhang Yuan was worried about Baoqiang again...

The role of Pei Rong, played by Zhao Wei, is played by Chen Yi Rong, a Taiwanese actress who debuted in idol dramas.

She later married a famous plastic surgeon, who was especially known in the industry for his nose jobs.

Many of his peers are his clients.

The role of Xiao Wei is played by Xue Kaiqi, who is known as "the last girl in Hong Kong".

Zhang Yuan glanced at Liang Shengquan; he really had a good eye for people.

Right now, the young woman is getting very close to the older black man and they're preparing to live together.

Xiao Wei is a demon, so it's reasonable for her to play with ghosts. Hei X is also a ghost.

Honestly, choosing this person is definitely the right decision.

Because Miss Xue has opened up more than just acting opportunities...

He came here simply to say some auspicious words, offer encouragement, and wish the TV series great success, saying that he also looked forward to seeing a completely different "Painted Skin".

He especially praised Ling Xiaosu, saying that the other party would definitely perform better than him.

Brother Ling stared wide-eyed, not knowing how to respond. He never expected Zhang Yuan to flatter him.

During the Q&A session, Zhang Yuan sensed the deep malice from the media.

"Mr. Zhang Yuan, what was it like to share the stage with Aoi Sora?"

Zhang Yuan: …

"How do you think I should feel?" Zhang Yuan countered.

Seeing his unpleasant expression, Chen Jiashang smiled awkwardly beside him.

"We are asking how you feel."

“Just like how I feel standing here with you right now.” Zhang Yuan stared directly at the reporter.

"Are you calling me a prostitute?!" The female reporter who asked the question suddenly raised her voice.

"There's something wrong with what you're saying. Why do you think I'm calling you a prostitute when I say that standing next to you feels the same as standing next to Aoi Sora?"

"Are you saying that Aoi Sora is a prostitute?"

Zhang Yuan was stumped by this question.

mock up!

They're trying to trap me.

At this juncture, whatever feelings he expresses will be misinterpreted.

The reporters just want to create a big story. Come on, let's hurt each other.

"Everyone has a hard time making a living. I think your question is malicious and shows a lot of disrespect for others."

Zhang Yuan gave him a look, not giving the other party a chance to refute, and then Brother Long stepped forward and reached out to block the microphone.

Director Chen noticed that this young man seemed even more formidable than before.

"What are your thoughts on the recent car model 'Beast'?" another reporter asked.

Zhang Yuan: …

When I shared the stage with Ms. Cang, which category did you categorize me into?

There were also a lot of scandals in 2010.

The "car model scandal" was the hottest topic on the internet at the beginning of the year.

In recent years, auto shows have become increasingly revealing, with various car models taking turns to appear.

This woman, nicknamed "Beast," has been hyped up as "China's No. 1 Car Model" by posting various photos of herself online.

They really know how to pat themselves on the back.

This woman used men to climb the social ladder, hiring several photographers to help her create hype.

As a result, the explicit video was leaked online. Back then, there was a saying: "Who goes to auto shows just to see cars?"

The car shows back then were incredibly intense, comparable to the Miami swimsuit show.

Those born after 00 don't eat as well as their predecessors; those born in the 70s and 80s have seen and experienced all that.

Two groups of people gained unexpected benefits in this incident.

One of them is domestically produced antivirus software!
As soon as people heard that China's No. 1 car model had released a video, everyone went to search for it.

Many people packaged the virus into files or directly searched for and were redirected to illegal websites.

Secondly, there's Su Youpeng...

Because Beastie's screen debut was in Alec Su's "Four Cupids".

The reporter asked Zhang Yuan about this because he had just gone to support Su Youpeng.

Beast was there that day too.

However, he was so focused on Yan Danchen that he didn't pay much attention to the other person.

What kind of bullshit "number one car model" is she? She's nowhere near as good as Chang'e, the Moon Goddess.

This news caused "Four Cupids" to become a hot topic even before its release...

Nobody went to see Alec Su; everyone went to see Beastie.

Zhang Yuan could clearly sense that after entering 2010, the social atmosphere seemed to be heading in an increasingly depraved direction...

Moreover, the whole "Beastie" thing is most likely a publicity stunt she orchestrated herself.

A few years ago in North America, first Paris Hilton's video was leaked, and then Kim Kardashian, who was her sidekick at the time, also got involved in the same scandal.

Hilton probably leaked it accidentally; Kardashian is nine-tenths likely just creating hype for herself.

Beast is imitating this person.

You know what, she became famous overnight, and afterwards she made a lot of money doing gigs.

These days, people laugh at poverty but not prostitution. No matter how you became famous, as long as you have online traffic, businesses will be eager to have you attend events.

Zhang Yuan thought for a moment and decided to play dumb.

Who is Beast?

"What happened?"

Chen Jiashang quickly interjected, "Please don't ask questions that are unrelated to the artist's work or 'Painted Skin'."

Zhang Yuan realized that Director Chen's quick reaction meant he must know.

You old rascal, you've watched it quite a bit too!
He remembered that Wang Jing, that old scoundrel, had even used this incident to stir up trouble.

He announced to the public that he was going to sign Beastie, then held a press conference to deny it, and in the process, he promoted his own drama.

From top to bottom, everyone is thinking about how to ride the wave of popularity.

Because the social atmosphere took a sharp turn for the worse, 10 was also known as the "Year of Crackdown on Prostitution".

Media reporters are also a driving force behind this vulgar content.

To be honest, he really looked down on people like Aoi Sora and Beast.

It wasn't that he thought they were "dirty," but rather that their actual figures and looks were just so-so, not meeting his standards at all.

The problem is that you media outlets are always spreading rumors about me and Zhang Ziyi, or about me and Aoi Sora, or Beastie.

Can't I have a decent meal?
He was so angry that he was still a bit irritated after the press conference ended.

He was so angry he wanted to go back and watch some of Aoi Sora's masterpieces to calm himself down...

However, he also gained something; he saw someone during the press conference.

So I went there immediately after it was over.

"Hello."

She was a young girl with a round head and thick lips.

"Hello." She was clearly surprised that Zhang Yuan would approach her, and it took her a moment to react.

"You have a good image. Why didn't you introduce yourself more during the press conference? I think you..."

Before Zhang Yuan could finish speaking, a middle-aged woman with a Cantonese accent and a distinctly southern appearance aggressively stepped between Zhang Yuan and the young girl.

"what are you doing?"

"What are you doing?" Zhang Yuan retorted. "We were having a conversation, and you're being very rude."

Zhang Yuan recognized both women.

The middle-aged woman is the agent for the young girl; her name is Liang Ting.

Ms. Liang is even more famous as Donnie Yen's manager!
She has been handling all the arrangements for International Dan's return to China to develop his business over the years.

Therefore, she harbored great hostility towards Zhang Yuan.

She lost several films and television series to them, resulting in significant losses for her.

Especially in "Ip Man," it would be strange if this character didn't harbor hostility.

Zhang Yuan had no interest in the "old spotted dove".

This person has some ability, but not much, and like many film and television company owners, he started out in advertising.

They handled advertising campaigns for the Hong Kong Film Awards for several years.

This indicates that this person's sphere of influence was limited to Hong Kong and a small part of the south.

So I'm not afraid of her at all.

Moreover, his attention was mainly focused on young girls.

It's not that I'm lusting after her body.

A few years ago, Liang Ting and Zhen Zidan went to Northeast China to participate in a business event and noticed a rather unique-looking etiquette lady on stage.

Liang Ting took a liking to her and signed her to her agency, despite her complete lack of experience as an artist.

The girl's name is Xin Lei.

Because her name sounds like "heart-tired," and people in Hong Kong are very superstitious, they changed it for her.

I added the character "止" (stop) in the middle, hoping it would stop my mental exhaustion.

So this girl's name is Xin Zhilei.

At this time, Xin Zhilei wasn't the carefree person she would become later.

Her overall image leans towards that of a demure young lady.

Moreover, the reason Liang Ting was attracted to her was similar to how Eagle King was attracted to Bai Bing, because she looked somewhat like a Korean actress.

Bai Bing looks like Kim Hee-sun.

Xin Zhilei looks like Song Hye-kyo!

That's right, it's Song Hye-kyo.

It might not be noticeable later, but in her early career, especially before her jawline widened, she really did resemble Song Hye-kyo.

You can't judge a book by its cover; many female stars were stunning beauties in their youth.

Of course, she wasn't ugly later on; in fact, she had a very distinctive appearance.

Besides his distinctive appearance, this person has another unique characteristic.

That means he has an incredibly large ambition for his career!
She doesn't have the soft and cute personality that Song Hye-kyo seems to have.

"I think you have a lot of class."

“Recently, I’ve been traveling in Hong Kong with many friends, including Wang Baoqiang, Huang Bo, and Song Jia.”

"If you're interested, you can come along so we can all get to know each other."

When Xin Zhilei heard these names, she realized that each one had quite a grand entrance.

Can I play with them?

It's important to know that Xin Zhilei's early career was very difficult.

The biggest reason is actually that Liang Ting's abilities are average.

They signed her in 07, but "Painted Skin" was the first film in which she was officially listed as a member of the cast.

I still used Chen Jiashang's connections.

Previously, Xin Zhilei couldn't even get minor roles; most of the time, she could only work as a makeup artist for the actors on set.

It's gotten this bad.

"Hey, what do you mean?" the agent shouted even louder.

"I am an actor, and she is an actress too."

"I want to exchange ideas with my peers, is that not allowed?"

Is this supposed to be communication?

Liang Ting was furious.

Isn't this like poaching someone right in front of me?
Right in front of you!
Zhang Yuan made no attempt to hide it.

What can you do to me?

"Fine, if your agent is stopping me, I won't bother."

"Here's what we'll do. I'll give you a phone number. If you encounter any difficulties in the north or want to travel, you can contact me anytime."

Zhang Yuan waved, and his assistant took out a small box from his bag and took out a business card.

There are techniques involved in this.

When he handed out his business card, he deliberately stretched his arm forward instead of going around the agent who was standing between the two of them.

Which minor actor would dare to accept a business card without their agent's consent?

Xin Zhilei isn't stupid.

But Zhang Yuan's gesture of extending his arm forward was an opportunity.

Liang Ting, who was furious earlier, snatched the business card he offered and tore it apart forcefully.

It then turned into a flurry of snowflakes and fell to the ground.

Seeing this, Brother Long was about to make a move when he tore up my boss's business card.

You really don't know why flowers are so red!

Zhang Yuan raised his hand to stop him.

Because he has achieved his goal.

Xin Zhilei could refuse, even if it was just because of her agent's face.

But as your agent, you can't actively stop them from giving it to you!

Just like Teacher Fan said, "I can refuse to accept it, but they cannot refuse to give it!"

These two things are completely different in nature.

I voluntarily give up my loyalty to you, Sister Liang.

Is this the same as not giving me the opportunity to interact with industry leaders?

Besides, as my agent, you haven't brought me many good resources.

For an ambitious person, this would be a thorn in their side.

“That’s very impolite of you,” Zhang Yuan repeated his previous words.

After saying that, he shook his head helplessly and left.

Zhang Yuan could certainly turn against Liang Ting directly.

Do you have the ability to compete with me?
I'll get Chen Jiashang to kick Xin Zhilei out of the "Painted Skin" crew right now, believe it or not!

But not necessary.

My purpose is not to cause conflict with you.

Jianghu is not about fighting and killing; Jianghu is about human relations.

I'll do you a favor, and then you'll have your own accident happen... (End of Chapter)