1978: Female educated youth, don’t want an illiterate husband

Finally, Cheng Xuemin basically finalized the list of people going south to Hong Kong this time!
When the news spread, those at Yan Film Studio who weren't selected naturally experienced another round of discussion and disappointment, but Cheng Xuemin's reasons were convincing, and no one could say anything against him.

However, in the dormitory of Yenching Film Academy, this news was like a bombshell.

Zhang Mouzi was lying on his bed revising the storyboard for his graduation project when his roommate rushed in, panting, and shouted:

"Mou Zi! Mou Zi! Stop drawing! It's fantastic news! Factory Director Cheng Xuemin specifically asked you to go to Hong Kong with him, and the list is finalized!"

Zhang Mouzi paused, pen in hand. He looked up, his face filled with disbelief, his dark skin making his eyes shine even brighter.

"What...what did you say? Factory Director Cheng wants me to go to Hong Kong?"

"Yeah! Aren't you the photography assistant for Tai Chi and Shaolin Temple? You're on the list of twenty! The list was just released!" The classmate said, patting his bed with envy and excitement.

The other students in the dormitory also gathered around, chattering: "Really? Mou Zixing is amazing! He's managed to get on someone's good side without saying a word!"

"Going to Hong Kong! It's like going abroad! I'm so envious!"

"How did Cheng Xuemin fall for him? He's usually so quiet and reserved..."

At this moment, Chen Kaizi from the next dormitory also rushed over after hearing the news. He had just been turned away by his father and was furious.

He leaned against the doorframe, looking at Zhang Mouzi surrounded by the crowd, his eyes filled with complex emotions, his tone tinged with sourness:
"Wow, Mouzi, not bad! You've climbed the social ladder? Director Cheng has quite the eye for talent, turning down a professionally trained director and choosing... a camera assistant?"

Zhang Mouzi ignored Chen Kaizi's sarcastic remarks; he was still immersed in the huge shock.

He put down his pen, sat up in bed, rubbed his face, and muttered, "I...I'll go to the factory now and confirm with Director Cheng..."

His voice trembled slightly, a mixture of excitement and fear.

Tian Zhuangzhuang chimed in from the side, "What's there to confirm?! Our factory has already issued a notice! Mouzi, you've really made something of yourself! Go to Hong Kong, work hard! Make our classmates proud!"

Li Shaohong also came over, looking on with envy: "Mouzi, I heard that the film technology in Hong Kong is very advanced. Learn more and teach us!"

Zhang Tielin, who once played an extra in the film "Tai Chi," patted Zhang Yimou on the shoulder and said in a loud voice, "Brother! If you become rich and powerful, don't forget me! Remember to treat us when you come back!"

Surrounded by his classmates, Zhang Mouzi finally broke into a warm, excited smile, nodding repeatedly: "Yes, yes, definitely, definitely..."

Only Chen Kaizi, looking at the lively scene before him, felt a mix of emotions.

He recalled his father's reprimand earlier, and then looked at Zhang Mouzi, who was usually unremarkable, and realized that he had actually gotten such an opportunity. A feeling that he couldn't tell whether it was jealousy or resentment welled up in his heart.

He snorted coldly and turned to leave the noisy dormitory.

Zhang Mouzi was overwhelmed with joy. He ran to the washroom, splashed cold water on his face, and looked at his reflection in the mirror—a water droplet with unusually bright eyes—and clenched his fists tightly.

He knew that this opportunity was a recognition of his silent efforts by Factory Director Cheng, and he had to do his best to live up to it.

The news that Cheng Xuemin had chosen Zhang Mouzi also reached the ears of the old factory director, Wang Yang.

The former factory director, Wang Yang, was somewhat surprised and specifically asked, "There are quite a few promising talents at the Film Academy, why did you choose this quiet guy?"

Cheng Xuemin smiled and replied with only eight words: "Down-to-earth, hardworking, and energetic."

The old factory director, Wang Yang, nodded thoughtfully and said nothing more; he trusted Cheng Xuemin's judgment.

The team list for the trip to Hong Kong was finally finalized after repeated deliberations.

This time, the delegation to Hong Kong was still led by Cheng Xuemin, with director Huang Jianzhong as the deputy leader.

Other members include lead actors Li Lianjie and Zhu Lin, other actors Yu Chenghui, Yu Hai, Liu Xiaoli, Ji Chunhua, Hu Jianqiang, Xiong Xinxin, Du Yuming, Sun Jiankui, as well as several key members of the production team such as Feng Jiazhao and Zhang Yimou.

Cheng Xuemin personally signed the notice, requiring all members to prepare and depart on time on April 18.

Therefore, this time Cheng Xuemin did not show favoritism and took all the main members of the crew to Hong Kong to broaden their horizons!

The team list for the trip to Hong Kong was officially finalized, and the official document was issued to all departments of Yanying Film Studio, marking the end of the matter.

Those who weren't selected gradually dispersed after a few days of discussion, and the factory returned to a superficial calm.

But Cheng Xuemin's burden became even heavier.

These twenty people were specially approved by Liao Gong; they went out with a special mission and had to be brought back intact, without missing a single one.

In the last few days before departure, Cheng Xuemin applied to the ministry to set aside a large conference room in the factory for a three-day closed-door group training for all members going to Hong Kong.

This training focuses not on business skills, but on ideological work.

The curtains in the conference room were half-drawn, making the light somewhat dim.

The group of twenty members, along with the two group leaders, Cheng Xuemin and Huang Jianzhong, and four accompanying staff members specially dispatched by the ministry, filled the room to capacity.

The four staff members were dressed in ordinary Zhongshan suits, with serious expressions, upright posture, sharp eyes, and silent presence, exuding an imposing aura.

Anyone with eyes to see can tell that these are bodyguards sent from above, responsible for security and keeping a close eye on the group to prevent anyone from having any improper thoughts once they arrive in the glamorous world of Hong Kong.

Cheng Xuemin stood in front of the podium, his gaze sweeping over every face in the audience.

There are young actors like Li Lianjie and Ji Chunhua who are excited and eager to try, and experienced masters like Yu Hai and Yu Chenghui who are calm and expectant.

There were also a few technical backbones selected from the technical department who were engrossed in their research, and Feng Jiazhao and Zhang Mouzi sitting in the corner, their eyes somewhat restrained yet full of longing.

"Comrades!" Cheng Xuemin began, his voice not loud, but clearly reaching everyone's ears, "In three days, we will be setting off for Hong Kong."

The importance of this mission is self-evident. It was personally approved by Director Liao, a special quota granted by the ministry, and countless eyes in the national film industry are watching us.

He paused, then emphasized, "When we go out, we represent not only Yanying Film Studio, but also the image of the new Chinese film industry!"

What kind of place is Hong Kong? A capitalist society, dazzling and tempting. Under British rule, the environment was complex.

The audience was completely silent; even their breathing was quiet.

The four bodyguards' gazes, like searchlights, slowly swept over the crowd.

"Therefore, before we set off, there are some rules that must be emphasized again and again and engraved in our minds!" Cheng Xuemin picked up a document. "First, all actions must be in accordance with orders! No acting alone, no contact with unidentified persons, and no going to places you shouldn't be!"

In any situation, you must report to the regimental commander, deputy regimental commander, or one of these four comrades immediately!

His gaze lingered on the faces of those young people for a moment. Li Lianjie subconsciously straightened his back. He had been to Hong Kong twice before with Cheng Xuemin!

Two of these four comrades were people I had met before, having gone with them once before!
"Second, strictly abide by foreign affairs discipline! Do not say what should not be said, and do not ask what should not be asked."

In interpersonal interactions, maintain a respectful yet assertive attitude, and uphold national dignity. Do not give private interviews to the media, and do not make any unauthorized statements!

"Third, be vigilant and take precautions against fire, theft, and infiltration!"

When Cheng Xuemin said the last three words, his voice was particularly solemn: "The situation in Hong Kong is special, with various forces deeply entrenched in one another."

We must always keep this in mind, and not be hit by sweet words or taken advantage of by people with ulterior motives!
"If twenty of us go out, all twenty of us must return safely and completely! Not a single one can be missing! This is a strict order!"

His words were like a heavy hammer, hitting everyone's heart.

The air in the conference room seemed to freeze. Even the most carefree Li Lianjie put away her smile and became serious.

The next two days of training mainly focused on learning foreign affairs etiquette, an introduction to the basic situation in Hong Kong, and repeated emphasis on various disciplinary provisions.

Although the four bodyguards didn't talk much, their very presence was an invisible deterrent.

At the end of the training, everyone felt a heavy burden on their shoulders.

At this crucial moment of intense preparation, another major event was about to happen at Cheng Xuemin's home.

That evening, Cheng Xuemin had just finished his training and returned home with his brother-in-law Feng Jiazhao when they noticed that the atmosphere in the courtyard was unusual.

Father-in-law Feng has actually come back!

He looked travel-worn and weary, but his eyes held a complex and indescribable expression—excitement, solemnity, and a hint of barely perceptible unease.

"Dad? You're back?" Cheng Xuemin was a little surprised. Feng's father had been traveling south with him for quite some time, and he hadn't expected him to return at this crucial moment.

There was little joy on the faces of Feng's mother and Feng Jiayou; instead, a layer of worry shrouded them.

Inside the main room, the food was already laid out on the table, but the atmosphere was somewhat somber.

"Xuemin and Jiazhao are back. Perfect timing, let's eat and talk while we eat." Mr. Feng pointed to the seats, his voice a little hoarse. The family sat around the table, and even the usually lively Feng Liwen and her brother seemed to sense that something was off, sitting obediently at the table and blinking at the adults.

Mrs. Feng placed a piece of food on Mr. Feng's plate, and before she could speak, her tone filled with grievance and confusion:
"Xuemin, Jiazhao, your father came back this time... with a new arrangement from above, which he discussed with the family. The higher-ups... want him to be transferred to a post outside the capital."

"A transfer to another province? That's great, Dad!" Feng Jiazhao exclaimed immediately upon hearing this. "Which province is it? Is it a promotion?"

Mr. Feng put down his chopsticks, gave a wry smile, and shook his head: "Not any province. It's... in the south. Shenzhen, you know?"

“Shenzhen? A small town?” Feng Jiazhao was stunned. He was unfamiliar with the name of the place. When he heard that it was just a small town, his face fell instantly!

"It's not a small town, it's called... well, actually it's just a small town!" Father Feng originally wanted to explain to his eldest son, but then he thought there was no point in explaining it; it was just a small town after all!
He then added, "It's in Guangdong, a small town on the East China Sea coast, right across from Hong Kong and the New Territories."

Mr. Feng took a deep breath and continued, "The higher-ups have decided to designate a test field over there. They want me to go there and oversee... all the work."

"An experimental field? A full-scale operation?" Mother Feng's voice suddenly rose, filled with disbelief. "Overseeing the operation of a whole town?"

"Old Feng, you're a director in Haizi, but you're still a proper division-level cadre! Going down to oversee the work of a town? This... this is a lateral transfer or... the difference is too great! Isn't that equivalent to... being exiled?"

Her eyes instantly welled up with tears: "I've heard people say that place is very desolate, just a small fishing village! The conditions must be so harsh!"

"You were doing just fine in Yanjing, why were you sent to a place like that?"

Feng Jiazhao was also stunned. He hadn't expected his father to be sent to such a place, a small town that sounded insignificant.

This was completely different from what he had imagined—a promotion and focused development.

Mr. Feng sighed, his tone heavy: "The organization's decision naturally has its own considerations. As for the experimental field, someone has to go and cultivate it."

Many people are hesitant about this and unwilling to go. The fact that the organization spoke with me shows they trust me.

"Trust? What kind of trust is this?" Mrs. Feng became agitated. "It's sending you to tackle the tough challenges! If you do well, it's your duty! If you do poorly, all the responsibility falls on you!"

They're dirt poor over there, they have nothing, how are we supposed to get by? What if... what if something goes wrong, your entire future will be ruined!"

She became more and more upset as she spoke, and tears streamed down her face: "Our family has only had a few days of peace? Jiayou and Jiazhao are still young, Xuemin is going on a long trip, and now you're going to such a desolate place..."

The atmosphere in the main room suddenly became extremely oppressive.

The little squirrel seemed frightened by its grandmother's crying; its mouth twitched, and it looked like it was about to cry too.

Feng Jiayou quickly picked him up and comforted him, her mind a jumbled mess.

Cheng Xuemin listened silently until he heard the words "Shenzhen" and "experimental field". His heart skipped a beat and a huge surge of joy and excitement rushed to his head!
I almost lost my composure on the spot!
That's Shenzhen!

Cheng Xuemin had previously tried his best to help his father-in-law catch that train heading south!

Isn't the whole point to give my father-in-law the opportunity to participate in that century-long wave of reform and opening up?

That was the most significant and memorable chapter in the reform and opening up!

Cheng Xuemin had only thought that by giving his father-in-law a push, he could have a chance to get involved.

But I never expected it!
With that casual push, the father-in-law was propelled to the very crest of the wave!
They became trendsetters of the times!

Yes!

It is still a desolate town and fishing village that no one cares about now, but in a few years, it will rise at an astonishing speed and become known as the world-famous Shenzhen speed!

Being able to take charge of the work in the early days of the establishment of a small fishing village, how can this be considered exile?
This is clearly a tremendous opportunity to soar to the top like a rocket!
His future prospects are simply limitless!
He suppressed his overwhelming joy, took a deep breath, and knew he had to speak, and he had to convince his family!

Luckily, he hasn't left yet. If he had gone to Hong Kong, and his father-in-law came back and discussed it with him, given the current mood of his mother-in-law and his wife, they would most likely have politely declined!

That would be a missed opportunity!

He put down his chopsticks, his gaze sweeping over his tearful mother-in-law and his worried wife, finally settling on his father-in-law's furrowed brows, clearly showing his own inner turmoil. He spoke with unusual seriousness:
"Mom, Jiayou, eldest brother, please don't panic, let me say a few words."

All eyes immediately turned to him.

Cheng Xuemin looked at Feng's father with sincere and firm eyes: "Dad, I feel that this is not exile, but a tremendous opportunity! It is the organization's greatest trust and responsibility in you!"

Mother Feng immediately retorted, "Opportunity? What opportunity? What opportunities could there be in such a small place?"

"Mom, let me explain," Cheng Xuemin patiently explained. "Think about it, why is it called an 'experimental field'? It's because we have to feel our way across the river, to forge a new path!"
How many eyes across the country are watching this place right now? It's at the center of a storm!
The organization sent Dad because he's capable, decisive, and trustworthy! This isn't a responsibility just anyone can shoulder!

He turned to Mr. Feng, his tone more earnest: "Dad, think about it, in government offices, following the established procedures and seniority, how difficult is it to get promoted?"
But things were different over there! It was like painting on a blank canvas, like pioneering oxen!

As long as you can achieve results in this experimental field, even preliminary results, that will be a solid political achievement!
This achievement is the result of hard work and dedication! It carries ten times, a hundred times, more weight than years spent languishing in a government office!

Mr. Feng's eyes flickered; clearly, Cheng Xuemin's words had struck a chord with him.

He was well aware that this was an adventure, but he also vaguely sensed the opportunities it contained. However, his family's opposition and the uncertainty of the future made him hesitate.

Cheng Xuemin pressed on, "Yes, it is desolate and harsh there now. But it is precisely because it is desolate that it is easy to achieve results!"

It is precisely because it is a blank sheet of paper that it is possible to draw the newest and most beautiful pictures!

"Dad, you're an ambitious man. Are you really content to just sit in the office dealing with paperwork, instead of actually making a difference?"

He paused, then offered an even more enticing prospect: "Moreover, I dare say that once this experimental field is established, its level will definitely not be limited to just a town!"

Its strategic position is too important! It will definitely be upgraded in less than six months, at most a year!
At that time, Dad, as the pioneer and founder, your status will rise accordingly, and when you return, you will at least be a department head, or even higher!

What's this called? This is called overtaking on a curve! This is called strategic investment!

"The main hall?" Both Madam Feng and Feng Jiayou gasped, stunned by this prediction.

Mr. Feng also suddenly raised his head, a glint of light flashing in his eyes.

"Xuemin, do you...do you have any basis for your judgment?" Mr. Feng's voice trembled slightly.

"Dad, think about it, if it weren't extremely important, would the higher-ups be so serious, specifically calling you in for a talk and asking you to come back and discuss it with the family?"

Cheng Xuemin analyzed, "This just shows its significance! Many people can't see it clearly now, and dare not go, afraid of taking risks."

But the greater the risk, the greater the opportunity! Dad, at this time, you need to be bold and dare to be a pioneer! Once everyone sees through it, the opportunity will be gone!

He added fuel to the fire: "Dad, don't worry! Just go for it! If you need any information or communication with the outside world, I can help you with that during my trip to Hong Kong!"

Hong Kong and the other side are separated by a river, and they are well-connected. We can coordinate an attack from the inside and outside!

Cheng Xuemin's words were reasonable, well-founded, analytical, and forward-looking, and they painted a very attractive picture of the future, completely changing the atmosphere in the room.

Mother Feng stopped crying and stared blankly at her son-in-law, seemingly processing the information in his words.

The worry in Feng Jiayou's eyes was gradually replaced by hope.

Mr. Feng's chest heaved, clearly indicating an intense internal struggle, but the hesitation and gloom in his eyes had largely dissipated, replaced by a burning fighting spirit and decisiveness.

He slammed his hand on the table, making the bowls and chopsticks jump: "Good! Xuemin, you see things clearly! You're right! This is indeed an opportunity, a huge opportunity!"

Hesitation and timidity will never lead to great things! I, Feng Jingren, will take on this responsibility!

He looked at his wife and daughter, his tone firm: "Don't worry! I'm going to venture into this den of dragons and tigers! I'll make a name for myself and show you!"

Looking at her husband's renewed spirits and then at her resolute son-in-law, Feng's mother finally sighed and wiped away her tears.
"Since you two have said so, what can I say? Go on, go on, I'll take care of things at home."

Feng Jiayou nodded vigorously, "Dad, I support you! Go ahead and do it!"

The family turmoil was instantly transformed into a powerful driving force by Cheng Xuemin's insightful analysis.

After shaking off the fatigue of the journey and the gloom in his heart, Mr. Feng became energetic and began to organize the materials overnight, preparing to report the decision to the organization.

Seeing his father-in-law's renewed fighting spirit, Cheng Xuemin felt a great weight lifted from his heart and was filled with anticipation.

He vaguely sensed that the wheels of history were turning faster around him.

……

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