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

Just as Cheng Xuemin was making waves in the Hong Kong film industry and finalizing a theatrical distribution deal with Shaw Brothers.

Far away in Los Angeles, USA, Aunt Gu Qiuna also launched her own operation in full swing.

Cheng Xuemin just sent another encrypted telegram, along with this detailed character biography from "Redemption".

It's now spread out on the desk in her temporarily rented office on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Sunlight streamed through the blinds, casting striped shadows on the papers bearing names and character traits such as "Andy Dufresne" and "Ellis 'Red' Reading."

Gu Qiuna put down her half-finished black coffee and rubbed her temples.

In the telegram, several key words that Cheng Xuemin repeatedly emphasized echoed in her mind: "storytelling", "untapped potential", "controllable remuneration", and "not a star face".

This task is not easy.

Hollywood has no shortage of young people who want to act, but finding those with both talent and the right temperament for the role among thousands of dreamers is a challenge.

Finding raw stones that haven't been overexploited by the industry and are reasonably priced is like finding a needle in a haystack.

She first used the connections she had built up over the years in the news magazine and entertainment industry to contact several reputable independent agencies and issue a "breakthrough announcement" for the role.

As Cheng Xuemin had predicted, most major talent agencies reacted coldly to a film produced by the little-known Oriental Film Company and shot in Hong Kong.

They only sent out perfunctory information on newcomers or actors who had been out of work for a long time.

Gu Qiuna was not discouraged; she knew that Cheng Xuemin didn't want mass-produced products.

She began to shift her focus, turning her attention to more peripheral and authentic places.

Accompanied by her assistant, she frequently visited schools with renowned drama programs, such as the University of Southern California and UCLA, to watch students' end-of-term performances and graduation plays.

She also ventured into those small theaters with fewer than a hundred seats, where the air was filled with the smell of old carpets and coffee.

Seek out potential faces in experimental theaters and independent short films with low ticket prices and small audiences.

She also subscribed to various entertainment recruitment and actor newsletter services, carefully screening the resumes of actors who did not have agents and submitted their materials themselves.

After several days, the harvest was meager.

Either the performance is too over-the-top, or the temperament is far from the resilience, restraint, or world-weariness required by the role.

Just as she was feeling anxious, a resume recommended by a friend, without a photo, caught her attention.

The resume belongs to Timothy "Tim" Francis Robbins.

Having recently graduated from university, with baseball listed as her major, she has a very active theatrical background, having participated in numerous campus dramas and local theatre productions.

My friend said on the phone, "This young man is tall and looks a bit shy, but he has a unique focus when he's on stage, especially when he plays complex, taciturn characters. He's very convincing."

"Well... he's a bit stubborn, really focused on acting in 'real art,' and not too keen on commercial films, so he hasn't signed with an agency yet."

Gu Qiuna immediately became interested.

She called Tim Robbins' rented apartment using the contact information on his resume.

The person who answered the phone was a young man, whose voice carried a hint of wariness and distance.

Gu Qiuna introduced herself and her purpose, and briefly described the background of the "Redemption" project and the character Andy.

A banker who was wrongfully imprisoned, but through his wisdom and perseverance, maintained his dignity in dire circumstances and ultimately won his freedom.

She specifically emphasized that this is a serious drama about hope and humanity, and that the production team is from the East, hoping to find actors with unique characteristics.

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the phone, then Tim Robbins' voice came through, tinged with obvious hesitation: "Thank you for your invitation, Ms. Gu."

But… Hong Kong? Oriental cinema? I'm sorry, my current plans… still hope to have the opportunity to participate in Hollywood productions.”

The tone was polite, but the refusal was obvious.

Gu Qiuna could even imagine the other person's slightly furrowed brows, which carried a scholarly air.

She did not give up easily, but instead asked to meet: "Mr. Robbins, I understand your thoughts, but sometimes opportunities come from unexpected places."

Why don't we meet and have a chat? Even if we don't end up collaborating, it would be good to make friends and learn about the production methods of Eastern films.

I'll buy you coffee, somewhere convenient for you.

Perhaps out of politeness, or a touch of curiosity, Tim Robbins eventually agreed to meet at a coffee shop in the city center.

When we meet!
Tim Robbins wore a simple plaid shirt and jeans, and his tall figure made him appear somewhat reserved.

Gu Qiuna didn't rush to discuss the project, but instead chatted like a friend.

She talked about how Cheng Xuemin integrated Eastern philosophy with action design in "Tai Chi" and asked if he had seen the movie.

As expected, Tai Chi did quite well at the box office in the United States!
When Tim Robbins heard Gu Qiuna mention "Tai Chi," he nodded repeatedly, his expression showing little surprise.

Now they really had something in common.

The discussion then shifted to how the script for "Redemption" attempts to transcend cultural barriers and explore the universal human struggles of adversity and hope.

She observed that Tim Robbins' eyes lit up slightly when the scene in the script where Andy quietly builds a library in prison and uses music to awaken the prisoners' inner dignity was discussed.

Gu Qiuna knew the timing was right. She put down her coffee cup, leaned forward slightly, and said sincerely:

"Tim, I know you aspire to the Hollywood stage. But what's popular in Hollywood now? Fast-food action movies and comedies."

A script like "Redemption," which requires dedication to polishing performances and exploring depth, is not easy to find in Hollywood today.

This is an opportunity, a chance to play the absolute lead role in a meaningful film. The salary may not be comparable to big-budget productions!

She quoted a figure, saying, "Ten thousand US dollars, after tax, for the male lead role. The entire shoot is expected to take three months."

You can truly create a character, instead of just being a background figure in some blockbuster.

Tim Robbins' fingers unconsciously stirred the coffee spoon.

For a young actor like him, who had just graduated and had almost no stable source of income, ten thousand US dollars was a huge sum of money that could support him for a long time and allow him to focus on studying his roles.

He's been worried about not being able to pay next quarter's rent lately, and last night he was counting the coins in his pocket.

Going to Hong Kong to film, away from familiar surroundings, is indeed a risk.

But if we stay here, where are the opportunities?
Continue trying your luck in various film crews, playing minor roles with only a few lines?
He was struggling internally.

Gu Qiuna didn't urge her, and waited patiently.

She saw the hesitation in his eyes and knew that economic factors and artistic pursuits were fiercely clashing within him.

Finally, Tim Robbins raised his head, took a deep breath, and his eyes hardened:
"Ms. Gu, the script... could I take a look at part of it first? The scene where Andy plays music in prison."

Gu Qiuna smiled and took out a few pages of prepared script excerpts from her bag, handing them over.

Tim Robbins read carefully, his lips moving slightly as if reciting lines.

After reading it, he remained silent for a moment, then looked up, a glint of something ablaze in his eyes, and said:
"This scene... is beautifully written. That power of using beautiful things to fight against cruel reality... I'm quite interested. Well, Ms. Gu, I think... I can give it a try."

Gu Qiuna felt a weight lifted from her shoulders and immediately took out the standard actor contract she had prepared beforehand. Tim Robbins carefully read the terms, confirmed the remuneration, working hours, and responsibilities, and finally signed his name at the signature line.

The movements were swift and decisive, as if a heavy burden had been lifted, or as if a crucial step had been taken.

Having secured the most crucial male lead, Gu Qiuna's confidence soared.

Following the biographical sketches provided by Cheng Xuemin, she continued her search for "Red".

A key character who has spent most of his life in prison, seemingly institutionalized but still retaining a sense of loyalty deep down.

This role requires a slightly older Black actor with a face that tells a story, a unique voice, and a calm demeanor.

This time, she set her sights on actors who are active in small theaters and independent film circles, have solid stage skills, but have few opportunities in mainstream commercial films.

She noticed the name Morgan Freeman through a friend who is a veteran casting director.

A friend commented on him: "His voice is like aged whiskey, and his acting skills are as solid as a rock. He has worked his way up in New York's Off-Broadway and local theater companies for many years. He can handle any role. It's just that he's been a bit unlucky and hasn't encountered an opportunity that can truly make him shine."

It seems to be quite difficult lately; the work I'm getting are mostly small voice-over jobs and minor supporting roles.

After much difficulty, Gu Qiuna finally found Morgan Freeman in a small rehearsal space in a noisy neighborhood in downtown Los Angeles.

He was rehearsing for a low-budget play in the Black community, wearing a faded old suit and slightly worn leather shoes.

But as soon as he stepped onto the makeshift stage, he exuded a calm yet powerful aura.

His voice, deep and magnetic, instantly captured the attention of everyone present.

During a break in rehearsals, Gu Qiuna stepped forward to introduce herself and explain her purpose.

Unlike Tim Robbins' initial wariness, Morgan Freeman's deep eyes revealed more caution and inquiry after listening to Gu Qiuna's introduction.

He didn't immediately refuse, but instead inquired carefully about the film's genre, synopsis, director's style, and production schedule.

“Hong Kong is far away!” Morgan Freeman’s voice was calm and slow. “What about the pay?”

When Gu Qiuna announced the same amount, ten thousand US dollars!
For a seasoned stage actor like him, the price was actually low, but considering the project and opportunities, it was still attractive. He paused for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the simple rehearsal space and the noisy street in the distance.

He's almost fifty years old this year, his acting career has been up and down, and he often has to worry about next month's rent.

The $10,000, three months of stable work, and a significant role were a real lifeline for him.

"The script says, 'These walls are funny. When you first get in prison, you hate the high walls around you; slowly, you get used to living in them; eventually, you find yourself having to rely on them to survive.'"

Morgan Freeman slowly recited the lines that Gu Qiuna had just mentioned, his gaze fixed on the distance, as if penetrating the wall and seeing some of his own memories and insights.

“That’s… very insightful.” He turned to look at Gu Qiuna, a faint smile appearing on his face, tinged with weariness yet revealing determination, and said:

“Ms. Gu, I’ve played too many minor roles. Reid… this character has backbone. I’ll take it. When do we leave?”

In this way, relying on Cheng Xuemin's accurate character sketches, her own keen eye, and pragmatic and flexible negotiation skills, Gu Qiuna signed several key actors on Cheng Xuemin's list with great efficiency and low cost.

Besides Tim Robbins (Andy) and Morgan Freeman (Reed), the cast also includes Crace Brown as the abusive prison guard Byron, Gil Bellows as the young prisoner Tommy, and Bob Gunton as the warden Norton.

When Gu Qiuna, with her small team of American actors—a somewhat peculiar group consisting of "potential stars" and "golden supporting actors," but perfectly matching Cheng Xuemin's expectations—landed at Kai Tak Airport after a long flight, Cheng Xuemin personally went to the airport to greet her.

As I watched my aunt Gu Qiuna walk out of the gate with several faces—some young and innocent, others mature and weathered—that all bore a striking resemblance to the main actors in the classic film "The Shawshank Redemption."

Although Cheng Xuemin was mentally prepared, he was still stunned when he actually saw it with his own eyes.

A strange yet incredibly exciting sense of awe welled up inside me.

“Auntie…you…” Cheng Xuemin was uncharacteristically speechless, his gaze shifting between Tim Robbins’ tall figure and Morgan Freeman’s intriguing eyes. He lowered his voice and said to Gu Qiuna:
"I didn't tell you to find it by following a template, but you... you've practically followed a picture exactly, and you've even found the character '骥' perfectly! This... this is too similar!"

Morgan Freeman, in particular, his demeanor and voice were exactly like Red stepping out of the script!
Gu Qiuna smiled smugly, raised an eyebrow, and whispered, "What? Not satisfied? I found them strictly according to the character biography you gave me!"
'A banker with a resilient heart and a calm exterior,' 'A prison authority with a weathered past and a distinctive voice'... I think I've found the right match.

Moreover, the price was absolutely fair; the package deal didn't even exceed my budget.

She paused, then asked with a hint of teasing, "So, how's my eye for talent? Pretty good, right?"

Cheng Xuemin took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the turmoil in his heart, and regained his usual composure. He stepped forward and greeted each actor with a handshake in fluent English, saying, "Welcome to Hong Kong! I am director Cheng Xuemin. You must be tired from your journey!"

His gaze met with each actor, sincere and focused.

Tim Robbins seemed a little reserved, while Morgan Freeman responded with a steady gaze and a firm handshake. Clayshire Brown exuded a strong presence, while Bob Gunton appeared quite gentlemanly.

On the way to the hotel, Cheng Xuemin briefly introduced the upcoming arrangements to the actors:

First, we'll check into the hotel to adjust to the time difference. Tomorrow, we'll start script readings, costume fittings, and screen tests, followed by filming at the Great Wall set.

He specifically emphasized the collaborative nature and international perspective of the film, hoping to jointly create a moving work.

Looking out the car window at the traditional Chinese character signs coming and going, the dense signs and the street scene full of oriental charm, Tim Robbins' eyes were filled with novelty.

Morgan Freeman, on the other hand, appeared much calmer, only occasionally glancing thoughtfully at the elderly people working on the street corner.

The nights in Hong Kong are hot and humid, and the glow of neon lights stretches out long, swaying ribbons of light on the surface of Victoria Harbour.

In the Great Wall Hotel room, Cheng Xuemin had just seen off Morgan Freeman, Tim Robbins, and others; the room still smelled of a mixture of cigars and coffee.

He stood by the window, looking down at the still bustling streets, pondering the final piece of the puzzle before filming "Redemption" began.

Fu Qi was tidying up the cups and saucers on the coffee table, his face showing the weariness that followed his excitement, and said:
"Teacher Cheng, we've basically secured the American actors. Their personalities fit the bill, and the prices are reasonable. Next up is script reading, makeup and costume fittings, and then we can head to the set."

Cheng Xuemin turned around, walked to his desk, spread out a cast and crew list, and pointed to a name: Gong Xue.

The character is labeled after the name: Prison Doctor Lin.

An Eastern female character who retains a sliver of human warmth in a cold prison. She has few scenes, but she is a warm ray of light in the darkness and a key to connecting Eastern and Western perspectives.

"We're still missing the most important person." Cheng Xuemin's voice was calm, yet carried an undeniable determination.

Fu Qi leaned over for a look and exclaimed in realization, "Comrade Gong Xue! Yes, yes, yes! This role is perfect for her!"

Her resilient yet gentle temperament in "Romance on Lushan Mountain" was perfect for the role! Shall I arrange to send a telegram tomorrow?

“No, I’ll go right now.” Cheng Xuemin pulled out a chair, sat down, picked up a pen, pulled out a telegram, and said, “Mr. Fu, let’s strike while the iron is hot.”

"The news that the American actor has arrived is a good reassurance for her and also for those in Yanjing."

The pen tip scratched across the paper.

Cheng Xuemin's handwriting was sharp and decisive, and the content was concise: "Comrade Gong Xue, the crew of 'Redemption' is ready, and the American lead actor has arrived in Hong Kong."

A corner of prison doctor Lin's photo, reserved for you. Upon receiving the telegram, complete the formalities immediately, head south to Hong Kong, and report to the crew. Details to be discussed in person. —Scholar-Min.

He put down his pen and said to Fu Qi, "Let's go, Mr. Fu, please send it out through the expedited channel directly to the General Political Department's Cultural Troupe."

"Okay, okay, no problem, no problem!" Fu Qi nodded repeatedly, took the telegram, and accompanied Cheng Xuemin.

……

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