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

Seeing that Cheng Xuemin was about to get up, Old Wu waved his hand, signaling him not to move and not to be too polite!
The wry smile on his face disappeared, replaced by his usual composure, and he said, "However, don't be too optimistic!"

"Although I proposed the screening and the procedure was as described, I can't guarantee the opinions expressed at the meeting!"

"Artistic viewpoints are diverse, and some debate, even criticism, is not necessarily a bad thing!"

"The key is that you have to have a clear sense of what the film is trying to express and where the bottom line is!"

"When dealing with such situations, remain neither humble nor arrogant, reason with them, present the facts, and especially..."

Old Wu paused, then tapped his finger lightly on the table: "Especially now that your status is different!"

"The deputy leader of the working group is about to go into a tough battle with the Japanese. At this critical juncture, we must remain calm and composed!"

"Personal honor and disgrace are minor matters, but delaying important national affairs is unacceptable!"

These words are quite strong; they are both a reminder and a warning!

Cheng Xuemin's expression turned serious, and he nodded, saying, "Mr. Wu, I understand the importance of this meeting. The screening is about discussing the film itself. I can distinguish between primary and secondary matters, and I will never let trivial matters cause me to lose sight of the bigger picture!"

"Hmm, it's good that you know this." Old Wu picked up his teacup and took a sip, then seemed to remember something and asked, "By the way, you just said there's been progress on the distribution in Hong Kong? What are the specifics?"

When Cheng Xuemin gave his report earlier, he focused on the $400 million bet and the working group.

Regarding the 50 million yuan guarantee for the overseas rights of "Redemption," it was only mentioned that the framework had been reached.

At this moment, when Mr. Wu asked, Cheng Xuemin took the opportunity to give a detailed report!

"I was just about to report this to you!" Cheng Xuemin sat up straighter and said clearly, "This morning, the factory received a telegram from our Hong Kong partner confirming this."

"We have officially signed a minimum guarantee revenue sharing agreement with four Hollywood studios—Columbia, 20th Century Fox, and MGM—for the global distribution rights of 'Redemption.'"

"The guaranteed amount is US$50 million. It will be transferred to our designated Hong Kong account within three days after the agreement is signed, that is, approximately three days later. Subsequent payments will be made based on box office performance."

"Fifty million US dollars? Guaranteed minimum?" Old Wu paused slightly in his teacup, looking at Cheng Xuemin with a sharp glint in his eyes.

But more than anything, it was a vibration that was forcibly suppressed!

Despite his high position and the numerous major events he had handled, the fact that he calmly uttered the figure of fifty million US dollars in this way, from the mouth of a young comrade, was still extremely impactful.

This is not just about money; it's a direct affirmation of the international market value of Chinese films and even Chinese cultural products!

"Yes, fifty million US dollars, guaranteed. The profit-sharing ratio is also very generous," Cheng Xuemin confirmed, his tone remaining calm, as if he were talking about something ordinary.

"This is only the initial overseas distribution revenue, and does not include subsequent television rights, videotape rights and other derivative licenses."

If the film's box office performance exceeds expectations, our share of the profits will be even higher!

Old Wu slowly placed the teacup back on the table, leaned back in his chair, and stared at Cheng Xuemin's face for several seconds.

The office was so quiet that you could faintly hear car horns honking outside the window!

Then, Old Wu suddenly raised his hand and slammed it heavily on the hardwood table in front of him.

"Great! A fine fifty million US dollars!"

The voice wasn't loud, but the suppressed excitement and joy were clearly revealed through the sound of slamming the table and the sudden brightness in his eyes!

A smile spread across Old Wu's face; it was a genuine joy, even tinged with immense pride.

“Scholar, Scholar, you’ve not only brought back the Palme d’Or, you’ve also brought back a mountain of gold! Fifty million US dollars! And that’s a guaranteed minimum! This…this is truly…”

He couldn't find the right words to describe it for a moment, and just nodded repeatedly, pointing at Cheng Xuemin with his finger: "Amazing! Truly amazing!"

"What does this show? It shows that your film is well-made, it touches the hearts of foreigners, and it has value!"
This shows that Chinese films and Chinese culture have a market abroad and can create real value!

This is not only an economic gain, but also a manifestation of cultural confidence!

Old Wu seemed very excited. He shifted slightly in his seat, as if he wanted to stand up and take a few steps, but he held back!
His gaze toward Cheng Xuemin was filled with undisguised admiration and affirmation.

"This achievement must be publicized!"

"We must publicize this extensively! We must let the whole nation know that our cultural and film workers can not only win major international awards, but also generate huge amounts of foreign exchange for the country! This will boost morale and set an example!"

As he spoke, he reached for the telephone on his desk, but his hand stopped mid-air, and he looked at Cheng Xuemin:
"Xuemin, I want the People's Daily to publish this report, the one announcing the Palme d'Or and the $50 million in foreign exchange earnings, on its front page!"
"The article... Do you want to write it yourself, or have one of the newspaper's writers do it? You're a firsthand witness, your feelings are the deepest, and your writing will be the most moving."

Cheng Xuemin's heart skipped a beat!
Is it the front page headline of the People's Daily?

This is the highest-level propaganda platform in the country. The weight and influence of publishing a personal story on it are self-evident.

This is an honor that countless people yearn for but cannot attain!

But without any hesitation, he immediately shook his head and said sincerely, "Mr. Wu, please have the newspaper staff write the report!"

"They are more professional and better able to grasp the appropriate level and direction for publicity!"

"I... I personally believe that this success is a collective achievement, the result of the organization's cultivation and the joint efforts of all comrades, and even more so, an opportunity brought about by the reform and opening-up policy!"

"The focus of our publicity efforts should be on the breakthroughs that Chinese films and culture are making in the world, and on generating foreign exchange for the country and adding glory to reform and opening up!"

"As for me personally, I am truly insignificant and need not be elaborated upon!"

"If it's for publicity purposes, mentioning a name once is enough. The focus should be on promoting the team, its achievements, and the significance of its work!"

Old Wu stopped reaching for the phone. He sat up straight and looked at Cheng Xuemin. His gaze was full of scrutiny and surprise, which eventually turned into deep admiration.
In this day and age, to be so clear-headed and so humble in the face of the temptation of a front-page report in the People's Daily!
They are able to voluntarily give the spotlight to the collective and direct the focus of publicity to a higher level!

This kind of mindset and awareness is truly rare!
This is not just about not taking credit, but also about political maturity and foresight!

"Xuemin..." Old Wu spoke slowly, his voice filled with emotion, "Your awareness, your understanding... is very good, extremely good!"

"You remain humble and composed, clear-headed, and considerate of the big picture. We old guys were right about you!"

Without further hesitation, he picked up the phone on the table, dialed a number, and his tone became decisive and forceful:
"Hello, it's me! Connect me to the editorial office of the People's Daily." The call was answered quickly!
Mr. Wu said into the microphone, "It's me! I have an important publicity task that I need you to arrange immediately. It needs to be published in the newspaper tomorrow morning, and the front page must be reserved!"

"Yes, it's urgent and very important! The content is what I've already shared with you before: the film that won the Palme d'Or, the highest prize at the Cannes Film Festival!"

And it has now been confirmed that the film has achieved a major breakthrough in overseas distribution, and is expected to generate over 50 million US dollars in foreign exchange revenue for the country!

"The article... Hmm, immediately send your best reporters to Yan Film Studio and Oriental Film Studio to interview the studio leaders and relevant personnel!"

"It must be emphasized that this is a major achievement of my country's literary and artistic front in boldly going global and actively participating in international competition under the reform and opening-up policy. It is the crystallization of collective wisdom and a manifestation of the enhancement of the country's cultural soft power!"

"As the main person in charge, Comrade Cheng Xuemin can focus on publicizing this in writing. In any case, the tone should be uplifting and inspiring!"

"You can decide on the specifics of how to write it, but it must be quick and of high quality! I'm waiting to see the proof!"

When Cheng Xuemin listened to Mr. Wu's phone call to the People's Daily, in which he mentioned that he had devoted a lot of space to promoting himself, he smiled wryly and was about to speak!
But Old Wu waved his hand, signaling him not to speak yet!
He then made an internal call to Secretary Yang outside and said:

"Immediately notify the TV station's news department to broadcast this news on tonight's 'News Broadcast,' and make sure it's broadcast for a longer time. Include footage of the Palme d'Or award ceremony and clearly explain the significance of foreign exchange earnings."

"Yes, that's right. Send over the relevant video footage and brief written descriptions immediately so they can coordinate!"

Old Wu gave clear and logical instructions over the phone, his tone leaving no room for doubt!
After hanging up the phone, his face still flushed with excitement, he said to Cheng Xuemin:
"Did you hear that? Tonight, the whole nation will know this good news!"

"The Golden Palm, fifty million US dollars in foreign exchange earnings, is not only a joyous occasion for your Eastern Depot and Yan Film Studio, but also for the entire cultural front and even the people of the whole country!"

"This is very beneficial for boosting confidence and inspiring morale!"

Cheng Xuemin could feel Wu Lao's heartfelt joy and a sense of pride in his own people making a difference.

So he swallowed back the words of humility he was about to say, and said at the right moment, "This is all thanks to the effective leadership of the ministry and the strong support of the factory. We just did what we should have done!"

"It's just that you asked me to focus on the details, Elder Wu..."

"That's it. Those who deserve praise should be praised, and those who deserve publicity should be publicized!" Before Cheng Xuemin could finish speaking, Old Wu waved his hand and said!
Then, as if struck by a sudden thought, his gaze deepened, and he said to Cheng Xuemin, "This achievement of 50 million US dollars in foreign exchange earnings and that 400 million US dollar bet are different in nature, but they can complement each other!"

"One reflects the soft power and market value of our cultural products, while the other demonstrates our courage in international business competition and the potential tangible benefits we can obtain!"

"This will be an intangible boost to your future participation in negotiations with Japan!"

"At least, it proves that you, Cheng Xuemin, are not just a writer who can make movies and write articles, but also someone who can truly create tangible benefits for the country!"

"Any potential background noise will be significantly reduced!"

Cheng Xuemin understood!
Old Wu was reminding him that these two things should be viewed in conjunction, and that he should use solid achievements to increase his leverage and confidence!
He nodded and said, "Thank you for your guidance, Mr. Wu. I understand!"

Old Wu glanced at the wall clock; it was getting late.

He stood up and said to Cheng Xuemin, "Alright, you go and get ready! I'll have Xiao Yang prepare a private office for you!"

"Attend the working group meeting this afternoon on time!"

"Remember, observe more, listen more, think more, and speak less. But when it's time to speak, dare to speak up and offer your insights!"
Those working in the industrial sector are pragmatic people who appreciate those who are thoughtful and capable.

"Yes, Mr. Wu, I've got it!" Cheng Xuemin also stood up.

"Go ahead! Keep in touch if anything happens!" Old Wu waved his hand one last time.

Cheng Xuemin rested and prepared in the temporary office arranged by Secretary Yang.

I had lunch with Mr. Wu at the ministry, and then it was almost time.

After leaving Mr. Wu's place, Cheng Xuemin drove to an important guesthouse that was not publicly listed but was well-known in the industry!

The car drove through the bustling streets and onto a relatively quiet tree-lined avenue!
Finally, it stopped at the gate of a large compound where guards were stationed!
Cheng Xuemin presented his identification, and after careful verification and registration, he was allowed to pass.

The courtyard is lush with trees, and several three-story buildings in the Suzhou style are nestled among them, creating a tranquil environment.

The car stopped in front of one of the buildings. He got out, straightened his clothes, picked up his briefcase, and stepped into the building.

The building was quiet, with a dark red carpet and a unique smell in the air, a mixture of old books, disinfectant, and a serious atmosphere.

The staff walk so quietly!
Following the signs, Cheng Xuemin arrived at the door of a conference room on the second floor.

The door was ajar, and voices could be heard coming from inside.

Cheng Xuemin knocked gently on the door!
"Please come in!" A loud and familiar voice rang out; it was the leader from the industrial sector.

Cheng Xuemin pushed open the door and entered.

The conference room was small, with a long conference table in the middle covered with dark green velvet.

There were already five or six people sitting at the table!

Sitting in the main seat was the leader of the industrial sector.

He was wearing a gray Zhongshan suit, sitting upright, wearing glasses, and with piercing eyes, flipping through the documents in his hands!

Several comrades of different ages and with different temperaments were sitting next to me.

Some wore glasses and looked refined, some had serious faces and exuded the competence of technical cadres, and one was wearing a dark blue suit and looked like a cadre from the foreign trade system.

Upon hearing the door open, several pairs of eyes immediately turned to Cheng Xuemin!

There was scrutiny, curiosity, and also a calm observation!
"Leaders, comrades, good afternoon, I am Cheng Xuemin!" Cheng Xuemin stood at the door and introduced himself in a humble yet assertive manner.

"Comrade Xuemin is here, come in and sit down!" The old leader from the industrial sector looked up, a smile spreading across his face, and pointed to an empty seat to his left. "We've been waiting for you!"

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