Huayu became famous overnight

Chapter 268 Learning from China Film
"Don't make assumptions about things that aren't certain," Xu Ming said sternly.

"Yes."

Tang Sheng lowered his head, accepting the instruction.

"Director Zhang has collaborated with our company on three films, right?" Xu Ming asked slowly.

“The Flowers of War, Under the Hawthorn Tree, and Dearest are three films,” Tang Sheng said.

How's the filming crew doing?

Xu Ming asked a question out of the blue.

Mr. Tang, however, understood the unspoken meaning: "Some of them are people the company sent over to train, some have already signed with the company, and the rest are willing to continue cooperating with the company."

"Key personnel like Zhang Shuping have a broad range of expertise and may not be able to achieve exclusivity."

Xu Ming nodded and said quietly, "The world is bustling with activity, all driven by profit. If the price is high enough, we can always hire them. We need to do a good job of managing these team members."

The company has recently started several projects, so we've allocated them in advance, you know what I mean?

“Understood! I will make them treat Qiming as their home,” Tang Sheng replied in a deep voice.

Clearly, even though the rumors surrounding Zhang Guoshi and Le Vision Pictures are not yet confirmed, the company should be prepared for the former to leave.

Individuals can leave, but the team must remain.

If Zhang Guoshi had discussed it with him beforehand, they could have parted amicably, since they were uncle and nephew after all.

Besides, cooperation is inherently a process of welcoming and seeing off guests.

But he didn't receive any news himself; it was Tang Sheng who got wind of it first and told him.

This signal is rather unusual.

Could it be something between me and Empress Gong...?

That's not right either; apart from Hao Zu, no one else knew about their brief affair.

Or did Cheng Ye find out about the arrangements I had made for him?
Or perhaps the other party was holding back from the beginning, simply wanting to take the opportunity to get rid of Zhang Dapao.

A jumble of thoughts churned in Xu Ming's mind.

He shook his head, deciding to stop thinking about it and take it one step at a time.

In short, we must respond to each move as it comes.

……

Six days later, at the company.

dong dong!

Xiao Juan poked her head in.

"Chairman Han has arrived."

"Well, I'll be there right away."

Xu Ming nodded; he had already been notified of Han Sanping's arrival.

To be honest, the two hadn't seen each other for a while.

Firstly, to avoid suspicion, and secondly, because there was really no overlap in their activities.

Qi Ming made it clear that he wouldn't be making any big moves in the film industry this year, and the other party's identity wasn't suitable for him to focus all his attention on.

But today, for the first time ever, they took the initiative to come to me.

It's clear that the box office performance of "Titanic 3D" in the past few days has dazzled many people and made some feel ashamed.

We arrived at the reception room.

Han Sanping sipped his tea and looked at Xu Ming: "You're only twenty-three, right? You should be at the prime of your life, why are you hiding away in your little world?"

"Well, others may not know, but you do?" Xu Ming retorted.

Han Sanping's eyelids twitched: "You're just being paranoid..."

"hehe."

Xu Ming chuckled twice but didn't reply.

The other person's words are simply a case of talking without understanding the situation.

Anyone in his position would be suspicious and at least have to be careful in their actions.

Otherwise, no matter how high you stand, you can still fall.

Han Sanping felt a ticklish sensation all over his body when he heard the 'hehe' laugh.

Why does it feel a bit sarcastic?
He looked at Xu Ming's ever-smiling expression and knew that his adopted nephew wasn't so easy to persuade.

Most importantly, he honestly felt that the other party's actions were indeed clever.

There are many stars in the industry as brilliant as Xu Ming, who have streaked across the sky.

But there are few like the latter who know when to advance and when to retreat.

He bluntly stated: "Yesterday was the fifth day of the release of Titanic 3D. Every day, major cinemas have been adding screenings. Today, the box office figures are 1.22 million, surpassing the 1.15 million of last year's Transformers 3D."

"It broke the domestic record for single-day box office for a single film. Based on this box office trend, the total box office could easily exceed one billion..."

They really came for the big ship.

Xu Ming knew what was going on, and said with a smile, "That's a good thing. It shows that the potential of our mainland film market is still expanding. I remember that when Titanic was released in the mainland in 98, it only made 3.6 ​​million yuan."

"What a load of nonsense! Fifteen years! A full fifteen years have passed, and the big ship is still rampaging around the country."

Han Sanping was so angry that he cursed, "The films released at the same time have been squeezed out of screenings. Soon, 'The Ruffian' and 'The Golden Era' will also be released. I'm afraid that foreigners will see my underwear."

Losing to a Hollywood blockbuster is not shameful, but losing to a Hollywood blockbuster from fifteen years ago is a bit embarrassing.

Even if it contains elements of classic nostalgia.

However, the lack of progress in domestic films over the past decade is really unacceptable.

"We set up a domestic film protection month and restricted the entry of foreign films. What a great environment we created for the mainland film industry, but we see no return whatsoever."

They keep talking about genre films and the film industry, but all they do is pile on stars.

Han Sanping became increasingly angry as he spoke, and he even started gritting his teeth.

Xu Ming listened from the side, neither agreeing nor interrupting.

The uneven quality of people in the industry is one reason why Chinese films have struggled to rise, but is there no other reason for the lack of regulation and control over mainland films?
While it's not as harsh as some people say—like dancing in shackles—it's about the same as choking someone to breathe.

It can only be described as a result of a two-way effort.

Everyone is just fooling around.

The audience initially had no choice but to accept it reluctantly.

But as viewers' aesthetic standards rise, and they use real money to vote, it's no longer possible to fool them.

Then, before Xu Ming's rebirth, short videos experienced rapid development.

The audience simply refused to play along with those bastards. No matter how much they pleaded or tried to persuade them, they simply wouldn't go to the cinema. They'd rather watch "That Man is Called Handsome, That Woman is Called Beautiful."

At least film editing bloggers put in some effort, using rap and rhyming, which is much more sincere than most filmmakers.

Han Sanping cursed for a long time, but received no response whatsoever.

He immediately felt embarrassed.

He was thinking of provoking Xu Ming so that he could speak up, but he didn't expect the kid to be unmoved.

"Ahem, fortunately, there are still talented people like you who have emerged out of nowhere in the country..." Han Sanping forced a connection to Xu Ming.

Xu Ming's lips twitched; this was really forced and convoluted.

"Uncle Han, that's enough."

"Absolutely! Everyone saw your achievements last year. If we're talking about who can carry the banner of domestic films, in my opinion, it has to be you!"

Han Sanping lavished praise on his cheap nephew as if it were free.

Okay.

Xu Ming finally understood that they wanted to recruit him to fight against the American soldiers.

Who says a single bet doesn't count as a bet?

"Uncle, no matter how hard you try, I still don't have any movies coming out this year," Xu Ming interrupted helplessly.

He was afraid that if he let the other party continue, the weight of the banner would crush his small frame.

"It's okay if you don't make it this year, you can still do it next year or the year after."

Han Sanping paused for a moment, "It's good that you've avoided the limelight. Besides, I've seen you making quite a splash in Hollywood, launching one company project after another, but you don't seem to have any goals or plans?"

Sensing the expectant look in the other's eyes, Xu Ming gradually realized what was going on and shook his head.

"No."

"Really not?"

"Not really."

"You can have this."

"I really don't have that." Xu Ming's expression was resolute, and his tone was certain.

"As long as you have it, I can give you anything you want."

Han Sanping's pronunciation was awkward, but he believed Xu Ming would understand. From the moment the other person called him "uncle," he knew that this child was a smart person.

"Hey, isn't it strange? It just appeared out of nowhere," Xu Ming exclaimed in amazement.

No one could get any promises from him, but the other party gave too much.

With that statement from the other party, it's okay to take bigger steps in the future.

The premise is that the other party's needs can be met.

"Next year or the year after is a bit far off, so I'll just mention this year's goal."

Xu Ming paused for a moment, then said, "This year, Qiming will produce a film that grosses over one billion yuan."

"The Flowers of War?" Han Sanping raised an eyebrow.

"No, it doesn't matter which one it is, I'm willing to ask you for it and I'll do whatever it takes to get it done," Xu Ming said in a deep voice.

Han Sanping looked at Xu Ming carefully, then gritted his teeth and said, "Fine, I believe you."

If you don't believe me, no one else will.

Xu Ming mentally scoffed, then chuckled, "Then I only have one request for now: let my people learn from China Film's distribution team."

Is that simple learning?
They were clearly planning to steal my skills.

Han Sanping opened her mouth, but the words of refusal stuck in her throat.

He had just made a promise to Xu Ming, but he was truly outmaneuvered.

"You know James Wan, right? He's the one who directed 'Saw'. I have a new project that I'm looking for him to direct, with Scarlett Johansson as the female lead and me as the male lead."

"This film is my stepping stone to Hollywood. A purely defensive approach will only lead to repeated defeats; we need to take the initiative. Without established distribution channels, it's difficult to expand internationally," Xu Ming earnestly explained his predicament.

He knew that Han Sanping dreamed of taking Chinese films overseas.

Previously, the other party had encouraged blockbusters such as "Hero" and "The Banquet" to be released overseas. Unfortunately, only Zhang Yimou's films achieved some success, while the others ended up being neither Chinese nor Western, pleasing neither side.

In my previous life, it was also under the other party's guidance that the "China-US Film Talent Exchange Program" was launched.

Among them were Guo Fan, Chen Sicheng, Lu Yang, Ning Hao, Wuershan, Xiao Yang, and others. Indeed, this group of people had a high success rate.

Or rather, directors who join this program are more likely to receive investment.

Hearing Xu Ming's explanation, Han Sanping's expression changed repeatedly.

As a giant in the domestic film industry, China Film Group naturally has distribution channels all over the world, which will be handed over to Qiming.

Even he would inevitably face criticism.

a long time.

A long sigh.

"Sigh, it seems I've walked right into a trap today. You've been eyeing China Film Group for a while now, haven't you?"

"You've misunderstood. When it comes to catching up with and surpassing Britain and the US, we have to work together as one," Xu Ming said with a faint smile.

If you want a horse to run, you have to feed it grass; just doing empty gestures won't work.

"Okay, I agree."

After Han Sanping finished speaking, he grabbed Xu Ming's hand and said, "The reputation that your Uncle Han has built up over the past half of his life depends entirely on your performance in the future."

Ultimately, results speak for themselves. Qiming has excellent grades and strong works, so no one questions the conditions he offers.

But if he doesn't achieve the required results, his reputation will be ruined.

"Don't worry, I'm doing this not only for you, but also for myself," Xu Ming said casually.

……

The next day.

The notice from China Film Group was sent to the company.

"Chairman Xu, China Film Group is inviting people from outstanding domestic film companies to come and learn. This is too sudden, something feels off," Tang Sheng said, frowning.

Of course something's wrong.

They made these dumplings because they wanted to make a bowl of vinegar for themselves.

Xu Ming just didn't expect Uncle Han to act so quickly.

We agreed on it yesterday, and the notification was sent out today.

There are certainly more than just them as excellent film companies, but having this pretext makes it easier for the other party to operate.

"You don't need to worry about that, just send the people from the distribution department over there," Xu Ming said.

Tang Sheng was slightly taken aback, recalling Han Sanping's visit the day before.

I immediately had a guess in my mind.

"Yes."

"Is the crew of 'Lost in Thailand' back?"

"I'm back. Director Xu is overseeing the editing."

Xu Ming nodded upon hearing this. He dared to guarantee Han Sanping that they could produce another movie that would break 1 billion yuan this year, and he was counting on "Lost in Thailand".

thump—

The door opened, and Xiao Juan poked her head in: "Director Zhang is here."

Suddenly, the atmosphere in the office became somber.

Xu Ming and Tang Sheng exchanged a glance.

They kept wondering when Zhang Guoshi would lose his temper and reveal his hand, or simply cut ties altogether.

It seems to be today.

“Please invite him over,” Xu Ming said.

"Then I'll head out first." Tang Sheng made a move to leave.

"Keep a close eye on 'The Voice of China' and 'Where Are We Going, Dad?' If you do well in the variety show sector, its value may be even greater than that of the film and television sector," Xu Ming advised.

"understand!"

After a moment's hesitation, Mr. Tang said, "Thank you, Chairman Xu."

Xu Ming waved his hand casually, his intention being to hand over the variety show segment to Tang Sheng as the manager.

The latter is called a director in the company, but in reality, he is equivalent to the general manager of internal affairs.

It seems like they manage everything, but in reality, they manage nothing at all.

If they can take control of the variety show department this time, their foundation will be truly solid.

Less than three minutes later.

A face full of wrinkles and creases appeared from the doorway and came into Xu Ming's view.

"Uncle Zhang, it's been a while, I've missed you so much."

Xu Ming stood up with a warm smile, "I brought back a packet of black tea from America. It was a gift from someone. Let me brew some for you to try."

Zhang Guoshi had a bellyful of words to say, but when he saw Xu Ming's smiling face, they instantly became like a fishbone stuck in his throat.

The child is still completely unaware.

He was overly enthusiastic towards his uncle, unaware that they were already sleeping in the same bed but dreaming different dreams.

Feeling the pangs of conscience, Zhang Guoshi reorganized his words and said, "Chairman Xu, there's something I'd like to tell you."

Tsk, they don't even call him Little Xu anymore, they call him Chairman Xu.

Xu Ming seemed oblivious to the other party's coldness beyond mere rejection, still smiling broadly: "Hey, do we need to be so polite, father and son? Just say what you need, and I'll do whatever I can without hesitation."

"me……"

Zhang Guoshi stammered, secretly grumbling to himself about why the other party had to be so sincere to him.

He has been honest with me since we first met, and barring any unforeseen circumstances, he is very willing to continue working with me.

pity……

He recalled the terms offered by LeEco, clicked his tongue, and said, "I might be going to LeEco Pictures as the art director, regarding our previous film contract..."

"That's great! LeEco is financially powerful and can definitely give you more room for development."

Xu Ming slapped his thigh, completely unconcerned, and said, "The film contract will be put on hold for now. You are welcome to come back anytime you wish."

Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed a fleeting look of shame on Zhang Guoshi's face, and a slight upturn at the corner of his mouth.

There's no way to stop them now, so it's better to leave them with a seed of guilt before you go.

The worse LeEco's performance, the better Qiming's performance, and the faster this seed will grow.

(End of this chapter)