America's Top Player

Chapter 172 Subversion
After leaving the chaotic rally on Skid Row, Leon and his group took a business car and headed non-stop to their next stop - Los Gatos.

This small town is located just south of San Francisco, in the famous Silicon Valley area.

"You look a little haggard." Bonnie said while putting on makeup in the business car.

At the rally just now, many veterans took advantage of the commotion to take advantage of her.

"I didn't expect you to be so embarrassed." Phil took the opportunity to mock him.

Li Ang quickly rubbed his head to cheer himself up.

He knew very well that he would not be able to avoid rallies like today's in the future.

This was Charlie's way of using him, and perhaps there was a bit of revenge mixed in.

Snapped--

Leon placed his palm on Bonnie's butt without warning.

Bonnie was already used to this, but because Phil was also in the car, her cheeks still blushed unconsciously.

"I feel much better~" Li Ang said with a grin.

Since dating Taylor, the quality of his nightlife has seriously declined.

Both of them have very busy schedules, especially Taylor, who only spent a few days in the United States in July.

But fortunately, he receives some mysterious pictures every night, including Taylor's long legs and Beyoncé's taillights.

After entering the Silicon Valley area, the view becomes noticeably wider.

The flat and wide roads and dense green belts are an indication of the living standards here.

Li Ang put on sunglasses and walked to a roadside coffee shop with Bonnie and ordered two American coffees.

"Good afternoon sir, two Americanos cost $15."

"Thank you." Before the clerk could finish his words, Li Ang threw down the money and turned away.

Under the clerk's surprised gaze, Bonnie took out a $5 tip.

Li Ang rolled his eyes. "When did you become so generous? It seems your channel has been making a lot of money lately."

"This is Silicon Valley. Just like Manhattan, tipping is a kind of contract here." Bonnie laughed and shook her head.

"What else can I say? I wouldn't be surprised if cheap fast food restaurants started collecting tips one day," said Li Ang.

Judging from spending power alone, Silicon Valley may have surpassed Manhattan.

The wealth of the old capitalists has been accumulated over several generations, and even if they hold billions of wealth, they often show Grandet-style stinginess.

However, most of the entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley are new rich, and in the Internet age they are grabbing wealth much faster than bankers and factory owners.

In 2000, Netflix was still a DVD rental company.

The original business model was to rent movies by mailing DVDs, a model that directly led to the widespread demise of traditional physical rental stores.

There are very few physical DVD rental stores left on the market.

At this time, founder Reed Hastings came up with the idea of making a quick buck and running away.

He wanted to sell the company to Best Buy for $5000 million, but was rejected.

This became an important turning point. In the following decade, Netflix focused on online channels and has now become a streaming media giant with a market value of over tens of billions of dollars.

As soon as Li Ang returned to the car, he saw Phil open the stock software and point at the screen.

Coming to a place like Silicon Valley, it is difficult for Lao Deng to suppress his restless fantasy of becoming a stock god.

"Nvidia? A poor imitator of Intel. Another chip company that's trying to lure newbies into buying into its products with promises."

"Tesla? Who the hell would spend money on a giant toy car? I'd rather ride my grandma's bicycle from World War II."

While studying the K-line trends, Phil criticized all the emerging companies in Silicon Valley.

"Come on, shut up! I don't want to hear you analyzing Netflix's stock in front of Scooper," Leon reminded.

"You are full of prejudice against the stock market and never know how to make big money." Phil countered: "In Silicon Valley, some people can easily fool hundreds of millions of dollars of investment with a whimsical idea. There is a fool who wants to set up a private company to develop a rocket that can be recovered and reused."

"Such an idiotic idea actually received such a large investment. These Silicon Valley freaks have gone completely crazy trying to make money."

While Phil was complaining, the group had already arrived at Netflix's headquarters building.

As soon as I entered the door, the receptionist in the lobby quickly greeted me: "Excuse me, is this Mr. Li Ang~"

"Yes, I have an appointment with Mr. Scooper," said Leon.

It was easy to tell from her excited and shy state that this woman was also his fan.

Li Ang skillfully took the pen from Bonnie and handed it to the receptionist for signature.

"Please follow me~" The receptionist accepted the signatures with satisfaction and took the group to the conference room on the second floor.

The door of the conference room was not closed tightly, and Scooper's complaints could be clearly heard.

He seemed to be talking to someone on the phone.

"Listen, investing in original content is a strategic goal set by Rustin"

"The ups and downs of the stock price are just growing pains. We will convince the board of directors to continue increasing our investment!"

"There are a lot of people eyeing this market. Our current competitors are HBO (Home Box Office) and FX (FX Cable Network). If we don't seize the opportunity now, we might have to face Disney in the future! Those bastards want everything!"

Scooper's furious look made the receptionist hesitate to speak. She could only stand there and apologize repeatedly to Leon and his group.

Thirty seconds later, Scooper's emotions calmed down, and when he turned his head, he saw Leon.

"I have an important guest here, I'll contact you later." Scooper hung up the phone and turned into a smiling face in a second.

"Welcome to Silicon Valley, Mr. Leon! You have no idea how long we have been looking forward to this day!"

"I'm glad to see you again too." The two shook hands and exchanged greetings.

After a while, two young women in black business suits came in with documents. They looked like Scooper's assistants.

Both parties took their seats and the negotiations officially began.

Before Leon could speak, Scooper raised a question about a movie he was more interested in: "Ready Player One. I spent two days reading the novel after you proposed this project."

"What do you think?" Leon asked.

“Great potential and great ambition.”

Scooper's praise can be summed up in one sentence: "I think this project can make money!"

There are over a billion active video game players worldwide, even though many have little free time to spend on them after entering the workforce.

But classics such as "Mario", "Pac-Man", "Tomb Raider" and so on carry the memories of a generation of young people around the world.

Just for the huge sentimental consumer market, huge box office value can be created.

What's more, in addition to games, the script also involves superhero IP, animation IP, etc., which all have their own fan base.

Scooper picked up his pen and asked with interest, "How did you come up with the idea of making this movie? I mean, this is a little-known novel."

"I'm a game fan myself, and I call this movie a love letter to every gamer," said Li Ang.

"Why is this guy so good at lying?" Phil cursed in his heart.

He had never seen Leon talk about anything related to video games.

Snapped--

Scooper slammed the table excitedly. "A love letter to every gamer! This is fantastic! It could even be a movie slogan!"

Looking at the other party's enthusiastic attitude, Li Ang agreed on the surface, but in his heart he was thinking about how to quickly skip this topic.

If this movie was so easy to make, Warner Bros., which holds the copyright to the novel, would have started it long ago.

If we really want to solve the IP copyright issues involved one by one, the cost will probably not be lower than producing a large number of CG special effects.

Leon had a little idea here. He had little confidence in Netflix's streaming media screening model.

If it was a low-budget movie, it would be acceptable.

For a movie that requires an initial investment of tens of millions of dollars, it would be too risky if it were not released in theaters at all.

"It seems that this movie can only remain in the conceptual stage at the moment," said Li Ang.

"why?"

Li Ang spread his hands and said, "Spielberg is still interested in this novel. I'm afraid it will be difficult for us to convince Warner to sell the copyright to us."

"Damn it." Scooper was silent for a few seconds, then laughed triumphantly, "I'll talk to the executives at Warner Bros."

Li Ang had nothing to say about this. The only issue involved in the copyright of the novel was money.

Netflix is not short of money at all, what it lacks is content.

"Last time we were talking on the phone, what do you think about producing a hip-hop talent show?" Li Ang brought the topic back on track.

The filming of "Ready Player One" was a long process.

The battle may last as short as one year or as long as several years.

In comparison, the production of a talent show is much faster.

If the project promotion starts in July and filming begins in August, the first two episodes can be produced as early as August.

It just seamlessly takes over from "The Voice of America".

Scooper's attitude was written all over his face, his eyes nonchalant. "Oh, I haven't reported this to Mr. Rustins yet. To be honest, I don't think it's a good idea."

His thoughts were exactly the same as Phil's before.

Traditional talent shows cover all music genres, including classical, pop, rock, country, and electronic music.
Hip-hop music is just a small section.

Using a hip-hop talent show to compete with traditional talent shows is equivalent to cutting off your own legs and competing with others.

It is rare to see a grassroots hero as contrasting as "Aunt Susan" on the show.

"I'm sorry, Netflix might miss out on the biggest wave of traffic this year," Li Ang quickly said. "Think about what's the hottest thing in the entertainment industry right now."

Many answers flashed through Scooper's mind, including the scandal that Leon encountered last month for possessing a large amount of contraband.

After thinking it over, he said the answer in his mind: "Are you talking about the incident where Didi was arrested?"

"Yes."

"This incident really happened suddenly. No one expected Didi to be arrested." Scooper rolled his eyes. "But Didi is so rich. He will be released soon."

It's no surprise that rappers get their crotches ripped, but Scooper seriously underestimated how impactful it would be.

As police continue to release details of the crime, the impact of this incident will grow.

"You've been to Diddy's party, so you're definitely familiar with his weird habits."

"Imagine if the public knew these secrets, knew the secrets of Bieber, James, and Leonardo at the party."

At this point, Li Ang raised the corners of his mouth forty-five degrees, "You should be able to imagine the public's expressions."

Scooper's cold expression finally changed, his brows gradually relaxed, and his eyes lit up. If this matter continued to ferment, it would definitely become the focus of the entire United States, and even the world.

By then, the attention of the world's audience will be attracted by the rotten circle of rap.

After a brief moment of excitement, Scooper regained his composure and asked, "But will Diddy really be convicted? He's very rich, and it wouldn't be a problem for him to pay hundreds of millions of dollars in bail."

In America, being rich basically means you can commit a crime without going to jail.

This idea is deeply rooted in the minds of the people.

But it depends on who is offended.

Li Ang knew very well that Didi would never see the light of day again in his later life if he had offended the archangel under God's throne.

The probability of him dying in his cell is obviously higher.

"In my opinion, he has committed a serious crime for which he has no prospect of being released on bail."

"Why are you so sure?"

"Don't you watch the news? Even JAY-Z has publicly cut ties with Diddy. Doesn't that speak volumes?"

Seeing that Scooper's ideas showed signs of wavering, Li Ang took advantage of the situation and talked about his prospects for the show.

He wants to make a talent show that completely subverts the traditional rules of the game.

The gimmick of traditional talent shows lies in the contrast between the grassroots contestants’ plain appearance and their heavenly singing voices;
A contestant with a terminal illness battles adversity through music;

The bottom life achieves a comeback through the draft, etc.
Although everything is a script, it does convey a lot of positive energy.

The values that Li Ang injected into "The Rap of America" are exactly the opposite.

Rebellion, violence, sex.
A nonchalant attitude towards life, a sleazy lifestyle, an undisguised worship of money, and unrestricted freedom.
These are the true core values of young Americans today.

"Go on." Scooper held his breath so hard that he didn't even notice the ash falling on his pants.

Li Ang stood up and paced around the conference table, saying, "Remember, we're a streaming program. We have the ability to present some real images to the audience, subvert traditions, and let them see something real. You know what young people are interested in."

If filmed in this way, this program would most likely be a paid restricted program when broadcast on traditional TV channels.

However, there are fewer censorship restrictions on the Internet.

This is also why Li Ang is determined to cooperate with Netflix. Only Netflix can make this show unleash its maximum potential.

His vision for "The Rap of America" is that the more chaotic it is, the better, and the more chaotic it is, the more traffic it can get from Diddy's Party.

It would be best to create some interesting gossip.

Such as real-life PK between contestants and mentors;

There were some melodramatic incidents like a contestant sleeping with the mentor's wife, and the two of them meeting up late at night to get their hair done.

"I think I understand your idea." Scooper instructed the female assistant beside him: "Write down every letter Mr. Leon said. I will use it when I report to Mr. Rustins."

Li Ang cleared his throat and drank his coffee leisurely.

He had said everything he could say, and now it all depended on Rastings' attitude.

If the proposal really fails to arouse the other party's interest, he can only seek cooperation with traditional TV channels with the project.

"I'm waiting for your good news."

"Netflix is looking forward to working with a talent like you!"

After the two shook hands and exchanged greetings, Li Ang and his party left the Netflix headquarters building.

I browsed social media on the way back to the hotel.

The hot searches are still all about Didi’s party.

Just now, a spokesperson for the New York Police Department revealed more details about Diddy's party, mainly including revelations about Casey.

The police confirmed that some of Casey's revelations during this period were true.

It caused an uproar in public opinion.

"New York Police Department?" Li Ang lowered his head and smiled without saying anything.

This suggests that under pressure from Charlie, McMahon has stopped being Diddy's protection.

The news that ranked first on the hot search list caught Li Ang's attention. JAY-Z and Diddy appeared in the title of this news at the same time.

Yesterday, a woman accused two men of assaulting her at a party in 2000.

She was still a young girl at that time.

The media confirmed the authenticity of the news through court channels.

"It seems that JAY-Z has completely stopped caring about you. This matter is enough to give him a headache." Phil said.

As luck would have it, Beyoncé called me at that moment.

"Leon, I heard you were in Los Angeles, right?" Beyoncé's tone was wrong, obviously affected by the hot search.

"Yeah, how have you been?"

"I feel terrible," Beyoncé said sadly. "I knew Diddy had some secrets, but I never imagined it would be like this. I never imagined JAY-Z would be so shameless."

Li Ang comforted the other person in a gentle tone on the surface, but he was sneering in his heart.

Your husband and Didi have such a good relationship that they are almost married. How could you be completely unaware of the ugly things they do?
The authenticity of Beyoncé's words raised a big question mark in his mind.

"This will be over soon."

"No! Let that bastard go to hell!" Beyoncé's tone suddenly became excited. "Even with all the trouble he's in, he still hasn't forgotten to hang out with that bitch Rihanna!"

"This..." Li Ang was speechless and didn't know what to say.

"Are you free right now? I'm at home in Los Angeles and I really need you."

Women need comfort more at times like this, as they feel a huge void that needs to be filled.

Beyoncé provided Li Ang with considerable help in his early growth.

Now it is only natural to repay with all your efforts.

"Of course I'm free!"

After arriving at the Beverly Four Seasons Hotel, Leon drove Phil and others out of the car and immediately asked the driver to drive to Beyoncé's mansion not far away.

The garden's grille gate was ajar and there were no security personnel nearby.

He pushed open the grille door and walked straight in, then came to the front of the mansion and knocked on the door.

Three seconds later, the door opened.

Beyoncé wore a black silk nightgown held together only by a tie at the waist.

Two perfect semicircles on the chest are faintly visible.

The lower half of her body was completely invisible, with only the hem of her pajamas slightly covering it.

Most of her long and plump legs were exposed to the air, and her bare feet were on the carpet.

This scene looked familiar to Leon, as if he had seen it in a movie produced by Bazels.

Beyoncé leaned against the door with her head tilted and said softly, "What are you waiting for? Come in."

"I want~"

Li Ang felt his throat was extremely dry, and he accepted a western showdown under the provocation of the Texas cowgirl.

At this moment, JAY-Z who was far away in New York called.

"Damn it." Beyoncé didn't choose to hang up, but answered the call openly.

Her unwavering expression shows the calmness and composure of a Texas girl.

"Shxt" Li Ang lay on the floor and lit a cigarette, his eyes empty.

Because Beyoncé has a relatively muscular body, every duel with her is extremely exhausting.

"What are you thinking about?" Beyoncé covered herself with her nightgown and followed suit by lying on the carpet.

"I didn't mean anything. I mean, I'm sorry that Didi had that happen. This is not the outcome I wanted."

Li Ang's words had ulterior motives, intended to test Beyoncé's true thoughts.

"It's none of your business." Beyoncé sighed, "He should have known that this day would come."

As she spoke, she snuggled up to Leon's chest and said, "We shouldn't mention that guy now. Stringer told me that you already have an idea for a new album?"

"That's right." Li Ang didn't intend to hide it. He already had two good works in his hands.

“I heard that this album is your transitional work?”

“I want to try more music.”

Transformation is a risky thing. If the type of music that comes out of inspiration is not fixed, no one would be willing to try transformation easily.

“I really hope there will be a collaborative track between us on this album.”

“I will try my best”

As soon as she finished speaking, Beyoncé climbed onto Li Ang's body, looking down at him.

With a smirk on his face, he said, "You can try harder now, maybe I can help you find some inspiration."

"Shxt" Li Ang was unable to resist, his body was controlled by Beyoncé's magic.

The two of them kept fighting until 11 o'clock in the evening.

Li Ang dragged his exhausted body to sit up from the carpet. Beyoncé beside him was already fast asleep.

He shook his head vigorously, walked to the bathroom and washed his face with cold water.

Just as the brain gradually cools down, the melody refreshed by inspiration penetrates into the cochlea.

All my friends are heathens, take it slow
My friends are all pagans, be careful

Wait for them to ask you who you know
Just wait for them to ask you who you know on the street.

Please don't make any sudden moves
Please don't act rashly

You don't know the half of the abused
You are not like them, you can bear the consequences of your reckless behavior.
The environment in the MV is dim, and a neurotic man in an orange prison uniform is escorted by two detectives through a long prison corridor.

Li Ang captured Robbie in the music video, just like in the music video for "Suker for pain."

Wearing twin ponytails of different colors, super short shorts, and waving a baseball bat.

This suggests that there is some connection between the two songs.

The MV plays to the end and the melody gradually stops.

The picture freezes on the title of the work - "heathens".

(End of this chapter)