Huayu: From charlatan to great entertainer

Chapter 301 Listening to Thunder in Silence

Boss Lu thought about helping Jing Tian get a role, such as appearing in his own movie or a seasonal drama on Travel Satellite TV.

I didn't expect that this wasn't a role I was looking for, but myself as a person?

Boss Lu played dumb and said, "I'm just kidding. You can learn directing from me, but isn't acting like asking a blind man for advice?"

"Director Lu, you are too modest." Lu Zheng chuckled.

"Who doesn't know that you and Director Zhang are both the best directors in mainland China at training actors?"

"Director Zhang won Best Actor at the 1987 Tokyo Film Festival and the 1988 Golden Rooster Awards. Director Lu, the Berlin Film Festival Best Actor you just won is even more prestigious."

Lu Zheng suddenly turned to Han Shanping, who was peeling shrimp. "Boss Han, please be fair. How can this be called asking a blind man for advice?"

"Haha, you did a great job on your homework, Lu Zheng. You've even made the instructor have nowhere to hide."

Han Shanping laughed and started to make fun of him, but Lu Zhenglian said he didn't dare.

The young director remained expressionless. That day at the Bazaar Charity Night, he felt that he didn't owe anyone any favors and didn't want to get involved in this troublesome matter.

He glanced at Jing Tian who was sitting quietly on the side, and thought to himself that this girl was really not destined to become famous.

One year younger than Xiao Liu, he later caused a stir in the entertainment industry, but unexpectedly, he finally became a "late bloomer" thanks to an online drama.

This is not a question of whether it is a big production or a big director.

Later, investors asked Zhang Yimou to shoot "The Great Wall" with an investment of 10 billion yuan, but it was also a huge flop.

What's more, her background is complicated. I am not interested in her or the money behind her, and I have no motivation to create all favorable conditions to support her.

Why did we lock on Bingbing and Xiao Liu in advance in this life? Because these are entertainment industry truths that have been carefully selected by future generations and proven by time and practice!

These are all actresses who don't require too much effort and can be trained step by step. They just need to be guided according to their own characteristics.

"My guidance to actors is limited to my own films."

Boss Lu still smiled and declined: "Whether it is the Central Academy of Drama, Beijing Film Academy, or the National Theatre of China, there are many qualified and experienced acting teachers."

"Jing Tian has never studied acting, right?"

"Teacher Lu, I have studied dance for many years!" Jing Tian finally got a chance to interrupt and hurriedly introduced herself.

The young director said solemnly: "Acting is a very systematic subject. If you are determined to go further on the road of acting, I suggest you go to a professional college to study for four years and lay a solid foundation."

He stood up as he spoke: "Jing Tian, ​​work hard, and you're welcome to audition if you have the chance in the future."

Boss Lu stood up with a smile on his face, gave Da Tiantian a few words of encouragement, and then turned to Lu Zheng with an apologetic look, "I'm so sorry, I have to go to Yanjiao Primary School with the crew to do charity work this afternoon. I'll excuse myself for now."

"Boss Han, are you leaving?"

Han Shanping hadn't seen enough of the show yet, so he nodded regretfully, "Let's get together another day."

Lu Zheng was unwilling to give up and was about to speak to persuade him to stay, but Old Han sitting next to him winked at him.

The worldly-wise Lu Zheng immediately fell silent.

"Tiantian, would you mind sending Mr. Lu off?"

Jing Tian bit her lower lip a little aggrievedly.

She wasn't stupid, she knew she had just been ruthlessly rejected, but she still managed to put on a smile: "Yeah, okay!"

Boss Lu glanced at Jing Tian and pushed the door open first.

He was tall and had long legs. He walked across the corridor with a swift and steady stride, showing no intention of waiting for Jing Tian.

The well-trained waitresses of the Capital Club bowed slightly to greet the guests while stealing glances at the scene in front of them. They were the perfect place to watch the action.

Shi Shiran, the rumored sixth richest man in China and talented director, is walking in front, while the recently popular "worldly beauty" is following closely behind.

It seems that 1500 million is not enough for him.

According to the net worth of Boss Lu calculated by some financial experts, this little beauty would probably need 15 billion plus her own money to have any chance!
Everyone thought of Liu Yifei who asked a shocking question at her birthday party two months ago.

These girls are like moths to a flame.

Boss Lu walked for a while, and out of the corner of his eye he saw Jing Tian following him in high heels, and he didn't know whether she was really stupid or just pretending.

It's possible that he is really stupid because he has been protected too well since childhood.

The level of pretending to be stupid is very high, and you can't even figure out what's going on.

He suddenly turned around, and Jing Tian also stopped abruptly. Her fair forehead hit the young director's chest, and two red clouds quickly rose on her face.

"Teacher Lu, I'm...I'm sorry."

"Go back. I know this place better than you do. Why are you giving me a ride?"

Jing Tian watched him turn around and leave without any reluctance, and couldn't help but reach out and grab the young director's arm.

"Ok?"

"I...Mr. Lu, can't you really teach me?"

The expected direct rejection did not come. Jing Tian looked up at him, her pretty fair face full of anticipation.

Boss Lu pondered, "Why do you want to be an actor?"

"what?"

"Obviously you haven't considered this question. You probably haven't even figured out whether you want to be a star or an actor."

“These are two different concepts.”

Three years ago, on the terrace of Mei Yanfang's residence in Heng'an Pavilion in Hong Kong, Lu Kuan asked the then young and tender Liu Yifei the same question. (Chapter 87)
She couldn't answer it either, but later proved everything with her actions.

It is said that teaching students in accordance with their aptitude is appropriate. Concubine Liu Yi has average talent in acting and can only be considered a flawed unpolished jade.

This flaw in the previous life was the extreme lack of life, and the inability to experience the ups and downs of life and emotional fluctuations of ordinary people.

But she can endure loneliness and polishing. Once she sets her mind on something, she is willing to devote all her efforts to carving it out.

To be fair, Jing Tian, ​​who has better conditions and environment than Xiao Liu, should not have such ambition.

The young director stopped talking to her and said, "Okay, go back now."

Jing Tian stared blankly at him as he walked into the black hole-like elevator. His ruthless back was like a solid barrier, blocking all her expectations.

Am I really not worthy of his attention?
From August to November, there has been a constant stream of explosive news in the domestic entertainment industry.

Two months ago, Wang Jinhua left the entertainment industry, causing a major earthquake and a major reshuffle among various entertainment companies.

Then the shocking 825 Yifei Incident happened, and the mainland's top young actress sealed her heart with cement and fled to North America.

Next comes the bidding for the Olympic opening and closing ceremonies, which has attracted unanimous attention from domestic audiences.

Just when the storm had subsided, the domestic entertainment topic-making machine Lu Laoban became popular again.

An oil painting whose quality is indistinguishable to an outsider was sold at a charity gala for a whopping 1500 million yuan, and it also involved a top beauty who had never been seen before.

Boss Lu himself also ranked sixth on this year's Hurun Top 100 list.

The young director really doesn't want to be so high-profile. Just look at the final outcome of Mr. Huang, who has been ranked first on the Hurun Rich List for two consecutive years this year.

But some things just have to happen.

Therefore, since October, Boss Lu has been "not leaving home unless it is for charity."

In addition to following the Earthquake crew to participate in charity events around Beijing, he focused all his energy on perfecting the script of the massacre movie.

In 2003, he submitted a script outline in advance to start the project.

The shooting date had not been confirmed at that time, so I submitted the first draft first for the sake of the camera.

This is also because the country promulgated new regulations in 2003.

All film production units and film and television cultural units that hold a "Film Production License" (including single films) no longer need to use a completed script, and only need to submit a film plot synopsis of no less than 1000 words for review.

However, subsequent supplementary clauses further stipulated that films on four types of themes, including major revolutionary and historical themes, and major theoretical documentary films, still had to undergo preliminary review by provincial departments and be submitted to the General Administration after approval.

With the film project about to be launched, Boss Lu revised the script several times before submitting it for review.

A movie like this carries too much emotion and hope, and it will never be possible to make a satisfactory revision.

As we enter November and the year draws to a close, the much-anticipated Lunar New Year and Spring Festival film promotion campaigns for mainland filmmakers have begun.

The movie "Tangshan Earthquake" began to appear in various online and offline communities such as building advertisements, print media, road sign advertisements, and Internet portals.

Following Boss Lu's top directive, the Wenjie propaganda tool was fully mobilized, announcing to the world in a simple and crude way:
"Tangshan Earthquake" is here!
Among them, Focus Media, a subsidiary of Wenjie Holdings, which rang the bell at Nasdaq in the middle of the year, played a more important role than ever before.

This is mainly due to the further erosion of market share and expansion of territory brought about by listing financing.

In August, Focus Media launched its first battle after its listing, acquiring Frame Media, China's largest apartment elevator poster company, for US$8 million.

Frame Media owns 42 media outlets, with a market share exceeding 95%, covering 56 major cities and 4500 million middle- and high-end household consumers.

Focus Media combines the framework's elevator poster resources with its own building video media resources, achieving the integration and complementarity of outdoor advertising resources and forming a broader media network.

Since then, Focus Media has controlled more than 90% of the market share of elevator poster frames in residential areas in China.

According to a well-known domestic financial journalist,

Focus Media's Jiang Beichun has officially submitted a merger and acquisition proposal to its parent company Wenjie Holdings and China's sixth richest man Lu Kuan, preparing to launch a fierce attack on Juzhong, which has been forced into a corner, and completely unify the industry.

Later in January 2006, Focus Media completed the acquisition for US$1 million.

With the strong support of Wenjie Holdings in this life, the progress will surely be faster.

The comprehensive coverage of offline advertising means that urban white-collar workers and users in high-end residential communities who can afford to spend 40-80 yuan on a movie ticket are bombarded with advertisements every day.

On the homepage of Wenjie Video, clips of movie shooting are streamed one after another.

Screenwriter Liu Heng's in-depth interviews with survivors, review of extensive historical materials, and collection of authentic stories and details;

How the crew restored the cityscape of Tangshan before and after the earthquake, from building a realistic Tangshan Old Street to arranging the post-earthquake ruins, showing the staff's meticulous design and hard work;

Beautiful actresses such as Zhou Xun and Song Jia acted funny, Boss Lu explained the scene to Song Jia, and Hu Jun, Wang Baoqiang acted with director Lu Kuan.

It may be positive energy, sentimental, or satisfy the audience's curiosity about big stars or even the hottest star directors these days.

In short, the promotional effect of the short video has basically met expectations, and the carefully selected and edited materials have fully aroused the curiosity of movie fans.

Coupled with the successive bombardment of "A Date with Lu Yu" on Travel Satellite TV, topic marketing on Blog.com, Douban and other industry websites, a number of Lunar New Year films including "The Promise" and "A Single Man's Journey" have felt unprecedented pressure.

Is this such a big deal this time?

Not only did you put the disaster film in the Lunar New Year period, but you also spared no expense in the fight. Doesn't this fit with your image as the best director, Boss Lu, in terms of business?
Xiaoxitian, Han Shanping's office at China Film Group.

Chen Hong said in a depressed tone: "Boss Han, you'd better come forward and talk to him about this matter, right?"

"Both 'Aftershock' and 'The Promise' have investments from China Film Group. They can't keep all of this publicity money to themselves, right?"

She is an actor and producer of "The Promise". There are some things that Chen Kaige is not comfortable talking about, but her identity as a lesbian makes communication easier.

For example, in response to Han Shanping’s complaint, we asked him to mediate and ask Focus Media to give up some of the promotional share of elevator advertising.

"Chen Hong, this is normal business behavior. How can I explain it to Lu Kuan?"

The crew-haired guy was a little fed up with her nagging: "To be honest, Wenjie originally wanted to put 'Aftershock' before or after 'The Promise', but I persuaded them with all my might."

"The market capacity is limited, so why go to such lengths?"

"China Film invested more in The Promise than Aftershock, didn't it? Are you still afraid that I'm biased?"

Han Shanping is also an old fox. He doesn't want to offend anyone and says that Boss Lu's careful arrangements are the result of his own persuasion.

"Okay, Chen Hong, stop talking."

Chen Kaige, who was smoking on the sofa, had a gloomy face, but he quickly put on the calm demeanor of a scholar.

"Some people just like to monopolize social resources. Let them do that."

"We have to trust the audience's vision and the quality of the film. Their word of mouth is the most important."

The gentleman is like righteousness, and the villain is like profit.

He was too lazy to talk about these trivial things with Han Shanping. Chen Hong had previously advised him to invite Lu Kuan to dinner in advance, but Chen Kaige declined.

How could I bow my head to greet a junior?
If you want to go, go.

Of course, for this expensive masterpiece, Chen Kaige spared no effort in other possible publicity campaigns.

Starting from this year's Venice Film Festival, "The Promise" launched a large-scale publicity campaign.

She appeared in a grand attire, but in the end she only showed a fleeting glimpse, which was quite mysterious and whetted the audience's appetite.

But as the release deadline approached, the pressured Chen Kaige and his wife began to go all out, frequently attending various activities and programs to promote the film.

The poetic temperament he displayed previously and the image that was inconsistent with his somewhat vulgar publicity posture also gave many film critics the opportunity to show off their writing skills.

Gu Xiaobai: [From the behind-the-scenes footage, we all saw Jang Dong-gun's line in "The Promise" that goes, "Follow you, there's meat to eat." Aside from Lu Xun's 2003 Hollywood co-production "The Foreigner," the highest-grossing domestic blockbuster before that was Zhang Yimou's "Hero," which earned 2.5 million yuan. For investors, will following Director Kai Ge really yield meat? I'm waiting to see with all my heart.]

Wei Junzi: [Investors have placed a huge bet on Director Chen Kaige. If they don't get their hands on the profits, it's unthinkable. Therefore, it's not hard for me to understand why Director Kaige, like a fresh-faced newcomer, is so busy promoting his film "The Promise," even at the cost of sacrificing his rather pompous and refined public image in favor of entertaining the public. Best wishes.]

Even Zhu Dake couldn't stand it anymore. Chen Kaige's attitude made him feel uncomfortable. This serious critic in the literary and art circles felt that it was okay to have a little fun and continue to use the washing machine at the same time.

These past few days, whenever I turn on the TV, I can almost always see director Chen Kaige and his producer and wife, Chen Hong, raving about how great their films are. Some of their boasting is so intense that it makes others blush. Of course, these interviews also include the director discussing his personal life.

This is quite puzzling. I always remember the director as being serious and reserved in his praise of his work. Why is he making such a high-profile appearance this time, appearing on various entertainment programs and actively promoting "The Promise," even going so far as to bring up his life with his wife to create buzz?

I attribute all of this to the vulgarization of themes and expressions in mainland China's film industry, the concentration of top players in the film industry chain, and the ongoing monopoly, which has forced director Chen Kaige to humble himself.

On this road of no return, Director Lu Kuan is a true executioner and death-cryer. If this continues, will Chinese cinema still have a future? That's all I have to say.

Chen Kaige was forced to this point by the crazy offensive of Wenjie, so Zhang Weiping of the new picture was naturally eager to try it.

Compared with the magical blockbuster "The Promise" and the disaster masterpiece "Tangshan", the only publicity gimmicks of "A One Man's Journey" that can be shown off are Ken Takakura's last work in his 70s and the ink painting of oriental father-son love, which are too weak.

Even with the name of Zhang Yimou, he still had to survive in the gap between the two blockbusters "No One" and "The Pond".

He was waiting for an opportunity, an opportunity to hype it up like crazy.

Soon, the first opportunity arrived.

In early November, the Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee officially announced the results of the selection of the opening and closing ceremony plans for October through official media such as "Lianbo".

After preliminary screening, the International Olympic Committee selected 400 proposals from more than 14 proposals worldwide to participate in the first round of bidding.

In the October bidding, a total of five companies were shortlisted, including Zhang Yimou, Lu Kuan, French ECA10, the General Political Department Song and Dance Troupe, CCTV and the Bei Ao joint team.

As a major event that has attracted much attention and effort from both the government and the public in recent years, Olympic news has undoubtedly been hotly debated.

Some marveled that Zhang Yimou was still nominated after his terrible performance in the Athens Eight Minutes;
Some were surprised that after such an amazing plan was leaked, Boss Lu was still able to come up with a work of equal quality;

Of course, there are also people who find fault and say strange things on Director Chen Kaige’s blog account and in live interviews because of his “vulgarity” in recent times.

At the audience meeting in Tianjin on the 13th, a reporter's question made the poet look unhappy.

Jinmen Daily: "Director Chen, among the top three most anticipated Lunar New Year films this year, Director Lu and Director Zhang have both successfully qualified for the second round of Olympic bidding."

"As a famous director who is much older and more experienced than Director Lu, why do you think you missed out on this honor?"

"Will this make you feel guilty about The Promise competing against these two during the Lunar New Year holiday?"

Chen Kaige's expression was unfriendly. Although he couldn't be said to be scolding in public, the undulation of his two thick eyebrows still showed his resentment.

"This question is too amateurish. Coming up with the Olympic plan is the work of the entire team. Besides, it has nothing to do with each director's film."

"Can I use your daily practice diary to correct your college entrance examination essay?"

"The Promise isn't afraid of anyone. Look at the youthful faces of our crew, like Bai Zhi and Ting Feng. Who isn't brimming with confidence?"

The poet's words are evasive and seem to be trying to change the subject.

But his calm and relaxed demeanor seemed full of the elegance of a scholar.

But Zhang Weiping will not miss this good opportunity!
He immediately spread soft articles and hyped up the issue with the gimmick of "Brothers from the Beijing Film Academy and two Olympic directors competing in the Lunar New Year film season"!

Take advantage of your disaster movie that grossed over 200 million yuan, and then take advantage of the Olympic cause that the public has been talking about hotly in recent years.

The showdown between fellow students of the Beijing Film Academy spanning thirty years of history also seems to sound quite attractive.

When asked about Chen Kaige's film The Promise, Zhang Weiping scoffed, "Today, we are only discussing outstanding directors who are qualified to be selected as the chief director of the Olympic Games."

This deliberately harsh remark immediately offended Director Chen. He naturally wouldn't intervene, but Chen Hong, as the producer, intervened, and coupled with the connections and influence Chen Kaige had accumulated over the years in the Beijing community, the blogosphere was ablaze with controversy.

At this point, Zhang Weiping had ridden the torch on Boss Lu and Chen Kaige, and without spending a penny, he had boosted the popularity of "A Thousand Miles Alone".

It is no exaggeration to say that he is a marketing genius.

On November 11, the national roadshow of the "Tangshan Earthquake" crew officially began.

Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are naturally the top priorities, followed by the Yangtze River Delta, Central China, and Chengdu, Shancheng, Chang'an and other places in the central and western regions.

Led by Boss Lu, the crew of the Earthquake film went from one city to another every two days, conquering them as easily as cutting melons and vegetables.

Wherever we go, there are press conferences, audience meetings, theme seminars, and standard public welfare activities. The work intensity is extremely high, but it also achieves excellent results.

On December 2005, 12, the crew arrived in Jinling, Jiangsu Province, and stayed there that night.

The next morning, all the crew members dressed in dark clothes were taken by a bus from the Jinling Hotel to the Memorial Hall of the Victims of the Massacre on Shuiximen Street in Jianye District.

Song Jia, Zhou Xun, Hu Jun, Wang Baoqiang and others all had solemn expressions as they followed director Lu Kuan out of the car. Everyone had already known the purpose of this trip in advance.

December 12th has not yet been designated as a National Memorial Day.

But around this time every year, countless people and people from all walks of life come spontaneously to mourn.

Citizens holding bouquets of various yellow and white flowers were surprised to see the stars from television and the silver screen.

Due to the special occasion, the crew members headed by the young director all looked solemn and no one engaged in any excessive star-chasing behavior.

I just wonder why the crew of "Tangshan Earthquake" who were on the roadshow suddenly appeared here?

At nine o'clock in the morning, two simple and plain long tables were set up on the scene.

Leader Jiang of Jinling arrived at the scene, shook hands cordially with Boss Lu, then accepted media interviews and delivered a brief speech.

"Comrades, today 3000 people from all walks of life in Nanjing, and peace-loving people at home and abroad, held an international peace rally at the Memorial Hall of the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders to mourn the compatriots who died 68 years ago."

"At the same time, we are also honored to have Mr. Lu Kuan, the internationally renowned director and president of Wenjie Holdings, here to make a major announcement."

"Following a main-theme film like 'Tangshan Earthquake' that fully demonstrated the people's faith and national strength."

"The Jinling Municipal Government will provide all necessary support to help Director Lu's next Holocaust-themed film. We now ask Director Lu to disclose the details."

There was a sudden burst of heated discussion on the sidelines, and the official media reporters collected materials in an orderly manner.

Today's occasion is special. After communication between the two sides, only official media reporters are allowed to enter for interviews and photos. The process is also very short, so as not to overshadow the event and disturb the spirits of the heroes.

Boss Lu took the microphone and said, "The weather is gloomy today. I just walked into the memorial hall with a heavy heart. Standing quietly in this solemn and austere world, I suddenly remembered three years ago."

"In 2002, at the Berlin Film Festival, I met a Chinese-American female writer, the respected Ms. Iris Chang, who was visiting John Rabe's descendants."

"During my conversation with her, I came up with the idea of ​​making a film about the Holocaust to confront history and comfort the spirits of our ancestors."

"At the same time, only by remembering history can we always be vigilant against the danger of war and cherish peace."

"This film has a unique subject matter. If all goes well, it is expected to be released next year. Today is just a chance to inform everyone."

"We will announce specific information on investment, filming, casting, and more at the official project launch conference. We will not take up any more time today and disrupt the solemn and peaceful assembly. Thank you."

Boss Lu stood in front of the monument. The lines of the building behind him were cold and solemn, like the frowning brows of the earth, engraved with endless pain and grief.

The gray-black walls, shrouded in dark clouds, exude a solemn atmosphere, as if the wounds of history can never be healed.

He turned up the collar of his long windbreaker, took the white chrysanthemum handed to him by Zhou Xun, bowed slightly to the screen wall covered with the names of the compatriots who died, and presented the flowers.

The photos taken by official media reporters showed that the young director's eyes were deep and solemn, and his brows were furrowed into a deep furrow, as if expressing his endless sorrow for that period of history.

The photo quickly made headlines.

It should be said that Boss Lu has been making headlines since August, starting with Xiao Liumianci's birthday party.

Various media outlets have both praise and criticism.

"The young director officially announced the subject of his new work, which is expected to make a splash at the Berlin Film Festival again."

"A dig into the history of mainland China's sixth-richest director: Is he motivated by patriotism or by making a fortune?"

"After the earthquake, the talented director once again touched upon a historical theme. Is it art or hype?"

Most official media and print media have expressed praise for this matter.

It affirms that such a great director who could have made more commercial films to make money is willing to spend his energy on thankless and heavy historical themes.

However, there are also quite a few Nanfang media and former affiliated people who have expressed different opinions.

This faction of media, led by "Nanfang Weekend", advocates neoliberalism and praised Lu Kuan a lot when he first became successful.

I believe that from "Whiplash" to "Shoplifters", they are all excellent propositions for reflecting on education, reflecting on society, and opposing capitalism.

But it started from the time when Boss Lu himself gradually became a capitalist and controlled online public opinion, from the time when he became a targeted recruitment unit for the Olympics, and from the time when his film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" sparked a great patriotic discussion.

Some media people from the Nanfang faction gradually began to turn their guns against the government.

Especially during the filming of "Tangshan Earthquake", the media and local governments worked closely together to sing praises for certain objects they criticized, which caused great dissatisfaction.

The establishment of the Holocaust film project became the fuse, and for a time, criticism and heated discussions from different angles were rampant.

He has been given many titles, including a heartless capitalist, a cultural businessman who makes a fortune from national disasters, and an artistic hooligan who is good at hype.

Of course, Boss Lu’s fans and netizens with correct values ​​also spoke out for him and criticized these unfounded accusations and slander.

Profiting from national disaster?

They have already pledged all the net profits from "Aftershock". Can you do the same?

At the Charity Bazaar Night, he was also the entrepreneur and director who spent the most on donations and bidding, which is also real evidence.

Public opinion was in turmoil, and the news of this photo and the Holocaust film was like a stone thrown into a quiet lake, attracting attention from all parties.

For example, Zhang Chunru and Liu Yifei in North America both saw it.

Ms. Zhang Chunru solemnly printed out the photo, wrote the date on the back, and put it in her diary.

It has been three years, or rather, ten years since she decided to write a book in 1995.

The Angel of Justice is comforted to have such a director with a pure heart, willingness and ability.

Xiao Liu's filming in Vancouver is also going well. After nearly two years, not only has his skills in the roles of Xiaodao and Madan reached a higher level, but his literary acting has also improved.

She still needs some experience and a role to complete the transformation from an ordinary actor to an excellent actor.

As for Liu Yifei herself, she also had high hopes for the role of Zhang Chunru, so she spent nearly a year preparing for it.

Let’s not talk about my personal relationship with Boss Lu for now.

She did not refuse to successfully create such a great character image under the former's strict requirements, which must be a great improvement for herself.

She is fulfilling her original ambition step by step and taking firm steps towards becoming a top actor.

Of course, the little hurricane stirred up by the butterfly's wings was not without movement. At the end of October US time, a social software called Twitter was quietly launched.

The website's logo is a North American bluebird, and it was officially put into trial operation after a week of internal testing.

In the United States and Silicon Valley, hundreds of ideas are generated every day, and hundreds of startups are registered every week.

Of course, a large number of ambitious entrepreneurs will be eliminated and die every month, and the cycle will continue.

Therefore, no one paid too much attention to this seemingly ordinary social software.

Except for two people and their fans.

One of them is Stephanie, the author of "Twilight". Xiao Liu exchanged resources with her as a top blogger on Mytube, allowing her to register and update her Twitter account to attract fans to interact and leave messages.

The other one was Leonardo from the crew. He didn't think much of this new product that couldn't even be found on the website market.

I just thought Liu Yifei was promoting for a friend, so I enthusiastically registered an account, chatted with her in my spare time, and posted some updates about my work on the set of "Alien Land 2".

Xiao Liu, who is starting a business for the first time, has almost played all the cards he can play.

Select seedlings, dig holes, fill soil, water and maintain.

Everything from now on will be left to time to see how effective her two tricks will be, and whether this seedling can successfully grow into a money tree or die tragically.

In mainland China, Chen Kaige, another competitor in the Lunar New Year film market, felt a little unhappy when he saw the photos.

The movie "The Promise" will premiere in two days. What is your purpose in releasing this big news now and sparking such a heated discussion and debate online?
What is the difference between you, Lu Kuan, and the real rogue businessman Zhang Weiping?
Even worse!
You, Lu Kuan, are a cultured gangster, a gangster with capital!
He would do anything to protect his own movie. He is so cruel!
In addition to related parties in North America and the mainland, the news that international directors have decided to make films on the Holocaust has naturally entered the field of vision of certain institutions.

On December 2005, 12, a week after Lu Kuan announced the news in Jinling, a thin Japanese man entered the country through Beijing Capital International Airport and arrived at the Changfu Palace Sakura Restaurant on Liangmaqiao East Street.

He walked to the second floor, had a few private words with the respectful store manager, and sat down alone in a private room.

The Japanese man's name is Kasai Ou, and he is the younger brother of the notorious Kasai Laogou of the Japanese Tokai Company, who is an extreme right-wing businessman of the Japanese.

He pulled out his phone, sighed, and dialed again.

"Hey?"

"Lu Sang, I'm sorry, but can I have another conversation?"

Beep beep beep...

Kasai Xiong didn't look discouraged at all, as if this was just an expected setback.

Indeed, after learning that this international director was going to make a Holocaust film, he had tried to contact him three times but failed.

Whether it was private sponsorship, cross-border business cooperation, or introducing him to the six major resources of Sony and Columbia, he was rejected.

"Boom boom boom!"

"Please come in!"

Kasai Xiong smiled and stood up: "Ukebo, long time no see!"

The boss of Chengtian Entertainment, who had just asked the driver to take Jiang Yiyan back to the villa, spoke fluent Japanese and shook hands with him familiarly.

Ukebo is his katakana transliteration.

"Kasai-san! It's been four or five years! I'm so glad you came to Peking."

"Haha, I'm happy too, but I'm here to bother you with something."

Kasai Xiong ordered the waiter to serve the dishes. His private room was staffed by local Japanese waiters, so there was no worry about the news leaking out.

"Please tell me what you want me to do. When I went to NEC for internship, I asked your brother to take care of me!"

Kasai Xiong was not in a hurry to express his true feelings. He had a good discussion with this mainland businessman who had close ties with Japanese capital, and then he expressed his intention in a tactful way.

"I recently saw a piece of news that the internationally renowned director Lu is going to make a historical film."

"This trip is to see if there is any way through Wu Sang to..."

"It can stop your country's director Lu Kuan from making a movie like that."

He even deliberately avoided the word "massacre", and Wu Kebo clearly understood his intention.

The boss of Chengtian Entertainment Group put down his cup and chopsticks, his tone stern.

"I can't do anything about this. Besides...are you insulting me with what you said, Kashi-san?"

"Whether or not to make this kind of movie is a personal decision. I have no right to interfere, and I will not interfere."

"Are you asking me to do something that's detrimental to the country? That's outrageous!"

Ge Xixiong sneered at Wu Sang, who had a hypocritical face.

If you really had this kind of integrity, you would not have accepted my brother's recommendation.

However, no matter how much he despised it in his heart, he could not ignore the purpose of his trip.

It is naturally inconvenient for them to intervene in this matter directly. The association can only achieve its goals indirectly and secretly through certain mainland channels.

"Where! Where!" Kasxi Xiong stood up with a look of horror on his face and bowed hurriedly.

"Mr. Wu, I have always believed that you are a peace-loving person who is willing to promote exchanges between China and Japan."

"What I mean is that a movie like this won't do much for the peaceful development of both sides. Please think twice!"

Wu Kebo pondered for a few seconds, then stood up with a grim expression, picked up his clothes and said, "No point in talking any more. Goodbye!"

"Wu Sang!"

Wu Kebo stopped in front of the sliding door and turned back to look at Ge Xixiong, who had just been respectful and polite. The only trace of humility on his thin face disappeared.

"Wu Sang, NEC's funding isn't that easy to come by, right?"

Wu Kebo asked sternly, "What do you mean?"

"Wu Sang is a smart man, so I don't need to explain too much. I have three conditions and I hope Wu Sang will seriously consider them."

"My brother will lend you a hand with the domestic distribution of Red Cliff. You can choose among Toho, Toei, and Kadokawa Pictures, or we can jointly distribute it."

"The convenience for Wu Sang's artists and your family business to develop both domestically and internationally will be greatly improved. For example, we can act as an intermediary for resources from Sony and Columbia."

"Finally, I don't want to be too blunt, but Mr. Wu, who has established a foothold in your country with NEC's capital, please do not refuse my request."

"Otherwise, everyone will be in trouble! Please!"

Kasai Oo gave another standard 90-degree bow. Even though his movements were exaggerated, his meticulously groomed hair was not at all messy.

He used both kindness and force in his words, and his attitude gave Wu Kebo enough room to maneuver.

He didn't have much choice.

It was as if the quarrel just now happened in a foreign space, and the sound of cups clinking could soon be heard in the izakaya.

Wu Kebo's mood was not very good, but after taking this step back, he could only seek help first.

"Kasai-san, I have my own position. Please don't make excessive demands. Just like what you just said, how can I stop it?"

"Hahahaha!"

Ge Xixiong laughed: "Don't misunderstand Wu Sang, I'm not a spy. We just want to prevent some unreasonable things from happening from a peaceful perspective."

"I promise! Any intervention by you and your company will be within a reasonable range and will not embarrass you!"

Wu Kebo's expression brightened slightly when he heard this: "That's good."

"Wu Sang, I did a lot of research before coming here, and the association has quite a few 'informants' here."

"It seems your company is not yet a rival to Wenjie Holdings, right? In fact, it's far behind."

Kasai Xiong looked at Wu Kebo with a smile and patiently persuaded him.

"Hmph! When there are no heroes, it makes sense for young men to become famous. He is just taking advantage of good luck." Wu Kebo put down his wine glass neither lightly nor heavily.

"If I had returned to China two years earlier, so many good resources wouldn't have been snatched away by him during his ignorant period."

For example, in his opinion, Hong Kong's Golden Harvest Cinemas is an excellent resource for entering the film industry, which is a pity.

"Mr. Wu, your country often says that haste makes waste, and accumulation leads to success. Don't worry, with the support of the NEC and the association, surpassing him won't be difficult!"

Wu Kebo has been in the business for a long time, and he knows that if you want to wear the crown, you must bear its weight.

He knew that these Japanese companies had strong financial resources and were connected to the West, but he knew that this kind of sitting back and reaping the benefits would come at a considerable price.

Until this moment, the boss of one of the most powerful entertainment companies in mainland China still had some bottom line.

"Speak frankly, Kashi-san, what do you want from me?"

Kasai Xiong smiled: "That's right..."

In an izakaya less than one kilometer away from the Japanese Embassy in China, lies and conspiracies of "this and that" and "this and that" are intertwined.

Just like how Zhang Chunru was obstructed and harassed by the right wing in every possible way because of her writings, this internationally renowned Chinese director also came into the sight of the scum for the same reason.

Lu Xun's poem says: My thoughts are so vast that they connect to the universe, and I can hear thunder in the silence.

This young director, with his heart full of worries, wondered how he would react to these unexpected thunderbolts from his enemies. (Note 1)

　Note 1: The original meaning of thunder is the long-suppressed power of the people in the old society that erupts. In the original poem, it is a symbol of power with progressive significance.

　　
　
(End of this chapter)