Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 413 Opening Ceremony
After attending the premiere of "Caught in the Web," Liu Shishi put the movie out of her mind and went to London with her family to witness the grand opening ceremony of the Olympic Games.

At 9 p.m. London time on July 27, the highly anticipated opening ceremony of the Olympic Games kicked off at the "London Bowl" stadium.

Leaders, dignitaries, and athletes from around the world, along with approximately 8 spectators, gathered to welcome the opening of this global sporting event.

The opening ceremony of the London Olympics was themed "Wonderful Islands," inspired by Shakespeare's classic play "The Tempest," a landmark work of British literature.

By showcasing the historical heritage, cultural charm, and modern social life of the British Isles, it presents a comprehensive view of the diverse aspects of Britain.

The opening ceremony's first act, "A Green and Joyful Land," recreated an idyllic landscape of English meadows, fields, and rivers on stage.

With 30 sheep strolling leisurely, 12 horses and 3 cows dotting the scene, the real animals and the stage setting complement each other, vividly depicting a harmonious picture of traditional farming and animal husbandry.

In the audience, Liu's father watched the performance, his brows furrowed slightly, his face showing disdain: "Is this the level of the London Olympics opening ceremony? Showing animals to the world audience is really not up to standard."

Liu Xiaochen chimed in, "Compared to the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics four years ago, it is indeed far inferior."

The three mothers, who had personally witnessed the grand opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, were also greatly disappointed and showed little interest in the artistic performance in front of them.

Liu Shishi leaned closer to her husband and whispered, "Yiyi, surely Britain wouldn't be stingy with the money for hosting the Olympics?"

Song Ci gently shook his head and smiled as he explained, "The last time London hosted the Olympics was in 1948. After 64 years, spanning more than half a century, it is hosting the Games again. How could Britain not attach great importance to it?"

Over 20 billion viewers worldwide are watching the opening ceremony, and it's sure to bring a surprise to people around the world.

As soon as the words were spoken, the opening ceremony entered the "Noisy Era" chapter on the Industrial Revolution.

In an instant, the idyllic tranquility was shattered by deafening drumbeats, and seven giant chimneys, each 30 meters tall, burst from the ground, like steel behemoths awakening.

Amidst billowing smoke, 965 drummers, with precise, almost mechanical rhythms, sounded the stirring prelude to the Industrial Revolution.

Molten iron, gushing from the furnace, meanders and flows, converging into a blazing torrent under the guidance of smelting workers clad in oil-stained work clothes, as if the pulse of industrial civilization is throbbing.

The breathtaking scene instantly ignited the entire audience, who erupted in thunderous applause.

Director Danny Boyle used steel as a pen and flame as ink to depict a magnificent picture of industrial civilization for 20 billion viewers worldwide under the sky of the "London Bowl".

This epic audiovisual feast will showcase the most profound changes in human history.

"The Industrial Revolution!"

Liu Shishi heard her husband murmur beside her. She turned her head and saw that his bright eyes were shining, as if reflecting a vast starry river, and seemed to be burning with endless fighting spirit.

Upon seeing this, Liu's father couldn't help but swallow hard, then gave an awkward laugh: "I misjudged you, I take back what I just said!"

Liu Xiaochen was equally dumbfounded, completely immersed in this magnificent picture of the industrial age.

Looking at the surprised expressions of his father-in-law and brother-in-law, Song Zhang smiled and remarked, "The opening ceremony of the London Olympics was just as spectacular as the one in Beijing; both will become classics in Olympic history."

Just as everyone was marveling at the scene, five torrents of molten steel suddenly solidified in the center of the field, sparks flying like stars, and a steel-cast Olympic ring weighing several tons rose from the ground.

The dazzling steel Olympic rings are the most powerful and glorious medals that the machine age has bestowed upon the Olympics.

The three-hour opening ceremony quietly came to a close amidst awe and wonder. The audience slowly dispersed from the "London Bowl," but the area outside the stadium remained bustling with activity as night fell.

The evening breeze carried the moist scent of the Thames, but it couldn't dispel the burning passion and lingering enjoyment in everyone's eyes. The rising and falling chatter was filled with reminiscence of this audiovisual feast.

Liu Yuqing held her sister-in-law's arm, her cheeks flushed with excitement, still savoring the magnificent scene that had just unfolded in her mind.

"Watt's improved steam engine, Brunel's giant wheel, the shuttle on the spinning machine... these are all things we learned about in history textbooks."

Britain truly deserved its title as the "workshop of the world"; as a long-established capitalist power, it certainly possessed a profound historical foundation.

As the little girl spoke, she gestured as if the colossal machines of the Industrial Revolution were still roaring before her eyes.

Song Ci sincerely praised: "The reason why the industrial chapter of the opening ceremony touched people's hearts is that it broke through the narrow national narrative framework."

It showcases not only Britain's glorious history, but also a magnificent shared memory in the course of human civilization—that's what truly touches the soul.

"Yes, after watching tonight's incredibly creative opening ceremony, it was definitely worth the trip!" Song Zhang exclaimed, though his expression carried a hint of helplessness.

"On New Year's Day, I really wanted to cheer for the Olympic athletes. Unfortunately, your uncle and I are leaving for home tomorrow."

Upon hearing this, Liu Shishi looked at her father-in-law with a puzzled expression: "Dad, are you in such a hurry to go back? It's a rare trip to London, why not stay a few more days to watch the games?"

"There are still a lot of things to deal with at the hospital. Being able to ask the hospital director for three days off to come and watch the opening ceremony is already the limit."

"I've been so busy with patients at Peking Union Medical College Hospital lately, I just can't get away from them." Song Zhang's words revealed a hint of fatigue, but also a doctor's sense of responsibility.

Song Ci took the initiative to speak: "Then I'll take you and your uncle to the airport tomorrow. I'm also going to Paris soon."

Upon hearing this, several women present turned their gazes to him, their eyes filled with concern.

Song Ci quickly explained with a smile, "Don't worry, I'm just going to Paris to sign a contract, and I'll be back that afternoon."

Universal Music's acquisition of EMI Records went through many twists and turns, but was finally settled with a joint acquisition by Universal Music and Sony Music after intervention from the EU's antitrust authorities.

Universal Music acquired EMI's recording business for $19 billion, bringing in numerous well-known artist contracts, a vast amount of recording copyrights, and valuable recording studio resources.

Sony Music, on the other hand, spent a whopping $22 billion to successfully acquire EMI's publishing business and copyright management division.

Following this deal, Universal Music's global market share soared from 27% to 36%, firmly establishing it as the world's largest record company.

For Tengda Group, this acquisition is of extraordinary significance.

As the major shareholder holding 50% of EMI Records, Tenda Group reached a share swap acquisition agreement with Vivendi, the parent company of Universal Music Group, after multiple rounds of negotiations.

Universal Music is currently valued at $90 billion. After the acquisition through a share swap, Tenda Group successfully acquired 8.7% of Universal Music's shares.

Unfortunately, Sony insisted on completing the transaction with cash payment and refused to acquire equity.

Nevertheless, Tenda Group has successfully become a shareholder of Universal Music, the world's leading music copyright holder. This milestone marks a solid first step in Tenda's music copyright strategy.

The following morning, Song Zhang and Liu Xiaochen embarked on their journey back to China, while Song Ci set off for Paris.

It was the afternoon of the 28th in China, and Donghai Tangren Film and Television was bustling with activity. Cai Yinong called Gulinaza and Jiang Jinfu to his office: "Xuan-Yuan Sword is having its second run on Hunan Satellite TV. To maintain its popularity, we're planning to have you appear on an episode of Happy Camp."

This is your first time on a variety show, so please be careful with your words and actions during filming.

The two responded in unison, "Understood, Mr. Cai!"

Cai Yinong's gaze lingered on Gulnazar's stunning face for a moment, then he gave her a worried reminder:
“Naza, especially you, think before you speak. Don’t say things you shouldn’t. Especially when it comes to Shishi, you have to think twice.”

With the massive success of "Xuan-Yuan Sword," Liu Shishi became incredibly popular, her popularity unparalleled. She could already imagine that during the recording of the show, the host would inevitably steer the conversation towards the top female star.

Hu Ge and Tang Yan are steady and reliable, so she doesn't need to worry about them. Only Gu Li is outspoken and blunt, and she might fall into the host's trap if she's not careful.

Gulinaza looked surprised: "Isn't Shishi-jie participating in the program too?"

Cai Yinong rolled his eyes at her, too lazy to bother with her.

Beside him, Jiang Jinfu whispered a reminder: "Nazha, Shishijie rarely appears on variety shows."

Gulnazar playfully stuck out her little tongue, realizing she had asked a very silly question.

Cai Yinong shook his head, picked up two scripts from his desk, and handed them to the two men: "These are your next projects, both film roles."

Upon hearing that it could be made into a movie, the two excitedly accepted the script.

Gulnazar received the script for "Police Story 2013" and will be working with Cheng Long. Jiang Jinfu is starring in a romance film called "A Wedding Invitation".

"Study your role carefully, and keep a low profile once you're on set. An actor's reputation in the industry is crucial," Cai Yinong earnestly advised.

The popularity of "Xuan-Yuan Sword" has boosted the popularity of Jiang Jinfu and Gulinaza, leading Cai Yinong to see their potential to succeed Hu Ge and Liu Shishi.

After giving repeated instructions out of concern, Cai Yinong asked Jiang Jinfu to leave the office first, leaving Nazha alone.

"Have you sorted out your relationship? There weren't any private photos or ambiguous chat logs left behind, right?"

Gulinaza immediately panicked, stammering and not daring to look directly into her boss's stern gaze.

Seeing her like this, Cai Yinong understood that she hadn't handled things properly and would inevitably leave a lot of leverage in the man's hands. He couldn't help but feel helpless.

"Naza, I will help you resolve this matter, but this is a one-time exception."

Hearing that her boss was willing to step in and help, Gulinaza breathed a sigh of relief: "Thank you, Mr. Cai. I promise I will never do it again."

Cai Yinong sighed inwardly, "Nazamei is beautiful, but she is not smart enough."

In the entertainment industry, it's difficult to maintain long-term popularity if you can't stay clear-headed.

Even if you manage to create a hit work by luck, it can only be a fleeting moment of glory.

If Naza doesn't make changes, she'll probably remain just a pretty face with no substance.

Watching the little girl's slender figure disappear into the distance, Cai Yi-nong fell into deep thought. Perhaps he shouldn't place all his hopes on her alone!
But who can be the backup candidate, Jin Chen, Hu Bingqing, or should we look for a good prospect from outside?

Meanwhile, in the president's office of Beiping Tengda Culture.

Wang Kai pushed open the door and glanced at the woman sitting opposite the president: "President Liu, you wanted to see me?"

"Sit down and talk." Liu Rong smiled warmly, then pointed to the middle-aged woman in front of her: "Wang Kai, let me introduce you. This is Xue Xiaolu, a director and tutor at the Beijing Film Academy."

Wang Kai quickly greeted, "Director Xue, hello, I'm Wang Kai."

Facing a top-tier celebrity, Xue Xiaolu showed no airs whatsoever, standing up to shake hands with Wang Kai in a friendly manner.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Liu Rong got straight to the point: "Wang Kai, the company is planning to collaborate with Director Xue on a film, 'Finding Mr. Right,' which she wrote and directed, and we'd like you to be the male lead."

After saying that, he quickly added, "The company has evaluated the script, and the quality is quite good."

Upon hearing this, Wang Kai looked troubled. The president's words were clearly an implication, obviously hoping that he would take the lead role and strongly recommending him, suggesting that the movie had considerable box office potential.

Seeing that Wang Kai had not yet expressed his opinion, Liu Rong pressed him for details: "What are your concerns?"

"I appreciate Liu Rong and Director Xue's trust, but I've already accepted Director Kong Sheng's 'No War in Beiping,' so there might be a scheduling conflict," Wang Kai revealed the truth.

During the filming of "Silent Notes", he was appreciated by Kong Sheng and had already been booked as the male lead in a TV series under Daylight Entertainment.

When will filming begin for "No War in Beiping"?

"Director Kong is currently busy with the post-production editing of his wife's film, 'Silent Notes,' so this drama will probably not start filming until winter."

Liu Rong nodded: "The schedule is fine! 'Finding Mr. Right' is a romance movie, so it's easy to find filming locations. It can be filmed in about three months, which won't interfere with your filming of Director Kong's movie."

"Thank you, Mr. Liu! Thank you, Director Xue!" Upon learning that the schedules did not conflict, Wang Kai readily agreed, after all, no one wanted to miss the opportunity to play the male lead in a high-quality film.

Xue Xiaolu stood to the side, feeling helpless. Originally, her preferred male lead was Qiao Zhengyu, who had just won 7 million yuan at the box office with "Painted Skin 2" co-starring with Zhao Yanzi and Zhou Xun, and was at the height of his popularity.

However, the investors strongly recommended Wang Kai for the male lead role, and considering that Wang Kai was also a top-tier male star and had starred in box office hits such as "Love is Not Blind," they reluctantly agreed.

"Mr. Liu, Director Xue, if I may ask, who is the female lead in the movie?"

Liu Rongping looked at Xue Xiaolu. Since the investors had chosen the male lead, the director could arrange the female lead himself.

After a moment's hesitation, Xue Xiaolu revealed her top choice: "Mr. Liu, I wonder if it would be possible to persuade your company's chairman's wife to take the role?"

Liu Rong was taken aback, not expecting Xue Xiaolu to have designs on the boss's wife: "I'm sorry, Director Xue, you must have heard that Chairman Song and his wife's wedding is just around the corner, and she won't be taking on any roles during this time."

"Could you please arrange a meeting between me and Mrs. Song, Mr. Liu?" Xue Xiaolu was still unwilling to give up.

According to her original plan, if "Finding Mr. Right" had starred Qiao Zhengyu, the male lead with 700 million yuan box office earnings, and Liu Shishi, the female lead, the box office might have reached 1 billion yuan.

Liu Rong spread his hands: "Director Xue, you'd better not waste your time. Your wife has flown to London to watch the Olympics."

"Alright." Xue Xiaolu had no choice but to give up. It was best not to disturb them while they were busy enjoying their lives.

(End of this chapter)