Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 431 Accelerating Transformation

October 23rd, Double Ninth Festival.

The atmosphere inside the conference room of Donghai Tangren Film and Television was somber and oppressive.

Cai Yinong sat upright in the main seat, his gaze slowly sweeping over everyone present. His tone was unhurried, yet carried an undeniable weight:
"Everyone, the issue of investment shares for 'iPartment 4' has been dragging on for a year, and I hope we can have a result today."

Wang Yuan, the screenwriter of the "iPartment" series and owner of Gaoge Film and Television, and director Wei Zhen exchanged a subtle glance, both of them noticing a hint of helplessness in each other's eyes.

The "iPartment" series has become a national IP, and it's obvious to everyone that the fourth season will be a cash cow.

They wanted to reduce Liu Shishi's investment share in the fourth installment to make more money, but Liu Shishi's studio, as the main investor in the first three installments of the "iPartment" series, was entangled with the creative team over copyright issues.

Therefore, without the approval of the female lead, filming for "iPartment 4" could not have started.

Zhao Yifang, chairman of Huace Media, looked at the two representatives from Liu Shishi's side and solemnly asked, "President Cai, President Jiang, President Liu is not here. Can you two represent her fully?"

Cai Yinong chuckled: "I'm Shishi's agent, and Jiang Yuanyuan is the studio's general manager. The two of us are enough to represent her!"

Zhao Yifang nodded, then changed the subject: "Alright, let's get back to the main topic. Everyone wants to invest in 'iPartment 4' to make money, and dragging it out any longer will not benefit anyone."

Mr. Cai and Mr. Liu had the foresight to preserve the "iPartment" series back then, and no one can deny their contribution.

But times have changed, and it's unrealistic to expect your side to take the entire market share of the fourth installment like the first three.

The success of "iPartment" as a national hit owes much to both CEO Wang and Director Wei.

Cai Yinong glanced at Wei Zhen and Wang Yuan, his tone flat: "Shishi has never denied the contributions of the main creative team, and has generously promised President Wang that Gaoge Films can invest in a 30% share. Huace Films wants to invest, and can acquire it from President Wang at a premium."

No sooner had these words been spoken than Wu Tao, president of Croton Media, couldn't contain himself any longer. He was naturally impatient and immediately shouted:
“President Cai, we’ve talked about market share so many times. It’s pointless for you to keep insisting on this. This isn’t the right attitude to solve problems.”

Cai Yinong glanced at Wu Tao sideways, giving him a cold look.

She gave Zhao Yi face because Huace Media is one of the four major private listed companies in the entertainment industry, and its strength is undeniable.

What right does Croton Media have to yell at Tangren Media?

"When did it become Croton's turn to interfere in 'iPartment 4'?" Cai Yinong's tone turned cold. "I'm here to have a proper discussion with you."

To be honest, if this drama had been jointly invested in by Liu Shishi's studio and Tengda Culture, Huace and Gaoge wouldn't have had a stake in it at all, and the screenwriter and director could have been replaced!

"Cai Yinong, you!" Wu Tao was furious and was about to slam his fist on the table.

"President Wu, please calm down!" Zhao Yifang quickly smoothed things over. "President Cai, let's talk business. We're all in the same industry. Having more friends means more opportunities. If Huace has any good projects in the future, we can cooperate with Tangren!"

Cai Yinong's lips curled slightly. Zhao Yifang had indeed managed to develop Huace into a giant enterprise, so he was quite skilled. He softened his tone and said, "Alright, I'll give Chairman Zhao this face. I wonder how Chairman Zhao plans to divide the shares?"

Compared to previous negotiations, Cai Yi-nong's attitude this time was significantly more assertive, which left Zhao Yi-fang somewhat puzzled.

After pondering for a moment, he decided to overturn the original plan and proposed, "President Cai, how about this? President Liu's studio will take 40% of the shares, and Huace, Keton, and Gaoge will split the remaining 60% equally?"

Cai Yinong sneered inwardly upon hearing this.

Huace was originally a shareholder of Gaoge, and now it plans to acquire Keton. According to Zhao Yifang's share distribution method, Huace will end up becoming the main investor of "iPartment 4". How could they possibly agree to this!

"Chairman Zhao, there are no secrets in this industry. Everyone knows the relationship between Huace, Gao Ge, and Keton. If we bring some things up, we'll lose face and it will only damage our relationship."

I don't have the energy to waste any more time. Liu Shishi Studio's investment share must be at least 51%, and they must lead the copyright operation and development—that's my bottom line! How you three distribute the remaining 49% is up to you to discuss.

Zhao Yifang was very unwilling. She had put in so much effort to get Huace to take the lead in the actual operation of "iPartment 4". She immediately wanted to continue to persuade him: "President Cai, Huace..."

Cai Yinong waved his hand directly, issuing an ultimatum: "Chairman Zhao, these conditions are Shishi's wishes, and there is no room for negotiation. Whether or not 'iPartment 4' is filmed, she doesn't care at all, since she doesn't lack tens of millions of yuan."

"No, Mr. Cai, we can talk this over!" Upon hearing that the TV series might not be made, Wang Yuan immediately became anxious.

Liu Shishi is worth billions, so she may not care about the profits from "iPartment 4," but she's still hoping to achieve financial freedom with these few million!
After saying that, he looked at Zhao Yifang expectantly, his eyes filled with an obvious urging, clearly trying to force her to agree to Cai Yinong's conditions.

Zhao Yifang sighed helplessly, explaining that Huace was able to participate in the investment of "iPartment 4" mainly because of Wang Yuan's connections.

Now he was completely flustered, and there was no room for maneuver: "Alright, Mr. Cai, we'll do it according to your terms."

Although Wu Tao was unwilling, both Huace and Gaoge had already compromised, and he was powerless to change the situation on his own, so he had no choice but to give up.

Cai Yinong smiled smugly. The title of "Number One Sister" is indeed very useful. Although this drama was invested in by the studio and had no direct financial relationship with Tangren Media, the feeling of using her influence to suppress others was truly addictive.

The four parties finally agreed that the total investment for "iPartment 4" would be 6000 million yuan, with Liu Shishi Studio investing 3060 million yuan and holding a 51% stake.
The remaining 49% share was co-invested by Gaoge Film & Television. As for how Gaoge will distribute this share to Huace and Croton, Liu Shishi Studio will not interfere.

"President Cai, President Jiang, it's a pleasure to cooperate with you."

"Chairman Zhao, if there's an opportunity in the future, Tangren and Huace should co-produce a film."

Once the agreement was reached, the tense atmosphere vanished, as the parties were now a community of shared interests.

After seeing off Huace's group, Cai Yinong and Jiang Yuanyuan went straight to the First Sister's office.

At this moment, Liu Shishi was sitting at her desk, her eyes fixed intently on the screen, her expression showing a hint of interest.

Cai Yinong sat down opposite her and asked excitedly, "Shishi, has it been officially announced?"

Liu Shishi smiled and nodded: "It was sent half an hour ago."

Cai Yinong immediately took out his phone and browsed Weibo. Sure enough, he saw that the news of Cartier's official announcement of Liu Shishi as its global brand ambassador had already topped the trending search list.

Cartier V: The panther's silhouette, timeless elegance. Since its birth in Place Vendôme, Paris in 1847, Cartier has always crafted a timeless legend with extraordinary craftsmanship.

Today, we are honored to announce that @LiuShishi has officially become Cartier's global brand ambassador. She is a breathtaking goddess on screen, and an Eastern muse refined by time. Her composed demeanor and independent spirit resonate perfectly with the spirit of the Cartier panther. From high jewelry and watches to the entire collection, she will continue to write a new chapter for "The Jeweler of Kings" with contemporary elegance.

#Cartier Global Ambassador Liu Shishi#
#Cartierlcon Click to witness the legendary symbiosis [Video Link]#
The accompanying photo is an exquisite picture, in which Liu Shishi wears high jewelry from the Cheetah series and a Tank watch, with the Champ de Mars in Paris in the background, exuding a striking aura.

The top female star has added another high-end luxury brand endorsement, much to the delight of her fans, who have left numerous comments:

"Global brand ambassador!!! Cartier Asia Pacific has good taste! Shishi is probably the first person in the Chinese entertainment industry to have such a high-end luxury brand title, right?"

Simultaneously holding endorsements from three top luxury brands (Gucci, Omega, and Cartier), and with Omega and Cartier being competitors, Shishi has achieved a second legendary status!

"A historic moment for Cartier! The first Chinese national to become a global brand ambassador for the entire Cartier brand – the prestige of this goes without saying! What's even more astonishing is that Omega is actually willing to let her go? Shishi's team's negotiation skills have clearly improved."

Omega: My ambassador is elegant and sophisticated; Cartier: Now she's mine!

"Will Shishi wear an Omega or a Cartier for her next event? I can't wait for the epic battle between these two brands! I suggest Vogue immediately give her a double cover: a Cartier panther on the left and an Omega Speedmaster on the right!"

“Cartier belongs to the LVMH Group, and Omega is a brand under Swatch. They belong to two major luxury brands. To be able to break the unspoken rule of ‘competitive exclusivity’, Shishi is still too authoritative in the fashion industry.”

Seeing the overwhelming positive reviews online, Cai Yinong finally felt relieved.

"Shishi, the investment for 'iPartment 4' has been finalized."

"It's good that it's settled. Fans of 'iPartment' are urging me on Weibo every day."

The lead actress felt relieved. She didn't want to disappoint her fans and hoped that this national hit drama could have a perfect ending. Now that the dust has settled, it can be considered an explanation to the drama fans.

"Fans have no idea about the intricacies involved. If it weren't for Wang Yuan and his team's greed, this drama would have been filmed and aired long ago!"

Cai Yinong spoke up for the top female star, then changed the subject, saying, "Shishi, I've thought about what you told me the other day carefully, and I think it's feasible. Web dramas will definitely be the mainstream in the future."

"I'm just acting as a go-between. As for the specifics, you can discuss them with Mr. Zhou from Toutiao Video."

"Understood," Cai Yinong replied softly.

Previously, the top female host had told her that Toutiao Video intended to jointly establish a company with Tangren Media to specialize in online dramas, which she initially hesitated to do.

After all, Tengda Group has a large film and television company like Tengda Culture, and Toutiao Video itself is also preparing a film and television studio. Is it necessary for Tangren to get involved and jointly produce web dramas?

However, the film and television industry has been undergoing rapid changes recently, with new companies emerging almost daily, while large film and television companies are strengthening their cooperation with internet giants.
Huayi and LeTV have partnered to launch an online drama company, and in the past two days, it has been reported that Huace has reached an agreement with iQiyi, and "Huace iQiyi Film and Television Company," dedicated to online video content, is in the process of preparation.

The actions of his peers made Cai Yinong realize that perhaps the future of the film and television industry truly lies in web dramas. He immediately made up his mind to cooperate deeply with Toutiao Video to promote Tangren's full transformation towards web dramas.

"Sister K, your previous worries about overcapacity on video platforms were actually unfounded."

The eldest sister chuckled, "TV stations can only broadcast for 24 hours a day, and the number of TV dramas they can broadcast each year is limited, but video websites don't have this restriction."

As long as the quality of the series is high, the platform will accept any submissions. Moreover, with the government issuing an "advertising restriction order," many businesses have shifted their advertising to video websites.

Cai Yinong joked, "I was just worrying unnecessarily. Chairman Song has such vision, reminding Tangren Media to accelerate its transformation into web dramas, and I was still hesitant. I really shouldn't have done that."

"Exactly, how could my husband be wrong?" Sister Yi's eyes crinkled with pride. "By the way, is Tangren's online store doing well?"

When Tangren's newly opened online store was mentioned, Cai Yi-nong immediately perked up, saying that business was not only good, but they were making a fortune.

With its self-built trendy brand "Sugar Man" leveraging the fame of Tangren Media and the star power of its affiliated celebrities, it sold over 300 million yuan worth of goods in just half a month. This is only the initial stage; once the brand gains recognition, its annual sales could potentially reach several hundred million yuan.

Moreover, opening an online store is almost risk-free for Tangren (a Taiwanese entertainment company), and it's much more reliable than making money by filming movies and TV dramas.

"Chairman Song is truly visionary." Cai Yinong said with delight, "The company's diversified development has greatly enhanced its ability to withstand risks. I am already preparing to film 'Xuan-Yuan Sword: The Han Dynasty'."

Liu Shishi was slightly surprised, not expecting that Sister K would start the sequel to "Xuan-Yuan Sword" so soon.

"Chairman Song is right! We should quickly release the second installment while the first one is still popular in order to maximize profits."

"But Director Li is preparing to film 'The Imperial Doctress,' will Director Liang direct this drama?"

“I plan to entrust the direction of ‘The Clouds of Han’ to Lin Yufen from your studio. She has followed Director Li for many years and is very experienced, capable of handling the role independently.”

The lead actress then asked, "Has the lead actor been chosen yet?"

Cai Yinong introduced: "The two male leads and one female lead for 'Yun Zhi Han' have been cast as Lin Gengxin, Jiang Jinfu and Chen Yao."

"Chen Yao," Liu Shishi whispered the name.

It seems K-sister is determined to mentor this young girl, which piqued my curiosity; I wanted to see her in person. I'd only seen photos before, so it didn't feel real. "Will she be coming to the company soon? I'd like to meet her."

"Yes, yes, I'll arrange for her to come to Donghai right away." Cai Yinong was even more delighted upon hearing this.

If the young girl can gain the favor of the top female star, even a little bit of resources slipping through her fingers would be enough to benefit her immensely. With the support of Tangren Media, her future is promising.

Liu Shishi suddenly felt a sense of passing the torch, and wondered if the fourth-generation leading lady of Tangren Media, whom Sister K had finally chosen, could take over the mantle well.

After a moment's thought, she slowly said, "Sister K, since you've placed half of Tangren's future hopes on Chen Yao, I'll give her a little gift."

In a few days, Tengda Culture will be preparing to shoot the movie "My Old Classmate". Zi Mei has been cast as the female lead. I will talk to Liu Rong and ask her to give her the second female lead role.

With "The Clouds of Han" and "My Old Classmate," a TV series and a movie, it was enough for her to make a name for herself as a debut work.

As for whether she can take over my role and support half of Tangren Media in the future, that depends on her own destiny.

Cai Yinong was overjoyed and felt even more strongly that Chen Yao was a blessed person, and that the glory of Tangren's leading lady would surely continue.

(End of this chapter)