Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 458 Resource Regeneration
January 5th, Minor Cold.

The lingering chill had not yet dissipated when the afternoon sun broke through the clouds, casting a warm glow upon the land.

In the conference room of Tangren Film and Television, Hou Hongliang, the producer of "Silent Notebook", was manipulating the mouse, and slides of PPT appeared on the electronic screen.

Across from her, Liu Shishi leaned forward slightly, her gaze intently following the content on the screen, her expression revealing a hint of caution.

"Mr. Liu, the production team has edited several trailers, including a suspenseful version, an emotional version, and a version with climactic conflict."

"I plan to post it on Weibo, Toutiao, Baidu Tieba, as well as major portal websites and forums." Hou Hongliang's voice was calm and clear.

Trailers of varying lengths, such as 15 seconds, 30 seconds, and 60 seconds, were played in succession, gradually unfolding the light and shadow and plot within the shots.

Looking at the carefully edited clips, Liu Shishi smiled with satisfaction and nodded slightly: "Very good."

Cai Yinong tapped his fingertips lightly on the table, and after a moment's thought, he said, "President Hou, I think we could refine the core selling points in the copywriting a bit more."

For example, the profound sense of historical significance, the powerful performances of veteran actors, and the appeal of Mr. Song's original work should all be highlighted.

Hou Hongliang nodded solemnly upon hearing this: "That makes sense. Daylight Entertainment really needs to learn more from Tangren Media in terms of publicity and distribution." Cai Yinong's suggestion hit the nail on the head regarding something he hadn't thought about in detail.

"This drama is CCTV-8's opening drama of the year. The station attaches great importance to it and has arranged for special interviews in programs such as 'China TV Drama Report' and 'Film and Television Synchronous Sound'."

"I'll have to trouble you, Mr. Liu, along with Teacher Li, Wang Kai, and Wan Qian to attend."

Liu Shishi readily agreed: "No problem, I'll make time."

"In addition, we have contacted mainstream print media such as Guangming Daily and Youth Daily, planning to publish a press release in the culture section, focusing on the social value of Silent Shorthand..."

Hou Hongliang continued, explaining the entire publicity plan in detail. Finally, he looked up at everyone and asked, "Everyone, take a look and tell me, what parts still need to be polished?"

Jiang Yuanyuan, who was sitting at the end of the row, suddenly straightened her posture, raised her hand, and her serious appearance attracted everyone's attention.

Seeing her earnest expression, Liu Shishi couldn't help but smile: "Yuanyuan, tell me."

“Serious dramas are not the same as youth idol dramas. The audience is not just young people, and the promotion should not overlook the middle-aged and elderly groups.” Jiang Yuanyuan’s voice was clear and bright.

"I was thinking, while vigorously promoting the new media matrix, could we also take care of radio stations? Many older people still love listening to the radio."

"That's a great idea!" Hou Hongliang's eyes lit up, and he praised it repeatedly. "I have indeed neglected the traditional radio sector. I will arrange to follow up immediately."

Cai Yinong added, "Shishi, could you try to get those splash screen recommendations on apps like Tengda Group's Weibo and Toutiao again?"

Liu Shishi gently shook her head: "It's probably not going to work out anytime soon. The splash screen slots for those Tenda apps have been rescheduled for other important projects."

Upon hearing this, a hint of regret crossed everyone's faces. The splash screen recommendations on Tenda's apps generate astonishing traffic, undoubtedly a goldmine for drama promotion.

Hou Hongliang cleared his throat: "Then we'll proceed with the pre-broadcast promotion according to this plan. As for the subsequent promotional strategies during and after the broadcast, I will adjust them in real time based on the viewership ratings."

"Thank you for your hard work, Mr. Hou," Liu Shishi nodded.

With the publicity arrangements finalized, Hou Hongliang changed the subject, opened a new PPT, and said with a serious tone: "President Liu, President Cai, there is another matter I have come to discuss today: to seek investment for Daylight Entertainment's new film and television project."

The three large characters "Nirvana in Fire" appeared on the screen, and a hint of interest flashed in Liu Shishi's eyes: "Nirvana in Fire? I remember the copyright was with Qidian Chinese Network, but Daylight Entertainment has already acquired it?"

“Exactly.” Hou Hongliang nodded and began to introduce the project: “This is a classic work from Qidian Female Channel. Director Kong plans to adapt it into a TV series, initially set at fifty episodes.”

"What is the cost budget?" Liu Shishi went straight to the point.

Hou Hongliang took a deep breath and announced the figures: "The production cost per episode is two million, and the total budget is one hundred million."

"One hundred million?" Cai Yinong exclaimed in disbelief. "Nirvana in Fire" is merely a fictional historical drama, lacking the extravagant special effects of "Xuan-Yuan Sword," yet its production cost is so high, it's truly astonishing.

Seeing Liu Shishi's brows furrow slightly, Hou Hongliang quickly explained, "President Liu, Noon Sunshine has been determined to pursue a high-quality product strategy since its inception."

The construction of thousands of costumes and sets such as the Su residence alone required a considerable amount of money.

More importantly, to achieve cinematic image quality, we plan to use high-definition digital cameras from ARRI and RED, which represents a real expense.

"Using film equipment to shoot a TV series?" Cai Yinong glanced at Hou Hongliang, then looked at Kong Sheng, who had remained silent to the side.

I inwardly sighed at how daring and ambitious these two were; they were really pushing their competitors to the brink of collapse. Then I thought about how production costs in the film and television industry had been soaring in the past two years, so it wasn't entirely unexpected.

Liu Shishi pondered for a few seconds and then asked, "How much does Noon Sunshine plan to invest?"

"The company will invest 30 million yuan initially, and plans to raise the remaining 70 million yuan through financing."

Liu Shishi considered the matter in her mind.

Hou Hongliang and Kong Sheng, this master-disciple duo, have always been a golden brand in the TV drama industry, producing countless classic works. The prospects of the "Nirvana in Fire" project are indeed worth looking forward to.

However, she has recently been learning about investing from her husband and Zhang Tong, and her personality has become more composed. She no longer likes to take on too much responsibility as before.

"I'll invest 30 million in my studio," she decided immediately, then looked at Cai Yinong: "Sister K, would you like to invest as well?"

Cai Yinong pondered for a moment, then slowly nodded: "Tangren will invest 20 million. By the way, President Hou, has the male lead for 'Nirvana in Fire' been decided yet?"

Hou Hongliang and Kong Sheng exchanged a glance and Hou Hongliang answered truthfully, "To be honest, Director Kong is currently interested in Huang Xiaoming."

Cai Yi-nong, however, refused to give up and turned to Kong Sheng, enthusiastically recommending: "Director Kong, I think we could consider Hu Ge."

While listening to the story of "Nirvana in Fire," I felt a strange connection between the protagonist Mei Changsu's experience of rebirth and Hu Ge's own experiences back then.

With his intelligence and understanding, he'll definitely be able to handle this role.

"I'll consider it," Kong Sheng said noncommittally. As a renowned director in the industry, he has always had his own principles when it comes to casting and never easily compromises with investors.

"Director Kong, Hu Ge has been honing her acting skills by performing in stage plays lately. You might want to check her out when you have time," Liu Shishi chimed in.

She knew that Hu Ge had always hoped to successfully transform his career, and now that he had such an opportunity, she naturally wanted to help him out.

The words of the eldest sister carry weight, and Kong Sheng immediately relented: "Then I'll find some time to meet with Hu Ge and have a chat."

"Thank you, Director Kong." Cai Yinong secretly breathed a sigh of relief, believing that Tangren's top star would definitely seize this opportunity.

Hou Hongliang couldn't hide his joy: "Thank you so much, President Liu and President Cai, for supporting 'Nirvana in Fire'! The remaining 20 million shouldn't be a problem." With Liu Shishi Studio as a powerful backer, he was absolutely confident in selling the remaining share to Toutiao Video.

After seeing Hou Hongliang and Kong Sheng off, Liu Shishi turned back and talked to Cai Yinong about the collaboration on the movie "Breakup Buddies".

After Cai Yinong finished explaining Xu Zheng's demands, Sister Yi smiled sarcastically: "Old Xu is really getting cocky."

"To think you could direct and star in 'Breakup Buddies' and get 15% of the box office revenue, almost 35%, without investing a single penny? There's no such thing as a get-rich-quick scheme."

Cai Yinong sighed helplessly: "After the huge success of 'Lost in Thailand,' he really became incredibly famous."

Before his downfall, film companies treated him like a hot commodity, and he never had trouble securing investment for his movies.

Liu Shishi scoffed: "Profit-seeking is human nature, but he shouldn't forget that without my investment and the strong support of Tengda Culture's publicity resources, the 'Lost in...' series might not have achieved its current success."

Now that you've achieved fame and success, you think you can just kick everyone else aside? There's no such thing as an easy way to get ahead in the entertainment industry.

She paused briefly, then composed herself: "Xu Zheng is both the director and the lead actor, which concentrates too much power. It would be best to separate these two roles."

I remember Huaying Film Co., Ltd. also invested in "Breakup Buddies," and Lai Peikang was the producer. I'll talk to Mr. Lai later and see if we can change the director.

“This idea is feasible.” Cai Yinong nodded in agreement. “You represent Tengda, and President Lai represents Huaying. If the two of you can reach a consensus, Xu Zheng will have to think twice about his ideas.”

She couldn't help but sigh, "In the end, the entertainment industry is still a winner-takes-all world. It's not that easy to turn your career from the spotlight into a source of capital."

After finishing their business, Liu Shishi chatted with Sister K: "By the way, Sister K, could you have someone distribute my wedding candy to everyone?"

"I already told Xiaoxiao to take care of it," Cai Yinong replied with a smile. "Those little lions are urging you on Weibo every day, hoping you'll post more wedding photos. They're practically wearing their eyes out from waiting."

The little yellow dress you wore on your homecoming day is sold out on Taobao.

The eldest sister's eyes curved into crescent moons: "I felt the enthusiasm of the little lions."

It's not that I don't want to share, but there were many dignitaries and celebrities at the wedding, so I can't reveal the details. I'll share it with everyone once the video is edited.

Recalling the several high-ranking leaders he had met at the wedding, Cai Yinong's expression turned serious, and he solemnly said, "We really need to be careful and not be careless."

At the same time, in Beiping, at the Devon Manufacturing Headquarters.

Having just finished her honeymoon, Song Ci finished dealing with the backlog of official business at Tengda on the 4th, and drove to Dewen Manufacturing Office early on the 5th.

Devon, this industrial fortress housing cutting-edge manufacturing, is steadily advancing its core business:

The drone division is tackling the critical hovering technology, the design blueprints for the new tram are being rolled out page by page at the R&D center, and the rocket project team has just sent back exciting news of a breakthrough.

Only photovoltaic energy storage has been slightly slowed down due to market fluctuations, while the other sectors are operating at high speed like precision instruments.

In the top-floor office with a panoramic view, Tang Jun was reporting on the progress of his work to the big boss.

About half a year ago, in order to support the supply chain company's strategic needs for precious metals, he advocated for the establishment of a scrap metal recycling company, which has now moved from blueprint to reality and is now officially operating as "Dewen Resources Recycling Company".

“Chairman Song!” Tang Jun said clearly, holding the report, “Cobalt and lithium recycling is our focus. We mainly target power batteries and electronic waste, and accurately extract high-value material components such as lithium cobalt oxide and ternary lithium.”

As for rare earth elements, the focus is on permanent magnets in discarded motors and wind power equipment, as well as phosphors in scrapped lamps.

The plan also includes partnering with key clients and collaborating with automakers and wind turbine manufacturers to build a recycling and regeneration industry chain, referencing the cooperation model between Honda Motor and Yiqiu Resources.

"That's a good idea." Song Ci listened intently.

Devon is deeply rooted in core manufacturing, which is completely different from the asset-light internet path. Every step requires him to explore the deep waters of both physical and technological aspects, and he is constantly learning through practice.

How is the large-scale production capacity planning progressing?

Tang Jun continued his report: "Our 10-ton-level waste battery and metal waste processing base is expanding its production in stages."

The first phase of the cobalt-lithium recycling line is progressing smoothly, with a target annual capacity of 2500 tons of cobalt. Following the commissioning of the first phase, the second phase will immediately commence with the rare earth permanent magnet recycling line.

“Very good.” Song Ci nodded in approval. Tang Jun’s plans were always thorough. “In terms of recycling network construction, we can actively work with local governments to build the system.”

The government's regularly promoted "trade-in program for old home appliances" is a good starting point.

“Understood, we’re already in the process of making arrangements,” Tang Jun replied. “In addition to the domestic layout, I also plan to leverage my financial advantages to establish an overseas procurement center.”

Drawing on E-Global Resources' global scrap aluminum sourcing network, we source high-grade electronic waste and magnet waste from Europe, the United States, and Japan.

"Technically, what is the biggest bottleneck at present?" Song Ci cut to the core issue that he was most concerned about.

Tang Jun's expression instantly turned serious: "Chairman Song, the key lies in the cutting-edge technology of rare earth recycling. I originally planned to acquire the fiber adsorption technology from KIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) in South Korea."

This technology can efficiently separate rare earth elements with a recovery rate of up to 90%, and it is also a global leader in the development of high-performance fibers.

However, the resistance was immense, and business negotiations with the other party reached a stalemate, making a breakthrough difficult.

“KIST from South Korea…” Song Ci squinted, her knuckles unconsciously tapping lightly on the smooth tabletop as she fell into deep thought.

The only sound in the office for a moment was the low hum of the air conditioner.

After a long pause, he finally spoke: "You continue to push forward through normal public relations channels, don't stop. I... I'll think of other ways as well."

He pondered for a long time: the only hope of getting close to this South Korean national research institute might be to leverage the vast network of the Samsung Group behind Lee Boo-jin.

However, there is no such thing as a free lunch; profits are always required in exchange.

“Yes, Chairman Song.” Tang Jun replied readily.

"What about other aspects? Are there still any thorny issues in the field of cobalt and lithium recycling?"

“I dare not bother you with anything else,” Tang Jun quickly replied. “The low-temperature solid-phase reaction process required for cobalt and lithium recycling can be imported from Germany through normal channels, and it is progressing smoothly.”

In addition, I have begun applying for the "National Resource Recycling Demonstration Project," hoping to leverage the national strategy and secure policy support.

Song Ci smiled slightly, showing that she was not opposed to Tang Jun's idea: "Yes, we should use the policy benefits that are appropriate. As long as Dewen does things in a down-to-earth manner, its foundation will naturally be solid."

(End of this chapter)