Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 511 Upward Development
On May 11th, at the Donghai Nanfang International Cinema, the red carpet area was sweltering.

The flashes of light, like an incessant daylight, illuminated the night sky as if it were tomorrow.

The premiere of "American Dreams in China" was undoubtedly the most dazzling event in the entertainment industry recently.

Produced jointly by China Film Group and Liu Shishi Studio, and directed by Huang Jianxin, president of the Directors Guild.

The film stars three popular leading men, Huang Xiaoming, Deng Chao, and Hu Ge, a golden combination that attracted half of the entertainment industry to support it.

Inside, Yang Ying was undoubtedly one of the most eye-catching focal points. Dressed in a haute couture gown, the intricate embroidery and shimmering crystals sparkled under the lights, making her breathtakingly beautiful.

Several third- and fourth-tier female celebrities surrounded her like stars around the moon, their words full of flattery.

Yang Ying greeted everyone with a polite smile, but a sense of satisfaction lingered in her heart.

With the strong support of her boyfriend Huang Xiaoming, her career has been going smoothly in recent years. She has become one of the "Four Little Actresses" and has been on the Forbes Celebrity List for four consecutive years, enjoying great success.

Yang Ying's gaze inadvertently swept over a relatively quiet corner not far away, and her eyes paused slightly.

There, Liu Shishi was talking to someone.

In stark contrast to her grand and luxurious appearance, Liu Shishi wore only a simple, elegant moon-white knee-length dress, with light makeup, standing there quietly, exuding a calm and gentle temperament.

Yang Ying's desire to "outshine" others instantly vanished, like hitting soft cotton, finding no foothold.

Another glance at the person Liu Shishi was talking to was Han Sanping, the head of Huaying Group, who was a true leader in the film industry.

Surrounded by glamorous female celebrities, the difference in their social standing was obvious. A sense of utter boredom quietly crept in.

Meanwhile, Liu Shishi was oblivious to the complex gazes directed at her from afar, as she was engaged in conversation with Han Sanping.

Han Sanping, over fifty years old, had a slightly furrowed brow, unable to hide the fatigue and anxiety between his brows.

"Chairman Han, I saw the internal screening of 'Partners,' and the final product is of very high quality. The box office will definitely be good." Liu Shishi's voice was gentle, with a convincing composure.

Han Sanping sighed, rubbed his temples, and said in a slightly hoarse voice, "Ah, Mr. Liu, thank you for your kind words. As you know, the reputation of 'Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains' has collapsed terribly, with a barrage of criticism online."

With an investment of nearly 200 million yuan, it flopped so badly that everyone is now hoping that "American Dreams in China" can salvage some of Huaying's reputation.

The disastrous failure of "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains" has undoubtedly been a hot topic of discussion in China Film Group and the entire industry recently.

Despite being a big-budget production starring superstar Andy Lau, the film became synonymous with "bad movie" due to its fragmented story and chaotic style, which also affected the reputation of its main investor, Huaying Film.

Liu Shishi nodded understandingly, without commenting too much on the "Waterloo" of the film, and simply said gently, "The story of 'American Dreams in China' is very good and resonates with the times. I believe the audience will appreciate it."

Han Sanping composed himself, seemingly unwilling to discuss his troubles any further, and changed the subject: "President Liu, I recently received a manuscript. I wonder if your studio would be interested in submitting it?"

"Oh?" Liu Shishi's face showed curiosity. A project that could make the chairman of Huaying personally inquire about investment intentions must have something unique about it.

What type is it? Approximately how much investment is required?

Han Sanping explained, "It's a low-budget, realistic film, with a total investment of no more than 1000 million yuan. The film is tentatively titled 'Lost and Found,' and the lead actor has already been cast: Andy Lau."

"Andy Lau?" Liu Shishi was taken aback, a hint of confusion flashing in her clear eyes. "Chairman Han, Andy Lau's film salary is probably more than 30 million, right? This 10 million investment..."

"This is a public service film about a father searching for his abducted child. The subject matter is quite heavy, and the expected commercial returns are not high."

Andy Lau acted in the film for free; he was genuinely moved by the story and wanted to do something for society.

"Zero pay?" A hint of respect flashed in Liu Shishi's eyes for a moment, then she realized, "The Heavenly King is so righteous! This sense of social responsibility is truly admirable."

Almost without hesitation, his expression became exceptionally sincere as he looked up and said, "Chairman Han, I'm investing in this project."

Furthermore, regardless of whether the film ultimately makes a profit or a loss, all the box office revenue I receive will be donated to the relevant charitable foundation.

"To do my part in helping families of abducted children reunite." His words were clear, firm, and unpretentious, as if stating a perfectly natural decision.

Upon hearing this, Han Sanping smiled respectfully and said sincerely, "Thank you, Mr. Liu! How about this, our two families each invest five million, sharing the risks?"

At the same time, the thought "I knew it" arose in my mind.

He had long noticed that Liu Shishi had invested in many seemingly niche but profound topics, revealing a perspective different from those who purely pursued commercial profits.

Their immediate agreement to invest in the charity film and their promise to donate the proceeds further confirm the outside world's assessment of the billionaire couple as prioritizing righteousness over profit.

"Mr. Han, you're too kind. For follow-up matters, just send someone to coordinate with the studio manager." Liu Shishi smiled gently, like a spring breeze across a lake, warm and bright.

Looking at Liu Shishi's radiant smile, Han Sanping couldn't help but sigh inwardly: The character and vision of the richest couple are truly beyond reproach; they are always generous and tireless in their efforts when important matters arise.

Just then, an idea flashed through my mind. After a moment's hesitation, I mentioned it casually, but my tone carried a hint of seriousness:

"Mr. Liu, you are not only a famous actor, but also a film producer, and your reputation in the industry is well-known."

Have you considered joining the Chinese Film Association? Or even taking on a leadership position?

"Me?" Liu Shishi's face showed obvious surprise, followed by a slight hesitation: "Chairman Han, you flatter me."

Although I have achieved some success in the television drama field, I don't have any notable awards in the film industry, and my experience is still limited; I'm afraid I'm not qualified yet.

Han Sanping nodded slightly, indicating that he understood her concerns: "Everything takes time. Just join the association first, and take it slowly."

The process isn't difficult. Tangren Media submits the application, and then you need two recommendations from the association's board members. Given your industry contributions and influence, you fully meet the membership criteria.

He paused, then gave a rather substantial smile, even making a promise: "As long as you, Mr. Liu, are willing, I will arrange the specifics."

Han Sanping looked confident. As one of the leading figures in China's film industry, he wielded enormous influence within the China Film Association.

Moreover, given Liu Shishi's status, countless people would want to get in touch with her. It's likely that she wouldn't even need to make a personal request; someone would be eager to arrange the recommendation.

Liu Shishi sensed the sincerity and weight in Han Sanping's words, and her heart stirred slightly. Joining the Film Association would undoubtedly be of great benefit to her personal career development.

Just as I was about to ask for more details, Xu Xiaoping and Wang Qiang, the real-life inspirations for the two main characters in "American Dreams in China," led a lean, bespectacled middle-aged man over.

"Chairman Han, President Liu, what are you talking about so intently?" Wang Qiang greeted them with a smile. He then solemnly introduced Liu Shishi: "President Liu, this is our good friend, Yu Minhong."

Liu Shishi looked up and recognized the other person as Yu Minhong, the founder of New Oriental Education and a very famous person.

Although it was our first meeting, I had already heard a great deal about this entrepreneur in the education sector. "Mr. Yu, I am Liu Shishi."

Although Yu Minhong is a business leader with considerable wealth, he was very humble and even showed a hint of respect when facing the wife of the richest man in China.

He quickly reached out to shake hands with Liu Shishi and politely replied, "Ms. Liu, you're too kind. I've long admired your demeanor, and seeing you today, I can confirm that your reputation is well-deserved."

Han Sanping also exchanged a few pleasantries with Yu Minhong.

As the group stood together, the conversation naturally returned to the main topic of the evening, "American Dreams in China." After all, this film was practically a cinematic recreation of the entrepreneurial story of New Oriental's "three driving forces."

After chatting for a while, Han Sanping glanced at his watch, apologized, and said he had other matters to attend to before taking his leave.

Liu Shishi was perceptive and observant. She noticed that after Han Sanping left, Yu Minhong's eyes held a subtle hint that he had something to discuss.

He then took the initiative to find a gap in the conversation and asked with a smile, "Mr. Yu, is there something you'd like to discuss with us today?"

When Liu Shishi took the initiative to ask, Yu Minhong stopped beating around the bush, his smile faded, his expression became more formal, and he nodded.

Without any regard for the presence of their friends Xu Xiaoping and Wang Qiang, it's clear that the group has a close relationship and there's no need for them to hide their relationship.

He came to the premiere today not only to support his friend, but also because he had an important mission.

"Mr. Liu has a keen eye." Yu Minhong adjusted his glasses, his tone calm and sincere: "There is indeed something I would like to ask for your opinion on."

I wonder if Mr. Liu has any understanding of the democratic parties in China? Especially the pro-democracy movement?

Upon hearing this, Liu Shishi was stunned again, her heart filled with turmoil. What was going on tonight?
First, Han Sanping invited her to join the Film Association, representing the industry's authority. Then, shortly after, Yu Minhong extended an invitation for her to join the People's Daily. These two seemingly unrelated events both point to a further increase in her personal status and influence. Is it a coincidence, or a kind of "unanimous agreement"?
Noticing that Xu Xiaoping and Wang Qiang next to him also looked a little surprised, they even exchanged a glance.

Both of them knew that Yu Minhong was a senior member of the Democratic Progressive Party and even held an important position.

Based on their understanding of their old friend, Yu Minhong's invitation at this moment was by no means a spur-of-the-moment decision; it likely represented the intentions of the organization and had been after internal consideration.

When democratic parties like the Democratic Party recruit influential figures, they typically undergo rigorous screening and procedures before issuing invitations; they do not simply extend invitations arbitrarily.

Liu Shishi quickly suppressed her surprise, neither immediately refusing nor agreeing. She naturally held official organizations in awe and caution.

After a slight pause, he carefully organized his thoughts and responded appropriately and flawlessly: "Mr. Yu, thank you very much for your consideration and invitation."

To be honest, my understanding of the Democratic Party is limited. Regarding such an important matter, please allow me to thoroughly investigate it upon my return and provide you with a responsible answer.

"Of course, that's the proper thing to do; careful consideration is essential," Yu Minhong said with a smile, his tone more relaxed.

"MinM is indeed a great platform, bringing together many outstanding talents in the fields of culture, education, and science and technology. Together, we can exchange ideas, offer suggestions, and do something practical for society."

Mr. Liu is young and promising, with a strong sense of social responsibility. We feel you are a perfect fit for the alliance's atmosphere. Please take your time to learn more; there's no rush.

"Okay, thank you for your understanding, Mr. Yu." Liu Shishi smiled and nodded. The two unexpected invitations tonight seemed to have opened a door to a completely new realm for her.

Inside, Liu Shishi found her seat in the first row, next to Cai Yinong.

Cai Yinong turned to the side and asked familiarly, "Shishi, has Chairman Song returned to Beiping yet?"

"Yes, I went back this afternoon."

"Did you leave with Mr. Sun, the 'father of Taobao'?" Cai Yinong's eyes flickered slightly, with a hint of inquiry.

"Yes," Liu Shishi replied softly, then, as if recalling something amusing, she covered her mouth and chuckled, her eyes sparkling with understanding and amusement.

"Sister K, Jin Chen and Li Chengyuan are quite ambitious. They're very enthusiastic about President Sun, and President Sun is having a hard time dealing with them."

Upon hearing this, Cai Yinong also revealed a meaningful smile. Although she wasn't on set, she had her own channels to keep track of the situation and knew that Mr. Sun was also an internet tycoon.

If female artists under Tangren Media could have this opportunity to establish a relationship with such a person, it would undoubtedly be a bonus for their future development and resource expansion.

Perhaps it could be a great help at a crucial moment. Several thoughts flashed through my mind as I considered how to take advantage of the situation.

Liu Shishi did not notice the subtle changes in Cai Yinong's expression; her attention was already preoccupied with the important information she had just received.

She gently touched Cai Yinong's arm, her tone turning serious: "By the way, Sister K, there's something important I'd like to ask for your opinion on."

"Oh? What is it?" Cai Yinong snapped out of his thoughts.

Liu Shishi moved slightly closer, lowering her voice to ensure the conversation was confined to the two of them: "It was just now outside..."

A hint of surprise flashed across Cai Yinong's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure. While listening carefully, his brain was working at a rapid pace. Both invitations were significant and their objectives were very clear.

"Things came up a bit suddenly, and I didn't agree immediately. K-sister, which of these two paths do you think is more suitable for my current stage of development?"

After a moment's thought, Cai Yi-nong's tone became unusually serious: "Shi-shi, to be honest, with your current achievements in the business and entertainment industries, you're almost at your peak."

Awards: You won the Golden Eagle Award for Best Actress; box office and viewership ratings: You have critically acclaimed works to back you up; and your commercial value goes without saying.

Going forward, if one only focuses on fame and fortune within the entertainment industry, one's vision will be limited. True upward mobility requires aligning oneself with an organization.

These words struck Liu Shishi like a hammer blow. She nodded slightly, lost in thought. Her husband, Song Ci, had also given her some pointers a few days earlier.

She said the next five years will be a critical period for her personal development, and she may need to expand from purely commercial and artistic fields to areas with social and political influence.

Cai Yinong looked around to make sure no one was paying attention to their conversation: "Shishi, actually, Chairman Song had spoken to me beforehand and asked me to do some groundwork and planning for you."

"Planning? Plan what?"

“Plan your path to becoming a member of the consultative council in the future,” Cai Yinong said clearly, emphasizing each word.

"Members of the consultation committee?" Liu Shishi was taken aback at first, then her eyes lit up instantly, and an overwhelming excitement and anticipation welled up in her heart.

A picture immediately came to mind: years later, her husband, Song Ci, as a people's representative, dressed in formal attire, full of vigor and spirit.

As consultative members, they appeared elegant and composed as the couple attended solemn meetings together to discuss national affairs. What an honorable and meaningful story it must have been for them to stand side-by-side!
Cai Yinong observed the top female contestant's reaction and knew that this target was extremely attractive.

"To become a member of the consultative council, one usually needs to be recommended by a specific 'sector'. Considering one's own circumstances, the most mainstream and suitable path is through the arts and literature sector or the All-China Women's Federation."

After organizing my thoughts, I continued my analysis: "Democratic parties like the Democratic Party and the China Zhi Gong Party also focus on developing cultural figures. This path is theoretically feasible, but I don't recommend it as your first choice."

Seeing Liu Shishi's puzzled expression, he explained in detail, "The Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Women's Federation are people's organizations with broad coverage and deep roots."

The number of nominees and their influence make the path to achieving the goal of becoming a 'member of the National Consultative Conference' more direct and reliable.

"So how exactly does it work?"

“You have a very good foundation,” Cai Yinong said clearly. “You are the Golden Eagle Award for Best Actress, which is one of the highest honors in the field of television arts.”

With this qualification, it would be relatively easy to apply for membership in the Television Artists Association and strive to become a director.

The Television Artists Association is a group member of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles. Once you have a position in the Television Artists Association, you can naturally join the Federation of Literary and Art Circles.

Entering this largest and most influential arts and culture organization in China. This is the legitimate path that most actors can take.

"Another path is to actively participate in the activities of the Women's Federation as an 'outstanding female artist,' paying particular attention to public welfare issues related to the rights and interests of women and children."

If you can make significant contributions in these areas and gain recognition from the women's federation system, it will be a natural outcome if you are recommended by the All-China Women's Federation.

This path effectively highlights your sense of social responsibility and aligns perfectly with your public image.

Liu Shishi looked serious as she carefully considered each path analyzed by Sister K. This was indeed a choice that required careful consideration, as it concerned her development direction for at least the next five to ten years.

After a moment's hesitation, she raised her head, her gaze firm: "Sister K, I understand what you mean."

Since I have the means to apply for membership in the TVB Association or participate in the Women's Federation through normal and open channels, taking things one step at a time, there is indeed no need to go through the connections of Chairman Han or President Yu.

This makes the foundation more stable and better able to withstand tests.

As for whether to prioritize the Federation of Literary and Art Circles or the Women's Federation, that's a big decision. Let me go back and discuss it with my husband in detail, and hear his opinion.

“Yes, that’s the right thing to do. Think it over carefully.” Cai Yinong nodded in agreement. “Discuss it with Chairman Song. He has a broader perspective and can give you more macro-level advice.”

With the conversation reaching this point, Liu Shishi felt much better and was filled with hope for the future.

Suddenly, she thought of her husband again, and couldn't help but feel a sense of comparison and pride. She smiled and asked Cai Yi-nong, "Sister K, if my husband were to become a member of the council in the future, what channels would he usually go through?"

Cai Yinong explained earnestly: "Chairman Song's situation is more special, and his channels are more diverse. He is the vice president of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, which is a very prestigious position."

Recommendations from the business community are a natural progression, and one of the most common paths for private entrepreneurs.

“Secondly,” she said, counting on her fingers, “Tengda Group is a top-tier internet technology company and an important force in the national science and technology innovation strategy.”

Therefore, a recommendation from the scientific and technological community is entirely appropriate and highlights his status as a scientific leader.

"Finally, and most importantly," Cai Yinong said with respect, "Chairman Song is the richest man in Asia, and the development of Tengda Group has profoundly influenced the business landscape and the national economy."

A person like him, whose opinions and suggestions are of extremely high value, could certainly participate as a specially invited guest.

Upon hearing this, Liu Shishi's face blossomed into a radiant smile of pride, her eyes gleaming with self-satisfaction. She sighed softly:
"So many ways! My husband is really amazing."

Cai Yinong smiled and chimed in, "You two, husband and wife, shine on different stages, you are truly a perfect match, a beautiful story indeed."

(End of this chapter)