Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 82 is all about worrying
Seeing Shang Jin's worried look, Wang Jing couldn't help but laugh and said, "It's a good thing you're not worried. Director Shang of the Southern Cinemas knows about this, right?"

Shang Jin glanced at Wang Jing, huffing and puffing without answering. It wasn't like he'd just come out of the deep mountains and forests.

As a prominent director in the industry, he naturally knew about the newly established second-largest cinema chain in China. He secretly thought to himself, "What's with the bragging? Having a cinema chain doesn't make you any special!"
Wang Jing had her own plans in mind, and she eloquently explained the company's grand vision:
"Our Tengda Culture has completed its industrial layout in the film and television industry. With the existence of Southern Cinema Circuit, the company has no weaknesses."

"We'll be fully entering the big screen market in the second half of the year, and the company is preparing to launch a director support program. I wonder if Director Shang would be interested?"

Happiness came somewhat suddenly. Shang Jin, who was also interested in making movies, asked incredulously, "Why did you choose me?"

Seeing that Shang Jin had some doubts, Wang Jing explained to reassure him.

"Because we've worked together before, we'll use familiar faces instead of strangers. Of course, the company won't just support you alone; it will also give young directors some opportunities."

However, you are an established director after all, and you have proven yourself in the television drama field. We recognize your directing abilities, and the company's resources will be prioritized for you.

Shang Jin, in high spirits, moved his wooden chair closer to Wang Jing and asked curiously, "What specific resources does this director support program offer?"

Wang Jing revealed a smug smile. She knew Shang Jin would definitely take the bait. She tempted him, saying, "There are many options: good scripts, investment amounts, publicity efforts, and even theater scheduling and award PR."

"Can I shoot any subject matter I want?" Shang Jin's eyes sparkled, and his long-dormant heart began to stir again.

Wang Jing knew that these big directors all wanted to make art films to compete for awards, but Tengda Culture didn't want to support art film directors. How many art films actually broke even? What the company needed were directors who could make money.

"The right to choose one's own subject matter is a privilege that can only be enjoyed by directors who have achieved a profit of 100 million yuan. In the early stages, one should consider profitability and prioritize shooting some low-budget commercial films."

Shang Jin was greatly disappointed and remained silent. There was indeed no such thing as a free lunch. Tengda's support was clearly just a ploy to get people to help the company make movies and earn money.

Wang Jing naturally understood Shang Jin's thoughts, but being honest and kind, she sincerely advised him: "Director Shang, if movies don't make money, where will anyone invest? Do you think you can rely solely on a passion for art?"
You might think that such a director lacks autonomy and limits your pursuit of cinematic art, but there are hundreds, if not thousands, of people in the industry who would love such an opportunity.

To give Shang Jin some time to think, and because she was getting a little hoarse from talking, Wang Jing unscrewed the cap and took a sip of mineral water to moisten her throat.

Taking a breath, Wang Jing said sincerely, "Director Shang, it's because we've worked together that you have this opportunity."

What I'm saying might be a bit realistic, but the film industry is becoming increasingly market-driven. You need box office success to have any say; if you can't make money, you'll be abandoned. Think about it.

Although Tenda's support would certainly come with many restrictions, the opportunity to enter the large-screen market was rare, and Shang Jin hesitated after much deliberation. His response was bitter:

"Mr. Wang, please allow me to consider this carefully. You know my identity. I still need to report to and consult with the organization. I will give you an answer as soon as possible."

Wang Jing revealed a confident smile, knowing that Shang Jin was already interested, otherwise he wouldn't have mentioned it to the organization. This matter was almost certain to succeed, and helping Tengda Culture recruit a big director would be a great achievement.

Wang Jing didn't urge them too much. "No rush. We're just mentioning this today. Right now, we still need to make sure 'My Own Swordsman' is filmed well."

Shang Jin nodded. "I know."

The higher the ratings of "My Own Swordsman", the better the conditions he can secure for future film productions. He was determined to raise the standards for all actors during subsequent filming, striving for excellence and creating masterpieces.

"I still have something to do, so I'll take the first step."

After saying that, Wang Jing went to handle the recent financial audit of the production team, leaving Shang Jin alone in front of the monitor, head down in deep thought.

"Sigh!" After a long while, Shang Jin finally came to his senses, looked at Wang Jing's departing figure, and sighed helplessly.

The April sun was bright and gentle, shining through the glass and making one feel comfortable and warm.

In the spacious and bright office of the chairman of Tengda Group, Zhang Zhao sat upright, looking directly at Song Ci, who was more than twenty years younger than him, and couldn't help but sigh that heroes are indeed born young.

Song Ci was looking down at a document that Zhang Zhao had delivered early that morning, a proposal suggesting that Tengda Culture accelerate its expansion into the large screen market.

Zhang Zhao's plan and measures were very detailed and reasonable, with each one in line with the market and strengthening Tengda Culture's operational capabilities. He read Song Ci very carefully, reviewing each line one by one, and even closing his eyes to think about it from time to time.

After about fifteen minutes, Song Ci finished reading the plan and felt that the reputation was indeed well-deserved. In his previous life, Zhang Zhao was able to establish LeTV Pictures single-handedly. Although he had the support of Jia Yueting, who was passionate about his dreams, he himself was truly talented.

"I agree in principle with all the development plans you have listed. The idea of ​​cooperative investment and risk sharing is correct."

However, film and television projects like "My Old Classmate" and "Fleet of Time," which are basically guaranteed to make money and launch the careers of actors, should not be spun off. If you need funding, you can apply for it, and the group will provide appropriate support.

"I understand, President Song." Zhang Zhao nodded thoughtfully.

Song Ci casually placed the documents in her hand on the desk, leaned back in the comfortable chair, and lazily asked Zhang Zhao, "Have you read the script I wrote?"

Since Zhang Zhao reported to him and suggested accelerating Tengda Culture's plan to enter the big screen market, Song Ci has taken it very seriously and specially wrote a short script to prepare as the company's first film.

Zhang Zhao snapped out of his daze and quickly praised, "I've read it. President Song is a genius. It's an excellent script."

Song Ci nodded, "Then the company's first film will be 'Nightclub,' which I wrote. The budget shouldn't be too big. It's mainly to test the waters and train the team."

"I've estimated that the production cost won't exceed 180 million. If we cut back a bit, we can even make it to 160 million."

As an excellent producer, Zhang Zhao was able to estimate the filming costs upon reading the script, demonstrating a high level of professionalism.

Song Ci was very confident in "Nightclub" and believed that with increased promotion, the box office would not be less than in her previous life, so she habitually arranged things directly.

"We should be able to get some more sponsorships, which will reduce the cost even further. So let's settle on this: Xu Zheng will play the male lead, Qiao Zhengyu will play the second male lead, and I have another plan for the female lead."

Zhang Zhao was different from Wang Jing. He was a little unaccustomed to Song Ci's pace when they first talked about work. He did not expect the chairman to be so assertive. He decided everything in just a few words without consulting him at all.

Although the film only cost 180 million, it is a comedy with a wide audience, and DVDs can still be sold after the film's theatrical run, so even if the box office is bad, it won't lose money.

However, Tengda Culture does have artists, so why not use their own people to make movies? Zhang Zhao felt that some things couldn't be left to the boss's whims, and that things that needed to be raised should still be raised.

Unable to fathom Song Ci's personality, Zhang Zhao cautiously and tactfully asked, "President Song, the company has signed artists with film opportunities. Would you prioritize using your own people?" Song Ci stared at Zhang Zhao, puzzled. "Wasn't Qiao Zhengyu already cast as the second male lead?"

Zhang Zhao was speechless for a moment, unsure whether his boss was genuinely confused or just pretending. After a moment's hesitation, he continued to remind him, "President Song, the company also has female artists."

Song Ci suddenly realized, "You mean the female lead will also be played by one of the company's female artists, right? I have a plan for the female lead. My girlfriend is also an actress, and the role of Tang Xiaolian is perfect for her." Speaking of his girlfriend, Song Ci's face showed a warm and gentle smile.

Zhang Zhao's expression was strange. He never expected that his young boss would also fawn over women like a coal mine owner. It's true that you can't judge a book by its cover.

Seeing Zhang Zhao's expression, Song Ci was initially puzzled, but then realized what he meant and snorted irritably, "You think I'm playing around with female celebrities? That's my childhood sweetheart, and we're aiming to get married."

Zhang Zhao was somewhat surprised. The chairman was so handsome, young and rich. He had thought he would be carefree and romantic, but he didn't expect him to have the idea of ​​getting married so early. Indeed, matters of the heart are unpredictable.

"Her name is Liu Shishi. She's currently filming the company's 'My Own Swordsman'. I'll introduce her to you later when I have the chance."

After a moment's thought, Song Ci decided to tell Zhang Zhao Liu Shishi's identity directly, since Wang Jing was no longer the general manager of Tengda Culture.

From now on, Zhang Zhao will be in charge of Tengda Culture's projects, and I can't be involved in everything. Shishi might need Zhang Zhao's help in the entertainment industry in the future.

Zhang Zhao was a quick-witted and perceptive person. He understood the meaning behind Song Ci's words perfectly. He immediately patted his chest and assured her, "Don't worry, I will definitely give Ms. Liu priority consideration for the company's future projects."

After explaining the female lead's situation, Song Ci returned to the main topic and continued, "We can ask Xu Zheng if he's interested in directing and starring in this film."

"Acting well can lead to directing; the company's director support program shouldn't just focus on young directors, but also provide appropriate support to talented actors who intend to transition into directing."

Song Ci felt that Xu Zheng was, after all, a comedy director who had proven himself in his previous life. Instead of trying out some unknown new directors, it would be better to support him.

If we can also take over the "Lost in..." series, it will not only solve the company's current shortage of directors, but also make money, killing two birds with one stone.

Zhang Zhao couldn't quite keep up with Song Ci's train of thought and was puzzled by his boss's wild ideas. Even if it was a low-budget film, it was one thing to give away the male lead for free, since the suitability of the role needed to be considered. But what kind of crazy idea was it to make Xu Zheng the director?

Zhang Zhao thought he had misunderstood, so he asked again, "President Song, are you serious? You're letting Xu Zheng direct and act all by himself!"

Song Ci frowned slightly, looking at Zhang Zhao with some displeasure. "Do you think I'm joking with you?"

Zhang Zhao replied with a bitter face: "That's not what I meant. Although the budget for 'Nightclub' is very small, there is no precedent for it in the industry."

"Isn't it too risky to have Xu Zheng direct and star in his own film? It's the company's first movie; if it fails at the box office, the financial loss is a minor issue, but the damage to the company's reputation and employee morale would be enormous. Therefore, please think carefully and make a cautious decision in choosing Xu Zheng as the director."

Upon hearing this, Song Ci suddenly realized that she had been misled by her previous life's thinking. In her previous life, Xu Zheng, Zhao Zhetian, Su Youpeng, and others had all successfully transitioned from actors to directors.

But it was 2005, and there was almost no precedent for this. To outsiders, his decision seemed rather incomprehensible and radical.

"I understand what you mean, but don't worry, I'm not just making things up. 'Nightclub' only cost 180 million to make, so even if the box office is bad, we won't lose much money."

If it works out, it will be a new benchmark in the industry. If we can land a promising director, this risk is entirely worthwhile.

Even Song Ci said so. The boss is stubborn and self-willed. What can Zhang Zhao do? You're the boss, so you have the final say. He's gone this far. It's no wonder that the losses of "Nightclub" and the damage to the company's morale can't be blamed on him.

Since that's the case, Zhang Zhao went along with Song Ci's wishes, saying, "Then I'll contact Xu Zheng first and see how it goes."

Song Ci was full of confidence, "Yes, as long as Xu Zheng isn't stupid, he'll definitely seize this opportunity."

He remembered it clearly: Xu Zheng was determined to get rid of the impression of him playing Zhu Bajie in the audience's mind. If he had the opportunity to be a director, he would probably be laughing in his sleep.

After discussing for a while, Zhang Zhao got up to take his leave. He always respected talented people like Song Ci, so he personally saw him off to the door.

Song Ci's courteous treatment of scholars made Zhang Zhao feel flattered. He had disagreed with his boss several times today and thought he had made a bad impression on Song Ci, but his boss did not hold any grudges.

"President Song, please wait a moment. I will implement the matters reported today as soon as possible."

"I'll wait for Mr. Zhang's good news." Song Ci nodded, stood at the office door, and watched Zhang Zhao leave, involuntarily comparing him to Wang Jing.

Perhaps because Wang Jing came from an editing background, she was unfamiliar with the film and television industry and didn't know much about it. So, she mostly just meticulously carried out her orders.

Zhang Zhao has a wealth of professional experience, is quite opinionated, and dares to think and act. It seems that we need to work on our relationship.

Song Ci returned to her seat, picked up the landline, dialed a number, and called the group's office director.

"Director Liu, please have Song Xueying from your office come to me."

"Yes, Chairman, I'll have her go to your office right away."

A moment later. "Chairman, you wanted to see me!" After receiving the notification from her superior, Song Xueying rushed to the chairman's office.

Today, Song Xueying wore a well-tailored business suit, which showed both competence and feminine grace. Her exquisite makeup and neat short hair exuded the style of a highly educated woman in the new era.

Song Ci nodded slightly and said politely, "Please sit down, Senior Song."

Song Xueying sat upright, only resting half her body on the chair, her expression somewhat restrained.

She started her internship at Tengda Technology after the start of last semester, and Song Ci hadn't contacted her once in all this time. I don't know why she suddenly contacted her today.

After all, she was an acquaintance from the same school, so Song Ci smiled slightly and remained gentle in her manner.

"Don't be nervous, senior. You've been with the company for so long, and I haven't had a chance to say more than a few words to you. Let's chat today since we have some free time."

(End of this chapter)