In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Miramax was at the height of its glory in the mid-1990s.

Under the strong leadership of its founder Harvey Weinstein, the company has become almost synonymous with "independent film" and "Oscars".

Harvey is known for his keen market sense, assertive negotiating style, and unparalleled awards season public relations skills.

Just last year, Miramax acquired the North American rights to the Cannes Palme d'Or winner, Pulp Fiction, for a record-breaking ten million dollars and successfully turned it into a box office and critical hit, also winning big at the Oscars, creating a classic case of independent film marketing.

Miramax was determined to win another Cannes Palme d'Or film, especially the highly controversial "A Separation" directed by the same director. Their initial offer was six million dollars, with hints that there was room for further increases.

What they promised was a complete, proven process for distributing art films and vying for Oscars.

Fox Searchlight Pictures, on the other hand, is an art film studio newly established in 1994 under News Corporation, and is in a period of vigorous growth.

Although its brand history is not as long as Miramax's, it is backed by a media giant, has strong financial and channel support, and its strategies are more flexible and dynamic.

Its president, Charles Rosen, is a young man in his early thirties who graduated from an Ivy League university and has a strong industry background and a broad international perspective.

He personally flew to Cannes and held several in-depth talks with Duan Yunfeng and Yang Guangming.

Charles's offer was also very competitive, in the six million dollar range, but his sincerity was not only reflected in the price.

During the meeting, he elaborated on his understanding of "A Separation" and his plans for promoting it.

“This is not an ordinary art film,” Charles told Yang Guangming, his eyes sharp and sincere. “It touches on universal human dilemmas, the acting is superb, and the narrative is calm yet powerful. More importantly, Yang, you yourself—the seventeen-year-old Palme d'Or-winning director—are a global news event in yourself, a huge marketing buzz.”

He promised that Fox Searchlight would make "A Separation" a flagship project for the company's future, guaranteeing its release in the largest possible number of art-house cinemas in North America, and mobilizing resources to make a strong push for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film next year, as well as other major awards.

"We are a new company, and we need works like 'A Separation' to establish our taste and strength."

"We will treat this film like our own child." Charles's statement was direct and forceful.

In a private conversation with Yang Guangming, Duan Yunfeng also mentioned some background information he had learned about Charles:
Charles comes from a North American media family; his mother was a director of News Corporation; his father was a wealthy man who held an important position at Warner Bros.; and his wife's family also has close ties to Disney.

He is a typical new generation elite raised by an "old money" family, possessing both a deep network of resources and the ambition and ability to create new opportunities.

Yang Guangming and Charles had two private meetings, one in a coffee shop during a break in their negotiations, and the other in the living room of Yang Guangming's suite.

Beyond film copyrights themselves, the two also discussed the film industry, international distribution, audience tastes in different markets, and even some cultural and social issues.

Charles was frequently surprised by Yang Guangming's mature insights and extensive knowledge.

He originally thought that this young prodigy might have an extraordinary sense of art, but his understanding of business and industry might still need polishing.

However, Yang Guangming's analysis of Hollywood's operating model, the European art film market, and even emerging Asian markets is clear and insightful. Many of his views coincide with Charles's and even bring him new inspiration.

“Your depth of insight into issues is unlike that of a seventeen-year-old, and even surpasses that of many professionals who have been in this industry for decades.” Charles sincerely praised, “It’s a pleasure talking to you, Yang; we share many similar ideas.”

Yang Guangming also had a good impression of Charles.

This young president lacks the arrogance or stagnation of some established corporate executives. He is quick-witted, willing to listen, and has genuine passion and respect for the film itself, rather than simply viewing it as a commodity.

His background implies stable resources and support, while his personal abilities foreshadow more possibilities for future cooperation.

“If this collaboration goes well,” Yang Guangming said at the end of the second meeting, “I believe we will have more opportunities in the future, Chuck.”

He wasn't trying to ingratiate himself; he was simply stating a possibility based on rational judgment.

Charles nodded readily: "Of course, I'm looking forward to it. Not just business collaboration, I think we can become friends, and very good friends at that."

We're clearly more than ten years apart in age, but every time I sit with you, I feel like I could talk to you for three days and three nights. Even when I was deeply in love with my girlfriend back then, I never felt so relaxed and happy.

In one's life, one experiences three kinds of emotions: familial love, friendship, and romantic love.

I didn't quite believe this before because I'd never experienced such genuine friendship. Even though we've only known each other for a short time, I genuinely consider you my closest friend. It's a really strange feeling.

Yang Guangming felt a little apologetic.

He used his mental powers twice during his negotiations with Charles, which led to this outcome.

Charles now considers Yang Guangming his best friend. In his mind, whether the negotiations succeed or not is not important; what matters is that he has made Yang Guangming his friend, which is the greatest gain.

Of course, Yang Guangming also had a good impression of Charles. It was indeed a happy thing to have such a sincere friend.

After comprehensively considering the price, promises, company strength and style, as well as the personal compatibility of the partner, Yang Guangming gradually made up his mind.

Miramax is undoubtedly powerful, and Harvey Weinstein's operational capabilities are beyond question, but his overly assertive style and future risks have given Sunshine some concerns.

In contrast, Fox Searchlight, which is on the rise, eager to prove itself, and whose leaders share similar philosophies, seems to be a more promising long-term partner with potentially smoother collaboration.

After an in-depth internal discussion, Yang Guangming finally made the decision to grant the North American rights to "A Separation" to Fox Searchlight Pictures.

After a final round of negotiations, the final transaction price was set at seven million two hundred thousand US dollars.

This price not only reflects the value of the Golden Palm, but also acknowledges the personal appeal of Sunshine and the sincerity of the long-term partnership with Fox Searchlight.

After signing the letter of intent, Charles had a more private chat with Yang Guangming.

Charles said with some regret, "Yang, to be honest, if we had met earlier and gotten involved during the filming or even the pre-production stage of 'A Separation,' I am confident that we could have made this film the most influential art film event in the world this year."

Looking at this year's competitive landscape, there are no competitors as phenomenal as "Pulp Fiction" last year that swept across the market.

Given its quality and the buzz surrounding it, "A Separation" has the potential to win more awards, such as Best Director, Best Screenplay, and even Best Actor...

With the system's pre-release public relations and media hype, coupled with your personal legendary status, the attention and discussion the film will generate will be far more explosive than it is now.

He paused, then continued his analysis: "Of course, the current result is already incredibly brilliant; the Palme d'Or is the strongest selling point."

In our upcoming promotional efforts, in addition to the film's artistic value, your age, your experience, and your status as the 'youngest Palme d'Or winner in history' will be the core focus.

The whole world admires geniuses, especially young geniuses.

If you are promoted properly, countless people will go to the cinema to see "A Separation" out of curiosity about you personally.

What we need to do is transform this curiosity and attention into appreciation and positive word-of-mouth for the film.

Yang Guangming listened attentively. He knew that what Charles said was true and demonstrated his professional insight and operational thinking.

“Thank you for your candor, Chuck. This collaboration is just the beginning, and I believe we'll have the opportunity to do even earlier and more in-depth work in the future.” He smiled. “As for the publicity, I'll leave it to you as planned.”

Charles raised his water glass: "To 'A Farewell,' to our collaboration, and to the many possibilities ahead. Stay connected, Yang."

The two exchanged personal contact information and agreed to communicate frequently.

With the North American rights settled, the rights for the remaining major regions have also been finalized.

Bids from Japan, Australia, Latin America, and other countries have all increased significantly since before the Palme d'Or was announced.

Ultimately, excluding the European rights that had already been sold, and the rights retained in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, the total international rights sales for "A Separation" reached US$14.8 million.

This was a staggering figure in 1995, clearly demonstrating the unparalleled commercial appeal of the Cannes Palme d'Or.

Why is Cannes often considered to have a greater influence among the three major film festivals?
This is the most direct, cruel, and alluring manifestation of the fact that Palme d'Or films can fetch even higher prices.

When all the sales contracts were basically finalized, Duan Yunfeng reported the summarized figures to Yang Guangming. Even though he had expected it, Yang Guangming couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion.

Fourteen million eight hundred thousand US dollars, which, at the current exchange rate, is more than 120 million RMB.

This is not just about money; it's the market's most direct vote on the film's value.

He immediately informed Han Sanping, who was in Beijing, via an overseas phone call.

After a brief silence, Han Sanping on the other end of the phone burst into excited laughter, his voice distorted through the receiver:
"How much? Fourteen million eight hundred thousand US dollars! My God... Guangming! You've really launched a major satellite this time! No, you've launched an atomic bomb!"

He was so excited he was almost incoherent: "The Beijing Film Studio has 10%... that's 1.48 million US dollars! Converted to RMB... that's over 12 million!"

Guangming, do you know what this means for the Beijing Film Studio now?

A timely help!

No, it's like rain after a long drought! It's a huge sum of money that will give the entire factory a shot in the arm! It's an achievement, a tremendous achievement!

As a long-established state-owned film studio, Beijing Film Studio is facing enormous financial pressure and survival challenges amidst the wave of market economic transformation and film industry reform.

This huge share of revenue from the international market is not only a financial relief, but also a policy asset. It is a core achievement that Han Sanping, as the factory director, can report to his superiors and demonstrate to his peers.

This proves that the cooperation model with Yangguangming and Qiming Studio is successful and can create huge benefits.

"Guangming, you are our lucky star at Beijing Film Studio, a great contributor!" Han Sanping's voice was filled with barely suppressed excitement. "I'll prepare the materials right away and give a detailed report to the ministry! This is not only a victory for the film, but also a victory for our production strategy and external cooperation model! When you come back, I must give you a proper celebration, and the studio will also celebrate for you!"

Yang Guangming could sense Han Sanping's heartfelt joy and excitement. He calmly replied, "Director Han, this is the result of everyone's joint efforts. The support from Beijing Film Studio is crucial. The specific work will still require your and your colleagues' hard work."

"It's not hard work at all! It's not hard work at all! Working with you gives me a sense of purpose!" Han Sanping said generously. "When are your tickets? Have you booked them? I'll personally organize people to pick you up from the airport! I'll make sure you come back in style!"

Duan Yunfeng had already booked the team's return tickets.

After completing the follow-up matters in Cannes, on May 31, Yang Guangming and his group boarded a flight from Nice to Beijing.

The atmosphere in first class was different from when I arrived.

The anticipation and slight trepidation that came with the journey have transformed into fatigue, satisfaction, and a touch of weariness on the return trip.

The continuous celebrations, interviews, and negotiations exhausted everyone's energy, but everyone's face shone with a satisfied glow.

Chen Daoming leaned back in his chair, eyes closed, a peaceful smile playing on his lips. Xi Meijuan flipped through a magazine, but her gaze often drifted off, as if she were savoring the memory of this dreamlike journey.

Siqin Gaowa was already snoring softly, sleeping soundly and relaxed. Zhou Xun leaned against the porthole, gazing at the rolling sea of ​​clouds outside, her eyes somewhat unfocused. The impact and shaping effect of this trip to Cannes on her might take a long time to fully process.

Gu Changwei scribbled and drew in his notebook, recording some photographic inspirations.

Yang Guangming sat in a seat near the aisle, also resting with his eyes closed. The Palme d'Or trophy and other important items were carefully packed into his personal luggage by Duan Yunfeng and kept safe.

He knew that the uproar back home was just beginning, and once he landed, he would immediately have to brace himself for media interviews. But in this brief moment of tranquility at 10,000 meters altitude, he allowed himself to relax his tense nerves for a little while.

The flight information of the entire crew had already been obtained by the ever-present media. When the plane landed smoothly at Beijing Capital International Airport, Yang Guangming and his group walked out of customs and arrived at the arrival hall. The scene in front of them was even more spectacular than when he returned from Venice last year.

Outside the arrival gate, a dense crowd almost blocked the passageway. Cameras and video recorders were everywhere, and a forest of voice recorders and notebooks were held aloft.

Besides reporters from major media outlets, there were also many movie fans, film school students, and onlookers who had come simply to watch the spectacle.

Airport security personnel maintaining order appeared exceptionally tense and busy.

"They're out! They're out!"

"Sunshine Bright! Chen Daoming!"

"The Palme d'Or! The trophy!"

Look this way!

Shouts, camera shutters, and the commotion of the crowd blended together, and the intense flashes of light almost turned the sky into daylight.

Even though she was mentally prepared, Zhou Xun was still taken aback by the scene and instinctively moved closer to Gu Changwei. Chen Daoming and Xi Meijuan, on the other hand, quickly adjusted their expressions, displaying their usual composure.

Siqin Gaowa chuckled and whispered to Xi Meijuan beside her, "Wow, this is even more lively than the Cannes red carpet."

Yang Guangming, who was walking at the front, was instantly surrounded by countless cameras and microphones.

He was dressed simply in a light gray polo shirt and dark casual pants, a moderate smile on his face, his gaze calmly sweeping over the crowd. Duan Yunfeng and Huang Bo tried their best to block the way, attempting to clear a path.

As expected, Han Sanping came in person, accompanied by several capable members of the Beijing Film Studio's propaganda department and a few security personnel. He managed to squeeze his way to the front.

"Guangming! Daoming! Everyone, thank you for your hard work!" Han Sanping called out loudly, his face beaming with barely suppressed joy.

Upon seeing Han Sanping, the reporters became even more excited.

"Director Han! As the producer, how are you feeling right now?"

What are Beijing Film Studio's plans for following up on this award?

"When will the movie be released in China?" Han Sanping was clearly prepared. He gestured for everyone to be patient, then whispered a few words to Yang Guangming. Yang Guangming nodded.

With Han Sanping's arrangement and the airport's coordination, the group temporarily stayed in a relatively open area on one side of the arrival hall.

Holding a portable megaphone, Han Sanping announced to the enthusiastic media:

"Thank you to all our media friends for your concern and support for Chinese films and the crew of 'A Separation'!"
We understand everyone's feelings, but this is, after all, a public area of ​​the airport. In order not to affect other passengers, we have decided to hold a brief media briefing here to answer a few of your most pressing questions. The briefing will be limited to fifteen minutes. Please maintain order!

These words gave the reporters something to look forward to, even though they continued to push forward.

Staff at the Beijing Film Studio quickly set up makeshift barriers.

As the director and the core figure, Yang Guangming naturally stood in the very center. Han Sanping, Chen Daoming, Xi Meijuan, Siqin Gaowa, Zhou Xun, and Gu Changwei were arranged on either side.

Duan Yunfeng carefully took the Palme d'Or and Camera d'Or trophies out of his suitcase and handed them to Yang Guangming.

The two trophies gleamed golden under the airport terminal lights, instantly attracting the frenzy of cameras.

"Director Yang! Please raise the trophy!"

"Take one in each hand! Look this way!"

The photojournalists were making loud demands.

Yang Guangming readily raised both trophies with both hands, smiling as he let the flashbulbs go off.

This moment was captured by countless films and cameras, becoming the headline photo in the entertainment sections of almost every newspaper the following day.

The brief "airport press conference" officially began, and reporters bombarded the press with questions.

A reporter from CCTV's movie channel got the first question: "Director Yang, first of all, congratulations on winning the Palme d'Or. What would you like to say to the domestic audience and fellow filmmakers now?"

Yang Guangming spoke clearly and steadily into several microphones held out to him: "What I want to say most is that this award belongs to everyone who has poured their heart and soul into 'A Separation,' and also to all Chinese filmmakers who have been working hard and exploring."

It is an encouragement, but more importantly, it is a responsibility.

We will continue to use films to tell Chinese stories and convey universal human emotions. Thank you for your attention and support.

A reporter from the Kyoto Entertainment News asked, "As the youngest Palme d'Or winner in history, do you feel that this title will put pressure on your future creative work and life? What are your next plans?"

Yang Guangming replied, "There will definitely be pressure, but it's more of a spur to action."

It reminded me that I must live up to this honor and the expectations of the audience.

Next, I will still be a student at the Beijing Film Academy, and my primary task is to complete my studies and solidify my foundation.

Of course, I will start conceiving new projects, but I won't rush into anything. Filmmaking requires time for reflection and contemplation.

The reporter then posed questions to the lead actors.

"Mr. Chen Daoming, although you missed out on the Best Actor award this time, the film won the highest honor. What are your thoughts?"

Chen Daoming, as always, was concise and to the point: "A film is a whole. The Palme d'Or is the highest recognition for this whole, which makes me feel more gratified and proud than any individual award. I did my best as the character Li Da, and the film was a success, which is enough."

"Ms. Xi Meijuan and Ms. Siqin Gaowa, your performances have been highly praised. Could you share your feelings at this moment?"

Xi Meijuan said softly, "I am very excited and grateful. It is my good fortune to be able to participate in such a work and to meet such a team and director. This award is the best reward for all of our hard work."

Siqin Gaowa laughed heartily and said, "Happy! Of course I'm happy! I feel that our hard work has paid off. Chinese stories can be seen and understood by the world, and they have received such high praise. This is the greatest significance of our filmmaking!"

"Zhou Xun, your first film role went to Cannes and won the Palme d'Or. How will this affect your future acting career?"

Zhou Xun was still a little nervous, but her eyes were bright: "This has been an incredible learning experience. I have seen how powerful film can be, and I have also seen how much I still need to learn. I will continue to work hard and live up to this opportunity and everyone's expectations."

Han Sanping was also asked about the domestic release and the revenue of the Beijing Film Studio.

He answered with a radiant smile: "A Separation is an excellent film that has obtained the film license and is a legitimate production in China. Winning the Palme d'Or is a huge honor."

As one of the main producers, Beijing Film Studio is honored and has also truly shared in the fruits of the international market.

We are currently in urgent discussions regarding the domestic release of the film, with a preliminary plan for early June. Once the specific date is confirmed, we will announce it to the media and the public as soon as possible.

We will be holding a grand premiere and celebration party, where we will invite everyone to have a detailed discussion!

Fifteen minutes passed in the blink of an eye.

The unique airport press conference finally came to an end after repeated urging from airport staff.

With the help of Han Sanping and security personnel, Yang Guangming and his group finally broke through the encirclement and boarded the minibus arranged by the Beijing Film Studio.

As the car drove away from the bustling airport, everyone inside breathed a sigh of relief.

"My God, what a scene..." Zhou Xun patted her chest, still shaken.

"You'll get used to it," Chen Daoming said calmly. "Winning the Palme d'Or is just the norm."

Han Sanping, sitting in the front row, turned around with a broad smile: "Everyone has worked hard! Let me take you all back to your accommodations to rest. Guangming, if it's convenient for you, come to the factory with me first. There are some urgent matters that need to be finalized with you in person."

Yang Guangming nodded: "Okay, Director Han."

He first had Duan Yunfeng arrange vehicles to take the others home or back to their hotels, while he himself rode in Han Sanping's car straight to the Beijing Film Studio.

On the way, Han Sanping was still excited and kept talking about the factory's reaction after receiving the news of the award, the praise from his superiors, and the congratulations from his colleagues.

Yang Guangming listened quietly, occasionally responding with a few words.

Upon arriving at the Beijing Film Studio, several studio cadres were already waiting in Han Sanping's office. Seeing Yang Guangming enter, everyone warmly rose to shake hands and congratulate him. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Han Sanping got down to business.

"Guangming, I called you here mainly for two things."

Han Sanping had his secretary make tea for Yang Guangming, then sat down, his expression becoming serious. "First, there's the domestic release date."

The film is currently generating the most buzz, with the entire nation focused on "A Separation" and eagerly awaiting to see what this Palme d'Or-winning film is like.

We must strike while the iron is hot.

I had an emergency conversation with several executives from the distribution and theater chains, and the fastest and most suitable release date we could arrange is Wednesday, June 6th.

Although it's not a traditional weekend, given the current hype, opening the film will definitely be no problem. What do you think?

After a moment's thought, Yang Guangming nodded in agreement: "Okay, Director Han. You and the distribution experts can decide. I'll be happy if the film can be released to domestic audiences smoothly and as soon as possible."

He recalled that "In the Heat of the Sun" was still undergoing revisions and setbacks, and he knew how difficult it was for a film to be released smoothly.

"Okay! Let's tentatively set it for June 6th!"

Han Sanping slapped his thigh and said, "The second thing is the premiere and celebration party."

This award is of great significance and must be celebrated in a grand and respectable manner, both to thank the crew and all parties for their support and to further expand the film's influence.

The release date was set for the evening of June 5th, the day before the premiere.

The venue is the Kyoto Hotel; I'll handle the coordination. All you need to do is bring your main creative team.

Everything else—publicity, guest invitations, and event arrangements—will be handled by the factory. We guarantee your satisfaction and that our film will have a spectacular debut!

Yang Guangming knew the importance of such activities and understood Han Sanping's intention to use this opportunity to boost the morale of the Beijing Film Studio.

He readily replied, "No problem, Director Han. Please take care of these matters. The production team and I will fully cooperate. As for what specific tasks you need me to perform, you can have your staff communicate with Duan Yunfeng or directly with me."

"Great!" Han Sanping was very pleased. "I knew you were a sensible person who could accomplish great things! Then it's settled. You must be exhausted from this trip, go back and rest for a couple of days. I'll have my people coordinate with your team on the specifics."

When I left the Beijing Film Studio and returned to my courtyard house in Xicheng, the city lights were already on.

Wu Fang had already prepared light and delicious home-style dishes to welcome her host home. The crabapple blossoms in the courtyard had finished blooming, and the lush green leaves looked particularly tranquil in the twilight.

After washing away the dust and fatigue, sitting in the familiar study, I finally felt a true sense of relaxation under the bright sunlight.

The hustle and bustle of Cannes, the fatigue of long-haul flights, the crowds at the airport, the endless meetings... all these are temporarily forgotten.

On the desk, two trophies—the Palme d'Or and the Camera d'Or—were carefully placed in a prominent position by Wu Fang, quietly gleaming under the desk lamp.

He stroked the cool metal blades of the Palme d'Or trophy, feeling the subtle patterns on them.

All of this is real.

At seventeen, he became the Palme d'Or-winning director. This title will stay with him for a long time, bringing glory, but also scrutiny and pressure.

But he was fearless.

The next day, after getting up, Yang Guangming carefully wiped the two trophies clean and put them into a specially made portable case.

He's going to the Beijing Film Academy today.

Duan Yunfeng was driving as usual. As the car entered the familiar campus, Yang Guangming immediately sensed a different atmosphere than before.

Although it was the end of the semester and there were far fewer students on campus than usual, every teacher and student he encountered along the way would cast a glance at him, their eyes filled with admiration, envy, curiosity, and simple joy.

In front of the administration building, Dean Liu Guodian, Director Xie Fei, and several other school leaders were already waiting.

As soon as Yang Guangming got out of the car, Dean Liu was the first to greet him, shaking his hand firmly: "Guangming! Welcome back! You've done another great service for our school! This time it's the Palme d'Or, which is even more prestigious than the Venice trophy!"

Xie Fei, standing to the side, wore a gratified smile and patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "Good lad, well done! You didn't let your teacher down!"

Yang Guangming greeted all the leaders and teachers respectfully, maintaining his usual humble attitude.

In Dean Liu's office, Yang Guangming took the two trophies out of the box.

The gleaming gold palm and the uniquely designed gold camera were placed side by side on the large desk, instantly enhancing the entire room.

The school leaders gathered around, examined it carefully, and exclaimed in admiration.

Flashbulbs went off as the school's publicity officers took photos from various angles—these photos will be used in the school's brochures and archives, serving as a testament to the Beijing Film Academy's glorious achievements.

"Guangming," Dean Liu said with emotion, looking at the trophies. "Last year you brought the Best Actor award at Venice, and this year you brought the Palme d'Or and Camera d'Or at Cannes. You haven't even officially graduated yet, and you've already brought the school three weighty international trophies. This is unprecedented in the history of Beijing Film Academy. The school is proud of you!"

"You flatter me, Dean. It is the school that has given me a platform for learning and growth, and it is the teachers who have given me their careful guidance. I am also proud of the school!" Yang Guangming said sincerely.

"Humility is a virtue, but your achievements speak for themselves," Dean Liu said with a smile. "The school has decided to commend you. We'll discuss the specifics later. Also, these two trophies will probably have to stay at the school for a while."

Xie Fei picked up the thread and explained, "Just like last time, the school needs to make a replica for display and exhibition. Once the original is copied, it will be returned to you intact. This process will take about one to two weeks."

“No problem, I’ll follow the school’s arrangements.” Yang Guangming had no objections.

"You're back now, and the semester is almost over," Dean Liu asked with concern. "Are you having any difficulties with the courses? Do you need any special arrangements?"

Yang Guangming shook his head: "Thank you for your concern, Dean. I will make the most of my time to catch up on the missed lessons and assignments and take the final exams. Studying is my duty, and I won't let filming and winning awards interfere with it."

Dean Liu and Xie Fei exchanged a glance, their eyes full of admiration. This student was talented and accomplished, yet always remained clear-headed, knew how to maintain boundaries, and respected the rules.

Such a mindset is more promising than his talent.

After lingering in the administration building for a while and answering some questions about school publicity, Yang Guangming, accompanied by Xie Fei, headed towards the directing department's teaching building.

Walking along the tree-lined paths of the campus, Xie Fei looked at the students around him who were much taller than him and felt a mix of emotions.

“Bright, after Cannes, do you have any new ideas?” he asked.

“Teacher, I think I need to take some time to reflect,” Yang Guangming said honestly. “This experience has taught me a lot. Next, I want to focus on completing my schoolwork and then slowly work out the next story. No rush, I’ll think it through before I start.”

Xie Fei nodded: "Your idea is excellent. The Palme d'Or is the pinnacle, but also the starting point. Many people become lost after reaching the top, or are eager to replicate their success. It's rare that you can remain calm and willing to reflect. Remember, a director's vitality lies in continuous creation, not in a fleeting moment of glory. Feel free to come and talk to me anytime if you have any thoughts."

"I will, thank you, teacher."

After accompanying Yang Guangming to the downstairs of the directing department building, Xie Fei gave him a few more detailed instructions before turning to leave.

Yang Guangming walked into the teaching building alone. (End of Chapter)