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

June 5, 1995, BJ.

The early summer afternoon sun was already quite warm, but the area in front of the newly renovated Capital Cinema was even hotter than the weather.

The staff are making final arrangements and checks.

A brand-new red carpet stretched from the street all the way to the entrance of the cinema lobby, with neat railings on both sides demarcating the media interview area and the audience viewing area.

A huge backdrop has been set up, featuring the movie poster for "A Separation"—stills of Chen Daoming, Xi Meijuan, Siqin Gaowa, Zhou Xun, and others, along with the prominent Palme d'Or logo at the top.

The poster reads in both Chinese and English: "Premiere of the Cannes Palme d'Or winner, 'A Separation'".

Han Sanping, dressed in a dark gray suit, stood on the steps at the cinema entrance, directing staff to adjust the lighting equipment on both sides of the red carpet. Fine beads of sweat glistened on his forehead, but he was full of energy and his eyes were sharp.

"Xiao Zhang, move the interview area sign forward another half meter to give the photographers enough space."

"Test the sound system again, and make sure the red carpet host's microphone is clear."

"Is the fruit and refreshments in the guest lounge ready? Make sure they're the freshest."

He gave instructions as he walked, down to the smallest detail.

As the director of Beijing Film Studio and the producer of "A Separation," Han Sanping took the initiative to undertake all the major tasks for this premiere. This was not only a responsibility to the film, but also a rare opportunity in his career—the domestic premiere of a Palme d'Or-winning film, and the scale had to be worthy of this honor.

Yang Guangming stood beside him, dressed in a simple light blue shirt and dark trousers, his demeanor composed. He wasn't involved in any specific administrative work, but he offered many valuable suggestions.

"Director Han, I suggest that the order of the red carpet be arranged as follows: first the media and film critics, then the invited stars and guests, and finally our main creative team."

"We could add another backdrop to the interview area so that each guest has their own area for taking photos."

"Before the ceremony begins, news clips of the film winning awards at Cannes and behind-the-scenes footage from the film festival can be played on a loop."

These suggestions sounded both novel and professional to Han Sanping.

In this era, the premieres of domestic films mostly consisted of simple screenings and media conferences. A red carpet ceremony modeled after an international film festival was almost unprecedented.

But "A Separation" deserves such a grand occasion.

Not only because it is a Palme d'Or winner, but also because it generated a record-breaking $14.8 million in overseas copyright sales—this money has already been received, and the Beijing Film Studio's share has given Han Sanping ample confidence.

The cost of hosting a grand premiere seems insignificant in the face of enormous commercial success.

"Guangming, how did you come up with that?" Han Sanping wiped his sweat and said sincerely, "We old guys wouldn't have thought of these details. You're a young man after all, with a broad perspective."

"Director Han, you flatter me. I just pay more attention to things usually." Yang Guangming smiled. "It's mainly because you are experienced and can put ideas into practice."

"Alright, let's stop flattering each other." Han Sanping patted him on the shoulder. "There are quite a few leaders here today, from ministries and bureaus, as well as heads of major film studios. This is a big event for Beijing Film Studio, and an important debut for you personally. Relax, I've got you covered."

Yang Guangming nodded. He wasn't nervous at all; rather, he seemed to have a calm anticipation.

This film has gone through so much from its creation to its release, and now that it is finally going to be shown to domestic audiences, it is a perfect ending in itself.

Starting at 3 p.m., invited media outlets began to arrive.

With Yang Guangming offering advice and Han Sanping's strong implementation, this premiere looked like a particularly grand affair.

CCTV Movie Channel, Beijing TV, Shanghai Oriental TV... Broadcast vans from major television media outlets lined up near the cinema, with technicians busy setting up cameras and debugging equipment.

Reporters from newspapers and magazines gathered at the media registration area to collect their press passes and information bags. Reporters were sent by almost all influential media outlets in China, including *People's Daily*, *Guangming Daily*, *Kyoto Youth Daily*, *China Film News*, and *Southern Weekly*.

"This scene is truly frightening; I've never seen anything like it before," a veteran film journalist remarked.

"How can that be the same? This is a Palme d'Or film, China's second Palme d'Or winner." A younger reporter next to him said excitedly, "And the director is only seventeen years old, which is big news in itself."

"I heard that quite a few Hong Kong and Taiwanese celebrities will be here to support us today?"

"It seems so. I heard that Leslie Cheung and Tsui Hark both came."

"Really? That's going to be exciting today."

The reporters whispered amongst themselves, their cameras and recorders already prepared. They were positioned in designated areas on either side of the red carpet, their long lenses and microphones aimed at the entrance, awaiting the arrival of the first guest.

Meanwhile, more and more ordinary viewers and movie fans began to gather outside the red carpet. Most of them learned about the premiere through newspapers and television; some were film enthusiasts, while others were simply there to see the stars.

Police and security guards maintained order at the scene, set up cordon lines, and ensured unobstructed access to the red carpet area.

"Look, there's a TV station broadcasting live over there!"

Will we see the sun shining brightly today? That seventeen-year-old director?

"Of course he can, he's the main character."

"Will Chen Daoming come too? I especially love his performance in 'Fortress Besieged'."

The audience looked around excitedly, holding notebooks or movie posters, hoping to get an autograph.

At four o'clock in the afternoon, the first invited guest arrived.

It is Professor Xie Fei.

As Yang Guangming's mentor and the head of the Directing Department at the Beijing Film Academy, Xie Fei was naturally among the first to be invited.

He wore a dark-colored Zhongshan suit today, looking dignified and refined. As he stepped out of the car, he first nodded to the reporters in the media area, and then walked onto the red carpet under the guidance of his staff.

The red carpet host was a female presenter from Beijing Television, whose clear voice announced: "Now walking the red carpet is Professor Xie Fei, the head of the Directing Department of Beijing Film Academy and a renowned director! Professor Xie is the mentor of Yang Guangming, the director of 'A Separation,' and also one of the film's artistic directors!"

The flash went off instantly.

Xie Fei paused in front of the backdrop, posing for photos with reporters. One reporter loudly asked, "Professor Xie, as Yang Guangming's teacher, what are your thoughts on him winning the Palme d'Or?"

Xie Fei took the microphone from the staff and calmly replied, "I am very proud and happy for Chinese cinema. Yang Guangming is a talented and hardworking student, and he deserves this award. But more importantly, it proves the strength and potential of China's young generation of filmmakers."

After a brief interview, Xie Fei signed his name on the autograph board and then entered the cinema lobby.

Following them, Liu Guodian, the president of the Beijing Film Academy, arrived. Next came several leaders from the Film Bureau and the Ministry of Radio and Television. Most of them walked the red carpet discreetly, simply waving to the media without giving interviews.

But the media's enthusiasm did not wane, because they knew the main event was yet to come.

At 4:30 p.m., celebrity guests began to arrive one after another.

The first to appear was Jiang Wen. He was unusually dressed in a formal black suit today, his hair neatly combed, but his signature carefree smile remained. As soon as he got out of the car, he waved to the media area, eliciting a flurry of camera shutters.

"Director Jiang! Look this way!"

"Director Jiang Wen, what is your opinion on 'A Separation'?"

Jiang Wen stood in front of the backdrop, took the microphone, and said in a loud voice, "Does this even need evaluation? The Palme d'Or is the best evaluation! Guangming is my little brother, I've seen his movies, they're awesome! I'm here today to support him and also to learn from him!"

His words were straightforward and forceful, a style that journalists loved, and they bombarded him with questions.

"I heard your own film, 'In the Heat of the Sun,' is about to be released. What are the differences between the two films?"

“Every film has its own life, and you can’t simply compare them.” Jiang Wen was unusually serious for once. “But one thing is certain—Chinese films are getting better and better, and young directors are rising, which is a great thing!”

Following Jiang Wen, Feng Xiaogang, Wang Shuo, Ma Weidu, Zhao Baogang, and others also arrived. They are all regulars at the Yangguangming Courtyard gatherings and naturally came to show their support. Each person's appearance caused a small stir; the media took photos, the audience cheered, and the atmosphere on the red carpet gradually heated up.

Next up are the female celebrities.

Liu Xiaoqing, radiant in a red gown, is one of China's most bankable actresses and a longtime friend of Yang Guangming. On the red carpet, she posed generously for photos and answered questions with wit and humor.

"Sister Xiaoqing, how did you and Director Yang Guangming meet?"

"It's fate," Liu Xiaoqing laughed. "I felt this young man was extraordinary from the first time we met, and it turned out to be true. Today I'm here to support my brother and also to enjoy this great film that won the Palme d'Or."

Xu Qing also arrived, wearing a light purple dress and exuding a gentle and elegant aura. As one of the most popular young actresses today, her appearance prompted many fans to excitedly call out her name.

"Xu Qing! Xu Qing!"

Xu Qing smiled and waved, paused briefly in front of the backdrop, and then gracefully entered the cinema.

The main cast of "A Separation," including Chen Daoming, Xi Meijuan, Siqin Gaowa, and Zhou Xun, were scheduled to arrive later. However, the red carpet was already dazzling with stars, and media reporters were busy, their film rapidly depleting their cameras.

Just then, an even bigger commotion erupted from the entrance to the red carpet.

Three black luxury cars slowly came to a stop. The first person to step out of the middle car was a middle-aged woman with an outstanding demeanor, wearing sunglasses—Shi Nansheng.

As the president of Hong Kong Island Asia Films, a company established at the beginning of this year and belonging to ATV, Nansun Shi already enjoys a prominent reputation in the industry.

She wore a well-tailored white suit today, exuding both competence and elegance. As soon as she got out of the car, she took off her sunglasses and gave the media area a professional yet friendly smile.

"It's Nansun Shi!" a reporter exclaimed.

Why is she here?

"I heard that Sunshine Ming has connections with ATV in Hong Kong..."

Before the reporters could react, the door of the car next to them opened. Director Tsui Hark stepped out, his signature black-rimmed glasses and casual attire making him instantly recognizable.

"Tsui Hark! Director Tsui Hark is here too!"

The reporters were absolutely thrilled. If Shi Nansheng was merely an industry executive and director Tsui Hark's partner, Tsui Hark was a household name as a director. Films like *Once Upon a Time in China*, *Swordsman*, and *Green Snake*... his works influenced an entire generation.

After getting out of the car, Tsui Hark didn't immediately walk onto the red carpet. Instead, he turned around and said something to the car. Then, a man in a beige suit got out of the car.

Leslie Cheung.

The scene fell silent for a moment, then erupted into unprecedented cheers and screams.

"Leslie Cheung! It's Leslie Cheung!"

"My God, why is he here?"

"It really is him! Quick, take a picture!"

Leslie Cheung looked to be in great spirits today, with a gentle smile on his face. He first nodded to Nansun Shi and Tsui Hark, and then the three of them walked onto the red carpet together.

After ATV was acquired, Asia Films and Asia Records were established, and with the advice of Guangming, they are now developing well.

Nansun Shi is the president of Asian Films, and Tsui Hark is one of its main collaborating directors. Tsui Hark has just finished filming "The Chinese Feast," a film with a script anonymously provided by Sunshine Ming, starring Leslie Cheung and Chen Hong. The film will soon be released in Hong Kong.

The film, titled "Original Timeline," grossed over HK$30 million in Hong Kong. As a pioneering work of Asian cinema, it is sure to be a great start.

The appearance of several well-known Hong Kong filmmakers was the first real "highlight" on the red carpet today.

The simultaneous appearance of heavyweight figures from Hong Kong's film industry, all for the premiere of a film by a young mainland director, has excited all the media reporters.

"Ms. Shi, did you come to Beijing specifically to attend the premiere of 'A Separation'?" The reporters asked eagerly.

Nansun Shi took the microphone and answered in Mandarin: "Yes. Director Yang Guangming is an outstanding young filmmaker. His film won the Palme d'Or, which is an honor for the entire Chinese-language film industry. Our Asian Film Company looks forward to collaborating with Director Yang in the future, and we may have more projects to develop together."

"Director Tsui Hark, what are your expectations for 'A Separation'?"

Tsui Hark pushed up his glasses and said with a smile, "Of course I have to see the Palme d'Or film. Besides, although I've never met Director Yang, we've long admired each other. I've seen some clips of his films, and they're very powerful. I'm really looking forward to it."

Finally, it was Leslie Cheung's turn.

He spoke in a gentle voice and at a slow pace: "I'm very happy to be in Beijing. I've heard a lot about director Yang Guangming's talent, and it's an honor for me to attend the premiere of his film today. I hope the film will also achieve great success in China."

After a brief interview, the three signed the autograph board and were then guided by staff into the cinema lounge.

They had only been inside a short while when another gasp rang out.

This time, it was Jackie Chan who got out of the car.

He wore a dark blue Zhongshan suit today, looking both smart and dignified. As an international kung fu superstar, Jackie Chan's popularity in mainland China is undeniable. His appearance caused the crowds on both sides of the red carpet to nearly break through the security lines.

"Jackie Chan! Jackie Chan!"

"Big brother, look this way!"

Jackie Chan smiled and waved. When he walked to the media area, he even stopped to let reporters take pictures. He has an outgoing personality and is good at creating a lively atmosphere, which once again boosted the excitement on the red carpet.

"Brother Jackie Chan, did you come here specifically to support 'A Separation'?"

"Of course," Jackie Chan said in his characteristic humorous tone. "The Palme d'Or is a film that filmmakers all over the world should respect. And I heard the director is only seventeen years old. He's so talented, I definitely have to come and meet him."

Did you know director Yang Guangming before?

"We haven't met before, but we got to know each other today," Jackie Chan said with a smile. "I hope we'll have the opportunity to work together in the future."

Following Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Sammo Hung also arrived. The appearance of these two kung fu superstars turned the red carpet into a star-studded event. Reporters were scrambling to get their hands on the cameras, running out of film, and some even had to switch to spares.

Mainland media and audiences were shocked.

They never expected that the premiere of a mainland art film would attract so many top Hong Kong stars. The network of connections and influence behind it gave everyone a new perspective on Yang Guangming, the seventeen-year-old director.

At that moment, Yang Guangming was in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the cinema, looking out the window at the grand red carpet event below.

Chen Hong stood beside him. Today she wore a light blue floor-length dress with delicate hand embroidery on the hem. Her long hair was styled in an updo, revealing the graceful lines of her neck. She wore simple pearl earrings, and her whole demeanor was so elegant that she looked like she had stepped out of a painting.

"Are you nervous?" Chen Hong asked softly.

Yang Guangming shook his head: "It's alright. But you look beautiful today."

A faint blush rose to Chen Hong's face: "Thank you. Many friends from Hong Kong have arrived, including Ms. Shi, Director Xu, and my brother."

"Yes, I saw them." Yang Guangming nodded. "We should thank them properly later. It wasn't easy for them to fly all this way."

“They are all very willing to come.” Chen Hong looked at him. “Although you keep a low profile in Hong Kong, everyone knows who the heir of ATV is. Moreover… you are now a Palme d'Or director, and that status itself is attractive enough.”

Yang Guangming smiled but didn't reply. He looked out the window; the red carpet was still bustling with activity. Familiar faces from the mainland film industry appeared one after another: Zhang Yimou and Gong Li arrived together, causing another sensation; Chen Kaige was also there, his expression slightly complicated, but he maintained his composure; Tian Zhuangzhuang, Wu Tianming, and other representatives of the fourth generation of directors also showed up to show their support…

This almost became a grand gathering for the Chinese film industry. At 5:30 p.m., the red carpet ceremony entered its final and most crucial segment – ​​the main creative team of "A Separation" entered.

Gu Changwei was the first to walk the red carpet. As the film's director of photography, he wore a dark gray suit, appearing professional and understated. Reporters' questions focused primarily on his cinematography style and technical aspects, which Gu Changwei answered one by one.

Next up was Zhou Xun. She wore a light pink knee-length dress, her hair in a simple ponytail, and her makeup was fresh and natural, still retaining a youthful innocence. This was her first time walking such a red carpet in China, and she seemed a little nervous, but tried her best to maintain a smile.

"Zhou Xun, you've received such a high honor for your first film role. How do you feel right now?"

This wasn't actually Zhou Xun's first time acting in a film, but the reporter who asked the question clearly didn't know that, and Zhou Xun didn't intend to explain.

"I'm very excited and grateful." Zhou Xun took the microphone, her voice trembling slightly. "Thank you to the director for giving me this opportunity, and thank you to all the teachers for their help. This film has taught me a lot, and I will continue to work hard."

Her naivety and sincerity won her a lot of goodwill, and reporters took extra care of her when taking photos.

Next, Siqin Gaowa and Xi Meijuan appeared together. Both are accomplished actresses; one wore a deep purple velvet gown, exuding solemnity and grandeur; the other wore a champagne-colored silk dress, radiating elegance and gentleness. Their appearance immediately showcased the composure and poise of mature actresses.

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

Xi Meijuan smiled and replied, "Every performance is a brand new challenge. It's my good fortune to be able to participate in 'A Separation' and work with such an excellent team. The film winning the Palme d'Or is an affirmation of all our hard work."

Siqin Gaowa was even more cheerful: "Happy! Of course I'm happy! Our films can win major international awards and let the world see Chinese stories. That's the greatest significance!"

Finally, Chen Daoming walked the red carpet alone.

He wore a classic black tuxedo, white shirt, and black bow tie today, without any unnecessary embellishments. But even in such a simple outfit, he exuded an unparalleled aura and refined elegance.

The moment he appeared, both sides of the red carpet fell silent, and all eyes were on him.

Chen Daoming walked calmly to the backdrop and turned to face the media. He didn't speak immediately, but stood there calmly with a deep gaze.

"Mr. Chen, the film won the Palme d'Or, but you personally missed out on the Best Actor award. Do you feel regretful?"

Chen Daoming took the microphone, his voice steady: "The ultimate pursuit of acting is not awards, but the understanding and presentation of the character. I did my best with the role of Li Da, and that's enough. The film winning the Palme d'Or is an affirmation of the entire work, which is more meaningful than any individual award."

How would you rate director Yang Guangming?

When Yang Guangming was mentioned, Chen Daoming's expression softened: "He is a genius, but what is even more rare is his focus and clarity. It is not a coincidence that he was able to make such a film at the age of seventeen; it is a combination of talent and hard work. As an actor, it is my good fortune to have met such a director."

After a brief but insightful answer, Chen Daoming signed his name on the autograph board and then entered the cinema.

There was a brief silence on the red carpet. Everyone knew that the last, and most important, person was about to appear.

At 5:50 p.m., a black Mercedes-Benz W140 slowly pulled up at the entrance to the red carpet.

Duan Yunfeng got out of the driver's seat, went around to the back seat, and opened the car door.

First, a slender foot in a silver high heel appeared, followed by the hem of a light blue skirt. Chen Hong stepped out of the car, stopped, then turned and reached her hand into the car.

Yang Guangming took her hand and got out of the car.

Today he wore a tailored dark blue suit, perfectly tailored and accentuating his tall and straight figure. He wore a white shirt, without a tie, and the top button was undone, giving him a less formal look and a more casual and youthful feel. His hair was neatly combed, and he wore a calm smile.

The moment the two stood together, both sides of the red carpet were instantly flooded with flashes of light.

"Sunshine! Chen Hong!"

"Look this way! You two, come closer!"

"Director Yang, please look over here!"

Reporters practically broke through the barriers, their camera shutters clicking like a torrential downpour. This was Yang Guangming's first official appearance in China since winning the Palme d'Or, and the presence of the beautiful Chen Hong beside him made the scene itself highly newsworthy.

Yang Guangming cooperated readily with the reporters taking photos, occasionally adjusting his posture but always maintaining composure. Chen Hong linked arms with him, a polite and gentle smile on her face; the two looked perfectly matched and in sync.

"Director Yang, as the youngest Palme d'Or winner, what would you most like to say to the domestic audience right now?"

Yang Guangming took the microphone from the staff member, his voice clear and steady: "What I want to say most is thank you. Thank you to everyone who supports Chinese films, thank you to everyone who put their heart and soul into 'A Separation'. This award belongs to the team, and to Chinese cinema. Today we are finally able to bring this film to domestic audiences, and we hope everyone will enjoy it."

"Ms. Chen Hong, as Director Yang's female companion today, what are your special feelings?"

Chen Hong smiled and replied, "I am honored to attend the premiere of 'A Separation.' It is an excellent film, and witnessing its first screening in China is a valuable learning opportunity for me personally."

"Did you two come to the premiere together? Is there any possibility of future collaborations?"

Yang Guangming took over the question: "Chen Hong is a very excellent actress, and we have always kept in touch. As for collaboration, I would certainly look forward to it if a suitable script and opportunity arise."

After answering a few questions, the two signed the autograph board. Yang Guangming wrote his name with smooth and strong handwriting. Chen Hong signed her name next to him; their names were close together and stood out prominently against the huge backdrop.

Then, they walked hand in hand into the cinema lobby.

The red carpet ceremony had come to an end, but the excitement of the media and the audience had not yet subsided. Reporters were already brainstorming headlines and angles for tomorrow's reports, while the audience was still immersed in the thrill of seeing so many celebrities in person.

Inside the cinema lobby, however, it was a completely different scene.

The renovated lobby of the Capital Cinema is spacious and bright, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow, and guests gather in twos and threes to chat.

As soon as Yang Guangming and Chen Hong entered, they became the center of attention. People kept coming up to congratulate them and exchange pleasantries.

Han Sanping was the first to greet them, beaming: "Guangming, Chen Hong, you've finally made it in! The red carpet was fantastic, the media response was incredibly enthusiastic!"

"Thank you for your hard work, Director Han," Yang Guangming said sincerely.

"It's no trouble at all, it's my duty." Han Sanping lowered his voice. "The leaders are all here, in the VIP room on the second floor. Before the screening, Director Wang from the bureau will be going on stage to say a few words, so you should prepare a short speech as well."

"clear."

As they were talking, Nansun Shi, Tsui Hark, Leslie Cheung, and others walked over.

“Guangming, it’s great to finally meet you.” Shi Nansheng extended her hand with a warm smile. “Congratulations, Palme d’Or director.”

"President Shi, Director Xu, Mr. Zhang, welcome to Beijing." Yang Guangming shook hands with each of them. "Thank you all very much for making the trip. I will remember this kindness."

“Of course.” Tsui Hark looked at Yang Guangming with admiration in his eyes. “A seventeen-year-old Palme d’Or winner. When I was your age, I was still doing odd jobs on set. You’re a promising young talent.”

Leslie Cheung was more gentle: "I haven't seen the movie yet, but I've heard many people say it's very good. I'm really looking forward to it."

"Thank you, brother." Yang Guangming addressed Leslie Cheung naturally, which is the usual way people in the Hong Kong entertainment circle address him. "I have repeatedly analyzed your performance in 'Farewell My Concubine' and it is a role model for me to learn from."

Leslie Cheung smiled but didn't say anything, though his eyes were very friendly.

Chen Hong was talking to Shi Nansheng in Cantonese, and the two seemed to be quite familiar with each other. Shi Nansheng even patted Chen Hong's hand and whispered something, causing a faint blush to rise on Chen Hong's face.

Then, Jackie Chan, Jet Li, and Sammo Hung also gathered around.

"Director Yang Guangming!" Jackie Chan warmly shook Yang Guangming's hand. "I'm finally meeting you in person! You look even younger than on TV!"

"Brother Jackie Chan, I've heard so much about you." Yang Guangming expressed his enthusiasm to the big brother who had come all this way to support him, "Thank you for coming today."

"Of course I had to come to such an important occasion," Jackie Chan said with a smile. "How about we collaborate on a movie sometime? You direct, and I'll act, what do you say?"

"That would certainly be my honor," Yang Guangming replied with a smile.

Jet Li didn't say much, but his attitude was sincere: "Congratulations. It's amazing that Director Yang has made such a good movie at such a young age."

Sammo Hung was even more generous: "Director Yang is amazing! The Palme d'Or, how many years does it take for a Chinese-language film to produce one? This is only your first film, you have a bright future!"

After exchanging pleasantries with friends from Hong Kong Island, veterans from the mainland film industry also arrived one after another.

Zhang Yimou and Gong Li walked in together. Zhang Yimou wasn't wearing a hat today, but a formal suit, and looked very smart.

“Guangming, this is quite a grand event today,” Zhang Yimou said with a smile. “I’ve never seen such a large-scale premiere in all my years in China.”

"It's all thanks to Director Han and his team for their excellent preparation," Yang Guangming said modestly. "Director Zhang's 'Shake It Off' also won the Jury Prize at Cannes, which is equally worthy of celebration."

“My award can’t compare to your Palme d’Or.” Zhang Yimou waved his hand, but his expression was sincere. “You’re the star today, so enjoy it.”

Gong Li smiled and greeted Yang Guangming and Chen Hong. She was wearing a black dress today, exuding a powerful aura, but spoke gently: "Guangming, Chen Hong, I wish your film great success."

"Thank you, Sister Gong Li."

Chen Kaige also arrived. Although his expression was slightly complicated, he still maintained his composure: "Guangming, congratulations. The premiere was a great success."

"Thank you for coming, Director Chen." Yang Guangming's attitude remained unchanged. "Your 'Farewell My Concubine' will always be the pride of Chinese cinema."

These words softened Chen Kaige's expression, and he nodded: "We need to learn from each other. Chinese cinema needs to inherit traditions, but it also needs to break through."

Veteran directors such as Tian Zhuangzhuang and Wu Tianming also sent their blessings. They showed rare recognition and expectations for the young Yang Guangming, which was not only out of politeness but also out of respect for his talent.

By 6:30 p.m., all the guests had entered. The theater's 800-seat hall was packed. The front row was occupied by leaders, celebrities, directors, and producers; the middle row by media reporters and film critics; and the back row by ordinary audience members and lucky movie fans.

The lights dimmed, and the premiere officially began.

The host, a well-known presenter from CCTV's movie channel, walked onto the stage. He first introduced the leaders and guests present, and applause rang out from the audience with each name he read.

Next, a leader from the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, surnamed Wang, delivered a speech. He highly praised the artistic achievements and international influence of "A Separation," considering it an important result of China's "going global" strategy for films and a manifestation of cultural confidence. His speech was brief but set a high standard, laying a solid policy foundation for the film's domestic screening.

The leaders above were very satisfied with the film, not only because it won the Palme d'Or, but also because it presented a modern picture of the country.

The greater the film's international influence, the better its positive publicity will be domestically.

Next, Han Sanping, as the producer, spoke. He reviewed the film's process from preparation to filming and winning awards, thanked all participants and supporters, and specifically mentioned the successful collaboration between Beijing Film Studio and Qiming Studio.

"A Separation" is not just a movie, but also a testament to a belief—that Chinese filmmakers are capable of creating world-class works, and that Chinese stories can move audiences around the world. Han Sanping's voice was somewhat excited. "Today, this movie is finally going to be shown to domestic audiences, and I sincerely hope that everyone will like it."

The applause was enthusiastic.

Finally, Yang Guangming took the stage.

He walked to the center of the stage, and the spotlight shone on him. The audience fell silent, everyone watching the seventeen-year-old director who had made history.

"Thank you, leaders, seniors, friends, media reporters, and all the audience members." Yang Guangming's voice, clear and steady, resonated throughout the hall through the speakers. "Standing here, my heart is filled with gratitude."

He paused, then continued, "Film is the art of creating dreams, and also the art of reflecting reality. 'A Separation' tells a story about morality, responsibility, family, and choices."

It took place in China, but the issues it addresses are universal.

I am glad that this story has been recognized in Cannes, but I am even more looking forward to it being seen, understood and discussed by audiences in China.

The Palme d'Or is an honor, but even more so, it is a responsibility. It reminds me that, as a filmmaker, I must live up to the expectations of the audience and the gifts of this era.

I will continue to work hard to make more powerful, heartwarming, and thought-provoking films.

Finally, I want to thank my team again. Without them, there would be no "A Farewell." This award belongs to everyone.

Now, please enjoy the movie. Thank you.

The speech was brief, sincere, and restrained. A long and enthusiastic round of applause followed.

Yang Guangming bowed in thanks, stepped off the stage, and returned to his seat next to Chen Hong.

The lights went out completely, and the screen lit up.

The familiar dragon logo appeared, followed by the opening credits of Beijing Film Studio and Qiming Studio.

The movie begins.

The hall was quiet, everyone focused intently on the screen. Although many had already learned about the film at Cannes or through other channels, watching it on the big screen was a completely different experience.

The streets in the early morning, the flow of bicycles, the noisy voices... the atmosphere of urban life in the 1990s is palpable.

Chen Daoming's character, Li Da, gets up, washes up, and prepares breakfast; Xi Meijuan's character, Gao Min, is busy in the kitchen; Zhou Xun's character, Li Mei, sits quietly at the dining table... The details of daily life are presented calmly and restrainedly, without any unnecessary embellishment, yet the audience is quickly drawn into the scene.

As the plot unfolds, conflicts gradually emerge. The father's illness, the plan to immigrate, the arrival of the maid, the elderly man going missing, a car accident, a compensation dispute, a court standoff... every aspect captivates the audience.

Siqin Gaowa's explosive performance in court once again shocked the entire audience. From tension to panic, and then to utter collapse and accusation, the emotions progressed layer by layer, and she vividly portrayed the suffering and dignity of women from the lower classes.

Many audience members had tears in their eyes, and some secretly wiped them away.

The final conversation between Chen Daoming and Xi Meijuan in the living room was restrained yet profound, with all their emotions subtly conveyed through subtle gestures and glances.

Zhou Xun's silent weeping behind the door broke the hearts of countless people.

In the final scene, Li Da stands alone in his father's empty room, the city sky above the window a hazy gray. The sound of a piano begins softly, simple yet melancholic.

Subtitles appear.

The movie has ended.

The hall was silent for a full ten seconds.

Then, applause broke out.

First came scattered applause, then it quickly spread, eventually coalescing into sustained and enthusiastic applause. The audience rose to their feet, waving in the direction of the creative team.

The applause lasted for nearly three minutes.

The prolonged applause at film festivals is more like a ritual, a courtesy, while the applause from domestic audiences stems from genuine, heartfelt appreciation.

Yang Guangming led the main creative team to the stage to express their gratitude. Chen Daoming, Xi Meijuan, Siqin Gaowa, Zhou Xun, Gu Changwei... everyone had tears in their eyes, but their faces were filled with satisfied and gratified smiles.

This was their first official appearance in front of domestic audiences, and also the first time the film was screened in its entirety in China.

The audience's reaction proves that this film can not only win awards at international film festivals, but also touch the hearts of domestic audiences.

The premiere concluded successfully.

But the evening's activities weren't completely over yet. As planned, some of the key guests would head to Yangguangming's courtyard house for a smaller gathering. (End of Chapter)