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

March 25, Los Angeles.

Yang Guangming stood in his suite at the Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, gazing at the distant Hollywood Hills through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The afternoon sun bathed the mountains in a golden glow, and palm trees swayed gently in the breeze.

The Oscars ceremony is in three days.

His public relations schedule for this period has come to an end. He has completed fifteen special screenings, numerous dinner parties and cocktail parties, as well as countless coffee dates and lunch gatherings.

Charles said the results were even better than expected.

Yang Guangming looked away and glanced at his watch. It should be 3 PM, and Chen Daoming's flight should be arriving soon.

He wasn't alone in coming to the US for the Oscars ceremony.

"A Separation" received three nominations—Best Foreign Language Film, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. This is a historic breakthrough for Chinese-language films at the Oscars.

Although the four lead actors, Chen Daoming, Xi Meijuan, Wang Xueqi, and Siqin Gaowa, did not receive nominations in the acting category, Yang Guangming, as the core creator of the film, naturally invited them to attend this grand event for filmmakers worldwide.

This is a huge opportunity for exposure and a tribute to their outstanding performances in the film.

Yang Guangming changed his clothes and prepared to go to the airport to pick someone up. Although the hotel had arranged a car, he still wanted to go in person.

I had just stepped out of the room when my phone rang.

It was Chen Hong calling.

"Guangming, are you back in Los Angeles?" Chen Hong's voice came through the receiver, filled with concern.

"We arrived yesterday," Yang Guangming said gently. "How are things on your end?"

“It’s great, I just finished filming a scene.” Chen Hong paused. “On the day of the awards ceremony, I will watch the TV broadcast on Hong Kong Island. ATV said they will have a special report. Although I can’t see you accept the award in person, I will cheer for you in front of the TV.”

Yang Guangming felt a warmth in his heart: "Thank you. I'll go back as soon as the awards ceremony is over."

“Don’t rush, just enjoy the process.” Chen Hong smiled. “This is the Oscars, a red carpet that many people never get to walk in their entire lives. You’ve already achieved three nominations for your first film, which is quite remarkable. No matter the outcome, I’m proud of you.”

"it is good."

After hanging up the phone, Yang Guangming took the elevator downstairs.

In the hotel lobby, Charles was talking to several men in suits. Seeing Yang Guangming, he immediately waved: "Yang! I was just looking for you."

As Yang Guangming walked over, Charles introduced them, saying, "These two are staff members from the Oscars committee, here to confirm the schedule for the awards ceremony."

The two sides shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. The staff explained in detail the arrangements for the awards ceremony: what time to walk the red carpet, what time to take their seats, when to give their acceptance speeches if they won, and any other important points. Yang Guangming took notes.

After seeing the staff off, Charles asked, "Going to the airport to pick someone up?"

"Yes, Teacher Chen and his group's flight is almost here."

“I’ll go with you.” Charles picked up his coat. “It’ll be a good opportunity to meet some of the great actors from your movies.”

On the way to the airport, Charles talked about the plans for the next few days.

"There are a few events before the awards ceremony, and you can all attend them. There's a reception hosted by the Los Angeles Times tomorrow at noon, which many college members will be attending. Tomorrow evening is a reception hosted by the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Los Angeles; you should have received an invitation, right?"

Yang Guangming nodded: "I received it, I will go."

“Okay.” Charles flipped through the schedule. “After the awards ceremony, there are several after-party. The most important one is the Vanity Fair’s official dinner, which is only for winners and top stars. If we win an award, we’ll be eligible to go.”

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Then let's try our best to win an award."

The car drove into Los Angeles International Airport.

At the international arrivals exit, there were already quite a few people waiting to pick up passengers. Yang Guangming and Charles stood in a prominent position, waiting for information about their flight's arrival.

The screen showed that the flight from Beijing had landed.

About twenty minutes later, the familiar figure appeared.

Chen Daoming walked at the front, dressed in dark casual wear and sunglasses, exuding a composed and steady air. Behind him followed Xi Meijuan, dressed in an elegant suit, graceful and poised. Wang Xueqi pushed a luggage cart, chatting with Siqin Gaowa as they walked. Siqin Gaowa wore loose-fitting cotton and linen clothing, her smile bright and cheerful.

"Teacher Chen! Teacher Xi! Teacher Wang! Teacher Siqin!" Yang Guangming greeted them.

"Guangming!" Siqin Gaowa was the first to open her arms and give him a big hug. "Long time no see! You've become even more handsome!"

Chen Daoming took off his sunglasses and shook hands with Yang Guangming: "Guangming, you've had a tough time. You must have been quite busy in America these past few days, right?"

"Fortunately, Chuck helped arrange everything perfectly." Yang Guangming stepped aside to introduce, "This is Charles, my business partner and also my best friend in the United States. This award campaign's PR was all thanks to him."

Charles greeted them in broken Chinese: "Hello, it's nice to meet you."

Everyone laughed and greeted Charles.

Xi Meijuan looked Yang Guangming up and down: "You look good, you seem to be in good condition."

"It's alright." Yang Guangming took the luggage cart from Wang Xueqi. "The car is outside, let's go back to the hotel to rest first. We've been flying for more than ten hours, we must be tired."

The convoy departed the airport and headed towards Beverly Hills.

Along the way, everyone looked at the Los Angeles street scenes outside the window and discussed it amongst themselves.

Siqin Gaowa exclaimed, "This is Hollywood! It's quite different from what you see in the movies."

Wang Xueqi laughed and said, "Teacher Siqin, Hollywood is not Disneyland, of course it's different."

Looking at the palm trees and Spanish-style buildings, Xi Meijuan said softly, "The climate is so nice; it's much warmer than Beijing at this time of year."

Chen Daoming didn't say much, but his gaze lingered on the scenery outside the window. For actors, Hollywood is a dream for their generation. To be present at the Oscars as a key member of the creative team is itself a dream come true.

Charles acted as a temporary tour guide, introducing the buildings and landmarks along the way: Beverly Hills, Sunset Boulevard, the Hollywood sign... Although his Chinese pronunciation was a bit strange, everyone listened attentively.

Upon arriving at the hotel and completing the check-in process, Yang Guangming told everyone to go back to their rooms to rest and adjust to the time difference. At 6:30 p.m., he made a reservation at the hotel restaurant to welcome everyone back.

In the room, Yang Guangming turned on his computer and checked his emails.

Several emails were from China. Han Sanping's email was quite long, starting with congratulations on their safe arrival and then detailing the level of attention the Oscars were receiving in China. CCTV sent an interview team, and reporters from several mainstream media outlets were on-site. The Beijing Film Studio had already prepared a celebration and was just waiting for good news.

Nansun Shi also sent an email saying that the response from Hong Kong Island was enthusiastic. ATV sent a special reporting team to prepare a series of features. Reporters from Ming Pao, Oriental Daily News, and other media outlets were also in Los Angeles.

Yang Guangming replied to each message and then shut down his computer.

He stood by the window, watching the sunset in the distance. The Hollywood Hills were silhouetted against the setting sun, and the sky gradually changed from golden to deep purple.

At 6:30 p.m., the atmosphere in the private room of the hotel restaurant was warm and relaxed.

As the host, Yang Guangming ordered a number of California specialties: seafood, steak, salad, and California red wine.

Chen Daoming raised his glass: "Come on, the first glass, to wish our 'A Separation' crew great success at the Oscars."

Everyone raised their glasses.

Siqin Gaowa took a sip of red wine and exclaimed, "When we were filming last year, who could have imagined that we would get this far? Guangming, you are truly amazing!"

Wang Xueqi nodded: "Yes, from filming to being nominated, it feels like a dream."

Xi Meijuan looked at Yang Guangming gently: "Guangming, no matter what the outcome is in five days, it's already a huge success that you've brought this movie to the Oscars."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Thank you, Teacher Xi. But since I'm here, I certainly hope to win an award."

Chen Daoming looked at him with admiration in his eyes: "This is a good mindset, neither humble nor arrogant, ambitious but not impetuous. Guangming, you are more mature than many adult directors."

Charles chimed in, "Yang has been in the US these past few days, meeting with many people, and the results have been excellent. Many Academy members have said they love this film and admire Yang's talent. The chances of winning Best Foreign Language Film are very high."

Siqin Gaowa asked curiously, "Charles, what about Best Director and Best Screenplay? Is there any hope?"

Charles thought for a moment: "The competition for Best Director is too fierce; being nominated is already a victory. Best Screenplay is also a good chance; Yang's screenplay is highly regarded in the industry. Best Foreign Language Film is currently our best bet, but we can't be complacent; the Italian film is also very strong."

Yang Guangming poured wine for the teachers, saying, "Let's just do our best and leave the rest to the judges."

Dinner proceeded in a pleasant atmosphere. Everyone chatted about their plans for the next few days in the United States, what to wear to the awards ceremony, and the Hollywood stars they might meet.

Chen Daoming, unusually humorous, asked, "If I run into an actor I like, can I go up and ask for their autograph?"

Everyone laughed.

Yang Guangming said, "Teacher Chen, it will be other people asking you for autographs. You are the lead actor in an Oscar-nominated film, representing the highest level of Chinese cinema."

Chen Daoming waved his hand, but his smile deepened.

After dinner, everyone went back to their rooms to rest. The long flight was indeed tiring, and everyone needed to adjust to the time difference.

The next few days were packed with activities.

On March 26th at noon, at a reception hosted by the Los Angeles Times.

The party was held at a private club in Beverly Hills, and the attendees were all Hollywood industry professionals—producers, directors, screenwriters, actors, and many Academy members with voting rights.

Yang Guangming attended the event with four of the lead actors.

Chen Daoming, dressed in a dark suit, exuded elegance and composure. Xi Meijuan, in a deep blue dress, was dignified and graceful. Wang Xueqi opted for a classic black tuxedo, appearing poised and appropriate. Siqin Gaowa wore a modified Chinese-style outfit, combining ethnic characteristics with a sense of solemnity.

Their appearance immediately attracted a lot of attention.

Charles acted as their guide, leading them through the crowd and exchanging pleasantries with various filmmakers.

“Yang, this is Kenneth Turan, the chief film critic for the Los Angeles Times,” Charles introduced.

Yang Guangming extended his hand: "Mr. Turan, I have long admired your name. I have read your review of 'A Separation' and I am very grateful for your recognition."

Turan was a man in his fifties, with graying hair and sharp eyes. He shook Yang Guangming's hand and smiled, "Yang, your films are truly outstanding. Calm, restrained, and profound—such works are precious art in any era. I'm curious, how did you, at such a young age, manage to grasp this narrative rhythm?"

Yang Guangming answered earnestly, "Perhaps it's because I enjoy observing. Many things in life aren't dramatic; rather, there are undercurrents beneath the calm surface. I want to present this reality."

Turan nodded: "Well said. I wish you win the award."

Meanwhile, Chen Daoming was having a pleasant conversation with a veteran Hollywood actor. The actor had seen "A Separation" and praised Chen Daoming's performance highly.

Xi Meijuan exchanged views with several female filmmakers, discussing the portrayal of female characters in films. Her English wasn't fluent, but she managed to communicate with the help of gestures.

Wang Xueqi and Siqin Gaowa were more relaxed. Siqin Gaowa has a cheerful personality, and even though they don't speak the same language, she can convey friendliness through smiles and body language.

The party lasted for more than two hours. Charles looked satisfied when it ended.

"The effect is very good. Many people have a deep impression of you. Yang, your face is so recognizable. A young and handsome director, no one can forget you after seeing you."

Yang Guangming smiled: "Is this a good thing or a bad thing?"

“Of course it’s a good thing!” Charles said earnestly. “In Hollywood, sometimes personal charm is more important than talent. You have both, you’re simply a chosen one.”

That evening was a reception hosted by the Consulate General of China in Los Angeles.

This banquet was specially held for Chinese filmmakers attending the Oscars, and the overall leadership attached great importance to this awards ceremony.

The Consul General attended in person and delivered a warm speech. He highly praised the artistic achievements of "A Separation," commending the film for showcasing the talent of Chinese filmmakers and the depth of Chinese culture, and for serving as a bridge for cultural exchange between China and the United States.

Yang Guangming spoke on behalf of the consulate. His remarks were concise and sincere, expressing gratitude for the consulate's support and for the attention from domestic audiences and the film industry. He stated that he would continue to work hard to tell Chinese stories through film. At the reception, Yang Guangming also met other Chinese-language filmmakers. The consulate general had invited many industry professionals, including directors and actors from Hong Kong and producers from Taiwan. They congratulated each other and took photos together.

A Hong Kong screenwriter, holding Yang Guangming's hand, exclaimed, "Director Yang, you've really brought glory to Chinese-language cinema this time! Three nominations—a first in history! I hope you win and break the record!"

Yang Guangming humbly replied, "Thank you, I'll do my best."

March 27th, the last public relations event.

This was a small, private dinner held at the mansion of a major Hollywood producer. Only about twenty people were present, but they were all influential core members of the academy.

Charles said that it is important to build relationships with these people. As long as the relationships are good, not only will it be easier to win the prize this time, but it will also be much easier to win it in the future.

The dinner was held in the garden, under the stars, with long tables laden with exquisite dishes and fine wines. The atmosphere was more intimate and relaxed than the previous cocktail party.

Sunshine mingled among the guests, chatting with them.

An elderly director with white hair held his hand and talked about his experience making movies when he was young. Yang Guangming listened attentively and responded appropriately.

The two men got along very well as they talked, and the old man, in high spirits, patted him on the shoulder and said, "Young man, your film reminds me of my original aspirations. I will vote for you."

A famous actress told Yang Guangming, "Your script is really well written. The dialogue, the subtext, it's brilliant. I really hope to have the opportunity to work with you; I'm really looking forward to it."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "If there is a suitable role, I would also like to look forward to working with you."

Chen Daoming chatted with an actor who had won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. The actor highly praised Chen Daoming's restrained performance in "A Separation," and the two exchanged many acting insights.

Xi Meijuan had a very pleasant conversation with a female screenwriter. The screenwriter was writing a story about a transnational family and was very interested in the character Gao Min, played by Xi Meijuan, asking many questions about details.

Due to language barriers, Wang Xueqi and Siqin Gaowa focused on participation. Siqin Gaowa's cheerful smile touched many people; despite the language barrier, she won everyone's favor with her sincerity and enthusiasm.

After the dinner, on the way back to the hotel, Charles breathed a rare sigh of relief.

"Yang, we've done everything we could. Now, we're just waiting for the awards ceremony."

Sunlight nodded, gazing at the night view flashing past the window.

Hollywood's nights are ablaze with lights, the neon signs outlining the silhouette of this film city. Countless dreams take flight here, and countless stories are told here.

And his story has written an important chapter in this city.

Yang Ming told everyone to get some rest and recharge. He then went over the awards ceremony schedule with Charles again, confirming every detail.

The next day, the stylist team arrived at the hotel to do final fittings and makeup for everyone.

Chen Daoming's suit was a custom-made dark gray, perfectly tailored, exuding both elegance and authority. Xi Meijuan's gown was a champagne-colored floor-length dress, elegant and graceful. Wang Xueqi chose a classic black suit, dignified and appropriate. Siqin Gaowa wore a deep purple velvet gown, solemn and poised.

Yang Guangming's dress was a deep blue, simple yet sophisticated. The designer said this color would stand out on the red carpet.

After the fitting was over, Yang Guangming gathered everyone together.

"The awards ceremony is just around the corner." His voice was calm and clear. "Everyone has worked hard during this time. No matter the outcome, we have come this far, we have walked the red carpet of the Oscars. This is an affirmation of 'A Separation', and also an affirmation of the performances of all the teachers."

He paused, then continued, "Tonight, we want to walk the red carpet in our best condition. Relax and enjoy the process. We represent Chinese cinema and want to showcase the style of Chinese filmmakers."

Chen Daoming nodded: "Guangming is right. Enjoy the process, and let the result take its natural course."

Siqin Gaowa laughed and said, "I can't wait to see those Hollywood stars."

Everyone laughed.

At noon, everyone gathered in the hotel lobby.

Seeing each other dressed up, everyone's eyes lit up.

"Teacher Siqin, you look so beautiful today!" Yang Guangming exclaimed sincerely.

Siqin Gaowa laughed heartily: "At this age, what's the point of being beautiful? Just be presentable. We can't bring shame to Chinese filmmakers."

Chen Daoming looked at Yang Guangming and said, "Guangming, you're in great shape today. Keep it up, and I'm sure you'll have a fruitful day."

Yang Guangming nodded: "Thank you, Teacher Chen."

Charles also arrived, looking sharp in a dark blue suit.

“The car is ready,” he said. “We’ll leave at two o’clock and start walking the red carpet at three. There’s plenty of time.”

Yang Guangming looked at everyone: "Is everyone ready?"

Everyone nodded.

"Alright, let's go."

The convoy drove out of the hotel and headed towards the Hollywood Highland Entertainment Center, the venue for the Academy Awards. Formerly known as the Kodak Theatre, it had been renamed the Hollywood Highland Center.

The closer you get to your destination, the more congested the traffic becomes. Vehicles from all over the world converge into a torrent, all heading in the same direction. The number of pedestrians along the roadside also increases, many dressed in outlandish costumes and holding signs expressing their support for their respective idols.

Police were maintaining order and clearing a special lane for vehicles attending the awards ceremony.

At 2:40 p.m., the motorcade arrived at the entrance to the red carpet.

Countless media reporters and movie fans had already gathered here. The flashes of cameras were clearly visible even in daylight, and cheers and screams rose and fell. The huge Oscar statuette stood at the start of the red carpet, its gold gleaming in the sunlight.

After checking the list, the staff guided them to the waiting area.

The waiting area was a huge white tent, already filled with filmmakers. The men were dressed in suits, the women in glittering gowns, various languages ​​mingled, and the air was thick with the scent of perfume and anticipation.

Sunlight shone through, and he saw many familiar faces. Hollywood stars he'd only ever seen on screen were standing not far away. Tom Hanks, Mel Gibson, Susan Sarandon, Nicolas Cage…

Siqin Gaowa lowered her voice and said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, I saw so many big stars."

Yang Guangming smiled: "Teacher Siqin, you are a big star too. Tonight, you are the lead actress in an Oscar-nominated film."

Staff members came over and guided them to the red carpet waiting area.

The red carpet was a long, iconic deep red rug, flanked by densely packed media and fan sections. Every few steps, photographers would shout, "Look this way! Look this way!"

Yang Guangming stood in the waiting area and took a deep breath.

"Are you ready?" he asked the team members around him.

Chen Daoming nodded, Xi Meijuan smiled slightly, Wang Xueqi's gaze was firm, and Siqin Gaowa had a bright smile.

"Okay, let's go then."

They stepped onto the red carpet.

Instantly, a flood of flashes came from the cameras.

"It's the crew of 'A Separation'!"

"Chinese films!"

"Yang! Look this way!"

Reporters shouted in various languages, and cameras were pointed at them.

Yang Guangming walked at the front with a composed gait. He wore a faint smile and nodded to the reporters and audience on both sides. Chen Daoming and Xi Meijuan walked on either side of him, with Wang Xueqi and Siqin Gaowa following behind.

The red carpet was long, and they walked slowly. Reporters kept asking them to stop for photos and pose.

Yang Guangming cooperated fully, occasionally exchanging a few humorous remarks with the reporters. His fluent English and natural demeanor further fueled the reporters' enthusiasm.

Siqin Gaowa was a little nervous at first, but she quickly relaxed. With her naturally cheerful personality, her smile towards the camera was genuine and radiant.

Chen Daoming maintained his composure as always, remaining calm and collected even in the face of countless flashing lights. His demeanor perfectly embodies the image of a refined Chinese intellectual.

Xi Meijuan was elegant and poised, her champagne-colored dress shimmering softly under the flashing lights. Her smile was gentle and sincere, like a warm breeze.

Wang Xueqi doesn't talk much, but he's a sight to behold just by standing there, exuding strength with his composure.

As they reached the center of the red carpet, a larger commotion arose from the sidelines. It turned out that the cast and crew of "Braveheart" had also walked the red carpet. Director Mel Gibson, in a kilt, was particularly eye-catching.

When the two film crews met on the red carpet, the reporters went even crazier.

"Yang! Mel! Let's take a picture together!"

Yang Ming and Mel Gibson exchanged a smile and stood together cooperatively. The two directors, one from the East and the other from the West, appeared together at this moment, creating a classic scene on the red carpet.

After taking the photos, Mel Gibson said to Yang Guangming, "Young man, I've seen your movies, they're excellent. Good luck."

"Thank you, and best of luck," Yang Guangming replied sincerely.

Continuing on, at the end of the red carpet was a huge interview area. There were dozens of media outlets with interview booths there, where each award contender would give a brief interview.

An ABC reporter waved first: "Yang! Over here!"

Yang walked over. The reporter smiled broadly: "Yang, this is your first Oscar nomination, how does it feel?"

"I'm very excited," Yang Guangming said to the camera. "Being able to come here is already a huge affirmation."

Are you confident about winning the award tonight?

"Of course I have confidence, but more importantly, I enjoy the process," Yang Guangming replied calmly. "Being able to compete on the same stage with so many outstanding filmmakers is an honor in itself."

After the interview, they finally entered the theater.

The Hollywood & Highland Center was resplendent with gold, its massive stage already set up, flanked by golden Oscar statues. In the audience, seats were meticulously arranged according to nominations and status.

Guided by staff, Yang Guangming and his entourage found their seats. They were in the middle of the fifth row, a pretty good spot. Next to them were the teams of other nominated films, including the director and lead actor of the Italian film "The Postman," and the creative team of a Spanish film.

After sitting down, Yang Guangming looked around.

The theater was brightly lit, and the audience entered one after another. Every face was a familiar name, and every name represented a classic.

Tom Hanks sat a short distance in the front row, chatting amiably with the person next to him. Mel Gibson had just come in and was greeting acquaintances.

Chen Daoming said softly to Yang Guangming, "This is the Oscars, the temple of world cinema."

Yang Guangming nodded: "Being able to sit here is already a victory for us."

The awards ceremony officially began at 5:30 p.m.

The lights dimmed, and the stage lit up. Host Whoopi Goldberg, dressed in an outlandish outfit, emerged from the side of the stage, opening with her signature humor.

"Welcome to the 68th Academy Awards!" she announced. "Tonight, we will witness the highest honor in the art of film. There are many outstanding filmmakers and many outstanding films here. But if you don't win an award tonight, don't be sad, at least you'll have free wine and a dinner."

Laughter and applause erupted from the audience.

Goldberg's opening remarks lasted for more than ten minutes, making fun of this year's popular movies, various phenomena in Hollywood, and several celebrities sitting in the audience.

She created a relaxed and enthusiastic atmosphere. (End of Chapter)