Huayu: This celebrity doesn't follow the rules.

Chapter 123 The Goblin Male Lead Throws Money

That evening, the car turned into the tree-lined entrance along the North Fourth Ring Road, and the guardrail of the security booth slowly rose.

The egret was practically perched on the car window, curiously peering out.

As dusk approached, soft lights emanated from the various detached villas, outlining the beautiful courtyards and tranquil driveways.

Even the bleakness of early spring cannot conceal the luxury and tranquility here.

"Boss, is this... Dongshan Villa?"

Bai Lu's voice was filled with amazement, "I think I've only ever heard of this in financial news and gossip magazines."

"Ah."

Jiang Ye drove, speaking casually, "It's next to Chaoyang Park, a quiet oasis amidst the hustle and bustle. Many of the homeowners here made a fortune in the early years."

"How much would a house here cost?"

The egret couldn't help but ask, its eyes still fixed on a house outside the window with huge floor-to-ceiling windows and a courtyard.

Jiang Ye looked ahead and casually stated a number: "Right now, a slightly better apartment starts at around a small target price, depending on the location and size, with no upper limit."

"One...one hundred million?!"

Bai Lu gasped, turned around abruptly, her eyes wide, and counted the zeros on her fingers, feeling that the money she earned from acting was like pocket money.

Jiang Ye glanced at her. "Do you like it?"

The egret nodded its head like a chick pecking at rice: "I love it! Of course I love it! Who wouldn't love it!"

This is like a dream come true.

Jiang Ye's lips curled into a smile as he slowly said, "Oh, you like it? Okay, then, boss, I'll help you out."

Bai Lu was overjoyed and leaned forward, exclaiming, "Really, boss?! You...you're going to lend me money to buy a villa?! Can you lower the interest rate? I'm willing to work for you for the rest of my life!"

"What are you thinking about?" Jiang Ye tapped her forehead. "What I mean is, I'll help you get more commercial endorsements and gigs. If we work hard, maybe one day you'll be able to save up for a down payment!"

Bai Lu exclaimed "Ah!" and then playfully punched him, lightening the atmosphere in the carriage.

The car eventually stopped in front of one of the villas.

The courtyard is meticulously maintained; even in March, the designer's dedication is evident.

As soon as I got out of the car, the villa gate opened, and a radiant couple came out smiling to greet me.

Huang Xiaoming wore a comfortable white turtleneck sweater, a dark casual suit jacket, and well-fitting dark trousers. His hair was meticulously styled, and his smile was as warm as ever, with a touch of domineering CEO-like cheerfulness.

Baby, on the other hand, looked more at home, wearing a loose and soft light pink chunky knit sweater paired with a pair of fitted black leggings. Her long hair was slightly wavy and loose, her makeup was fresh and elegant, her complexion was excellent, and she had a sweet smile on her face.

The two standing together are a model of a loving couple.

"Director Jiang! Welcome, welcome!" Huang Xiaoming spoke first, his voice loud and clear. He stepped forward and shook hands with Jiang Ye with a firm grip.

"Brother Xiaoming, Sister Baby, sorry to bother you."

Jiang Ye responded with a smile, then turned to introduce Bai Lu, who had just come around from the other side of the car and seemed a little nervous, "This is our company's new employee, Bai Lu. We brought her here to broaden her horizons."

Bai Lu quickly bowed and greeted them: "Hello, Teacher Xiaoming! Hello, Teacher Baby!"

"Hello, hello! Don't be shy, please come in!"

Huang Xiaoming greeted her warmly, his gaze lingering politely on Bai Lu for a second before turning to Jiang Ye. His tone was familiar yet tinged with apology, "I was too busy at the last wedding, there were too many people, I didn't even have time to have a proper drink with you, I was just busy getting them to drink with me. It's perfect that you're here today, I have to make up for it!"

Baby smiled and nodded, "Yes, there's not much people at home today, so we can have a quiet meal. Please come in, it's a bit chilly outside."

The group exchanged pleasantries as they entered the house.

Upon entering, you are greeted by a warm feeling that blends luxury and comfort.

The living room has a very large, high ceiling, with a huge crystal chandelier hanging down from above, casting a soft light.

The interior design is a blend of European classical and modern styles, with expensive marble floors, exquisite carvings, velvet sofas, and modern smart home devices coexisting harmoniously.

Outside the huge floor-to-ceiling windows is a meticulously maintained courtyard, and even at dusk, the view is stunning.

The interior is decorated with art pieces and photos of the couple, revealing traces of a meticulously crafted life. The space is so open that it even seems somewhat empty, silently showcasing the owner's wealth and status.

Bai Lu followed behind Jiang Ye, trying hard to control her expression so as not to look too much like a country bumpkin visiting the Grand View Garden, but the amazement in her eyes was still impossible to hide.

This was a completely different world from the film crew hotel she usually stayed in.

Is this what life is like for top actors?
The group settled into the spacious living room, large enough to play badminton. Baby asked the aunt to bring out fruit and delicate refreshments, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

Jiang Ye took the teacup and naturally started the conversation: "Brother Xiaoming, I heard you were filming 'Ancient Love Song' a while ago, how's it going?"

"Almost done, we're about to wrap up filming. It's been a pretty rushed shoot." Huang Xiaoming leaned back on the sofa, smiling as he replied, "Sigh, with all the wire work and special effects, it's much more tiring than filming modern dramas."

"He who can do it should work harder."

Jiang Ye flattered him, then asked, "I also heard that you and Teacher Li Mi have teamed up again after 'New Shanghai Bund' to make a big one? 'Love Across Mountains and Rivers'?"
"Yes, I am one of the producers."

Huang Xiaoming nodded, "Remaking a classic is quite stressful, but the team is very reliable."

"Oh? Then the female lead of this drama must be none other than Sister Baby, right? It's produced by Brother Xiaoming, so the female lead has to be his own wife."

Huang Xiaoming immediately burst into laughter and put his arm around Baby's shoulder: "Of course! Baby will always be the only leading lady in my heart!"

At that moment, he was truly in love!

Jiang Ye and Bai Lu quickly exchanged a glance, and before they knew it, they had been forced to witness their public display of affection.

He said the same thing when the drama was officially announced, but the final female lead is Qin Lan.

Baby felt a little embarrassed by what he said, so she gently patted Huang Xiaoming and scolded him, "Don't listen to his nonsense."

But she was also secretly observing Jiang Ye; this young director was really handsome!

So young!

Jiang Ye smiled and changed the subject, saying casually, "Sister Baby, I also heard that you're going to be joining the cast of 'Entrepreneurial Age'? Congratulations, that's a big production."

Baby was genuinely surprised, her eyes widening slightly: "Huh? Director Jiang, your information network is amazing! This project is still in the final negotiation stage and hasn't been announced to the public at all."

A hint of inquiry flickered in her eyes.

Jiang Ye smiled calmly and explained, "We at Jiangying also have some in-depth cooperation with Huace, and we occasionally hear some rumors about it."

He stopped there, saying nothing more.

Baby immediately understood that the entertainment industry is a huge network of relationships, and it's not surprising that news circulates within specific circles.

She then jokingly said, "I see. Then Director Jiang, if you have any good projects next time, you'll have to think of me! My salary is very cheap, and I'm great value for money!"

"Sister Baby is joking. Your schedule is not something we can just book whenever we want."

Jiang Ye responded politely, then changed the subject, took out the script of "A Thousand-Year Song" from his briefcase, and handed it to Huang Xiaoming, "Brother Xiaoming, the main reason I came today is to let you take a look at this script first."

Huang Xiaoming took the thick script, his joking expression vanished, and he carefully flipped through the first few pages of the story outline and character biographies.

He read quickly, nodding occasionally. "The story concept is novel, and the characters are captivating." After a while, he closed the script and gave a fair evaluation, but then changed the subject, looking at Jiang Ye with a sharp and somewhat puzzled gaze, "Xiao Jiang, I know Brother Lin very well too. We're all on the same side, so I won't beat around the bush with you."

"With your current momentum and the quality of this script, securing investment shouldn't be difficult, right? Why did you specifically come to me to discuss this?"

He thought Jiang Ye had come to ask him for investment.

Jiang Ye sat up straight, his expression becoming very serious: "Brother Xiaoming, you've misunderstood. I'm not here to seek investment. I want to formally invite you to play the male lead, Xiao Che, in this drama."

"Of course, you can invest if you'd like!"

"Me?" Huang Xiaoming was clearly taken aback, and his finger unconsciously tapped the script.

He really didn't think about it that way.

Given his status and market value at the time, it would have been somewhat beneath him and unpleasant for him to take on a role in a drama series that focused on new media and was initially likely to be broadcast only on online platforms, even if the other party was Jiang Ye.

Jiang Ye noticed his hesitation, leaned forward slightly, and spoke with even more earnestness and specificity: "Brother Xiaoming, I understand your concerns. But for this drama, our target market is not just the domestic market, or even primarily the domestic market."

"The reason for premiering a web series is simply because the review and broadcast mechanisms for web series are now more flexible, making it easier to achieve the effects we want! Its core and production standards are completely on par with top international dramas."

"We plan to invest in the best production team, hiring film-level cinematographers, art directors, and costume designers. We have also made initial contact with Dexter Studios in South Korea and Digital Domain in the United States for post-production special effects to ensure that the visual effects are on par with Hollywood."

"Most importantly, regarding global distribution, we have reached a preliminary agreement with Netflix Asia."

"I want to create a high-quality Chinese pop music that can truly break out of Asia and enter the international market..."

"The role of Xiao Che requires a superstar aura that combines Eastern mystique with international recognition. Looking at the domestic scene, I think you are the most suitable candidate."

"Moreover, a standout role in a web series can greatly boost one's career. Take Sister Jing Tian for example..."

As Huang Xiaoming listened, his fingers continued to tap the script unconsciously, his eyes showing a clear increase in interest, but he was obviously still weighing the pros and cons.

International distribution, Netflix, top-notch special effects... these words are indeed very attractive, but they are still unknowns.

Jiang Ye knew, of course, that these were just empty promises, but he came with sincerity.

That's throwing money at actors' salaries!

The phenomenon of exorbitant salaries for domestic actors began with the influx of capital around 2011 and reached explosive growth in 2016.

The rise of online dramas is also a major factor, as platforms are willing to pay high prices to acquire top-tier content, further driving up production costs.

Even with the salary cap introduced in 17, there were still reports in 19 of Zheng Shuang earning 208 million yuan per day, filming for 77 days and receiving 1.6 million yuan in remuneration...

It was definitely a dual contract, which is why it backfired!

Jiang Ye pulled a draft contract from his briefcase and pushed it in front of Huang Xiaoming: "Brother Xiaoming, let's be frank. I know your current market value."

"A TV series costs 100 million per episode, and a 16-episode series normally costs 1600 million. But for this series, I'll offer you 300 million per episode."

Huang Xiaoming paused, holding his teacup. Even Baby next to him couldn't help but lean closer to look at the numbers on the contract, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes.

"16 episodes, total salary of 4800 million yuan."

Jiang Ye said confidently, "The filming period will be at most three months, it won't take up too much of your time."

He changed the subject, his gaze falling on the page of the "betting agreement," "But I have an additional condition: of this 4800 million, 1600 million is your basic guarantee, and for the remaining 3200 million, we'll sign a betting agreement."

"A bet?" Huang Xiaoming raised an eyebrow, his finger tracing the terms of the contract. "What does it say?"

“It’s very simple.” Jiang Ye leaned forward, speaking faster but clearly, “If this show ultimately fails to gain influence overseas, and the Netflix collaboration doesn’t achieve the expected popularity, then you’ll get the full 3200 million. That’s equivalent to you getting three times your salary for two or three months. It’s a sure thing.”

“But if it becomes…” he emphasized, his eyes gleaming, “if the show becomes a hit overseas, tops Netflix’s trending charts, and is even featured in foreign media, then the salary would be 1600 million!”

“But we won’t count your salary; it will be converted directly into your investment share in the project. In that case, you’ll not only receive a share of the distribution revenue and the income from merchandise licensing, but as a core member of the creative team who brought their own investment and starred in the project, you’ll also receive a share of the overseas box office and streaming revenue. That number will definitely be much more than 4800 million.”

"More importantly, this drama is your international calling card. If the character Xiao Che becomes popular overseas, Hollywood resources and international brand endorsements will only be more proactive in seeking you out than they are now."

"Brother Xiaoming, haven't you always wanted to break into the international market? This is much more worthwhile than simply making a Hollywood anthology film. That's just playing a supporting role for someone else, this is a Chinese-language drama that you're carrying the flag for, the spotlight is all on you."

Baby added softly from the side, "Old Huang has been saying lately that he wants to find an international character who can embody the charm of the East, and the character of Xiao Che is indeed quite fitting."

She was already smitten.

She filmed "Bride Wars" last year and received a salary of 800 million yuan, while her salary for "Mojin: The Lost Legend" was only 1000 million yuan.

Who would have trouble with money?
Huang Xiaoming's fingertips hovered over the contract for a long time, from initial hesitation to surprise in his eyes, and then to thoughtful contemplation.

The guaranteed return of 4800 million is a real temptation, while the promise of investment dividends and international recognition perfectly hits his itch to expand into overseas markets.

Three months, whether he succeeds or fails, seems to be a worthwhile deal for him.

Moreover, when Jing Tian made a web series, many people were waiting to see him make a fool of himself.

But when Si Teng revealed it, he was slapped in the face.

There are more and more actors acting in web dramas now, and many web dramas are really no different from TV dramas, just made to pass censorship better.

As the car drove out of the tree-lined road of Dongshan Villa, Bai Lu secretly glanced at Jiang Ye in the passenger seat, her fingertips still unconsciously tracing the numbers on the contract from earlier.

4800 million, three months—these numbers swirled in her mind, leaving her still somewhat dazed.

She couldn't help but whisper, "Boss, are you really going to pay such a high fee? The production costs..."

Jiang Ye hummed in response, his gaze fixed on the receding street scene outside the window, without immediately replying.

Is the cost high? Of course it is. 300 million per episode.

However, Jiang Ye really hoped to use this opportunity to raise the actors' salaries a bit, since he wasn't the one paying for it.

Moreover, he now produces and sells his own products, and he also has many artists of his own.

For him, high pay is a good thing.

Most importantly, this money has to be spent.

It's not that he didn't have alternatives; Hu Ge's temperament is actually more in line with Xiao Che's "Eastern mystery," he has solid acting skills, and he's very popular.

Moreover, "Nirvana in Fire" is currently showing overseas!
However, that guy is planning to go to the United States for further studies, and given his personality, he might not be interested in this project.

Even if Lao Cai goes to negotiate, it won't work!
Of course, this was done in order to secure a partnership with Netflix.

If the male and female leads aren't big enough, it's not a collaboration; it's just making a fool of yourself.

Huang Xiaoming has at least acted in "Escape Plan 2," so he's somewhat recognizable in Hollywood. Plus, his international exposure in the fashion industry over the years should at least make Netflix think that the Chinese side is sincere.

When "Love O2O" airs, the cast of Huang Xiaoming and Meng Ziyi will be top-notch!

More importantly, there is Jiang Ye's deeper plan.

Baby is about to get pregnant!

Once the drama becomes a hit, Huang Xiaoming's connections at Huayi Brothers will allow Jiangying Media to naturally connect with him through this collaboration.

By the time……

Jiang Ye glanced at Bai Lu's bright eyes in the rearview mirror. In the variety show Running Man, Dilraba's position, which was supposed to replace Baby's, might not be impossible to change.

This is the variety show that makes egrets take flight!
Cultivating top-tier young actresses is the real way to make money!
(End of this chapter)