Writer 1978: I Need to Give the Literary World a Lesson

Chapter 599 Rejecting Zhang Yimou

In the evening, a gentle breeze rustled the ginkgo leaves on the bluestone slabs. Two little ones were playing by the tree roots, their bottoms sticking out, while Ximei watched over them, afraid they might fall.

"Professor Liu, your criticism is correct. Was I a little too hasty?" Zhang Yimou said awkwardly after hearing Liu Yimin's slightly critical words.

Liu Yimin smiled and said, "Awards are a symbol of ability and talent for directors and their works. However, we should not fall into the misconception of being solely focused on awards. Western film award judges are all Westerners, and their evaluations are based on Western values. Not all good films will win awards, and not all award-winning films are good films."

There are different standards for evaluating whether a film is good or bad. For investors, the standard is box office performance. For audiences, the standard is whether it meets their expectations.

For directors, some pursue profit, while others pursue artistic value. For judges, their criteria for evaluating films also differ.

Zhu Lin said, "I don't quite understand the evaluation criteria for film directors, but for us stage plays, the standard for judging the quality of a work is whether it wins the audience's favor. Director Zhang, you are so young, I believe you will definitely become an excellent director in the future."

"Professor Liu, Director Zhu, you are both absolutely right. The current situation of our domestic film industry is quite different from that of foreign countries. In China, we can only calculate the number of copies, making it difficult to accurately calculate box office revenue. In addition, our own films struggle to gain international recognition, and they don't even achieve good results in Hong Kong and Macau."

Wu Tianming, the director of Xi'an Film Studio, was the director of "Old Well" and also my mentor. Soon, I would officially begin working at Xi'an Film Studio. Our goal was actually to increase the quality of our films, thereby forcing China Film Group to sit down and negotiate with us.

Zhang Yimou revealed Wu Tianming's idea to Liu Yimin, hoping to exert collective pressure on China Film Studio by working on Liu Yimin.

Their method of increasing the value of their works is to win foreign awards, thereby increasing their prestige abroad, and then using those foreign awards to negotiate with China Film Studio.

In the previous life, Zhang Yimou and his team did indeed obtain a method to settle accounts with China Film Group based on box office revenue through this approach. However, in 89, China Film Group found itself at a disadvantage. In addition, after setting a precedent, other film studios couldn't sit still, as it had too much of an impact on China Film Group's profits. So, they forced Xi'an Film Studio to revert to the method of revenue sharing based on film prints.

Zhang Yimou and others pioneered a path of selling domestic films back to China after they won awards abroad.

After that, she went further and further down this path, with films like "The Story of Qiu Ju," "Raise the Red Lantern," and "Ju Dou" being representative of this approach.

Many people believe that "Ju Dou" was banned immediately after it was filmed and was not released in China, but that is incorrect. It was indeed not released in 90 and 91, but it passed censorship in 92.

Unfortunately, despite winning numerous awards at major international film festivals, its box office performance abroad has been lackluster.

This tactic is similar to how domestic companies create products with foreign names, then spend money to get awards from a few foreign organizations, using those awards as authoritative certificates to advertise their products.

It was through this method that Gong Li was elevated to international superstardom. Zhang Yimou was truly a mentor to Gong Li.

"China Film Group's profit-sharing system has changed somewhat, but it is still very difficult to change it completely at present. China Film Group is not just involved in the affairs of one company; they support countless other entities with their profits."

However, Liu Yimin still encouraged them to have more arguments with China Film Group, to try and get things done first.

"As for winning awards, Comrade Xiao Zhang, a film doesn't win the audience's heart solely through awards. Moreover, different directors have different directing styles. If I say too much, it's fine if you succeed, but if you fail and end up with a hodgepodge, I won't be able to explain it to Xi'an Film Studio."

“Professor Liu, you’re too kind. Your works are not only popular domestically, but also internationally. The fact that they’re popular and have won awards shows that your works possess both artistic and commercial value. Why do you think your works sell so well internationally?” Zhang Yimou asked sincerely.

"It's very simple; it contains emotions that all of humanity shares. Why do some movies sell well domestically but not abroad? It's because foreigners don't understand them, and if they don't understand them, they naturally won't buy into them."

However, the emotions expressed in "Hachi: A Dog's Tale" resonate with people all over the world, bringing tears to their eyes. "Fearless" and "Brotherhood of Blades," on the other hand, attracted foreign audiences through Chinese kung fu, and the themes of punishing evil and adventure are also popular with foreign viewers.

But these two films are clearly more popular in Southeast Asia than in Europe and America. Why? First, there are many Chinese people in Southeast Asia. Second, Southeast Asia is deeply influenced by Chinese culture.

The reason why "The Overseas Chinese" is so popular in Southeast Asia is because it tells the story of overseas Chinese in Southeast Asia.

Well-known Western films are popular worldwide because the world is deeply influenced by Western culture. Furthermore, the main markets for these films, Europe and North America, are predominantly populated by Onsa people.

Liu Yimin explained the difference to Zhang Yimou: winning an award only means gaining the approval of the judging committee, but it does not equate to gaining the approval of the market and the audience.

Zhang Yimou said dejectedly, "Professor Liu, you may not know me well. I like works that express national characteristics. I like to look down into the lives of ordinary people and show Chinese culture and customs in my films, as well as to criticize certain issues. In this light, it is difficult for my films to gain recognition from international audiences."

Liu Yimin and Zhang Yimou discussed the commonalities among internationally bestselling films, the differences between commercial and art films, and which art films can make money and which have low profit margins.

"Strictly speaking, there is no significant difference between art films and commercial films."

Zhang Yimou said, "Upon closer reflection, it's true. Green Book is an art film, but that doesn't stop it from being a huge hit worldwide."

“You’re still young, and you’re still exploring your film style. Even if I told you how to make films that can earn foreign exchange abroad, you might not be willing to do it. The reason I chose Huang Zumo to direct ‘Hachiko’ and ‘The Pilgrimage of One’ is because his filming style suits my taste.” Liu Yimin cut open a chilled watermelon and handed it to Zhang Yimou.

Zhang Yimou took the watermelon and sighed: "Professor Liu, you may not know, but I'm under a lot of pressure right now. I've taken on a film called 'Red Sorghum,' which is my first real time directing. There was a lot of opposition from everyone at Xi'an Film Studio, but Director Wu stood up against it."

After saying that, Zhang Yimou took a big bite of watermelon, his face flushed, and said, "If this movie isn't made well, I'll never be a director again!"

After its completion, the film "Red Sorghum" won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Behind this award lies a twist of fate: the domestic submission was originally intended for director Chen's "King of the Children," but Chen was determined to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes.

In the end, the film department had no choice but to submit "Red Sorghum," which unexpectedly became a dark horse.

"Professor Liu, if I can make a good film, could you consider my scripts for the future?" Zhang Yimou suddenly asked.

Seemingly realizing he had been too abrupt, he quickly added, "You could also consider Xi'an Film Studio. Actually, you don't know, but the creative environment at Xi'an Film Studio is very relaxed now, and the directors are very enthusiastic."

When I came, Director Wu specifically asked me if the book "God's Visa" could be adapted into a film by Xi'an Film Studio. This is a letter from Director Wu to you.

Zhang Yimou handed the letter to Liu Yimin from his bag. This guy was quite cunning; he first made it clear that he wanted to make the film, and then brought up Wu Tianming's matter.

While reading the letter, Zhu Lin chatted with Zhang Yimou, and the two talked about the differences between stage directors and film directors.

In his letter, Wu Tianming expressed his desire for Liu Yimin's script, and also mentioned Lu Yao, talking about how the two of them admired Lu Yao's works when they collaborated on "Life".

After reading the letter, Liu Yimin put it away: "Please go back and tell Director Wu that the script has already been sold, and the director from Xi'an Film Studio is not suitable."

"You've found a place to go?" Zhang Yimou's smile immediately froze on his face.

Liu Yimin said, "Yes, we'll have the opportunity to cooperate again in the future."

"Which film studio did you give it to?" Zhang Yimou asked regretfully, slapping his thigh.

"No, I plan to hand it over to a foreign director for filming."

"Why? Isn't this a Chinese story? Can't Chinese directors make a good film?" Zhang Yimou pressed.

"No, that's not it. But what I want from this work is international impact. If only our own people watch it, it's not very meaningful. I don't know if you understand?" Liu Yimin said.

Zhang Yimou wiped the watermelon juice off his hands: "This time, I was unable to complete the task assigned by Factory Director Wu."

This is such a good script, what a pity!

"Foreign directors can easily screen films worldwide, which is something we can't compare to. The more viewers see it, the better it is for the image of Chinese people around the world."

Zhang Yimou suddenly realized: "You want to shape the image of Chinese people through film?" "Film is a major communication tool, and we must make good use of it! This is not only about shaping our image to the outside world, but also about boosting the confidence and pride of our fellow countrymen." Liu Yimin patted Zhang Yimou on the shoulder.

"Professor Liu, you have a higher perspective than me. My mind is full of thoughts about China. Even if I want to win international awards, my mind is still on China." Zhang Yimou was filled with admiration.

At 11 p.m., Liu Yimin and Zhu Lin went outside and saw Zhang Yimou off from the courtyard.

As Zhang Yimou was leaving, he said, "Professor Liu, your views on international and domestic films and international film awards today were very helpful to me. I hope that my film 'Red Sorghum' can also achieve good results and win the recognition of the audience, not just the recognition of the award committee."

"Films need to find a balance between reality and art. Of course, films should reflect reality, and major award committees also favor realistic films, especially those depicting harsh realities. Whether in China or abroad, everyone believes that films should be critical."

Western award committees have a preconceived notion about China: poverty, backwardness, and depravity. They only consider films depicting poverty, backwardness, and depravity as real, while assuming positive portrayals are fictional.

However, the judging committee and the audience are different. Audiences don't enjoy these kinds of works because they are difficult to understand and empathize with. To gain international recognition, it's necessary to establish an emotional connection with the audience.

Zhang Yimou nodded and said, "I understand, Professor Liu. I'm sorry to have disturbed your and Director Zhu's rest tonight. If I have any questions in the future, please feel free to give me your guidance."

"Where do you live?" Liu Yimin suddenly remembered.

"I'm staying at the guesthouse up ahead, it's just a short walk away."

"Really? You don't live at the Beijing Film Academy?"

“I am familiar with Director Chen of Beijing Film Studio, but I did not go to the Beijing Film Studio after I came to Yanjing. After making a phone call to Uncle Chen, I came to find you.”

"Okay, if it's too far away, I'll stay in the guest room tonight."

"No, no, that would be too much trouble for you. It's not far. My train to Gaomi leaves at four o'clock tomorrow morning."

After watching Zhang Yimou disappear into the alley, Zhu Lin closed the door: "This Director Zhang has a lot of ideas. Nowadays, many young directors are arrogant and unwilling to learn from others. They always feel that the old ways are outdated."

Just as there is avant-garde literature in the literary world, there is also avant-garde literature in the film industry.

Liu Yimin put his arm around Zhu Lin's waist and said, "Let's go back and rest. The script for 'God's Visa' is finished. Take it directly to Teacher Wan when you go to work tomorrow. I'll revise it tonight if there are any changes needed."

"Okay, Teacher Wan has been waiting for a long time. Several directors have been subtly trying to get my opinion." Zhu Lin gently rubbed the muscles on Liu Yimin's arm.

Xi Mei and the two little ones had already gone back to their room to sleep. Liu Yimin and Zhu Lin took a shower and had a deep conversation in their room before going to sleep.

The next morning, after breakfast, Liu Yimin thought about it and wrote a reply to Wu Tianming himself, explaining why he could not give him the script.

On the way to Yenching University, I put a stamp on the letter and dropped it into the mailbox.

Upon arriving at Yenching University, the students in the classrooms were bustling with discussion about the semester's coursework.

As June arrives, students need to prepare for their upcoming exams. Second-year students, hearing from their seniors, are terrified by Professor Liu's tricky and abstract final exam questions, and are now spending their days memorizing "Modern Foreign Literary Thought."

After Liu Yimin finished his lecture, a student couldn't help but raise his hand, wanting to ask Liu Yimin which sections the final exam would cover.

"Asking questions? All sections will be covered, including but not limited to recent literary works and essays. You guys, stop trying to save effort by wishing the exam questions were all in the books."

After Liu Yimin finished speaking, he left the classroom, leaving the students looking at each other in bewilderment.

In the afternoon, Yenching University's Chinese Department held its senior graduation ceremony, and tomorrow Yenching University will hold a graduation ceremony for all faculty and students.

Yan Jiayan arranged for Liu Yimin to speak, but he refused. It would be pointless for him to speak every year.

Hearing this, Yan Jiayan did not press the matter further.

Sitting next to him, Wu Zuxiang said, "Year after year, time really flies. These kids didn't know anything when they first entered university. I remember a few of them very clearly; they were still confused during their freshman year classes."

“Yes, year after year. We take students from high school teachers, raise them for four years, and then send them into society and into various positions. That’s what we do,” Liu Yimin chimed in.

After the ceremony, many students ran up to Liu Yimin and invited him to take a group photo.

Liu Yimin walked outside the Chinese Department and said, "Come on, students who want to take a group photo, just come over one by one."

Upon hearing this, a student immediately stepped forward and walked to Liu Yimin's side, posing for a photo.

After taking a photo with Liu Yimin, the student bowed slightly and immediately walked towards the other professors. Liu Yimin stood at the door for about forty minutes, and seeing that the student had taken enough photos, he rubbed his sore legs and walked back to the Chinese Department.

The trainees at the Institute of Literature and Art wanted to take this opportunity to take a group photo, but Liu Yimin quickly waved his hand and said, "Let's wait a few days. Our Institute of Literature and Art has cameras, so we can take the photo anytime. Everyone should catch up on their work first."

On the morning of June 11, Yenching University officially held the graduation ceremony for the Class of 1983.

After attending the graduation ceremony, the leaders from the Ministry of Education specifically sought out Liu Yimin and said, "Comrade Yimin, thank you for your contributions to higher education in our country."

"Did you come here specifically to praise me?" Liu Yimin asked with a smile.

"Haha, of course not. I just happened to run into you and let you know that the textbook review committee is going to be busy. Textbooks compiled according to the new syllabus from various regions have been sent to the ministry one after another. The next two weeks will be used to review these textbooks."

"This matter!" Liu Yimin pondered, "Now that I have joined the textbook review committee, I will definitely fulfill my responsibilities."

"I'm relieved to hear you say that. Textbooks are of great importance, so we must be rigorous and conscientious. The Education Commission has seen your work, and an outstanding young person like you should be a role model for our education system."

After seeing the leaders off, Liu Yimin rushed back to the Chinese Department. He spent half a day on the playground in June, and his whole body was soaked with sweat.

After being under the fan for a short while, Yan Jiayan, covered in sweat, knocked on the office door.

Yan Jiayan disregarded his image, closed the office door, walked to the fan, and used his shirt to blow air.

"Professor Yan, don't you have a fan in your office?"

"What? You don't welcome me? Then I'll leave?"

"No!" Liu Yimin wiped his sweat and poured Yan Jiayan a cup of tea.

While fanning himself, Yan Jiayan sighed at how hot it was in the summer: "I need to change my clothes this afternoon. This shirt looks nice, but it's not breathable and will get wet in no time. In May, a fan was fine, but now one fan is completely useless."

"The holiday is almost here," Liu Yimin said with a smile.

“I’m different from you. I don’t have air conditioning at home, and that broken fan at home needs to be replaced. It’s spinning too slowly; people who don’t know better would think it’s broken.” Yan Jiayan couldn’t help but grumble when he mentioned the fan at home.

(End of this chapter)