Huayu 2015, the Artist of Light and Shadow

Chapter 122: Gothic aesthetics discussed in a nanny van, German romance analyzed in a studio, and an award-winning actress begs to be taken along once.

"Let's go, I'll take you back to school."

Seeing that Zhang Jingyi had almost finished eating, Lu Yunzhou called the car over, preparing to return to Yanjing together.

"Would you like to go see a movie together?"

After getting into the car, Lu Yunzhou took out his laptop and opened a movie.

It takes about an hour to get from Langfang to Yanjing. Today is the weekend, so there might be traffic. That's just enough time to watch a movie.

"What movie?"

Zhang Jingyi thought to herself, Lu Yunzhou is really a hardworking director. He even watches a movie during his journey.

It seems he really loves this industry.

"Pan's Labyrinth, one of Guillermo del Toro's representative works, is a 2006 fantasy film. Have you seen this movie?"

Lu Yunzhou opened the media player while asking Zhang Jingyi a question.

The film "Pan's Labyrinth" is structurally similar to "A Writer's Odyssey".

Reality and illusion intertwine, and the cruel reality and prophetic fantasies reflect each other, forming a structural mirrored intertextuality.

However, the two directors have completely different approaches to creating visual effects.

Director Guillermo del Toro has his own unique style.

The Gothic dark aesthetic, the wet monsters, and the ancient mechanical structures—the colors lean towards blue tones and also give it a brass feel.

If you randomly open a movie and see the above visual elements, along with an indescribable beautiful texture, Lu Yunzhou can tell within 10 seconds, without even looking at the plot, that it's a film by director Guillermo del Toro.

This is the visual art of a great director, a unique aesthetic taste.

"I haven't seen this movie."

Zhang Jingyi shook her head slightly.

"Let's watch it together then, it's a pretty interesting movie."

Lu Yunzhou handed her an earplug.

The two sat together, each wearing an earphone, quietly watching "Pan's Labyrinth" on the computer screen.

Spain during World War II.

Franco's Spain was dark and cold.

The gloomy forest had an indescribable air of decay.

Seeing the Gothic atmosphere in the movie, Lu Yunzhou couldn't help but think, "Queen Kadamozha's order is probably not so easy to obtain."

"If we simply follow the common Hollywood template and borrow the linear narrative structure of 'The Mummy,' it will be difficult to convince Her Majesty the Queen Mother."

"The dual narrative structure of 'A Writer's Odyssey,' which interweaves reality and fiction and mirrors the characters' fates, is quite novel."

"Perhaps we can secure Queen Mother Moza's order by using this dual narrative approach."

The story of "A Writer's Odyssey" is not actually new. Similar concepts have been used in the 2006 film "Pan's Labyrinth", the 1995 manga "OPUS" by Satoshi Kon, and the Korean drama "W: Two Worlds".

However, as a commercial film, "A Writer's Odyssey" already has a very complex plot structure.

However, a complex structure also has a downside: it can create a barrier for viewers to enjoy the film.

Lowering the barriers to entry is also an art.

If he were to film it himself, Lu Yunzhou felt it would be best to combine the current situation in Qatar with its ancient myths and legends.

The ending cannot be a happy one.

The ending of "A Writer's Odyssey" is very satisfying, but it is precisely because of this satisfying ending that Lu Yunzhou feels it lacks a certain charm.

Qatar's local mythology, unlike that of China, doesn't favor happy endings.

Their myths are very solemn, filled with a cold and dark undertone.

Lu Yunzhou has recently been studying Qatari culture, which, or rather, Bedouin culture, emphasizes the cycle of nature.

They believe that "every transaction has a price, and immortality is torture."

This aligns with Lu Yunzhou's own aesthetic tastes; whatever you gain, you must give something in return, and life is always a transaction.

Two hours later, the movie was over.

Lu Yunzhou sensed that Zhang Jingyi had been enjoying the movie the whole way, so he couldn't help but ask with a smile, "How was it? Wasn't it interesting?"

Director Guillermo del Toro is undoubtedly a genius.

He directed films such as Hellboy, Pan's Labyrinth, and Pacific Rim.

In particular, the well-known "Pacific Rim" was written and directed by him.

That's pretty impressive.

"Um."

Actually, while Zhang Jingyi was watching the movie, her mind was completely blank. She only felt that the fragrance emanating from Lu Yunzhou made her feel a little dizzy.

"How do outcasts live gently in a cruel world?"

"This is the film philosophy of director Guillermo del Toro."

Lu Yunzhou felt that Zhang Jingyi was a promising person. She was quiet and didn't talk much. Such people tend to be more perceptive.

As an actress, she has a better capacity for empathy.

At that moment, he couldn't help but feel a sense of appreciation for talent, and he briefly explained to Zhang Jingyi the special tastes of a film director.

With this framework in place, Zhang Jingyi's future is undoubtedly bright, especially after meeting Zhou Xun and receiving acting guidance.

"Brother, what's your philosophy behind your films?"

Zhang Jingyi didn't care at all about the director's film philosophy. Although it sounded cool, the director was too far removed from her.

"I have similar filmmaking philosophies."

Lu Yunzhou joked, "In this cold world, two people in love should hug each other as much as possible. Hugging is the most primitive way for humans to keep warm."

At this moment, Zhang Jingyi recalled the two films that Lu Yunzhou had directed.

In the movie *Racing Wild*, every time the protagonist achieves something, there's a passionate hug.

In the movie "The Fairy Castle of Dresden", the most memorable scenes, besides the protagonist falling off the cliff at the last moment, are the two most memorable scenes: the willow fairy's affectionate embrace of the protagonist.

"In this cold world, two people in love should embrace each other as much as possible."

Zhang Jingyi murmured a few words, then couldn't help but say, "Brother, although that line is very beautiful, I feel like you're lying to me. The biggest visual characteristic of your film is clearly a hazy texture, a loneliness that turns its back on all living beings, and the sublimity of the human spirit under a desolate universe."

Cheng Congfu leaped up, stood on the podium, turned his back to the camera, and waved the red flag. At that moment, his spiritual strength was at its peak.

Master Li stood alone on the Wai'ang Dam, amidst the swirling sword light, slowly falling into the abyss—that moment of sacrifice contained an endless, sublime will.

That's its biggest feature.

What is love?

They are all just embellishments within the grand narrative context.

This is called German Romanticism, and Zhang Jingyi had seen some analyses of it online.

"Looks like you're a true fan of mine. I can't fool you at all."

Lu Yunzhou was quite happy.

This little girl is pretty, seems quite smart, and most importantly, she's studying very diligently.

Just then, the car stopped in front of the Beijing Film Academy.

"Brother, I've arrived. Thank you for bringing me back. See you next time."

When Zhang Jingyi saw the car arrive, she clearly wanted to stay in the car a little longer, but she acted quite quickly.

She didn't know why she wanted to get away so quickly at this moment.

Perhaps it was because she didn't want Lu Yunzhou to discover her little secret thoughts.

In short, at this moment, she could be described as "fleeing in panic".

See you next time.

Lu Yunzhou waved to Zhang Jingyi.

As Zhang Jingyi got out of the car, she waved to Lu Yunzhou.

It's the weekend, and the school gate is bustling with people and luxury cars, but Lu Yunzhou's black minivan still stands out.

Because these black vans are usually the exclusive choice for celebrities when they go out.

Students at the Beijing Film Academy are very familiar with this type of minivan.

When the black van stopped at the school gate, it quickly attracted the attention of many people.

The moment Zhang Jingyi opened the door, many people saw Lu Yunzhou's face, and their eyes widened in surprise.

"Jingjing—you—him? Zhouzhou?"

Zhang Jingyi's roommate, Qiu Tian, ​​has recently been in contact with Jiahang Media and may sign a contract to join the company as a replacement for the new generation.

She happened to know that Zhang Jingyi and Lu Yunzhou had a very good relationship, and that there was a small conflict between Jiahang Media and Lu Yunzhou, which was common knowledge throughout the world.

Therefore, she has been paying close attention to Zhang Jingyi recently.

To everyone's surprise, Zhang Jingyi, who was usually so quiet, actually had such a good relationship with Lu Yunzhou—Lu Yunzhou personally escorted her back to school.

This feeling is like Yang Mi personally escorting me back to school.

Does she deserve this kind of treatment?

Totally impossible.

For a moment, her jealousy of Zhang Jingyi reached its peak.

"Jingjing, I'll pick you up again tomorrow. I'm going to record a program for the movie channel. I'll take you to meet Zhou Xun then."

""

With the car door still open, Lu Yunzhou said a few more words to Zhang Jingyi.

"Understood, brother."

Zhang Jingyi waved to Lu Yunzhou again before slinging her backpack over her shoulder and turning to enter the school gate.

"Big brother?"

Qiu Tian, ​​who was hiding nearby, was stunned once again after hearing this. Lu Yunzhou was Zhang Jingyi's older brother?

That brat, how could she keep it a secret so well?

It's been almost two months since school started, and while she claims to come from an ordinary family, she also owns a classic khaki women's hat from Borsalino and a premium membership card from the LB Group.

There are also various small accessories from LDC.

Many of them are limited editions, and you can't buy them even if you have the money.

Zhang Jingyi gets a new one every now and then, and she even says she comes from an ordinary family?

"Did you know? Zhang Jingyi is Lu Yunzhou's cousin! I saw it with my own eyes. Lu Yunzhou took Zhang Jingyi back to school, and Zhang Jingyi called him 'big brother'."

"Did you know? Zhang Jingyi is Lu Yunzhou's mother's cousin. I saw it with my own eyes; Lu Yunzhou took Zhang Jingyi back to school and called her 'Auntie'!"

"Did you know? Zhang Jingyi is Lu Yunzhou's stepmother. 'Stepmother,' actually, she's the younger aunt of a Wenzhou man. Those who know, know!"

Zhang Jingyi never expected that she would simply be riding in Lu Yunzhou's nanny car back to school, and in less than two hours, the news would spread throughout the entire school.

But the rumors left her speechless.

Through countless people spreading the word, she eventually became Lu Yunzhou's stepmother.

"Zhang Jingyi is Lu Yunzhou's stepmother, and Liu Haocun is Lu Yunzhou's godmother—how many mothers does he actually have?"

"Lu Yunzhou is so young, yet he has so many people to support him? He seems even more pitiful than Liu Shishi!"

"Liu Shishi will suffer for at most 30 years, and that'll be fine after she sees her five elderly relatives pass away. But Lu Yunzhou's godmothers and stepmothers are even younger than him; his life is completely over!"

The atmosphere in the entire dormitory was very strange.

Zhang Jingyi had reason to suspect that the source of the rumors was one of her roommates, a "fake" friend.

Apart from her roommates, no one else knew that she had received so many gifts from the LB Group.

Unfortunately, they never dreamed that these things were not given to her by Lu Yunzhou, but by Cai Xukun.

Cai Xukun used these things almost without spending any money.

Lu Yunzhou gave him the title of "Product Experience Officer" and would send him a copy whenever a new product was launched.

Cai Xukun didn't need that many himself, so he gave some to Zhang Jingyi.

But to outsiders, she became Lu Yunzhou's aunt and stepmother.

Unfortunately, those people even spread the wrong rumors—"Little Aunt" doesn't mean "youngest aunt," nor does it mean "stepmother."

It means concubine!

"This dorm room is unbearable to stay in."

Zhang Jingyi didn't have a particularly good relationship with her roommates, who were all from wealthy families, while she came from an ordinary family.

Rumors are spreading all over the dormitory, and she can't stand it anymore. She packed her bag and went to the library to avoid the storm.

Who knew that even the library wouldn't be quiet?

"Shh, shh~~"

Zhang Jingyi had just sat down in the library when a handsome young man at the next table poked his head out and winked at her.

It's Wang Junkai from Class 3.

"Is there something you need?"

Zhang Jingyi frowned slightly.

Wang Junkai looked around for a while, then sat down next to Zhang Jingyi and asked in a low voice, "Did you sign with Brother Zhou's company?"

Zhang Jingyi shook her head slightly: "No."

Wang Junkai immediately let out a sigh of relief: "Then I'm relieved."

What are you worried about?

Zhang Jingyi looked puzzled.

Wang Junkai explained, "I've been promoting 'Miracles of the Namiya General Store' these past few days. I acted in it with Dilraba. A couple of days ago, at some fashion awards ceremony, Dilraba was again being paired up with Zhou Ge (a popular internet personality).

"I also got dragged into the trending topics —"

At this point, Wang Junkai let out a heavy sigh.

The most annoying people are those who only say half of what they mean.

At this moment, Zhang Jingyi also felt a surge of curiosity and turned to look at Wang Junkai: "What does it have to do with you that Big Brother is creating a CP with Dilraba? How come you're trending on Weibo too?"

"I'm helpless too."

Wang Junkai rummaged through his phone and showed it to Zhang Jingyi: "Both Zhou Ge and Dilraba were born in 92, so it's normal for them to have rumors about them."

"I've been rumored to be dating Yang Mi—they say I've loved AD calcium milk since I was little and can't quit."

puff!

Zhang Jingyi didn't want to laugh, but she really couldn't help it.

After thinking about it, Zhang Jingyi still wanted to know the real answer: "So, is it really true?"

Wang Junkai looked up at Zhang Jingyi and said, "You mean AD calcium milk? That's true. I really like it. Didn't you like it when you were little?"

"I like it quite a bit too."

Zhang Jingyi suppressed a laugh. "Am I the same kind of person as you?"

"In short, we're both in a bad situation, having been unfairly blamed for this."

I didn't get any milk, you didn't get any porridge, but we both ended up bearing the blame. Wang Junkai felt that he and Zhang Jingyi were in the same boat and should have a lot in common.

"By the way, I saw Liu Haocun come to school to see you last time, right?"

At that time, Liu Haocun was still a complete newcomer. Zhang Jingyi had only been in school for a week when Liu Haocun came to the school to find Zhang Jingyi to play together.

Wang Junkai happened to see it.

At the time, he only thought Liu Haocun's legs were very long, and he couldn't help but take a few more glances. Little did he know that a few months later, Liu Haocun would become a top-tier female celebrity.

Famous overnight.

In October, the witch played by Liu Haocun became a global sensation.

In October, that face became known in the media as a high-class movie face, the pinnacle of first love.

"Just say what you want to say. Stop beating around the bush. I know this isn't what you really want to talk about."

Zhang Jingyi could tell that Wang Junkai wanted to build a relationship with her in order to get some truly useful information.

"I heard that Brother Zhou is preparing a visually stunning film set in the Middle East, possibly called 'The Fairy Castle 2.' Do you need a young actor for it?"

This was the first time Wang Junkai had ever done something like this.

He easily got the role in the movie "Miracles of the Namiya General Store" through his agency.

However, the agency couldn't get any roles for Lu Yunzhou in movies, and they couldn't get into Lu Yunzhou's circle.

The circle of film directors is the most exclusive.

Because these people consider themselves artists, they treat all the celebrities and actors in the entertainment industry like hammers and nails—they simply don't communicate with them.

They don't even sit at the same table when they eat.

Unless one of the celebrities or actors here wins a major international award.

For film directors, these actors are no longer ordinary hammers and nails, but a very good electric drill.

When they need to drill a hole, they naturally need a handy tool, and that's when a good electric drill comes in handy.

Ordinary hammers and nails are readily available everywhere.

Wang Junkai is currently a very popular idol, but for film directors, he is at best a pretty nail in the coffin.

"I'll ask around if I have the chance. But I feel the chances are slim."

What Zhang Jingyi wanted to say was that she didn't really have a chance to ask for Wang Junkai, because she had only just become Lu Yunzhou's little sister.

The relationship is far less intimate than outsiders imagine.

But in Wang Junkai's view, the fact that Lu Yunzhou was willing to personally escort Zhang Jingyi back to school meant that their relationship was not ordinary.

Wang Junkai had seen Lu Yunzhou a few times at some fashionable galas; that guy was unusually aloof.

During those meetings, Wang Junkai's gaze was always fixed on Yang Mi—he had personally witnessed Yang Mi wagging her tail and circling around Lu Yunzhou like a lapdog.

As a result, Lu Yunzhou ignored Yang Mi completely, not even glancing at her.

The fact that Lu Yunzhou personally brought Zhang Jingyi to school is a huge blow to her reputation. No wonder there are rumors at school that Zhang Jingyi is Lu Yunzhou's stepmother.

"Thank you, thank you. Auntie, I'm so grateful. If you ever have any trouble at school, just come to me."

Wang Junkai directly added a generational title to Zhang Jingyi.

"Don't call me auntie."

Zhang Jingyi instinctively felt that this was not a good way to address someone and felt very disgusted by it.

The next day was Monday.

After finishing lunch, Lu Yunzhou came to the school to pick up Zhang Jingyi so they could go to the movie channel to record a program together.

"See that? Brother Zhou is here to pick up Zhang Jingyi again!"

Wang Junkai happened to be having lunch with some classmates when he witnessed Zhang Jingyi getting into Lu Yunzhou's van.

Lu Yunzhou also reached out and pulled Zhang Jingyi along.

At that moment, Zhang Jingyi settled into her seat and happened to see Wang Junkai outside.

Wang Junkai waved enthusiastically to Zhang Jingyi.

Zhang Jingyi smiled shyly, but without pausing, she decisively closed the car door.

"Is he your classmate? He looks familiar. Is he Wang Junkai? He's been rumored to be dating Yang Mi lately."

-

"My friend is such a terrible person. She even has these kinds of rumors circulating. I wonder who's trying to ruin her."

Recent rumors suggest that Wang Junkai and Yang Mi started dating in 2015, and the two were seen playfully bickering in karaoke bars, behaving like a couple.

However, without photographic evidence, Lu Yunzhou did not believe this urban legend.

"Brother, he came to see me last night and said he wants to make a movie with you."

Zhang Jingyi was quite loyal; she told Lu Yunzhou about it immediately. Whether Lu Yunzhou agreed or not was none of her business.

"He's already having a rumored relationship with Yang Mi, how am I supposed to promote him? Even if I wanted to work with him before, it's impossible now."

0

"It seems someone is working against him behind the scenes."

Lu Yunzhou didn't put on airs in front of Zhang Jingyi and directly rejected Wang Junkai's idea.

Wang Junkai and Yang Mi are so close, how could Lu Yunzhou possibly cooperate with him?

His fans definitely won't accept it.

Lu Yunzhou himself didn't really have many thoughts about Yang Mi; at worst, he wouldn't cooperate. But as an idol, his fans hated Yang Mi and Dilraba Dilmurat to the core.

If he collaborates with Yang Mi or Dilraba, his fans will show him what real offline interaction looks like.

After all, those young fans who follow celebrities are not very old, and their understanding of the world is that they have clear likes and dislikes, and black and white views.

They're either friends or enemies.

"Brother, you mean, one of his teammates is secretly plotting against him?"

Zhang Jingyi, being perceptive, immediately understood what Lu Yunzhou was implying.

"Most likely."

Lu Yunzhou turned to look at Zhang Jingyi and said very seriously, "Never tell anyone your trump card, because that will become the biggest weapon someone uses against you."

"Thank you for your guidance, elder brother."

Lu Yunzhou's words made Zhang Jingyi feel the care and guidance of a parent.

Even her mother had never taught her such profound wisdom.

The trouble Wang Junkai encountered was most likely caused by his two teammates, because those two teammates knew him best.

Does it matter whether it's true or false?

Even a tiny bit of a sign is enough.

Clearly, Wang Junkai has some unusual feelings for Yang Mi. After all, what young man can resist having fantasies when he sees a beautiful older woman?

Zhang Jingyi understands Wang Junkai's thoughts very well.

Because every time she saw Lu Yunzhou, she would have a little thought in her heart.

Movie Channel.

"Cloud Boat, here it comes!"

Upon seeing Lu Yunzhou, Zhou Xun was very enthusiastic and immediately gave him a big hug: "Congratulations! The box office of 'The Fairy Castle of Dresden' is really amazing. I checked this morning and it's already $9.5 million — breaking $10 billion is just a matter of time."

"When do you think you'll be able to break through?"

Zhou Xun was very curious about this.

Lu Yunzhou has now broken the box office record for Chinese directors, but the $10 billion box office is a milestone for many people.

-

If the overseas box office doesn't break records, Lu Yunzhou only needs to rally domestic audiences, and enthusiastic viewers will watch it two or three times, forcibly pushing the film to over $10 billion.

Therefore, breaking the $10 billion mark is only a matter of time.

"Next week."

"This film has screenings in several Southeast Asian countries. We hadn't finalized the arrangements before, but we did a couple of days ago. It will be released next week, and we should be able to get enough box office revenue soon."

Southeast Asia is a vast market.

Southeast Asia has a population of nearly 7 million, equivalent to another Europe.

Although Southeast Asia generally has low purchasing power, getting 5000 million US dollars for Lu Yunzhou shouldn't be a problem no matter what.

"Then I congratulate you in advance."

The emergence of such a great director in China has undoubtedly created more opportunities for a superstar actress like Zhou Xun.

She was, of course, very happy.

Before "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace" has even aired, Zhou Xun has yet to earn the nickname "Teacher Da Ru," but she remains full of anticipation for her acting career.

"Jingjing, what brings you here? I thought I was seeing things."

While Zhou Xun was chatting with Lu Yunzhou, she turned her head and saw a little girl with Lu Yunzhou. She felt that the girl looked familiar, but she was not sure.

Zhou Xun only realized it when Zhang Jingyi turned her head and revealed her signature stubborn chin.

This is one of her students at the "Mountain School".

"Teacher Zhou, she's my cousin. She told me she joined some kind of training institution and asked if it's a scam?"

"When I heard that, I immediately retorted, 'What kind of training institution would dare to scam my sister? Do you know that your older brother is now a well-known director in China? Who would dare to scam you? Don't you want to work in this industry anymore?'"

"So she brought me to see you."

Lu Yunzhou jokingly introduced Zhang Jingyi's relationship with him, while also praising Zhou Xun for her excellent eye, having managed to find his sister in the crowd.

"So, Jingjing is your cousin? I knew it, that girl has a special kind of spirituality. But she's really tight-lipped, not even saying she has this relationship with you."

Zhou Xun originally only had a slight impression of Zhang Jingyi, but after this introduction, her impression of Zhang Jingyi became extremely deep.

No need to choose anymore.

With so many newcomers in the [Mountain School], Zhang Jingyi cleared the game in no time.

From now on, she will be the little princess that her company is heavily promoting.

As for why Lu Yunzhou didn't sign Zhang Jingyi to his company—Zhou Xun can understand.

It is precisely because we are relatives that we cannot sign.

Once you're in the company, you're the boss and the employee. But if they're also related by blood, like cousins, that can make the relationship very ambiguous.

If something goes wrong, it can easily escalate into a family conflict.

"By the way, Yunzhou, I heard you're currently preparing for 'Fairy Castle 2'? Planning to shoot a Middle Eastern-themed film?"

Big projects in the entertainment industry require the collaboration of many people and cannot be kept secret.

Therefore, once a project starts operating, or even before it has been officially approved, many people will hear rumors and gossip.

Clearly, Zhou Xun also wants to join this project.

"I have some ideas, but I need to go to Qatar to do some on-site research. Since it's a custom service for the Queen Mother of Qatar, the client has to be satisfied first."

Lu Yunzhou's subtext was that the roles in this film needed to be played by actors with a Middle Eastern flair.

Zhou Xun is definitely not an option.

"You're really something."

Zhou Xun immediately understood and gave Lu Yunzhou a thumbs up: "The last movie was paid for by Audi and the German government. This time it's even bigger, with Middle Eastern oil tycoons footing the bill."

What is $1 million to oil tycoons?

We just need to sell a few more barrels of oil.

This oil gushed from the ground; it was a gift from God—they didn't even have to work hard to obtain it.

"Let's stop talking now and start recording the show."

"Take a look at the interview transcript first—if you find the questions sensitive or difficult to answer, just skip them."

Zhou Xun had no intention of making things difficult for Lu Yunzhou.

Lu Yunzhou's cousin, Zhang Jingyi, is about to become the little princess that his company is heavily promoting; the two of them are definitely on his own side.

Inside the studio.

Zhou Xun, holding her script, interviewed Lu Yunzhou: "How did you embark on your acting career?"

Lu Yunzhou was wearing a casual suit with the collar deliberately unbuttoned, and his hair was styled to be wet, giving him a distinctly nautical look.

It appears casual and unrestrained.

He ran his fingers lightly across his chin and suddenly laughed: "Being an actor for the first time was actually a coincidence. The TV series 'The Day Is Coming' that I was preparing for at the time was my first time filming a long-running drama, which was very significant to me."

"However, we couldn't find a male lead who really fit the character's temperament, and I talked to the producer for a long time. One day, the producer suddenly said to me, 'Why don't you give it a try yourself? You can save us the cost of a male lead's salary.'"

"I thought about it, and since it's not a lot of screen time, it shouldn't affect filming, so I'll give it a try."

Hearing this, Zhou Xun laughed and joked, "Just a casual try and you became a global superstar? Shouldn't we give your producer a round of applause? It was her keen eye that brought us a superstar."

As soon as he finished speaking, the audience in the studio began to applaud.

Zhou Xun continued, "In 'The Speeding Racer,' you had a lot of car chase scenes, which caused a lot of controversy online. Many people said, 'You're a super racer,' did you do all those overtaking scenes yourself, or were they done by a stunt double?"

"I own all of them."

Lu Yunzhou was indeed very proud of this: "Many of the overtaking scenes in the film were developed in collaboration with Tom, an engineer from the Audi team. He used to be an F1 driver and has extensive racing experience. He was the technical advisor for our film. He taught me all my overtaking techniques."

As soon as Lu Yunzhou finished speaking, the entire audience erupted in applause.

Because many of the racing scenes in the film are very cool, many people are speculating whether Lu Yunzhou used a stunt double.

I never expected that Lu Yunzhou would take the photos himself.

Really great.

Admirable.

"One last question—why did you have so little screen time in 'The Fairy Castle of Dresden'? I wanted more. Every time you appeared, I thought those scenes were incredibly cool."

"How did you portray that classical elegance, that quiet, ancient, and profound feeling?"

As an actress, Zhou Xun knows how Lu Yunzhou was portrayed.

But this is an interview, it's for an audience.

Viewers are probably very eager to know how these scenes were filmed and how Lu Yunzhou portrayed them.

"First, answer why you have so few scenes."

"First of all, this is not a male-centric movie in the strict sense. The male protagonist is more of a mirror image, used to make up for the part of the story that the female protagonist is missing."

"Their lives are symmetrical and cycle through each other, so filming the male lead is actually filming the female lead's past life."

"The combined screen time of the male and female leads is about 70 minutes, which is about half of the entire movie's plot. That's not a small amount. Most visual blockbusters have a similar percentage."

Upon hearing Lu Yunzhou's words, Zhou Xun's eyes lit up.

Having the director personally explain the story and hidden clues of the film is very interesting for the actors.

This will greatly broaden the actors' perspective on a film.

At this moment, Lu Yunzhou continued, "Secondly, since I am the director of this film, I took a little shortcut and only shot some relatively simple scenes."

"Some of the intense fight scenes and chase scenes were all handled by Xiaocun. Although it was her first time acting in a movie, she was very talented and had a natural flair for it."

"In addition, the reason why my character looks so classical and elegant is, I think, mainly because every single one of my costumes was made by the top designers in the industry."

"Each outfit has a unique design language."

"A large portion of the film's budget went into the costumes. A large part of these costumes were themed around the film and were showcased at Milan Fashion Week in September, with pretty good results."

"Finally—you just mentioned that my character gives people a deep and ancient feeling? Actually, this is not something that an actor can portray. It requires the entire staff to create the lighting and shadow effects, the art design, and everyone to work together to create an immersive atmosphere."

"In this film, I made extensive use of Impressionist lighting techniques. Especially in the Black Forest scene, I captured the dappled sunlight, with bright colors and a sense of atmosphere, which gives people a pastoral, poetic ode."

"When filming scenes featuring the female lead, we emphasize a personal melancholy and the oppression of fate, integrating it into the landscape. We use tranquil scenes to depict a gray-purple sky, distant snow-covered landscapes, and gray stones, thus giving people a sense of silent power."

"Actually, it has nothing to do with the actors' acting skills; it's a projection of the natural landscape onto the audience's emotions! There's a kind of Russian melancholy in it."

"In terms of visual techniques, the more expansive the space, the more mental pressure it can create for the audience. In addition, I cleverly used the German romanticism of Friedrich's mist, which further enhances the audience's indescribable sense of oppression."

"The misty fog will further amplify the sense of powerlessness, as if facing a predetermined fate."

"In that mysterious environment, the fate of an individual becomes very insignificant—so when all the answers are revealed at the end, the audience will not feel pain, but rather a sense of relief."

"Finally, the relieved smile on the protagonist's face after all this was done was even more convincing."

"Actually, when I was acting, I was thinking, 'It's finally over. This journey has been really tough for me.'"

"However, this is, after all, a commercial blockbuster, and I still wanted to please the audience—therefore, I added a cheerful post-credits scene to dispel the oppressive atmosphere."

After Lu Yunzhou finished speaking, the whole audience applauded.

Zhou Xun clapped softly, then fell into a long silence, staring intently at Lu Yunzhou with shining eyes.

This is a talented director.

You can tell how confident he is just by listening to his unhurried tone of voice.

Moreover, he is a very humorous person.

Unlike the male protagonist in the movie, who is deep and melancholic, he is clearly a very sunny and cheerful person.

No wonder he has so many fans across the internet.

Among a bunch of empty-hearted celebrities with blond hair, he not only possesses handsome looks and rich inner qualities, but also a touch of humor.

Who wouldn't like him?

After the interview.

Lu Yunzhou packed his things and left.

Zhou Xun immediately followed him out, chasing after him and saying, "Yunzhou, let's make an art film. I'll be your sponsor. I'm begging you."

Lu Yunzhou is absolutely perfect for making art films!

Shooting visual blockbusters can be very profitable, but it can't fully express the emotions in Lu Yunzhou's heart.

"It's not the right time yet."

Lu Yunzhou slowly shook his head: "In these times of booming economy, we should enjoy the happiness of making money right now. As for art films that reflect on spiritual dilemmas, there will be plenty of time to make those in the future."

-

Europe, North America, and Japan have all gone through similar phases.

When the economy is booming, everyone likes to watch those dream-like soap operas and immerse themselves in that dreamlike bubble.

But once the bubble bursts, people will detach themselves from their dreams and ideals and re-examine the reality of society.

To rediscover the various contradictions in life, the fragmentation of the world, and the entanglements of emotions.

Only after a similar social consensus is reached will art films experience explosive growth.

That's how it is in Germany.

Since entering a period of deep aging in 1971, the immigration problem has become increasingly serious, society has become more and more divided, and various implicit and explicit contradictions have become extremely troublesome.

Therefore, the Berlin Film Festival is very fond of social issues, historical critiques, and reflections on the spiritual dilemmas of the times.

In 2017, making art films in the country was like asking for trouble.

But 10 years from now, excellent art films may become the new darlings of the film market.

"Xiao Cun, when did you arrive?"

After Lu Yunzhou came out, he saw Liu Haocun and Zhang Jingyi sitting together, whispering and discussing something.

"Brother, you came to Yanjing without inviting me. It makes me very sad."

Liu Haocun learned that Lu Yunzhou was coming to the movie channel for an interview from Zhang Jingyi. At this moment, she pouted and looked at Lu Yunzhou with a wronged expression.

They came to Yanjing but didn't look for me, treating me like an outsider.

How could she be happy?

"You finally managed to come back to school for a few days, how could I bear to disturb you? If this continues, I'm afraid you won't be able to graduate from university."

Lu Yunzhou made up some excuse to brush it off.

Seeing that Liu Haocun didn't believe him, Lu Yunzhou couldn't help but use his trump card: "How many courses did you fail last semester? Tell me yourself."

Liu Haocun immediately became embarrassed: "Well, that—hehe, I'm so good-looking, and my legs are so long. If I also get good grades, wouldn't I be perfect and invincible? Everyone has their own shortcomings."

Lu Yunzhou laughed heartily.

He put his arm around Liu Haocun's shoulder and said earnestly, "You should focus on your studies. Practice your English. You've already earned 3000 million this year, so you can take a good rest."

The endorsement contract is signed every two years.

After signing this endorsement contract, Liu Haocun won't have to worry for the next two years; he can just walk the red carpet and attend fashion events.

In addition, she also secured a film contract with director Zhang Yimou for "One Second," so she won't have to worry about work next year.

"Xiao Cun, you've come at the right time. Help me take Jingjing back to school."

"I have something to do, I'll be going now."

Lu Yunzhou flipped through his phone and a long string of Uyghur text popped up. He didn't even need to look to know that Nazha must have found out he was in Yanjing and was frantically looking for him.

"understood."

Lu Yunzhou is indeed quite busy, and Liu Haocun knows this.

"Jingjing, let's go."

Liu Haocun led Zhang Jingyi away, saying, "I got my driver's license and bought a new car. I'll take you for a drive."

"Let's go, let's go, drive me now!"

"Don't let me be late. Otherwise, I'll dock your bonuses!"

Naza was shooting a print poster for Han Shu skincare's autumn/winter series when she heard a rumor that Lu Yunzhou was spotted flirting with Zhang Jingyi at the entrance of Beijing Film Academy.

Isn't Zhang Jingyi the Xiangxi Zombie King from the "Chinese Rooster" group?

Lu Yunzhou came to Yanjing, but instead of looking for her, he went to see Zhang Jingyi?

This made Nazha very jealous.

Fortunately, Lu Yunzhou still had some conscience; when he invited him to dinner, he didn't refuse.

"Sister Zha, where are we in such a hurry to go?"

At this moment, urged by Nazha, the assistant kept rummaging through the cosmetics and handing them to Nazha one by one.

Naza had just finished shooting a photoshoot and removed her makeup, but now she had to go on a date and had to touch up her makeup again in the car.

She cleverly applied a semi-nude makeup look, making it appear as if she wasn't wearing any makeup at all, resulting in a fresh and natural appearance. In addition, she cleverly avoided wearing lipstick, simply applying some lip balm.

The lipstick tastes terrible when you kiss it.

Lip balm is different; it tastes a little sweet.

She used baby-safe, edible ones, which tasted like peaches.

Lu Yunzhou likes the peach-flavored Gatorade, so he'll definitely like the scent of this lip balm too.

"Zhahuang, I won't ask anymore."

Seeing Nazha so nervously putting on makeup and making all the necessary preparations, the assistant immediately understood that she was going to meet Lu Yunzhou.

She changed all the nicknames used to refer to Nazha.

Normally she's known as Sister Zha, but when Nazha clings to Lu Yunzhou's leg, she's known as Empress Zha.

"You've probably heard that he's currently preparing for 'Fairy Castle 2' and will be going to Qatar in a couple of days to meet Her Majesty the Queen Mother and give him a detailed tour of the city."

"During Milan Fashion Week, Her Majesty the Queen Mother said I was very beautiful—do you think I could get the lead role in this movie?"

Naza is really looking forward to it.

She felt that she might become the female lead in this movie.

Regardless, she wanted to give it a shot.

"Your Majesty, we can just be fake empresses. It's fine to entertain ourselves occasionally. Just don't push your luck."

""

At this moment, not only did the assistant try to persuade Nazha, but the executive agent also joined in.

Movies are Lu Yunzhou's lifeblood.

If Naza's acting skills ruin the movie, forget about her playing the fake empress; Lu Yunzhou will probably just banish her to the cold palace!

"You all look down on me—I'll prove you wrong!"

Hearing her assistant and executive agent both advising her not to humiliate herself, Nazha's rebellious streak instantly kicked in.

She felt she had a chance!

She didn't believe in her own acting skills, but rather in Lu Yunzhou's confidence in her ability to promote her!

Because she had prepared a little surprise for Lu Yunzhou.