Generation Z Artists

Chapter 331 Failure? Victory or defeat is only known at the very end.
This 90-minute feature film, with cinematic visuals and the logic of a TV series, was a real challenge for Fang Xinghe.

It would be pointless to publicly release it domestically.

The TV series adaptation of The Return of the Condor Heroes can easily reach 12 billion viewers after just two rounds of broadcasting on television. Regardless of whether the general public likes it or not, they will at least watch two episodes.

Therefore, hoping that the film version will drive traffic to the TV series is putting the cart before the horse.

So, what if we wait until the TV series becomes a huge hit before releasing the movie version?

This could be a great addition.

But the problem is, the domestic film market is only so big, what's the point of making an extra 100 or 200 million yuan at the box office?
Unless it's released globally... that's not very realistic.

The premise for a theatrical release is that the TV series version of The Return of the Condor Heroes is truly a hit in Europe and America, and a large number of viewers fully understand the whole story and empathize with it before they will be interested in this kind of episodic and supplementary film.

Will the TV series resonate with audiences in Europe and America?

Based on Fang Xinghe's understanding of the current situation in the West, he felt it was unlikely to work out.

To confirm, he specifically spoke with the president of CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System).

“You know, SR, as a basic cable channel, it’s impossible for us to broadcast your shows.”

"Is the reason nationality?"

"The reason is a complaint."

Simons, who is one-quarter Irish, makes no attempt to shy away from these sensitive issues.

"Broadcasting an Eastern live-action drama on a basic cable channel is a politically risky endeavor."

As you know, discrimination is everywhere in America. If even a small minority of people feel that the content appearing on free radio networks is polluting their eyes, they will complain, march, protest, and cause us a lot of trouble.

The federal government might turn a blind eye to this, but what about the conservative states?

Any member of parliament could use this as a pretext to launch an attack, potentially leading to severe penalties or other problems.

Our seven free-to-air television networks can't afford this kind of trouble, so animated shows are fine, but live-action dramas are not.

This isn't directed at you personally, it's a taboo.

Fang Xinghe nodded and then asked, "So, what about paid channels?"

"That's HBO, FX, and Showtime."

Simons pondered for a very perfunctory second—just a second—and then shook his head again.

"It's still very difficult."

First, you need to re-dub the entire series in English. Second, you need to adjust the editing to suit the viewing habits of Europeans and Americans. Only then can you start negotiating with them.

If you pay a huge price, I believe they might try airing it for a few days as a trial run in the late-night slot.

But ultimately, you still have to face the judgment of the audience.

Pay viewers may not complain on a large scale, but their tastes are in shows like "The Sopranos" and "Sex and the City." How can Chinese martial arts dramas capture their interest and help these idiots overcome their problems such as face blindness, arrogance, discrimination, and low comprehension?

"Fang, the whole of Hollywood knows what you've been making this year, but no major company is eager to contact you. I think you can figure out why."

"Yes I know."

Eastern martial arts dramas are not valuable enough, so there's no need for them to be so enthusiastic.

Many Chinese people believe that there is not much difference between "Hero" and "The Return of the Condor Heroes". They believe that both are kung fu movies, both are martial arts movies, and both star Fang Xinghe. Therefore, if "Hero" can be popular, then "The Return of the Condor Heroes" can be popular as well.

But Hollywood doesn't agree.

Simons explained the logic very clearly.

"Watching TV series is a purely personal and long-term pastime. It doesn't have the social aspect of watching movies; it's a rather private and immersive experience."

Many Americans go to the cinema to see "Better Days" because it deals with the theme of school bullying, a social pain point, and they are willing to spend a few dollars and 90 minutes for this core message—a one-time, short-term consumption.

Or perhaps some people aren't interested in the core of the story, but their friends decide to watch a movie together, giving it a social gathering aspect. Okay, then four or five teenagers go to the cinema together, and whether the movie is good or not, they have common topics to discuss—this is a social gathering consumption.

The Return of the Condor Heroes is clearly different.

It lacks both the cultural core that interests Americans and the social attributes of film. It will most likely be shown in the midnight slot. How deep must one's love be to watch this kind of show?
It's important to understand that most Americans pay a monthly subscription to HBO just to watch those two shows; otherwise, they still primarily watch the seven free-to-air channels.

Simons objectively summarized: "Only extreme kung fu fans can tolerate all the inconveniences and watch this show. Other viewers who are just curious won't even be able to finish two episodes."

Yes, they might buy tickets to watch "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Hero" out of curiosity, but curiosity alone cannot sustain their enthusiasm for watching the series.

unless……

It's not just about curiosity, or even extreme curiosity.

"SR, CBS can't help you this time. I'm afraid it will be difficult for us to cooperate..."

At the end of the conversation, Simons was frank and didn't let Fang Xinghe make any demands.

"It's alright, even so, thank you for your help."

Fang Xinghe was not discouraged and soon visited Roger, the current general manager of HBO, with the 3-hour film version of "Xiangyang".

"Wow, it's amazing! Why not?"

Roger was very enthusiastic.

"What I mean is, if the show does well enough across Asia, then we would be quite happy to buy the rights and air it at some point."

"Which specific time period?"

"Every Saturday at 12:30?" Roger shrugged. "Because of you, we're willing to give up our best time!"

"most?"

“Best!” Roger nodded vigorously. “No broadcast network in the entire United States could possibly have a better broadcast time! But you must re-edit it according to our requirements…”

At this point, Fang Xinghe basically gave up on selling his dramas to Europe and America.

The American version of "The Return of the Condor Heroes" had to be re-dubbed, cut into 80-minute episodes, and have its fast-paced content compressed.

Even so, HBO was only willing to offer a buyout price of $2000 million for a midnight broadcast.

Furthermore, the $2000 million was not a one-time payment, but rather $200 million for a four-episode pilot, with the decision to continue or cancel the series based on viewership ratings.

It's shameless, but it's the best offer the entire United States has made.

This is the first failure Fang Xinghe has faced since his rebirth.

There is almost no room for maneuver.

He had extensive contact with many professionals, but couldn't find a trace of optimism.

Does the American people approve of Fang Xinghe?

Hollywood and Wall Street offered different answers.

"Yes, of course, the American people love you!"

The Warner vice president's exaggerated expression made it seem as if he were standing on a presidential campaign stage.

"It's just that this liking comes with a little bit of a condition... They like your movies, preferably kung fu movies, but the housewives and conservative white men who control the remote control may not be so happy to watch an Eastern drama that they don't understand."

Meanwhile, Wall Street analysts exuded calm wisdom, rattling off one technical term after another.

"The American people are a very broad concept. 60% of the majority of the population does not recognize a basketball commander, director, or kung fu superstar named Fang Xinghe. SR, your influence only works among young people. Your commercial value is based on the impulsive consumption characteristics of this group. In the field of natural consumption, you are not special."

Fang Xinghe pressed on with great interest: "What do you mean by the 'natural consumption' sector?"

"None of the various domestic food brands that dominate American family tables will offer you a price quote, and that's the difference."

His words were harsh, but remarkably accurate and objective.

"OK, I understand." Fang Xinghe accepted the failure calmly, and also accepted the possibility that "The Return of the Condor Heroes" might not recoup its costs.

Without the support of the European and American markets, it's unrealistic for "The Return of the Condor Heroes" to sell for 5 million yuan no matter what it does.

But he did not let the failure spread.

"Then, let's talk about a new business deal."

Fang Xinghe found Warner again, and amidst the latter's bewildered expression, he smiled calmly.

"what?"

"Help me release a high-definition DVD of 'The Return of the Condor Heroes: The Final Battle' as a sister film to 'Hero'."

"A sister piece?"

"Yes, in terms of promotion, it is a sequel to Hero."

"But it is independent."

"A kung fu movie, starring me, big scenes, a 3.5-hour collector's edition, plus an hour of behind-the-scenes footage, high-quality original soundtrack... If you don't tell the buyers, how will they know what this is?"

"..."

President Alan was stunned for a long time before suddenly realizing that this was an excellent opportunity to make money.

The Battle of Xiangyang in The Return of the Condor Heroes definitely can't be shown directly in the movie theater.

The 2-hour version has a weak storyline and lacks plot twists. The first 50 minutes are about Fang Xinghe crushing all the enemies, while the next 80 minutes are about unfamiliar characters dying one after another in big scenes.

The 200-minute version has some storytelling, but it still lacks a beginning and an end, and its excessive length can easily leave viewers feeling confused and tired.

A good movie starts with a good story.

If you can't understand the story, your reputation will definitely be ruined.

However, if this subpar film were sold as a standalone visual spectacle, many Hero fans would likely be willing to collect it.

This isn't watching a new movie; it's a sequel to "Hero." You'll see Fang Xinghe's brand new actions. Forget about the plot; just enjoy the show!

Will it sell well?

It's sure to sell well!

Alan was deeply moved, but he frowned and said, "SR, our collaboration is over. 'You' could have won many Oscars, but your indifference has made our initial investment go down the drain..."

At the Oscars held in March this year, "The Lost Ones" received 6 nominations and was highly regarded by the media at the time, who believed that it could become the biggest winner again.

result……

Fang Xinghe was so engrossed in filming that he didn't even show up, let alone cooperate with public relations efforts.

Ultimately, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King swept this year's Oscars, crushing all the ambitious contenders.

Warner executives were quite dissatisfied with Fang Xinghe, believing that he disrespected Warner and had the attitude of a scumbag who would use someone and then discard them.

Fang Xinghe remained calm and explained, "Even the Golden Horse Awards, which were held right here, did not include 'Less Than You.' I am an artist, not an awards businessman."

This reason is a bit far-fetched, but Alan is also talking nonsense. It's all in the past, and bringing it up now is just to try and get better terms.

"No matter what, you should compensate Warner."

But Fang Ge didn't tolerate it at all: "Giving the distribution to you is the best compensation. Sony and Universal must really want this kind of compensation, but they don't have the chance."

The negotiations are progressing slowly and with difficulty; let's leave the specific details aside.

In short, Warner Bros. happily accepted the task and began preparing to release "Hero Sequel".

Is it outrageous? Of course it is.

This is a complete scam.

The problem is that Brother Fang doesn't target ordinary people; he only releases collector's editions and limited editions for $28.8 and $59, targeting hardcore fans of "Heroes".

Do these people feel like they've been scammed?
Perhaps a little, but they will definitely be satisfied with the action spectacle of "Xiangyang".

For the average viewer, "Xiangyang" is a chaotic movie, but for die-hard fans of "Hero," it's another classic action film by Fang Xinghe.

So what if it's just action? We want exhilarating combat!
Fang Xinghe's brilliant idea finally found a way for "The Return of the Condor Heroes" to be broadcast in Europe and America.

This road is very rugged, and it's hard to predict how it will turn out.

However, as long as the high-definition DVDs of "Xiangyang" sell well, then in six months or a year, "The Return of the Condor Heroes" will be able to establish a basic audience in Europe and America.

This was the best remedy Fang Xinghe could find in this helpless situation.

What else can we do? Admit defeat?

I can't deny this: your brother Fang will never accept defeat as a foregone conclusion without having made his full effort. If we're going to do it, we'll do it to the end.

……

In mid-September, Fang Xinghe returned to China with the finished special effects and began the final editing.

Zhao Jiping used the best equipment to record the best symphonic effect and created musical symbols for each main character. The soundtrack was perfectly completed, and the original soundtrack was nearly 4 hours long, which almost gave the old man a heart attack.

However, they still couldn't find satisfactory theme songs and ending songs.

Some of the compositions from Japanese and Korean songs are quite good, and the arrangements are very fashionable.

There are also several candidates from Hong Kong and Taiwan, but Fang Xinghe will not choose them. Otherwise, it would seem like he can't do his job without you guys.

But at that time, the mainland music scene...emmm, they couldn't very well use Dao Lang's songs, could they?

To be honest, Dafang can neither appreciate Phoenix Legend nor listen to Daolang; his musical taste is really biased towards Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

He's a Gen Z, but which Gen Z person who listens to music seriously can stand those viral TikTok songs?

I love listening to old songs by veteran Hong Kong stars like Wong Ka Kui, Jacky Cheung, and Eason Chan, while new songs are mostly from cutting-edge international artists like Kenshi Yonezu and Ariana Grande.

Now we need to find popular ancient style trends from the mainland, but we're completely lost, feeling like none of them are quite right.

Chen Tong did indeed produce "Peerless Under Heaven," with lyrics written by Shi Yong. The demo was almost identical to the version from the previous life.

Since we can't find Jane Zhang, having the princess sing should be fine too.

This song is only suitable as an ending theme; it's definitely not suitable as a theme song because it doesn't fit the mood.

Fang Xinghe worried for two days, then suddenly made a snap decision—damn it, if it doesn't work, I'll do it myself!

Seeing that he had an inexhaustible supply of starlight, he immediately upgraded his songwriting, composition, arrangement, and singing skills to 89 points, thus opening up a new career path—a singer-songwriter.

He definitely won't make this his main job; he doesn't have that much energy for it. He only plans to create a few songs for his own film and television productions.

But to be honest, an 89-point score in independent creative ability... is just so-so.

Ultimately, it still requires unleashing your inner power, igniting your inspiration, and capturing memories from past lives.

You don't know until you try it out, and once you start, you can't help but laugh—he really hasn't listened to much mainland pop music; his head is full of Tan Da Mo Wang's Jiu'er, Mao Buyi's folk songs, Pu Shu's Hua Hua Cao Cao Ping Fan Lu Zhi, and Gu Yong Ru Yuan Xue Mao Jiao...

Which one is suitable?

After agonizing for three days, Fang Xinghe gritted his teeth and stamped his foot—since he couldn't handle the most relevant and timeless classic, he would continue to go to extremes!

I'll lean on one end and sing it myself, is that alright?

Whether it works or not is unknown, but the moment he made his move, he terrified another group of people.

Bro, you can do that too?

I'm really...you're really...tired, just destroy me already.

(End of this chapter)