Fooling Huayu for Thirty Years

Chapter 268 "Princess Pearl 3"? Qin Lan and Ou Zhiling, which one to choose?
"This……"

"Dude, what's wrong?"

"I feel like they're all pretty, but why does it look so strange on the runway? Brother Ma, I'm not saying they're not pretty, I guess I just can't appreciate it."

"No, if it's not pretty, it's not pretty. There's no issue of aesthetics. Actually, these kinds of shows are about defining the discourse on aesthetics."

"Huh? What right?"

"Dude, forget it. This is a bit of a headache to explain. Just remember this: if you think it's ugly, then it's ugly; if you think it's beautiful, then it's beautiful."

"Hey! You should have said so earlier! It's just what I said!"

Bai Xiaohang looked like he suddenly understood, so Ma Xun could only smile at him.

To be fair, the fashion show was quite beautiful.

After all, these models are all very prestigious. Take Qin Lan, for example. She was the champion of a certain model competition. Wang Ou was selected as a Miss from a certain event. As for Lin Chih-ling, her current label is Asian Supermodel.

In short, a series of beautiful women with great figures walked past you.

It certainly looks good, but the way it's dressed up—let's not even talk about how bizarre the clothes are, the makeup is really strange too.

It's not the kind of makeup that everyone understands, but the makeup on these models' faces is still a bit hard to understand.

Bai Xiaohang hadn't seen many shows like this before, so it's perfectly normal for him to question his own aesthetic sense.

Ma Xun was well aware that this was also a form of Western hegemony.

The example is a top international supermodel; her face is just too representative.

Anyway, it's just that people from Europe and America think Chinese people look a certain way, so they insist on finding people like that to be models.

They do things entirely based on stereotypes, and some even aim to further reinforce those stereotypes.

We really don't have much say in this area right now.

However, Ma Xun wanted to say a few words of justice for some people or things.

In the original timeline, someone later criticized Bingbing, calling her a "carpet star".

Admittedly, Bingbing has indeed walked the red carpets of many international film festivals, which is certainly a stain on her reputation.

But let's look at it from another perspective.

Her eyes, her face, and her whole figure, plus the Chinese-style dress on the red carpet, blue and white porcelain, dragon robe, and so on.

This actually contributes to the struggle for aesthetic discourse power.

Yes, she wanted to become famous, and she wanted to risk being homeless.

But it also indirectly showed the world the normal aesthetic sense of Chinese people; those film festivals are all high-end venues.

Of course, Ma Xun brought this up to offer another perspective. It's not because Bingbing is already his... well, maybe that's part of the reason.

Actually, it's not just Bingbing; Gong Li and Yuanyuan also truly showcased their poise at the film festival.

And now Ma Xun is actually doing it, which is the outfit that Yuanyuan wore when she was in Berlin.

The key is that Yuanyuan's looks are absolutely different from those so-called 'supermodels', right?

Ma Xun's actions can be considered a positive thing, right?

In this regard, we really don't have much say right now.

The only way is to turn it back little by little.

This is truly a long battle.

Looking back now, including this incident, Ma Xun really did a great job in Berlin.

Thankfully, today's show wasn't one of those shows, even though the models' makeup was still a mess.

But don't forget, our focus isn't on watching the show.

Not long after, the brand's fashion show ended, and Ma Xun and Bai Xiaohang moved on to the cocktail party.

Naturally, someone came over to introduce them, saying that this was a famous designer and that was the editor-in-chief of a top magazine, and so on.

Ma Xun always treated everyone with courtesy, there's nothing more to say about that.

When these people heard that he was a very powerful boss in the entertainment industry, their attitudes changed drastically... just like chameleons.

Ma Xun's current situation is that he can no longer hide his identity, and he was already very famous among the entertainment industry's bosses.

Many people have never seen what he looks like.

After all, they rarely appear in public.

And the attendees of this grand show were mostly what later generations would call high-net-worth individuals.

Ma Xun and Bai Xiaohang wanted to keep a low profile, but unfortunately these so-called masters of art and fashion were really trying to curry favor with them.

It's all about fame and fortune, what kind of bullshit art is this... I won't say any more.

We chatted for a while, and then someone came over.

“Mr. Ma, it’s been several months since we last met in Taipei.”

Chai Zhiping is indeed a very eloquent woman.

Moreover, her actions were quite meticulous.

For example, the person closest to Ma Xun was the editor-in-chief of an international fashion magazine, who was planning to launch the magazine in China, but Chai Zhiping cleverly pushed him aside.

Let's shake hands.

Ma Xun was very polite; he simply shook the other person's hand halfway.

The proper way to shake hands with a lady is as follows.

If the other person is of high status, it is best to kiss the back of their hand as well.

Of course, Ma Xun was just putting on an act to avoid being impolite.

"It has indeed been several months since we last met, but Ms. Chai, you don't need to worry about that film."

Ma Xun was good at speaking economically, and directly threw out what Chai Zhiping wanted to hear most.

The woman's smile indeed became even more alluring.

She's really quite the flirt in the industry, and Ma Xun knows that very well, which is why he pays attention to details like how often her hand touches his.

Ma Xun didn't react at all, especially since the conversation had gone this far.

Let's keep our conversation brief.

But Chai Zhiping intended to go a step further, saying, "Mr. Ma, let me be frank, many Taiwanese artists actually want to develop their careers in mainland China, if..."

Upon hearing this, Ma Xun really didn't want to talk about it anymore. "Ahem, these topics don't seem to fit the current occasion."

That's direct enough: shut up, you slut!

Chai Zhiping looked slightly embarrassed, but she knew from the beginning that a big boss like Ma Xun was definitely not easy to serve.

Well... it's like that line from "King of Comedy": It's hard to say what the taste of the rich is like.

Therefore, it's good to try more.

“Mr. Ma, we have also prepared a dinner party after this cocktail party.”

Is this what they call a dinner party in the entertainment industry?

Ma Xun glanced at Chai Zhiping a couple more times, and she responded very frankly.

There's probably more to say.

Then... at that moment, someone else came over.

"Hello, Mr. Ma."

"Ms. He, hello, hello."

He Xiuqiong came over.

Her appearance this time was rather special.

Because Ye Quanzhen is not included.

Previously, when she met with Ma Xun, Ye Quanzhen would always be by her side.

But now, Yip Chuen-Chun is fully capable of developing independently.

She and Bingbing are currently extremely busy, with a constant stream of engagements.

However, this is probably not the real reason.

There must have been some changes on He Xiuqiong's side, otherwise she wouldn't have sent Ma Xun any invitation.

In particular, the broadcast of "Romance in the Rain" had almost nothing to do with He Xiuqiong.

Well, it seems the internal strife within their family has reached a fever pitch.

After considering this matter, Ma Xun had a brief chat with He Xiuqiong.

It was simple; we didn't discuss any important topics at all.

This is completely different from how we treated Chai Zhiping just now.

Ma Xun directly told Chai Zhiping the important things.

But right now... there's nothing important to do.

However, He Xiuqiong is clearly different.

Unexpectedly, something surprising happened to Ma Xun.

"Sister Chai, is our dinner party all set?"

"Don't worry, Mr. Ma has already agreed."

You agreed? When?
No, no, the key point is, this Chai Zhiping and He Xiuqiong...

By the way, I remembered it.

I once heard a rumor that He Xiuqiong and Chai Zhiping were best friends.

However, the entertainment industry in mainland China is not very familiar with this gossip.

Ma Xun had only heard about it from others.

It seems……

“No wonder.” Ma Xun’s seemingly random remark.

That's amazing.

He Xiuqiong and Chai Zhiping both burst into laughter.

Clearly, the two women understood what Ma Xun meant, which was the invitation.

They both posted, but in reality, this was just to create a small illusion for Ma Xun.

Now that they've made their relationship public, there must be a reason behind it.

So Ma Xun could only smile and nod, "Okay, I can't wait to have this dinner."

……

Peace Hotel, Shanghai.

Ma Xun stayed here, but in reality, it was purely for show.

This restaurant is really expensive.

Dining here is quite expensive. But today's dinner is being held here.

Interestingly, Bai Xiaohang backed out before the dinner party even started.

"Brother Ma, something's not right about this situation today."

"What's wrong?"

"There are so many women!"

"what……"

Ma Xun couldn't help but laugh, but Bai Xiaohang said he didn't want to participate.

The reason he gave was... he said he was getting married.

Ma Xun sent his blessings in advance, and of course, he would give a monetary gift later.

And so, Ma Xun attended the dinner party alone.

But it's nothing, it's the Peace Hotel, so it's definitely quite safe.

Moreover, you can go back to your room after you finish eating.

The difference was immediately apparent from the start of the dinner.

"These models are not bad, are they?"

There were models present, and they were from the previous big show.

Ma Xun glanced around and saw that Qin Lan, Wang Ou, and Zhi Ling were also there.

"It's really good."

Nod, you must nod.

Clearly, these two women were very sincere.

This dinner party wasn't just attended by Ma Xun; there were also some directors, screenwriters, and fashion industry figures from Taiwan.

There were more than a dozen people at the dinner, and everyone quickly got into a lively conversation.

It's obvious that Ma Xun is the key figure at this dinner party.

He could tell that these guys all wanted something from him.

Hehe... I have to say, this feeling is pretty good.

The food and drinks at the Peace Hotel are certainly excellent, but the only downside is that they're too expensive.

Let's leave that problem aside.

As Ma Xun continued chatting, he felt that it was about time to move on to the main topic.

"Ladies, let me be frank. I have money, I have resources, and I have plenty of connections. What do you want to talk about? Let's get straight to the point."

It was already a clear indication; Chai Zhiping and He Xiuqiong exchanged a glance.

At this point, everyone else present also quieted down on their own.

Which models are included?

"The third installment of 'Princess Pearl'." It was He Xiuqiong who brought up the topic.

Ma Xun laughed after hearing this, because he had expected it all along. "I knew I would have to do this sooner or later. Okay, tell me what the conditions are."

He's really decisive!
Chai Zhiping was somewhat agitated, but she still said in a normal tone, "What we heard is that the TV series 'Romance in the Rain' is going to be broadcast on CCTV."

Ma Xun raised an eyebrow. "Does 'Princess Pearl 3' also want to be on CCTV?"

He Xiuqiong and Chai Zhiping's glances betrayed their intentions.

So that's what happened!
Ma Xun understood completely.

The internal strife between Qiong Yao and the Ping family has now reached this point.

In other words, you can't lose to your opponent in terms of momentum.

The drama "Romance in the Rain" would definitely be a huge hit, and if it were to air in mainland China, it would be broadcast on CCTV.

Good heavens, that's really good heavens.

Actually, this show wasn't connected to Hunan TV, because it was filmed at a film studio in Shanghai.

When Yiping jumped into the river, the body double was Liangfen's husband... cough cough, that's not what I'm talking about, it's the bridge where she jumped into the river.

It's obviously happening in Shanghai.

This show is clearly going to be a hit; if it airs on CCTV, it's a sure thing.

However, if "Princess Pearl 3" doesn't want to lose momentum, that is, if it wants to go to CCTV, then the first thing it needs to do is deal with Director Ouyang.

Ma Xun and Ouyang Yang are currently on very good terms; everyone in the industry knows that.

He was famous back then, wasn't he?

Therefore, in the eyes of He Xiuqiong and Chai Zhiping, the key person who could solve the problem of getting "Princess Pearl 3" on CCTV was Ma Xun.

but!

"I'm sorry, I really can't do this."

Did Ma Xun refuse outright?
Both Chai Zhiping and He Xiuqiong felt a tightness in their chests.

"Mr. Ma, please, please, I really can't think of anyone else on this entire continent who could possibly have this possibility."

I must say, Taiwanese girls really know how to ask for favors.

Chai Zhiping is quite old, almost forty this year, but the things she says and the actions she makes are still remarkable.

Just like a twenty-year-old girl.

Her actions sent a chill down Ma Xun's spine.

You old woman, can't you just be a good old woman?

Forget it, I can't complain now.

Ma Xun had actually planned this all along. He feigned difficulty and said, "I can only give you one choice."

One option, or another?

But He Xiuqiong and Chai Zhiping were both happy.

"please say."

"Mr. Ma, please speak."

Ma Xun frowned and said, "Princess Pearl 3 must premiere on Hunan TV, but I can help get it broadcast on CCTV later."

That's right, that's his plan!
One thing must be insisted upon: Ma Xun must not damage his alliance with Yang Yang.

This is much more important than you two old women!

Moreover, this broadcasting plan is relatively simple.

Ma Xun also emphasized, "CCTV has never spent much money buying TV dramas, so you can consider it."

This plan...

"We agree!"

Chai Zhiping and He Xiuqiong are really decisive.

So, our dinner party returned to a joyful atmosphere of clinking glasses and having a pleasant conversation.

"Mr. Ma, you're amazing!"

"Mr. Ma is truly amazing!"

These guys have all turned into sycophants.

Ma Xun smiled broadly, enjoying himself.

However, as the dinner party came to an end...

"Mr. Ma, these models all really want to enter the entertainment industry."

Chai Zhiping gave Ma Xun a direct hint.

"What do you mean?"

Ma Xunlai pretended to be confused.

He Xiuqiong was much more straightforward: "Let's choose one and see which one has more potential."

select?
Ma Xun understood what this choice really meant.

But right now, he has no choice but to choose.

Because it's like a pledge of allegiance.

Moreover, Chai Zhiping and He Xiuqiong probably knew that they were getting old and losing their looks when they did this.

Therefore, in order to better cooperate and to build trust among everyone.

Ma Xun selected from models such as Qin Lan, Wang Ou, and Lin Zhiling...

Is there even a question of who to choose?

"Just her."

Ma Xunyi pointed at Lin Chih-ling.

The tall, slender model then followed Ma Xun away.

Both Chai Zhiping and He Xiuqiong had big smiles on their faces and patted the supermodel's hand.

Not long after, Ma Xun and Lin Zhiling entered the elevator.

Just the two of them in this private space, it seemed... Lin Zhiling's expression was somewhat unnatural.

Ma Xun glanced at her. "What's wrong? Are you having a hard time?"

Lin Chih-ling blushed and lowered her head, squeezing out a soft "No, it's not difficult."

In fact, at that time, Lin Chih-ling was just a model, and even the so-called famous model was just a label attached to her.

It seems like she won't be appearing in any music videos until next year.

in this way……

"You're just a plaything, so you should be aware of your place as a plaything, understand?"

Ma Xun is really straightforward.

Lin Chih-ling pursed her lips tightly and nodded.

And after entering the room...

"Should we take a shower first?"

Lin Chih-ling has started going through the procedures.

Ma Xun was much more straightforward: "I'm very popular right now."

Although somewhat reluctant, supermodel Zhiling slowly knelt down.

……

(End of this chapter)