Chinese Entertainment Intelligence King

Chapter 302 Feng Kuzi gave in, and 2008 arrived.

With the help of Huayi Brothers, Han Sanye personally invited Yan Li and others to get together.

It's normal for there to be conflicts and frictions in the film market, but we should try to resolve them if possible.

Huayi Brothers and Yi'an are both industry giants; too much antagonism between them would have a negative impact.

Feng Xiaogang is a well-known director, and he may have made some mistakes, so he shouldn't be condemned entirely. The real-life events behind "Assembly" have been publicized by many media outlets, so he shouldn't be solely blamed.

Besides Han Sanye, key figures from the Film Bureau and the Propaganda Department, as well as Cheng Long and Jiang Wen, who had good relationships with both sides, were also invited to smooth things over.

This lineup is quite impressive, and they genuinely want to settle this matter.

Yu Jianhua, the chubby guy from Bona Film Group, also came. As one of the big shots in the film industry, and having a good relationship with Yan Li, he specially arranged for Han Sanye to come and keep Yan Li in check.

However, this time Master Han miscalculated. Fatty Yu and Yan Li came together, but their words on the way revealed a provocative intent to sow discord.

It's normal. As Huayi Brothers and Yi An have developed in the film industry, Bona Film Group, the so-called number one distribution company in the industry, has seen its presence decline.

Two dogs fight, play off!
From Bona's perspective, the fiercer the battle between Yi An and Huayi Brothers, the more advantageous it will be for them.

And that Feng Kuzi, even if they manage to reconcile, the feud between them will be established. Yan Li won't poach him, and Feng won't go to Yi'an.

With the head director being treated so badly by Yan Li, and Huayi Brothers' performance falling short of expectations, Feng Xiaogang must be feeling disappointed, or even angry.

With Yi An becoming an enemy and Huayi Brothers losing favor, Bona Film Group's opportunity has arrived.

Yu Pangzi has been eyeing Huayi Brothers and New Pictures for a long time.

If I could get Feng Xiaogang to Bona Film Group, I'd have a cash cow, with money and influence vying for my attention. Wouldn't that be amazing?

Yan Limen understood his intentions perfectly.

To reiterate, the two have a good relationship, but that's all. Bona and Yi'an have both cooperation and competition. Based on this, Fatty Yu is scheming in his heart, and Yan Li is always holding back.

Including this time when he accepted the invitation to mediate, Yan Li wasn't afraid of Huayi Brothers, but rather there was no need for it.

Huayi Brothers is going public and doesn't want to fight tooth and nail; Yi'an is developing rapidly and isn't distracted by these trivial matters.

The fisherman wants to profit, but the snipe and clam aren't stupid either!
Don't be fooled by Yan Li's seemingly manic behavior whenever trouble arises; he's always ready to risk everything and die. In reality, that's not the case at all.

It's no big deal to scold Feng Xiaogang. He's just making unreasonable decisions, so what's wrong with scolding him a few times? Besides, we even toasted him beforehand.

The dirt they've been exposing on Feng Xiaogang is all rather trivial. The two Wangs have some serious dirt on him. Wouldn't Yan Li, who's got some kind of cheat code, have some too?

Even if there's no evidence, as long as the narrative gets going, even if it's not true, it'll still be true. Besides, Yan Li might be able to get evidence.

Even in the "Assembly" incident, Yan Li was merely fueling the flames from behind.

If they really wanted to escalate things, Yan Li had connections with official media and some sensitive departments. They could directly define the nature of the matter, and that would be something beyond the scope of a study session.

As for Huayi Brothers having powerful backers, Yan Li was well aware of it, but he wasn't without his own backers either.

Most importantly, in this kind of battle, as long as someone initiates a team fight, teammates will often be automatically matched.

If he gets really angry, Yan Li will just leave something behind, and then he won't have to worry about the rest.

To reiterate, what Yan Li fears is the will of the entire Iron Fist. Individuals or so-called forces cannot truly frighten Yan Li; it's merely a matter of whether it's worth it.

He's a businessman, not someone from any committee; he doesn't need to spout this nonsense.

On the surface, they seem crazy, but it's just about raising prices exorbitantly. They start by creating a huge uproar, and it's not worth it for people to do the math privately. So they sit down and talk things over.

What I fear most is that you and I each put down a card, calling small cards big and big cards old, gradually increasing the stakes and getting more and more aggressive. When the sunk costs reach a certain level, it's impossible to stop.

So in reality, Yan Li's high-profile escalation, which looked fierce, was simply a way to make an example of someone.

If he really wanted to kill, he wouldn't have made a sound or caused any trouble; he would have simply taken out something deadly and killed him with a single blow.

Ultimately, the conflict between Yan Li and Feng Kuzi wasn't that deep.

If someone spits at you, you can go up and slap them a few times, beat them up, or even break their leg, but there's no need to stab them to death.

That guy is a real lunatic. A lunatic wouldn't be where he is today, and nobody would hang out with a lunatic like that...

As for Fatty Yu, Yan Lichun teased him, shouting that he would turn around and slap the Second Prince twice.

When they arrived at the destination, he held Wang Zhongjun's hand tightly and wouldn't let go, smiling even more like the two brothers than Wang Zhonglei.

After everyone was seated, Master Han said some polite words, Cheng Long and Jiang Wen also made some arrangements, and then Feng Kuzi stood up to offer a toast and apologize.

"President Yan, it was my fault from beginning to end for not doing things properly and for not considering things carefully. I have caused trouble for you and Yi An. I am really sorry."

Feng Kuzi's expression wasn't good, but it wasn't terrible either; he even forced a smile.

Today's banquet is a way for Yan Li and Huayi to back down, but the most important thing is to let him off the hook.

He gave Yan Li a cold shoulder again, still resentful. Knowing Yan Li's temper, even if he didn't beat him up in front of so many people, he would still get his comeuppance later.

Feng Xiaogang is really just so-so. Although he's a big director now, he still has the inferiority complex he had when he was a lowly errand boy.

Yan Li's arrogance is mostly purposeful; the key is that he has enough confidence, and his feigned arrogance can turn into genuine arrogance at any time.

Feng Xiaogang's arrogance reveals a desire for revenge against the past. In addition, he is, after all, just a director. He has some ability, but most of his confidence is supported by others.

To put it bluntly, a director is just a top salesperson or project manager; no matter how great they are, they can't compare to the boss or financial backer behind them.

Previously, he was pampered and protected by the two Wangs, and praised by people both inside and outside the industry. Ordinary people dared not offend him. Feng Kuzi got arrogant and really thought he was a big shot in the film and television industry.

But this time he ran into a real tough nut to crack, and he was like a punctured balloon, finally understanding the immensity of his own limitations.

So, someone like him, a seasoned veteran who climbed his way up from the bottom, has had a tough time getting to where he is today. Regardless of what he really thinks, he outwardly knows how to be flexible and adaptable.

"Ah."

Yan Li glanced at Third Master Han and the others, then nodded and took a sip of wine.

He didn't want to fight Huayi Brothers to the death. Feng Xiaogang was just a figurehead. He accepted a drink and agreed to let the matter drop, which was already giving everyone face.

Don't expect him to give Feng Kuzi a smile; young people should have some backbone.

Seeing this, Master Han felt it was still a bit risky and gestured for Feng Kuzi to offer two more drinks.

For the last cup, he even spoke up and mediated a bit more before Yan Li finally drank it with a more relaxed expression.

Master Han felt quite proud. Xiao Yan had a bad temper, but she still respected him.

To be honest, Yan Li has never been one to cause trouble. He only bothers others when they bother him. If it weren't for Feng Xiaogang getting a little success and then becoming arrogant and talking nonsense, this whole thing wouldn't have happened. He deserves to be taught a lesson now.

Seeing this, the others relaxed, relieved that their efforts hadn't been in vain.

Yan Li and the two kings have started to collude. He has gained face today, but he hasn't gotten anything substantial yet. Huayi will have to bleed some money out of him.

Taking this opportunity, Third Master Han comforted Feng Kuzi. The two had an old relationship, and several of Feng's films were funded by China Film Group.

Although Feng and Huayi Brothers are now one company, they haven't severed their ties with China Film Group.

Master Han still values ​​Feng somewhat, after all, he is one of the top directors in mainland China. His efforts to facilitate the reconciliation, although somewhat biased towards Yan Li, can be considered as helping Feng get out of trouble.

If this drags on, it's hard to say what will happen to Yan Li and Huayi, but Feng will definitely be cannon fodder.

Fatty Yu seized the opportunity and joined in, trying to win over Feng Xiaogang and see if there was any chance to poach him.

Yan Li caught a glimpse of this and even gave a special reminder to the two kings of Huayi Brothers to be careful of Fatty Yu.

Bona wanted to be the fisherman, and so did Yi'an!
Yan Li also observed Feng Xiaogang's complexion. He looked depressed, but not particularly bad, and nodded in approval.

If this guy looks grim, it means he harbors resentment and is still not convinced, so he'll continue to deal with him.

But if someone appears calm and natural, as if nothing has happened, Yan Li becomes even more wary. He senses a sinister intention and must have something on their mind, so he decides to strike first.

It's only normal to be in a bad mood right now, but without any other outward signs, and to clearly admit defeat.

Even so, Yan Li pondered going back to use the system to investigate. If the old man wanted to play dirty tricks on him, he would let him know who was more cunning.

……

After finishing the meal, we left immediately. Today's occasion wasn't suitable for a second round.

Even if we organize a second event, we can contact each other privately; there's no need to arrange a dinner party.

In a bad mood, Feng Xiaogang got into his car and went home, and the two Wangs didn't stop him.

Although Feng didn't embarrass himself as much as last time, it wasn't dignified either. Let him process this on his own, and we'll comfort him later.

Feng Xiaogang returned home with a sullen face. His wife, Xu Fan, asked with concern, "How did it go?"

Feng Xiaogang didn't reply and sat down on the sofa. Xu Fan frowned, thinking things weren't going well.

"He won't even give Third Master face?"

"How about I look for Jiang Shan? She seems to have a good relationship with this Yan Li. It's just a small conflict. He's already insulted you. You've been made to look so bad now, do you really have to push him to the brink?"

Xu Fan and Jiang Shan are old classmates and best friends with an excellent relationship. Xu Fan vaguely knows something and wants to ask Jiang Shan to smooth things over. Listening to his wife's nagging, Feng Xiaogang rubbed his face and said in a muffled voice, "No, it's resolved."

"It's resolved, so you..."

Xu Fan, seeing Feng Xiaogang's extremely bad mood, said angrily, "He humiliated you again. That's too much! Even a big boss can't bully people like this..."

Feeling sorry for her husband, Xu Fan spoke up for him in various ways. After listening for a while, Feng Xiaogang felt a little better before speaking.

"It's not as serious as you make it out to be. A few toasts and it was over. I'm just not happy about it. After all these years, I've been manipulated by a little brat. Damn it, if word gets out, I don't know how many people will laugh at me."

Xu Fan understood a little; after being married for many years, she knew Feng Xiaogang well.

Ultimately, it all comes down to saving face.

Yan Li is awesome, and it's barely acceptable to be dealt with by him, but it's embarrassing to be ridiculed by those who are inferior to him, which is something Feng can't accept.

For men in Beijing who have risen from the bottom, nothing is more important than saving face.

That's what he said, but he didn't dare to risk everything for Yan Li's reputation, nor was he willing to do so. However, he also wanted to regain his dignity and go back to being Director Feng.

Xu Fan pondered for a moment: "This isn't necessarily a bad thing."

"How to say?"

Feng Xiaogang perked up, and Xu Fan analyzed, "The key to this matter is that you were taken advantage of by Yan Li... so there are some rumors, but if the two families have a good relationship afterward and remain friendly, then these 'rumors' will fall apart on their own."

Xu Fan's meaning was simple: he had lost face to Yan Li, so he had better get it back from him.

There are two ways to save face!

One way is to subdue the opponent and then use them to get revenge, which Feng cannot do.

Lowering your stance and letting others return the favor is also an option.

"He insulted me like that, and you still want me to fawn over him?"

Feng Xiaogang was trembling with anger, but Xu Fan remained calm and gently advised, "Since there was no deep-seated hatred between us, why not turn hostility into friendship?"

“Old Feng, I couldn’t sleep after hearing that you offended Yan Li. That kid is not even 30 years old yet. Who knows how far he will go in the future? We’re not afraid. We still have children at home.”

"Since you can't beat them, why bother?"

"By enduring a moment of anger, you can not only save face and avoid making a major enemy, but also make a good relationship. Perhaps one day you can even get some benefits from that person. It's a win-win situation."

Feng Xiaogang fell silent for a moment. To be honest, after Xu Fan described it like that, a bad thing actually turned into a good thing.

Seeing this, Xu Fan tried to persuade him in various ways. She didn't really care whether Feng Xiaogang lost face or not, but she was afraid that Feng would get stuck in a rut and continue to argue with Yan Li endlessly.

If she could win, she would absolutely support her husband in seeking revenge; if she couldn't, she would have to endure it.

In life, everyone has to bow their head sometimes; Feng has bowed his head before too.

Feng's career is thriving now, and his family is doing well. It's the perfect time for him to enjoy life, so why create trouble for himself?

“You’re right. It’s easier to resolve a feud than to create one. Everyone has their youthful impetuosity. At my age, there’s no need for me to argue with him.”

Feng Xiaogang breathed a sigh of relief, his tone clearly softening. Xu Fan, fearing he might change his mind, pressed on while the iron was hot.

"It's not appropriate for you to handle this personally. I'm a woman, so I don't care about these formalities. I'll ask Bingbing or Yanli and other women to pull some strings, and then everything will fall into place."

Feng Xiaogang nodded reservedly, inwardly marveling at having such a virtuous wife who could persuade him in crucial moments and help him solve problems.

At this point, he seemed to recall someone, and his resentment turned towards the two Huayi brothers.

"These two are the worst. They act all high and mighty all the time, but they're actually a pair of useless trash."

"No matter how many faults Yan Li has, there's one thing I admire about him: he's protective of his own and he's truly willing to stand up for others when something happens. That's what a boss should be like."

In this incident, Feng Xiaogang hated Yan Li, but he hated the Wang brothers even more.

I've made so much money for you guys, but it's completely useless when it really matters, and you even threaten me.

Even the most disgusting enemy is no match for your own people who betray you!
Xu Fan felt the same way. No matter how outrageous Yan Li was, they were from two different camps, so it was understandable. The two brothers from Huayi were just bullies among themselves. If they were tough enough, would Yan Li dare to bully Feng Xiaogang like this?!
"Therefore, resolving our grievances with Yan Li might be a way out in the future."

Xu Fan found a new argument to prove that his proposal was reliable, and Feng Xiaogang nodded slightly.

It's hard to say whether Yan Li has a way out, but the Wang brothers really disappointed him this time.

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

Feng Kuzi's incident didn't cause much of a stir for Yan Li. In fact, for him, dealing with Feng was less important than the traffic this incident would generate on Weibo.

After nearly a month of preparation, Weibo employed various tactics, and by the end of the new year, its total user base had exceeded 30.

Although a significant portion of these accounts are zombie accounts that are simply taking advantage of subsidies or registered randomly and then rarely used, the remaining users have still given Weibo a certain level of popularity.

At this stage, promotion is important, but content is of paramount importance.

Once the content is good, these users will spontaneously help promote it and attract new users. One person attracts two, two attracts four, four attracts eight, and the number of users keeps increasing.

Thus, the first Weibo Goddess Beauty Pageant officially kicked off at the end of December.

This event will be the largest and most important official event since Weibo's inception. It aims not only to attract a large number of users but also to make Weibo a well-known and popular brand.

The first Weibo Goddess Competition didn't have many rules because it didn't consider the limited number of users.

The competition will run from the end of December to the beginning of February, around the Spring Festival, and will be divided into preliminary rounds, regional preliminary rounds, and the main competition.

The preliminary selection is simply registration. You need to provide photos and personal information. Once you confirm that you are a real person, you are considered to have successfully registered. You can register yourself or register someone else.

The second point actually gives Weibo's official platform room to maneuver.

If Weibo directly lets those female celebrities participate in a beauty pageant, there might be some copyright disputes. With this rule, since the registration is done by the users, the most that can happen is that the registration can be withdrawn, and Weibo won't bear too much responsibility.

Of course, this is just a precaution. Normally, no celebrity would take this seriously, especially since Yan Li is behind Weibo.

The preliminary rounds of the competition involve randomly dividing the participants into eight regions and then judging them by votes. Only the top four from each region can advance to the main competition, which is also the top 32 of the Weibo Goddess competition.

Then comes the World Cup format: group stage to advance, knockout stage to compete, round after round, until the champion is finally decided.

Voting is available to all users, with each user receiving one vote per day. Users can earn an extra vote by referring new users who register. Users can vote individually or in multiple groups.

There are no rankings or spending money (unless you have to pay to post on Weibo via SMS), it's purely a competition of who has more supporters.

Yan Li didn't care who won the award in the end, and even hoped that Fan Xiaopang wouldn't win, at least not in the first year, otherwise it would just be self-entertainment.

But whoever wins the award, it's best if it's someone who's beautiful and a universally recognized goddess.

Yan Li is most afraid that these crazy netizens will vote for Sister Furong or Brother Chun's fans, or that they will cause chaos.

If that's the case, then don't blame him for pulling out all the stops and causing technical glitches.

Yan Li planned to assess the situation. If the competition had a significant impact, he could add more variety and even increase the prizes. Money and resources were readily available.

In addition to Weibo's activities, top accounts have also identified some promising talents.

Huo Siyan is one of them. She was personally mentored by Yan Li and is very active on Weibo, so she has a good following.

Another one is Deng Chao and his wife. How should I put it, two kinds of people can't sleep in the same bed. Deng Chao is a joker, while Sun Li is a chatterbox.

Although she doesn't post on Weibo very frequently, her posts are full of everyday life and she keeps rambling on, which is why quite a few people like her.

Then there was someone who surprised Yan Li—Guo Degang from Deyun Society.

This wasn't Yan Li greeting anyone; it was a crosstalk performer contacted via Weibo, demonstrating his immense internet popularity.

The other party was just there to show support and wasn't enthusiastic at first, but they quickly realized the convenience of Weibo. So now they update both their blog and Weibo, and even use Weibo as an announcement platform for Deyun Club, posting performance information.

Weibo doesn't care what he does on Weibo; as long as he has popularity, they'll push his traffic.

At present, apart from those big-name celebrities who receive preferential treatment, Guo is considered to be in the top tier in terms of fan base.

Guo Degang's emergence made Weibo aware of some artists who, while not widely known or famous, were highly influential among specific groups.

Artists and groups such as the Happy Family, Dao Lang, Zhao Benshan's troupe, and rising stars from talent shows have all been approached by Weibo.

They are a good complement to Weibo, and Weibo is also an opportunity and platform for them.

Mainstream media don't appreciate them, so many of their strengths can't be utilized. Weibo can help them shine.

Yan Li is quite satisfied with the development of Weibo.

Everything is difficult at the beginning. Once you get off to a good start and get on the right track, you can move forward with great strides.

At the end of December, Yan Li arrived alone at the courtyard house, awaiting the annual intelligence report…

　(3000/135000)

　　
　
(End of this chapter)