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During the subsequent filming, Suning's performance continued to surprise the crew.

Although Jiang Weimin is only a supporting character with limited screen time, Su Ning always manages to accurately grasp the character's emotional changes.

Whether it was the grievance of being isolated by his siblings, the longing in his eyes for his mother's attention, or the occasional outbursts of dissatisfaction and resistance, he portrayed them all with distinct layers and with genuine emotion.

What surprised Director Kong the most was that Suning seemed to have a natural sense of camera presence.

He can always find the most suitable angle and position, and rarely makes mistakes even in complex situations.

Such professionalism makes it hard to believe that he is a newcomer with no acting experience.

“Old Liu, sometimes I feel like he might have studied acting before he lost his memory,” Director Kong said to Old Liu during a break in filming. “It’s so natural, there’s absolutely no trace of acting.”

Screenwriter Lao Liu nodded in agreement: "Especially the mother-son scenes between him and Teacher Mei, the subtle emotional exchanges are simply not acting."

"Haha, it seems our crew has struck gold."

"It's really strange! Some people are just born to do this kind of work."

Due to the needs of the plot, Jiang Weimin's height was not particularly outstanding among his siblings during his childhood.

This was tough on the 183cm tall Su Ning, as he had to sit on that specially made little stool for most of his scenes.

"Xiao Su, I'm sorry to have to make you suffer." During breaks in filming, Teacher Mei would often joke, "Everyone else is trying to grow taller, but you're the one who has to 'become shorter'."

Su Ning always smiled good-naturedly: "The stool that Master Zhang made is very comfortable, and it's also good for acting while sitting on it."

Interestingly, the other young actors in the crew were quite envious of Su Ning.

Because many of them often have to stand on mats or stools to act with their co-stars, Suning's "low stool" became a symbol of special treatment in comparison.

"What are your plans for the future? Would you like to continue developing your career in this industry?"

"I don't know! I didn't think that much about it, after all, I just stumbled in by accident."

"That's true! But if you ever have this idea in the future, you can contact me. I've been in this industry for so many years, I have quite a few connections."

"Hehe, okay! I'll have to ask you for help then, Teacher Mei."

……

As the story progresses, the Jiang family's children have all grown up.

At this moment, Su Ning was finally able to get rid of that small stool and proudly display his true height.

There is a scene in the script where Jiang Weimin, now grown up, stands among his siblings and is suddenly a head taller than everyone else, earning him the nickname "the big, silly guy of the Jiang family."

When filming this scene, Su Ning stood out among the other actors with his tall stature.

When Guo Defu, who plays Jiang Defu, looked at his "youngest son," he couldn't help but burst into laughter: "Good heavens, when did this kid grow so tall?"

A suppressed laugh rippled through the room, and even Teacher Mei couldn't help but chuckle: "Hmph! All the food he eats has helped him grow taller! His brain isn't working at all."

"Mom, are you saying I'm stupid?" Su Ning asked, her face full of questions.

"What do you say?"

Director Kong kept this impromptu interaction, making it an unexpected highlight of the play.

……

During his time on set, Su Ning won everyone's favor with his humble and eager-to-learn attitude.

He often consulted veteran actors for acting tips, learned camera language from photographers, and even learned about script annotation standards from script supervisors.

During breaks, he often helped the props team move things or lent a hand to the costume team.

His attitude of not being arrogant because he got the role made him very popular on set.

"Xiao Su, come and try this." The production manager often shared the local snacks he brought with him.

"Thank you, director."

"You're too kind! When filming wraps up, you'll have to treat us to Tsingtao beer."

"Don't worry! I'll treat you to Tsingtao beer this time."

The void left by amnesia is being filled little by little by new experiences and emotions. Although past memories are still missing, every day is becoming more fulfilling and meaningful.

As night fell, the day's filming came to an end.

Suning helped the staff pack up the equipment, his tall figure stretching long in the setting sun.

No one knows the past of this amnesiac young man, but everyone believes that he is destined to leave his mark in this circle.

……

One day, on the outdoor filming set of "Our Parents' Love", the scene numbers on the clapperboard were nearing their end.

The crew worked together more and more seamlessly, even during scene changes, they exuded an efficient and composed demeanor, until several vans parked outside the studio, breaking the tranquility.

Film investor Hao Jinming walked in with his team, followed by the director and screenwriter of "Under the Zhengyang Gate". Their notebooks were already open, clearly indicating that they came with the purpose of "learning from the masters".

"Director Kong, the atmosphere of your crew tells you the production will be excellent!" Hao Jinming quickly stepped forward to shake hands with Kong Sheng, his tone full of sincerity. "We're here to learn from you. Who in the industry doesn't admire your meticulousness in filming period dramas?"

Director Kong smiled and waved his hand, leading the group to stand behind the monitor: "President Hao, you're too kind. It's all thanks to the team's collaboration. We just happened to be filming a family scene, so please come and enjoy the show."

“Great! I’d be delighted.”

At this moment, in the scene, retired Jiang Defu and An Jie, with their daughter, have just stepped onto the dirt road in their hometown in Shandong. In the distance, Jiang Weimin, played by Su Ning, is walking towards them carrying a hoe.

At this moment, he was wearing a faded coarse cloth jacket and mud-stained trousers, but it couldn't hide his upright figure. The sunlight fell on his face, highlighting the simplicity of a young man sent to the countryside and the joy of seeing his family.

As soon as Jiang Yafei saw her twin brother, she immediately rushed over with a smile and called out "Weimin". Su Ning caught his twin sister and gently patted her back. The intimacy that didn't need to be acted out made Hao Jinming, who was watching from behind the monitor, unconsciously lean forward.

What's even more touching is in the corner of the shot, where elderly Jiang Defu and An Jie stand still, watching their children interact. The smiles on their faces aren't the "happiness" prescribed in the script, but rather a gentle warmth from the heart, tinged with wrinkles.

It wasn't until the script supervisor yelled "Cut!" that Hao Jinming snapped out of his reverie and whispered to the screenwriter beside him, "The realism of this play was truly captured."

During the break, Hao Jinming kept his eyes on Su Ning and couldn't help but ask Director Kong, "The young actor who played Jiang Weimin just now, is he a newcomer? He's so talented and his appearance is outstanding."

A smile flickered in Director Kong's eyes as he half-jokingly said, "His name is Su Ning. He's indeed just starting out in acting, but he's quick to learn. If President Hao is interested, isn't your new film just short of actors?"

"Great idea!" These words were like a pebble thrown into water. Hao Jinming's eyes lit up, and then he turned to the screenwriter Wang Zhili beside him. "Old Wang, find a suitable plot."

"Okay?" Then screenwriter Wang Zhili, who was standing next to him, took out the script of "Under the Zhengyang Gate".

At this moment, Hao Jinming smiled and explained to Director Kong, "Director Kong, we're having trouble finding the role of Taozi, the second male lead!"

Screenwriter Wang Zhili quickly handed over the script, pointed to a section, and said to Su Ning, "Xiao Su, try this part."

"The second male lead, Taozi, has a slight stutter, but he can't exaggerate it. He has to retain the swagger of a street hustler in Beijing while also showing some simplicity."

Su Ning took the script, his fingers quickly skimming the lines. Just five minutes later, when he looked up again, his entire demeanor was different. His previous humble and gentle appearance had vanished. He tilted his head slightly, put his hands in his pockets, and raised his chin slightly to look at the "Han Chunming" in the air, his tone carrying a hint of arrogant provocation: "I... I'm called Taozi... Where are you from?"

Every word was delivered with a subtle pause, yet it wasn't stiff. Even the arrogance and confidence in his eyes seemed to come naturally from the character.

The scene fell silent instantly. The next second, Hao Jinming was the first to applaud: "That's the right touch! So many veteran actors easily 'overact' when they play characters with unclear speech, but your sense of proportion is superb!"

The director of "Under the Zhengyang Gate" nodded in agreement: "That's exactly the kind of 'rough but honest' spirit that Taozi wanted, and Xiao Su completely captured it!"

Although reluctant, Director Kong patted Su Ning on the shoulder and said, "It seems that our little treasure can't be kept hidden any longer."

Su Ning quickly composed himself, scratching his head and laughing, "Thank you, teachers. I still have a lot to learn."

Hao Jinming made the decision immediately: "No need to try! Taozi is going to choose you!"

"Thank you, Mr. Hao, for giving me this opportunity."

That evening, the crew's rest area was temporarily set up. Teacher Mei came over with fruit and joked, "Is our Jiang Weimin going to 'leave home' to play a young man from Beijing?"

Teacher Guo nodded in agreement: "The play 'Under the Zhengyang Gate' is a good script. The character Taozi has potential, so you should study it carefully."

The most excited was Chen Tao. He ran to a corner with his phone, his voice trembling, "Uncle! Aunt! Su Ning is going to play the second male lead! It's a movie that Hao Jinming invested in!"

Moonlight streamed in through the window and fell on Su Ning.

Looking at the lively crowd before him, still clutching the script of "Under the Zhengyang Gate" that Hao Jinming had just given him, he felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

From a newcomer suffering from amnesia to being recognized and expected to succeed, the journey was not long, but it was all thanks to the support of those around him.

He quietly clenched his fist, with only one thought in his mind: he could not betray this trust.

……

The filming location of "Parents' Love" in Qingdao.

Su Ning, wearing Jiang Weimin's old cotton-padded coat, stood on the threshold of "Jiang Family Courtyard," looking at her last shot on the camera.

Wearing a military uniform and carrying his luggage, Jiang Weimin boarded the commuter boat to the countryside amidst the reluctance of his family. His smile, however, concealed a mix of trepidation and anticipation for the future.

"Cut! Perfect!" Director Kong's voice broke the silence. He put down the walkie-talkie, stood up, and applauded. "I hereby declare that Su Ning's scenes are officially wrapped!"

Applause erupted instantly. Teacher Mei walked over with a bouquet of sunflowers, the petals still glistening with water droplets. She gently patted Su Ning's arm, her eyes looking at him like she was her own child: "Little Su, this bouquet is called 'Sunflower,' just like you, bright-hearted. Don't lose this purity in the industry; it's the most precious thing."

Teacher Guo followed closely behind and gave him a firm hug, so strong that Su Ning almost burst out laughing: "In the play, you are my son Jiang Weimin, but off-screen, you are my brother Guo Tao! In the future, when you come to Beijing, don't be shy, my door will always be open for you!"

With tears in his eyes, the executive director, Lao Zhou, handed over a bottle of hot milk tea: "Su Ning, I've watched you go from being timid in front of the camera for the first time to being so natural and confident now. It makes me happier than watching my own child grow up. If you encounter any difficulties while filming in the future, feel free to call me anytime."

The young men from the production crew gathered around and shoved an enamel mug with "Jiang Family Courtyard" printed on it into his hand: "Su Ning, keep this mug as a souvenir. It will remind you of our days in Qingdao whenever you drink hot water!"

The makeup artist also came over and straightened his collar: "Next time we meet, you have to bring me some roasted chestnuts from Beijing."

Holding the warmth in his hands, Su Ning couldn't help but feel his eyes welling up with tears. The care and attention he had received over the past few days had made this place his second home.

At the wrap party, Director Kong specially called Su Ning to his side and handed her a thick kraft paper envelope.

"This isn't for your salary; it's 'travel expenses' pooled together by everyone in the crew," Director Kong said gently. "We know you're going to Beijing to film a new movie, and it must be tough for you in an unfamiliar place. This is everyone's thoughtful gesture."

Suning opened the envelope; inside, besides a stack of crisp new banknotes, was a faded group photo…

In the photo, everyone is crammed onto the sofa in the "Jiang family living room," with Teacher Mei and Teacher Guo protecting him in the middle, and he is smiling brightly.

The back of the photo was covered with writing: "Xiao Su, the character Taozi is definitely going to be a hit!"

"Remember to eat more, don't lose any more weight!"

"If you need any help, feel free to call anytime. My number is here!"

Chen Tao leaned closer, staring in disbelief, and muttered under his breath, "This treatment is even more considerate than that of the lead actor!"

Director Kong heard this and shook his head with a smile: "Because Xiao Su deserves it. His earnestness reminds us of ourselves when we first entered the industry, working hard purely because we love acting."

……

In early November 2012, a light, cold rain was falling on the platform of Qingdao Railway Station.

With her backpack on and train ticket clutched in her hand, Su Ning looked at her parents' red-eyed faces and felt a lump in her throat.

Wang Xiuying held his hand and repeatedly reminded him: "When you get to Beijing, eat on time. When it gets cold, wear warm clothes so you don't catch a cold. No matter how busy you are filming, remember to call home."

Su Daqiang didn't say much, but took out a worn old notebook from his pocket. The cover was faded blue, and there was a blurry movie poster on it.

"This is your favorite notebook before you lost your memory. It contains some of your thoughts on movies and TV shows that you wrote back then." Su Daqiang's voice was a little hoarse. "Maybe if you look at it, you'll remember something."

The train sounded its whistle and started moving. Su Ning leaned against the window, watching her parents' figures grow smaller and smaller until they became two blurry black dots.

He opened the old notebook, and on the first page was written a line: "The meaning of life is to make the most of every opportunity."

The handwriting was both unfamiliar and familiar. He gently brushed his fingertips across the paper, and a strange warmth suddenly welled up in his heart.

More than ten hours later, the train arrived in Beijing.

The cold wind at Huairou Film and Television Base was even stronger than in Qingdao. The withered yellow branches trembled in the wind, but in the distance, rows of film studios were brightly lit, like a city that never sleeps.

The executive director of "Under the Zhengyang Gate" was already waiting at the door, holding a thick coat in his hand: "Xiao Su, you must be tired from your journey! President Hao specifically instructed that you must be taken good care of. Go to the dormitory to put your luggage down first, and we'll have a makeup test and styling appointment first thing tomorrow morning. Taozi's costumes are all ready."

Walking through the film studio with the executive director, Su Ning watched the film crews coming and going.

Some were dressed in ancient robes, some in Republic-era hats, and some in modern police uniforms; everyone's face was filled with enthusiasm for the filming.

Everything here was new and exciting; the air seemed to be filled with the spirit of creation. He couldn't help but slow down, his heart pounding with awe.
This is the heart of Chinese film and television, a place where countless people pursue their dreams, and now, he has become one of them.

The dormitory was located in the living area of ​​the film and television base, and you could see the filming location not far away just by opening the window...

The street under Zhengyangmen Gate has been decorated. Old-fashioned bicycles lean against brick walls, faded signs hang at the entrances of shops, and even the moss in the corners of the walls is made to look lifelike.

Suning took out a group photo of the cast of "Our Parents' Love" and pasted it on the window. The smiling faces in the photo looked especially warm under the light.

"Thank you," he said softly to the photo. "You've transformed me from a lost amnesiac into an actor with dreams."

As night deepened, the lights in the distant film studio were still on, and the director's voice calling "Action" could be faintly heard.

Su Ning opened the script of "Under the Zhengyang Gate". Taozi's lines were circled repeatedly in red pen, and there were also dense notes written next to them.

Tomorrow, he will become "Taozi" and embark on a brand new journey.

The cold wind was still howling outside the window, but Su Ning felt warm inside.

He looked up at the night sky, where the stars in Huairou shone exceptionally brightly, as if illuminating the path for this new dreamer.

...(End of chapter)