Abstract Art Award Winner

In the private rooms of the upscale nightclub, the noise gradually subsided, leaving only a mess on the table and the mixed smells of expensive perfume and alcohol in the air.

Da Peng put his arm around Zhou Le's shoulder, and kept lamenting the hardships of the film industry.

"Le'er, you know, this world... hiccup..." Da Peng hiccuped, his eyes slightly glazed over. "IP adaptations? They look exciting, but how many of them actually make a splash? They're not even good enough to fool the fans of the original work! And those historical dramas, if you make them too meticulous, the audience finds them boring; if you add some fictional elements for entertainment, they accuse you of disrespecting history... This kind of balance is harder to maintain than breaking your vow and taking them back to the hotel!"

Although Zhou Le had also drunk quite a bit, his eyes were still clear. He supported Da Peng, nodded, and said in a steady voice, "Brother Peng, the market is tough. Streaming media is taking away our jobs, audiences are picky, and the overall environment is not what it used to be. But in the end, the root of the problem is still the film itself."

He paused, his tone softening: "As long as the story is compelling enough, the production is sincere enough, and it truly touches people's hearts, and you also have the right timing, good luck, and good cooperation, breaking through the impasse is not impossible. The key is that you have to do your job to the best of your ability first."

"The ultimate?" Da Peng shook his head with a wry smile, patted Zhou Le's shoulder, and said with a hint of drunkenness and envy, "My good brother, it's easy to say that your film is good enough plus the right timing, location, and people! What are the standards for a good film? It's impossible to please everyone!"

Human factors? That's like a pie falling from the sky; whether it hits you or not is entirely up to fate! But…

He gave a thumbs up and said sincerely, "Your mentality is that of a true top star! Steadfast! I'm impressed!"

He grabbed the half-empty bottle of foreign liquor on the table, poured a small glass for Zhou Le and himself as a token gesture, and clinked glasses crisply. "To the future, to the great film!"

The liquor was spicy as it went down his throat, but Zhou Le just smiled and didn't say anything more.

He knew that what Dapeng said was reality, but it didn't apply to him.

Entering the directing world, my starting point was too high.

With Han Sanping, the Han family daughters' endorsement, and so many top-notch directors overseeing the script, the suspense and other elements will definitely be good. After all, it's his debut film, just like "Jianbing Man"—as long as it's not absolutely terrible, it'll be fine.

After a few rounds of drinks, it was time to call it a night.

The group walked to the door, and a night breeze made Dapeng a little more awake.

He caught a glimpse of several young women with exquisite makeup and revealing clothes being led by their assistants toward the van parked at the door; they were clearly the celebrities who would be accompanying him that evening.

The nanny van was arranged by Dapeng.

Da Peng leaned closer to Zhou Le, lowered his voice, and said with a hint of the unspoken mischief between men, "Le'er, really not... take one with you? I'll arrange it for you, absolutely clean, very tight-lipped, guaranteed no trouble." He gestured towards the girls.

Zhou Le didn't even flinch, just waved his hand, his tone a mix of helplessness and unwavering resolve: "Brother Peng, please spare me, I really don't have the energy for that. I've been through so much all day, I just want to go back, take a shower, and get a good night's sleep."

Da Peng smiled and didn't press the issue; he knew Zhou Le's personality.

He had his assistant usher Zhou Le into the car and watched him climb into the middle row of the van.

Da Peng clicked his tongue, half-jokingly and half-genuinely giving Zhou Le a thumbs-up as he walked away, his voice just loud enough for Zhou Le to hear: "Great! Awesome! A top star is a top star! High standards, high thresholds, ordinary mediocre girls can't even catch your eye! I admire you!"

The car window slowly rolled down, revealing Zhou Le's handsome face, which looked even more striking in the night and under the car's interior lights.

A helpless yet composed smile curved his lips, his eyes clear: "Come on, Peng, stop flattering me. What top star or not, I'm just an ordinary person. I just want to live a simpler, more carefree life, avoid getting into trouble, get more sleep, and most importantly, make more money."

As soon as he finished speaking, the car window rolled up silently, shutting out the noise and prying eyes from the outside world.

The van smoothly glided into the night, leaving Dapeng standing there, thoughtfully pondering the phrase "ordinary people."

As the car drove along the now quiet Chang'an Avenue, Zhou Le rubbed his temples, feeling the fatigue brought on by the intense social interaction and alcohol.

Just as he was about to close his eyes and rest, his phone started buzzing, and the screen displayed the director's contact name for "The Long Ballad".

"Hey, director."

Zhou Le answered the phone, his voice returning to its usual calm.

"Teacher Zhou, did I disturb your rest?" The director's voice was filled with excitement and anticipation. "I have great news for you! The first draft of the script for 'The Long Ballad' is finished! I just sent it to your email. Could you take a look when you have some free time? Our project is all waiting for your help!"

"Okay, thank you for your hard work, director. I'll watch it now."

Zhou Le hung up the phone, opened his tablet, and clicked on the attachment in his email labeled "First Draft of the Script for 'The Long Ballad'".

The reading lights inside the car emitted a soft glow.

Zhou Le read quickly, but his brows furrowed more and more tightly.

He had read the original novel. The story was alright, but there were too many factual errors. It seemed that in order to be faithful to the original work, after writing this script, Zhou Le realized that there were too many problems!
"The Turkic Khan openly paraded through Chang'an with several hundred personal guards, as if the garrison and imperial guards of Chang'an were just for show?"

"The female lead, a noblewoman from a duke's family, is pointing her finger at the prime minister and scolding him in court? What about the etiquette of the Tang Dynasty?"

"The crucial evidence is hidden... under the desk in the Imperial Study? Do they think the Imperial Guards are blind?"

"This political maneuvering is too childish! Even a three-year-old could see through it..."

One by one, common-sense historical errors, illogical character behaviors, and plot holes that couldn't withstand scrutiny pierced Zhou Le's eyes like thorns.

In the novel, readers can use their imagination to ignore these flaws and focus on the story and the characters' emotions.

However, when it's made into a TV series, everything—costumes, props, sets, dialogue, and acting—will be brought to life.

These flaws will be magnified on camera, becoming targets for viewers' criticism, and history enthusiasts and those who meticulously research will launch a collective attack.

He doesn't reject light novels, but if they're related to history, especially if they're not set in a fictional world, he feels they should be more rigorous.

Zhou Le quickly called the director back, his tone more serious than ever before: "Director, I've read the script, and there are serious problems!"

The director on the other end of the phone was clearly taken aback by Zhou Le's strong reaction, pausing for a moment before asking, "Huh? Mr. Zhou, what exactly are you referring to..."

"The historical details are riddled with errors, the characters' behavior is illogical, and the plot seriously defies common sense." Zhou Le pointed out bluntly, "Director, we are making a period drama, not a fictional one. Some parts of the original work can be appropriately artistically adapted, but the basic historical background, social rules, and the behavioral logic derived from the characters' identities must be believable! Otherwise, the result will be a joke and will be nailed to the pillar of shame!"

Zhou Le said.

The director's voice carried a hint of disdain: "Teacher Zhou, aren't you being too serious? This is a period idol drama! The core is handsome men and beautiful women falling in love. A little political intrigue can be used as background for excitement. The audience is watching for good looks, chemistry between the leads, and the exciting moments! Who cares about those details? If you nitpick too much, the pacing will slow down, and the audience will find it boring. It's not worth it! As long as the story is generally good and the characters are beautiful and charming, the ratings and popularity are guaranteed!"

Zhou Le disagreed with this statement.

Zhou Le's voice was resolute: "Director, I spend money to make a good drama. Even if the ratings and viewership are good, there will always be people who take it seriously. I don't want to just make money off my fans. Besides, the audience isn't stupid these days! The original highlights can be preserved, but basic logic must also be respected."

The word "investor" felt like a huge boulder pressing down on us.

The director was silent for a few seconds, clearly weighing the pros and cons.

In the end, he compromised, but his tone was clearly perfunctory and reluctant: "Fine, fine, you're the big spender, you call the shots! We'll change it! But what about the original author..."

He tried to pass the buck.

"The original author?" Zhou Le interrupted him, his tone leaving no room for argument. "The copyright is in our hands, and of course we have the right to make changes according to the contract, but that doesn't mean we can disrespect the original author's hard work! Out of respect for the original author and the original fans, we must communicate with her about the proposed changes, explaining the reasons and scope of our modifications. As I said before, the core character relationships and key plot highlights can be retained."

The director on the other end of the phone seemed to curl his lip, his tone carrying a touch of worldly disdain: "The original author? Just a comic book artist, she's already pocketed the copyright fees! She doesn't care how you change it! As long as the money's there, she wouldn't mind if you changed the protagonist to an alien! Contacting her is completely unnecessary!"

Whether it's unnecessary or not is another matter, but I think it's still necessary to inform you. What do you think?

One you think looks light and airy.

But the meaning is actually quite clear.

The director naturally compromised.

"Okay, if you say we'll change it, then we'll change it. I'll arrange the flights later."

"Sure, thank you for your hard work, Director." After hanging up the phone, Zhou Le leaned back in his leather seat, gazing at the dazzling lights rushing past the window.

He understands the director's "pragmatism," a common mindset in an industry driven by capital and popularity.

But his success today is not solely due to popularity and capital, but more importantly, his unwavering commitment to the quality of his work.

She can act in idol dramas, but they can't be too bad.

Fantasy novels can be fantastical, but historical fiction cannot.

He can at most introduce some slight changes, but at least common sense issues should be avoided.

His status as an investor gave him more say in upholding this bottom line.

The following morning, in a quiet private room of a teahouse.

The original author of "The Long Ballad" is a girl who seems to have a very elegant demeanor.

The other person sat somewhat awkwardly opposite Zhou Le, their eyes filled with barely concealed excitement and nervousness.

She never expected that the novel whose copyright she sold would attract the attention of a top influencer like Zhou Le, who would personally come to discuss script revisions.

After all, once you've been in this line of work for a long time, you stop seeing yourself as a human being.

Once a work is sold, that's the production company's problem.

Zhou Le was not pretentious at all, and his attitude was sincere and direct: "Teacher Xia Da, I actually really like your 'Chang Ge Xing'. The story is wonderful, the characters are vivid, and especially the growth line of the female protagonist Li Chang Ge, which is very touching."

Xia Da was flattered and quickly waved her hand, "Teacher Zhou, you're too kind! There's no need to call me teacher! But I'm so happy that you like my book!"

"It's alright, we're all family, no need to be so formal."

“That’s how it is.” Zhou Le got to the point, pushing the printed first draft of the script and a photocopy with many questions marked in front of the author. “The film and television adaptation has encountered some specific problems. Some settings in the novel that are based on imagination and plot needs may cause considerable controversy when placed in the concrete TV series due to historical details, character identity logic and common sense issues, which will affect the audience’s sense of immersion and the reputation of the series.”

He pointed to several key marked areas and explained the problems and potential negative effects in a clear and organized manner.

Xia Da listened very attentively, nodding from time to time.

She looked through the places that Zhou Le had marked with red pen, marking them as "incorrect historical facts," "contradictory behavioral logic," and "unreasonable settings," and her face felt a little hot.

When she was writing it, she really didn't think too much about it; she just did whatever made it fun and wrote whatever plot developments came up with.

Zhou Le looked at him and solemnly promised, "But rest assured, the core goal of this revision is to make the story more credible and have a more solid foundation in the process of film and television adaptation."

However, we will do our best to preserve the core essence of the original work—the charm of the main characters, the key relationships between the characters, especially the emotional development of the male and female protagonists, as well as those exciting or tear-jerking scenes and memorable moments that make readers excited or moved to tears, and present them in the best way possible.

The revisions mainly focus on addressing foundational issues that might be exposed during film adaptation and making the plot development more logical; they will not fundamentally alter the story or distort the characters' core essence.

After listening to Zhou Le's sincere and professional explanation, as well as his assurance of respect for the core of the original work, the tension and unease on the author's face completely disappeared, replaced by a sense of relief and ease, and even a bit of smug satisfaction at "getting something for nothing".

She closed the script and laughed heartily:
"Teacher Zhou! You are so professional! And so respectful! I completely understand! Really! Novels are words, and readers fill in the blanks with their own imaginations; TV dramas are visuals and sound, and they need to be realistic."

The issues you pointed out do indeed feel awkward in the drama. Please feel free to revise them as you see fit, you and the screenwriters! I trust your professional judgment and abilities! As long as the story remains captivating, and Changge and A-Jun are still the couple I created, I'll be perfectly content!
The copyright has been sold to you; modify it however you like! I wholeheartedly support you!

She paused, rubbed her hands a little awkwardly, and added, "Um... it's been a pleasure working together! As for the money... cough cough, I'm very satisfied with the payment!"

That expression perfectly illustrated the director's "money is all that matters" theory.

After seeing off the satisfied original author, Zhou Le breathed a sigh of relief.

Things went more smoothly than he had expected.

Respect is mutual. His sincerity earned the author's understanding and support, and laid a good foundation for any potential public opinion from fans of the original work.

After the conversation, Zhou Le flew directly back to Beijing.

As soon as he got home, before he could even sit down, his agent, Xiao Su, rushed over to his door.

"Brother Le!" Su Yingxia handed her phone screen to Zhou Le, which displayed two exquisite electronic invitations.

"The iQiyi Screaming Night just arrived! It's in the middle of next month, only three days after Tencent's Star Awards!"

Zhou Le raised an eyebrow: "Screaming Night? I remember their guest list was finalized a long time ago, wasn't it? They're only sending out invitations now that it's almost time to start? And, how did they even manage to invite me?"

“Who says otherwise!” Su Yingxia spoke quickly. “The person in charge on their end called personally, adopting a very humble attitude. The implication was that as long as you were willing to attend, the grand prizes like the Scream Person of the Year or the Most Influential Artist of the Year would be yours!”
It's obvious they pulled you in at the last minute because your popularity at the end of the year is so high, and you're generating so much buzz, they just wanted to boost viewership and get you on the front page!

Zhou Le leaned back on the sofa, his face showing no surprise, but rather a knowing smile.

Inviting someone so close to the start? That would be considered disrespectful and insulting to anyone else.

But when it comes to myself now...

"Xiao Su, what do you think?" he asked calmly.

Su Yingxia immediately analyzed: "With your current absolute top-tier status, the undisputed king of popularity in the domestic entertainment industry, in the Internet age, traffic is king!"
Their behavior, though self-serving, actually proves your worth! Going there is giving them face; it's a win-win situation.

The Tencent Video All Star Awards is Tencent's home turf, it's our own territory, so we definitely have to go. But the iQiyi Scream Night also has a significant influence. Every time we get exposure and win a top award, it will only benefit our commercial value, media exposure, and solidify our position. Besides, I asked Tencent, and they really encourage us to go out and win some glory.”

Zhou Le nodded; Su Yingxia's analysis was exactly the same as his.

This is the "privilege" that comes with absolute strength.

It can make top platforms temporarily change their plans and humbly beg you to do so.

He doesn't need to accommodate the platform; the platform will proactively accommodate his schedule and his value.

“Accept.” Zhou Le made the decision decisively, a confident smile curving his lips. “Go to both sides and tell the Scream Night that I’ve agreed. As for the awards… let them decide, but the significance should match the sincerity of this last-minute addition.”

"Understood!" Su Yingxia's eyes lit up, and she immediately picked up the phone to start communicating. Her speech was fast and steady, with an unquestionable air.

Zhou Le stood up, walked to the huge floor-to-ceiling window, and looked down at the bustling city below.

The year-end festivities are just beginning.

Nightclub drinking parties, polishing the script for "The Long Ballad," and the two top entertainment galas that followed—each required his attention.

His gaze swept over the first draft of the script for "The Ballad of Chang Ge Xing," which was still lying open on the table and covered with red marks. He then thought of Da Peng's realistic film focusing on cyberbullying.

Different choices, different paths, Da Peng is so worried he's losing his hair, but how can he possibly rest?

Just as Zhou Le was thinking, his phone vibrated again; it was a message from Dilraba.

There was only one picture: a familiar red stocking being held in someone's hand, accompanied by a [smirking] emoji.

"You still can't bear to throw it away?"

"Yes, I'm a little reluctant to part with it. I'll mail it to you later."

Zhou Le chuckled, then replied with a [waiting] emoji. (End of Chapter)