Abstract Art Award Winner

The night in Los Angeles is a constellation of stars.

Inside the venue, people were well-dressed and drinking happily.

East meets West, and the air is thick with anticipation and competition.

The film crews of "Cliff Walkers," "Awakening Age," and "Chinese Doctors" are undoubtedly the focus of attention tonight.

The ceremony officially began, and the opening performance goes without saying.

The first awards presented were for the film category.

The annual Golden Angel Award, which is the best film award at the film festival, has ten slots. Three films, *Cliff Walkers*, *Chinese Doctors*, and *A Writer's Odyssey*, were nominated. When the host announced the names, enthusiastic applause erupted from the audience, especially from the section where the Chinese delegation was located.

Zhou Le, Yu Hewei, and others went on stage with the crew, watching the directors receive the heavy trophies from the award presenters.

Under the spotlight, Zhou Le maintained a polite smile as he listened to the directors take turns giving their remarks.

Although he wasn't an actor, Zhou Le never let anyone down in these kinds of events.

Moreover, many of the people inside are people I already know well.

After returning to his seat, he turned to He Wei and whispered his complaints about "A Writer's Odyssey".

"Teacher Yu, the idea behind the movie 'A Writer's Odyssey' is really good. The premise of a novel influencing reality is quite novel. Although this kind of book-within-a-book or setting intervention is used a lot in online novels now, it is still rare to see it in movies," Zhou Le said.

Yu Hewei nodded: "Yes, Director Lu Yang has ideas and is willing to try them."

Zhou Le changed the subject, his tone slightly mocking: "Yeah... I think the movie was a little lacking, let's not even talk about the acting."

Yu Hewei was amused: "But you didn't say anything else after that."

“Haha,” Zhou Le laughed, “but how should I put it, this is still better than those bland and unoriginal films.”

Next up was the award for Best Producer of the Year, which went to Yu Dong, the producer of "Chinese Doctors".

Watching him go on stage to receive the award, Zhou Le and Yu Hewei started chatting quietly again.

"Professor Yu, what do you think of the prestige of our China-US International Film Festival?"

After a moment's thought, Yu Hewei objectively analyzed the situation: "This issue needs to be viewed from two perspectives. On the positive side, it is indeed one of the largest, oldest, and most dedicated platforms in North America for promoting Asian films."

Winning this award here will have a real positive impact on the exposure, copyright sales, and cultural exchange of Chinese films in the English-speaking world. It acts as a bridge, allowing more overseas audiences and film distributors to see our work.

He paused, then lowered his voice: "But on the other hand, its authority and influence certainly cannot be compared with the three major European film festivals or the Oscars. To some extent, it is more like a friendly award, with certain cultural and political considerations. Its purpose is cultural exchange. So, it is something to be happy to receive the award, which means that our work has been recognized within a certain scope. But we should not overstate it. We must have a sense of scale in our hearts."

Zhou Le nodded thoughtfully: "I understand. It means that its strategic significance outweighs its absolute authority. It can be considered an important frontier for our culture to go global."

"That's a brilliant summary," Yu Hewei said, casting an approving glance.

Just then, the atmosphere at the scene reached a small climax.

The presenter opened the envelope and read out the name of the Best Actor of the Year:
"The winner is... Zhou Le! 'Cliff Walkers'!"

The spotlight instantly shone on Zhou Le, and the entire audience erupted in applause.

The camera immediately focused on him, where Zhou Le showed a slight surprise on his face, which quickly turned into a composed smile.

He then stood up, first giving Zhang Yimou and Yu Hewei a tight hug, then straightening his suit and steadily walking towards the stage.

After receiving the uniquely designed trophy from the presenter, Zhou Le stood in front of the microphone.

Taking a deep breath, his gaze swept over the many faces of various skin colors in the audience, and he began his acceptance speech in Chinese:

"Thank you to the organizing committee, thank you to the judging panel, thank you to Director Zhang. This award means a lot to me."

"First of all, I must thank Director Zhang Yimou again. It is your trust and guidance that gave me the opportunity to play the role of Xiao Dong in such an excellent story as 'Cliff Walkers'."

Thank you, Mr. Yu Hewei and Ms. Qin Hailu. It was an honor to act alongside you. Thank you to all the cast and crew members who worked together to create this film in the freezing cold.

This part does not thank Zhu Yawen.

The main reason is that Zhou Le doesn't like this person. In 19, he was very rude to Guo Qiling at the FIRST International Film Festival.

All sorts of crosstalk performers have come, and there are even comments like "I'm afraid of your mouth," and "Your sect is too scary." Yu Qian was even mentioned.

Zhou Le is already being considerate of Zhang Yi by not publicly humiliating him.

It's impossible to bring it up.

As for what others think, he doesn't care at all, and he doesn't care even if they do.

Then, he changed the subject, his tone becoming slightly humorous and meaningful:
"In the film, we tell a story about faith, sacrifice, and the search for light. This reminds me that whether in the East or the West, and in any era, people's yearning for a better life and their pursuit of justice and truth are actually the same. Of course, reaching a consensus may require more dialogue. After all, we are an ancient civilization that has always advocated two words: peace. Therefore, we will not take the initiative to provoke war."

This metaphor drew knowing smiles and continuous applause from the audience.

“Film is like a bridge,” Zhou Le continued, his voice full of power, “It can’t eliminate all barriers, but it can allow us to see the scenery on the other side and understand each other’s stories.”

I am very proud to be a Chinese actor, using film as a bridge to communicate with the world. I will continue to work hard and portray more great stories. Thank you everyone! Thank you, Chinese cinema!

He nodded slightly from below the stage, his eyes filled with satisfaction.

Subsequently, Zhou Ye won the Best Supporting Actress award for her restrained yet nuanced performance in "Cliff Walkers".

The little girl's eyes welled up with tears of excitement, and she went to Zhou Le's side to give him a big hug.

Her voice choked up a little when she went on stage. She expressed her special gratitude to director Zhang Yimou for his guidance and also specifically mentioned Zhou Le: "I also want to thank Brother Le for his frequent guidance on set and for helping me analyze the character. Thank you, Brother Le!"

Zhou Le applauded her enthusiastically from below the stage, a kind smile on his face like that of an old father or an older brother.

The film awards ceremony concluded in a lively atmosphere.

That evening, the crew of "Cliff Walkers" held a small celebration banquet, and the atmosphere was lively.

As the newly crowned Best Actor, Zhou Le was naturally the focus of everyone's congratulations. He handled the situation with ease, chatting happily with Zhang Yimou, Yu Hewei, and others.

However, his phone was not so calm.

Nazha and Dilraba sent their messages almost one after the other, with the core message being highly consistent: they wanted to come to the celebration party to find you, or perhaps they would go to your room to celebrate later.
Zhou Le stared at his phone, feeling utterly overwhelmed.

Absolutely not.

If both of them come, won't I die?
So, I took a deep breath and replied to the similar messages:
The celebration banquet was too crowded; Director Zhang and Teacher Yu were both there, so it wasn't very convenient. Director Zhang will probably come to my room later to discuss the upcoming awards, but I really can't get away today. You all get some rest, and good luck at the TV festival tomorrow! [Rose]
He once again used Zhang Yimou as a shield, and the effect was remarkable.

Both sides replied with messages expressing understanding, but there seemed to be a hint of emotion in their words.

But Zhou Le secretly rejoiced, having escaped another disaster.

The following day, the Sino-American Television Festival followed.

For today's red carpet appearance, Zhou Le chose to appear alongside the cast and crew of "The Age of Awakening".

But when he walked the red carpet, Nazha was still by his side.

This was agreed upon in advance, after all, "The Long Ballad" was also one of the shortlisted works.

Naza wore a light pink floor-length gown, looking elegant and graceful. She walked down the red carpet arm in arm with Zhou Le, her face beaming with a happy and poised smile, clearly very satisfied with Zhou Le's choice.

On the surface, he was like that, but inside he was overjoyed.

The camera captured them walking side by side, a handsome couple.

Not far away, the cast and crew of "You Are My Glory" were also walking the red carpet.

Dilraba wore a bright red dress and exuded a powerful aura, but in the instant her eyes met Zhou Le's and Gulnazar's, Zhou Le clearly sensed a fleeting sense of disappointment and barely perceptible jealousy in her eyes.

During the subsequent media photo session, Dilraba seemed to unintentionally take several more photos with Zhou Le, their actions more intimate than usual, as if subtly declaring something.

Anyway, they're all just couples from a TV drama. They were just doing a few poses from the drama for promotional photos.

Is it wrong?
Zhou Le was inwardly groaning, but he could only cooperate and try his best to distribute the favor evenly and maintain a superficial balance.

The television festival awards ceremony has begun.

The Golden Angel Award for Best Drama Series of the Year unsurprisingly went to "The Age of Awakening".

When the trophy was raised, the audience erupted in enthusiastic applause.

Zhou Le, sitting in the audience, whispered to He Wei, "Teacher Yu, did you see that? The fact that 'The Age of Awakening' can win an award here is of great significance. It shows that our way of telling our history and conveying our values ​​is being accepted and understood by a wider range of cultural circles. This is a manifestation of cultural confidence, which is much more important than simply winning an award."

Yu Hewei wholeheartedly agreed: "Yes, the symbolic significance of this drama's success is indeed greater than the awards themselves."

Subsequently, "The Long Ballad" also won the Golden Angel Award.

When the director went on stage to accept the award, he specifically mentioned Zhou Le: "...I also want to thank our outstanding actors, especially Zhou Le. As a shining colleague of ours, his success and influence are a huge inspiration and boost to our entire project!"

The camera immediately focused on Zhou Le, who responded with a smile and applause.

Unsurprisingly, Yu Hewei won the Best Actor award for his memorable portrayal of Chen Duxiu in "The Age of Awakening".

Yu Hewei's acceptance speech was calm and powerful, showcasing the demeanor of a veteran artist.

Back in his seat, Zhou Le offered his heartfelt congratulations: "Teacher Yu, you're still got it! You're a true evergreen! You could consider going on a variety show sometime so everyone can see what you're like in private. You're one of the giants of parody videos on Bilibili now."

Yu Hewei was in a great mood and said with a smile, "Sure, take me with you, I'll go."

Zhou Le patted his chest and said, "No problem! Leave it to me!"

The Best Actress of the Year award was given to the talented actress Song Jia.

Song Jia's performance in "Little Reunion" was delicate and precise, and her award was well-deserved.

Zhou Le didn't think there was anything wrong with it.

During this time, Yu Hewei whispered to Zhou Le: "There's a rumor that some judges and directors discussed the Best Producer of the Year award. They originally wanted to help you win it, since you were the producer of several of your previous hit idol dramas, and your achievements are obvious to all."

But "The Age of Awakening" was just too strong, impeccable in every aspect, and in the end, it could only be…

Zhou Le quickly waved his hand and said sincerely, "Teacher Yu, please don't say that. It's all a small matter. 'The Awakening Age' deserves this award. I am convinced of its worth."

My dramas were all idol dramas; I'd be content just to ride the wave of popularity and win a few acting awards. How could I dare compare myself to an epic drama like this? That would be asking for trouble. I know my place.

However, the real test comes when the award for Outstanding Young Actor of the Year is presented.

When the presenter announced the winners, the hall fell silent for a moment.

Nazha in "The Long Ballad"

Dilraba Dilmurat - You Are My Glory

Double yolk egg!
Zhou Le, sitting in the audience, felt he almost lost control of his facial expressions, internally complaining: The organizing committee definitely has something to do with gossip.

On the surface, they are all excellent actors, which is a way of giving themselves face.

But who wouldn't want to hear this gossip?

After a brief moment of surprise, Nazha and Dilraba instantly switched to "sisterly affection" mode.

The two walked hand in hand onto the stage, embraced, and accepted the trophy.

Naza spoke first, thanking the production team and the platform, and then specifically said: "...I am also very happy to receive this award with Dilraba. We have a very good relationship in private, and it feels especially magical to be able to win an award together in Los Angeles this time."

Dilraba took the microphone with a bright smile: "Yes, thank you to the organizing committee! It's such an honor to receive an award together with Sister Gulnazar! We're not only colleagues, but also fellow countrymen from Xinjiang, China. This connection makes this award feel especially precious!"

The two interacted naturally on stage, showing mutual courtesy and their smiles were impeccable, revealing no signs of any undercurrents behind the scenes.

Zhou Le, watching from below the stage, grimaced, his heart filled with mixed feelings.

Is there any hope for me tonight?
The television festival awards ceremony concluded amidst a complex and nuanced atmosphere.

Zhou Le and Yu Hewei also complained about the award system of the TV festival, saying that it had become an internal recognition of Chinese TV dramas, lacking truly influential international competitors, and that its significance for exchange outweighed its significance for competition.

That night, the biggest test came.

Zhou Le hosted a grand banquet, combining the celebration parties for the two dramas, "The Long Ballad" and "You Are My Glory," by booking the entire banquet hall of a high-end restaurant.

This was undoubtedly the ultimate battleground of Zhou Le's trip to Los Angeles.

The atmosphere in the banquet hall was both lively and complex.

As the behind-the-scenes boss, a lead actor in two productions, and a key figure connecting the two production teams, Zhou Le was naturally the focus of the entire event.

He held a wine glass, moving among the crowd, chatting and laughing, but his nerves remained constantly on edge.

After thanking all the members, the director of "The Long Ballad" specially toasted Zhou Le: "Teacher Zhou, the success of this project is absolutely inseparable from your guidance. We will all remember it! Thank you!"

Following this, the director of "You Are My Glory" also made a similar statement, thanking Zhou Le for the great success and attention he brought.

The actors took turns offering toasts, their words filled with gratitude and compliments for Zhou Le.

It was practically a large-scale Zhou Le praise exchange meeting.

Zhou Le finally understood what it meant to be a leader.

That's so awesome, damn!

But the climax of all this was the toasting ceremony between Gulnazar and Dilraba.

Naza, holding a wine glass, gracefully walked over with a gentle and charming smile on her face: "Teacher Zhou, thank you for your invitation today, and thank you for taking care of me all this time. I'd like to toast you." Her words were soft, but her eyes carried a hint of intimacy and possessiveness that only Zhou Le could understand.

Zhou Le quickly raised his glass: "Nazha, you're too kind. Congratulations on winning the award!"

Drink it all in one gulp.

Before he could even put down his glass, Dilraba walked over with her own glass in hand, a bright and cheerful smile on her face, and naturally squeezed half a body space away from Zhou Le: "Teacher Zhou, you've really gone all out today! Thank you for your hospitality. I'd also like to toast you and wish you great success in both film and television!"

Her voice was clear and crisp, and her movements were slightly larger, carrying an undeniable vitality, as if she were asserting her presence.

Zhou Le felt a chill run down his spine and could only refill his glass: "Congratulations, congratulations! Reba, you've worked hard too!"

He drank it all in one gulp again.

Throughout the night, Zhou Le struggled to maintain his balance amidst the combined pressure from these two actresses.

When he speaks to Nazha, his eyes will politely sweep over Dilraba.

When responding to Dilraba's teasing, she also makes sure to smile and greet Gulnazar.

He walked a tightrope with the utmost care, like an acrobat, striving to be impartial and showing no favoritism whatsoever.

The unsuspecting staff around them only felt the atmosphere was lively, but only a few people in the know and Zhou Le, who was in the midst of it, could feel the silent undercurrent of danger beneath the aroma of wine and laughter.

The celebration banquet finally ended in a "perfect" atmosphere. Zhou Le felt as if he had fought a high-intensity, mentally and physically exhausting battle.

The muscles in his face stiffened as he tried to maintain his smile.

The brain becomes exhausted from constantly switching coping modes.

Back in his hotel room, he didn't even bother to change his clothes and just crawled into bed.

Even if the King of Heaven himself came today, he wouldn't be able to get through to me on the phone or knock on my door! (End of Chapter)