Abstract Art Award Winner

Xiamen, Strait Grand Theatre.

On both sides of the red carpet, media flashes were already in place.

Zhou Le, dressed in a black haute couture gown, always attracts countless flashing lights whenever he appears.

In the afternoon, he came with Deng Jiajia, the female lead of "Making a Name for Oneself," and Zhang Benyu, the core screenwriter.

Everyone else had their own social circles, so they were free to act as they pleased.

Upon entering the rest area before the ceremony, Zhou Le's sharp eyes quickly locked onto several target individuals.

"Director Li, hello!" Zhou Le greeted the famous director Li Shaohong, who was talking to someone else, with a polite smile.

Li Shaohong naturally knew Zhou Le.

The two quickly started chatting, and after a while, Li Shaohong looked behind Zhou Le.

"Who are these two?"

"Oh, them? Let me introduce you. These are two key contributors to our film 'Fame and Fortune'." He stepped aside to let Deng Jiajia and Zhang Benyu stand in front of him. "This is our leading lady, Deng Jiajia, who gave a brilliant performance in the film. This is Zhang Benyu, the soul of our film's screenwriter. He deserves great credit for making the story believable. Of course, there are a few others who are not here yet."

Li Shaohong looked at the two of them with interest, and said to Zhou Le with a smile, "Zhou Le, I trust your judgment. I've read 'Making a Name for Yourself,' the script structure is ingenious, and Xiao Deng's performance is indeed impressive." She then looked at Zhang Benyu, "Screenwriter Zhang, if you have any good scripts in the future, we can exchange ideas more often."

Zhang Benyu, a native of Inner Mongolia, seemed a little reserved in front of a renowned director like Li Shaohong, but he still responded sincerely: "Thank you for your affirmation, Director Li. I will continue to work hard."

Deng Jiajia quickly bowed and said, "Director Li, you flatter me. I still have a lot to learn."

A similar scene occurred during his conversations with several directors, producers, and well-known actors, including Cao Baoping and Simon Yam.

Zhou Le skillfully played the role of introducer, sparing no effort to promote his team members to a wider stage.

He knew very well that connections and opportunities were equally important in this circle, after all, these were based on his own experience.

The moment to walk the red carpet has finally arrived.

Zhou Le gentlemanly bent his arm, and Deng Jiajia gently took his arm. The two walked side by side onto the long red carpet that stretched into the distance.

The screams and camera shutter sounds from both sides instantly rose several decibels.

"Zhou Le! Look here!"

"Jiajia! So beautiful!"

Zhou Le smiled and waved to the surroundings with ease, but secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

Walking the red carpet with the leading lady of his own movie is perfectly natural and reasonable. Now, there's no need to worry about those two ladies getting jealous.

At that moment, he felt that his decision was incredibly wise, perfectly avoiding a potential red carpet controversy.

Upon entering the ceremony venue, the atmosphere was both solemn and enthusiastic.

The opening performance featured a well-known singer.

Following that, the hosts Lan Yu, Deng Chao, Huang Xiaoming, and Li Bingbing took to the stage together, and applause erupted once again as soon as they appeared.

After the opening remarks, the awards ceremony officially began, with the Best Feature Film award being presented first.

The competition is extremely fierce.

Several strong films, including "Chinese Doctors", "The Island Keeper", "The Revolutionary", "Cliff Walkers", and "Hi Mom", are competing in the same arena.

When the presenter read out "Cliff Walkers," Zhang Yimou calmly stood up, and the film crew area erupted in enthusiastic applause.

Zhang Yimou walked onto the stage, accepted the trophy from the award presenter, and stood in front of the microphone: "Thank you Golden Rooster Awards, thank you jury. Filming 'Cliff Walkers' was a journey of faith completed in the freezing cold."

"Thank you to the entire crew for their hard work, and thank you to all the actors for their wonderful performances." He paused, glancing at Zhou Le in the audience, and emphasized his words, "Of course, I want to especially thank Zhou Le here. He is not only the lead actor in this film, but also added an indispensable brilliance to the film with his professionalism, dedication, and profound understanding of the character."

Finally, I hope that Chinese films will continue to improve and that more outstanding actors like Zhou Le will emerge.

The spotlight shone on Zhou Le perfectly, and he immediately stood up and bowed deeply towards the stage.

Applause rang out again, both for Zhang Yimou and for Zhou Le, a leading figure of the new generation.

Several awards were interspersed throughout, but naturally, they missed out on awards such as Best Children's Film, Best Foreign Language Film, and Best Drama Film.

The Best Screenplay award came up very quickly.

Despite receiving much praise for its script, "Making a Name for Oneself" did not win an award this time; the prize went to veteran filmmaker Huang Jianxin.

This is understandable. With a bunch of strong contenders emerging, it's naturally difficult for a movie like this to compete with them.

After all, while the book that made him famous was good, it wasn't exactly a phenomenon.

Zhou Le noticed a fleeting look of disappointment in Zhang Benyu's eyes and gently patted him on the shoulder.

"Brother Benyu?"

Zhang Benyu smiled, quickly regaining his composure, and even revealing a relieved smile: "Director Zhou, it's alright, it's normal. Teacher Huang Jianxin is a senior, and his work is indeed substantial. Being nominated is already a great affirmation for us. It shows that we've taken the right path. Let's try again next time."

Zhou Le nodded appreciatively: "It's good that you have this mindset. I have never doubted your talent. There will be many opportunities in the future. In the future, we can aim for more than just screenwriting. We can also strive for Best Supporting Actor and Best Actor."

As for Best Director, this year is naturally also a close call, and few of the directors of the same period can compare to Zhang Yimou.

Including Zhou Le.

However, although Zhou Le couldn't beat Zhang Yimou for Best Director, there was still a Best Director Debut award at this year's Golden Rooster Awards.

"Let's congratulate Zhou Le!"

Zhou Le is already quite famous.

Among all the films, only one film adaptation of Zheng Yuanjie's fairy tale, one film about ethnic minorities, Jia Ling's "Hello, Li Huanying", and one of Zhou Le's works were selected.

Although Li Huanying's box office was higher, Zhou Le's reputation was too good, and Li Huanying itself caused a lot of controversy when it was released during last year's Spring Festival.

Therefore, Zhou Le won the Best New Director award.

"Thank you everyone, thank you to every actor in the crew, and thank you to everyone who helped make this film possible."

This time, Zhou Le didn't pull any tricks. He sincerely thanked everyone before taking the trophy and leaving the stage.

Then came the highlight of the event: the Best Actor award ceremony.

The images of the nominees flashed across the big screen in turn: Yu Hewei (Cliff Walkers), Liu Ye (The Island Keeper), Yi Yangqianxi (A Little Red Flower), Guo Xiaodong (My Father Jiao Yulu), and Zhou Le (Cliff Walkers).

Every name carries weight, and every actor delivers a performance of the year.

Zhou Le could feel his heart beating faster.

Although he has won Best Actor awards abroad, the Golden Rooster Award is one of the highest honors in Chinese-language cinema. Its local professional recognition and industry status are unmatched by other awards.

Especially with the booming development of China's film industry, the Golden Rooster Awards have become increasingly prestigious. It is not only an artistic affirmation, but also signifies influence and voice in the vast domestic market.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm his turbulent emotions.

Yu Hewei wasn't worried, since everything had already been agreed upon beforehand.

On the cliff and in the age of awakening, one person goes up to one.

But it's hard to say about other people.

Even if Zhang Yi had given him inside information.

However, these film festivals have also seen their share of mishaps.

When the award presenter calmly and clearly announced the winner—Zhou Le! "Cliff Walkers!"

Zhou Le felt as if time had stopped for a moment.

The immense joy and relief instantly washed away the previous tension.

He stood up and first hugged Deng Jiajia and Zhang Benyu, who were very excited beside him. Then he walked quickly to the "Cliff Walkers" crew area, hugged director Zhang Yimou tightly, and shook hands with Yu Hewei.

“Well deserved!” Yu Hewei murmured with a smile.

Zhang Yimou also laughed and said, "Congratulations! Your first real Best Actor award. It came a little late, but you finally got it."

Zhou Le felt incredibly grounded with every step he took onto the podium.

Receiving the golden trophy from the award presenter Wang Xuexin, the weight of it filled him with overwhelming excitement.

This is the first prestigious domestic film award of his career, making it exceptionally significant. He stood before the microphone, took a moment to catch his breath, and said, "Thank you, thank you to the Golden Rooster Awards jury, thank you to director Zhang Yimou. This award is very important."

His voice carried a hint of barely perceptible excitement, “Thank you to all the colleagues in the ‘Cliff Walkers’ crew. We completed this film together in the freezing cold of Harbin. Thank you, Mr. Yu Hewei. It was an honor to act opposite you. This award is half yours. And thank you to all the audience who supported me.”

At that moment, whether intentionally or accidentally by the director, the camera panned across Yi Yangqianxi.

Yi Yangqianxi was applauding him earnestly, with a sincere smile on his face. Contrary to what many people expected, there was no trace of resentment on his face.

"Finally, I would like to thank Director Zhang. From casting to the wrap-up of filming, Director Zhang provided me with the strongest support. I am extremely grateful!"

After speaking, Zhou Le stepped down from the stage.

I returned to the film crew on the cliff once again and hugged everyone there.

However, before the buzz surrounding the Best Actor award had even died down, the competition for Best Actress began.

When the nomination list was announced, Zhou Leneng could clearly feel Deng Jiajia next to him tense up instantly, and her breathing became a little rapid.

The following songs appeared on the big screen in sequence: Zhang Xiaofei's "Hello, Li Huanying", Liu Mintao's "Goodbye, Boy", Zhang Zifeng's "My Sister", Liu Haocun's "I'll Give You a Little Red Flower", and Deng Jiajia's "Make a Name for Yourself".

This is also a list of deaths.

Zhang Xiaofei is riding high on the success of "Hi, Mom," which grossed over 5 billion yuan.

Liu Mingtao and Zhang Zifeng have solid acting skills.

Although Liu Haocun is suspected of being a "pre-made dish," he also has strong behind-the-scenes support. His participation in "Sending You a Little Red Flower" also carries the sentimental value of the late musician Zhao Yingjun, and the market reviews are also very good.

Zhou Le tilted his head slightly and whispered to Deng Jiajia, "Teacher Deng, don't be nervous. No matter the outcome, you've already won."

Deng Jiajia glanced at Zhou Le gratefully and nodded vigorously, but her clenched fist remained tightly closed.

The presenter for the Best Actress award was Kara Hui. She opened the envelope, paused for a moment, and clearly announced: "The winner of the 34th Golden Rooster Awards for Best Actress is—Deng Jiajia! For 'Fame and Fortune'! Congratulations!"

With a sudden "boom," Deng Jiajia seemed to freeze in place. She covered her mouth in disbelief, her eyes instantly turning red.

Zhou Le was the first to stand up, opened his arms and gave her a big hug, quickly whispering in her ear, "Congratulations! Teacher Deng!"

Zhang Benyu and others also stood up to offer their congratulations.

The camera keenly captured the "Hi, Mom" ​​crew. Jia Ling and Zhang Xiaofei were indeed stunned for a moment when the results were announced, but then Jia Ling clapped her hands vigorously and showed a big, sincere smile on her face. Zhang Xiaofei also quickly adjusted and smiled as he applauded his competitor.

In fact, at this stage, both Deng Jiajia and Zhang Xiaofei are acceptable to people; it would be fine to give the role to either of them.

But those present also knew that Zhou Le must have given Deng Jiajia a boost in this round.

Deng Jiajia walked onto the stage amidst everyone's blessings.

Her hands were still trembling slightly as she accepted the trophy.

Standing in front of the microphone, tears streamed down her face before she could even speak, and she choked up several times before managing to calm herself down.

"I'm sorry, I'm too excited..." She wiped away her tears. "Thank you Golden Rooster Awards, thank you jury, I... I never thought I could stand here." Her voice was trembling with tears, but it was incredibly sincere. "I want to thank all the actors and staff of 'Fame and Fortune,' it is you who made this film possible."

Then, she looked towards Zhou Le in the audience, and tears welled up again: "Finally, the person I want to thank the most is my director, Zhou Le. Thank you, thank you for choosing to believe in me and entrusting me with this role when I was almost about to give up my career."

Thank you for guiding me when I was lost, thank you for giving me a platform where I could fully express myself... Without you, there would be no Deng Jiajia today... Thank you, Director Zhou!" She bowed deeply in Zhou Le's direction.

The applause of the audience was thunderous.

Zhou Le sat in his seat, smiling and clapping.

At that moment, he was genuinely happy for the actress who had worked so hard for so long.

In subsequent awards, Cliff Walkers won another award for Best Recording.

The long awards ceremony has finally come to an end.

But all things considered, everyone realized that Zhou Le was the biggest winner.

When the event ended, the venue transformed into a large-scale celebration.

Zhang Yi walked over and patted Zhou Le on the shoulder forcefully: "Zhou Le, well done! I knew I hadn't misjudged you!"

Zhou Le responded respectfully, "It's all thanks to your excellent guidance, Director."

At this moment, Jia Ling and Zhang Xiaofei also came over.

Jia Ling, with her cheerful personality, greeted everyone before she even arrived: "Hey Zhou Le! Congratulations! Best Actor! And Jiajia too, that was fantastic!" She hugged the still slightly dizzy Deng Jiajia tightly, "You acted so well, we should work together sometime!"

Zhou Le quickly replied, "Thank you, Sister Ling."

As he walked out, Zhou Le chatted with the crew members.

Just as they were walking, a familiar female voice, tinged with a hint of teasing, rang out: "Hey, isn't this our newly crowned Golden Rooster Award-winning actor!"

Zhou Le turned around and saw Yang Mi walking gracefully towards him. She was dressed in a stunning outfit tonight, looking radiant, especially her figure.

He always thought Yang Mi was really amazing.

Putting aside her acting skills, she has been a relatively successful female artist commercially for many years.

What's more, she now possesses both the charm of a young woman and the allure of a young girl.

Yang Mi walked up to Zhou Le and looked him up and down. Her tone was both teasing and wistful: "I remember when I first met you, you were still working as a small extra in various film crews. It's only been a few years... No wonder you looked down on Jiaxing back then. You're a future movie star. You have a long-term vision."

Zhou Le smiled upon hearing this. Although he still remembered that night, he would at least not reveal any flaws to the outside world: "Sister Mi, you are too kind. I was just trying to make a living back then. What movie star or movie star? We were all just flashes in the pan. But Sister Mi is different. You are an evergreen tree in the entertainment industry."

Yang Mi was amused by his words: "You're still so cheeky! But I like hearing that. Alright, you've won such a big award, you have to treat us to a meal later! You can't just brush it off."

Zhou Le readily agreed: "No problem, Sister Mi! I'll definitely arrange it! But we can't go on a big fuss right now. We'll definitely make up for it with a big feast when things get better!"

The situation in China is still quite tense.

Zhou Le really couldn't hold a big celebration.

Back at his hotel, Zhou Le's phone went into overdrive with calls.

He was being tagged and congratulated in various WeChat groups.

He quickly sent out several rounds of large red envelopes in various groups.

Immediately afterwards, phone calls came in one after another.

"Bro! You're awesome! You won the Golden Rooster Award for Best Actor without making a sound! When are we going to get together? We have to celebrate! You pay, I'll choose the place. Of course, if you don't have any girls, I can call some for you." This is Xu Zheng.

Huang Bo's chat was short, but he said everything he needed to say: "Zhou Le, congratulations! That's a well-deserved award! When you have time, please share your experience with me. Your directing career is going smoothly, while I'm still feeling lost."

Shen Teng: "Congratulations, my brother, Best Actor! When are you going to come and make a cameo appearance at Happy Twist and share in our joy!"

Wu Jing: "Le'er, come to my house for a drink now that you're back in Beijing."

Wang Sicong: "Wow, Zhou Le, you've become a movie star! I'll organize a celebration party for you in Shanghai later!"

Nazha and Dilraba called almost simultaneously, with the core content being highly consistent.

Express your congratulations and imply that you should have a good celebration when you get back.

Zhou Le responded to each question: "Okay, no problem. I'll see how it goes when I get back."

That was all he could say.

Looking at the schedule, we have to stagger these times.

The last phone call came from Wang Baoqiang.

"Le'er! Congratulations! You've won the Golden Rooster Award for Best Actor!" Wang Baoqiang's simple and sincere congratulations came through the receiver.

"Thank you, Brother Baoqiang!"

“My film preparations are almost complete. Once you’re done with your work, come over as soon as possible, okay? We can practice our moves again, and you can also take another look at the script. See if there’s anything that needs to be changed, and we can work on it together,” Wang Baoqiang invited.

Upon hearing this, Zhou Le's eyes lit up.

This is like a perfect pillow for someone who's sleepy!
This is a perfect opportunity to legitimately hide in the film crew and avoid the love triangle between Gulnazar and Dilraba.

Otherwise, given that things happened one after the other, he didn't want to become a time management master in the eyes of these two girls.

"No problem! Brother Baoqiang!" Zhou Le answered decisively without the slightest hesitation. "I'll handle the follow-up publicity here, and I'll be there soon! We can't fall behind in our studies; I'll also study the script more carefully!" (End of Chapter)