Huayu: When the director changed his major

Chapter 302: Project Z and Stephen Chow star in "The Mermaid" (5k)

"Please welcome our Zuibai Entertainment Chairman—Cheng Xi!"

As soon as these words were spoken, the International Hall burst into applause.

Everyone applauded and looked in the direction of Cheng Xi.

Cheng Xi walked slowly towards the main seat in the podium with steady steps.

Rebana and others looked at Cheng Xi, who was in high spirits, and couldn't help but applaud even harder.

I feel proud and honored for the achievements my brother/senior/boss has made today, and I feel proud of them!
After Cheng Xi took the seat in the middle, he looked around the venue with a smile on his face.

Then he raised his hand to signal everyone to stop applauding.

After a while, the International Hall finally quieted down.

"Hello everyone, I'm Cheng Xi."

"Today is the day when Zuibai Entertainment officially launches 'Plan Z'. I would like to thank all the media friends and industry insiders for coming and supporting us."

There was another round of applause from the audience, but Cheng Xi did not stop and continued speaking into the microphone:

“‘Z计划’是一个立体的项目，在2014年5月至2016年5月两年间，我们将投入总共20-30亿资金。”

"This includes producing variety shows, TV series, and film projects, as well as recruiting industry talent to better train artists. After two years of hard work, Zuibai Entertainment has officially taken the step towards groupization."

"Currently, there are two variety shows, eight TV series, and six movies that have been approved and have already started filming; and related projects are also in the process of being approved."

When the reporters and industry insiders present heard this, they gasped.

This is much bigger than Huayi’s!

They used 10 billion yuan to launch more than a dozen film projects, and those were the only plans for films.

Zuibai Entertainment is now taking it all!

It is conceivable that in the next two to three years, we will be able to see TV dramas and movies produced by Zuibai Entertainment.

Two to three billion yuan was spent in two years, which means more than 100 million yuan was spent every month.

There are 16 projects that have been approved.

4 TV series and 3 movies a year.

The ambition of "Plan Z" is clearly revealed.

And all the artists from the Zuibai group became excited.

You look at me, I look at you, and we both feel there are so many opportunities.

At the same time, I feel that there is a lot of competition. After all, although there are many projects, the best projects are definitely the boss’s "The Mermaid" and "Detective Chinatown 2".

If I could appear in these two movies, I would be able to make a living for many years.

Even in other film and television dramas, they have been able to gain one or two big names in the past two years.

Their agents are already prepared to confirm the roles with the company after the meeting.

After this press conference, other companies will definitely want to get a piece of the pie.

Since you are so close to the water, of course you should make progress as soon as possible.

Otherwise it would be like handing it over to others.

Competition is the norm in the entertainment industry, whether it is within the company or outside.

Fan Binbin, Jing Tian and Yang Mi were also very surprised, but Fan Binbin was more surprised.

I'm glad that I got on Cheng Xi's boat early.

Although she did not listen to him and went to the national master to film "Women of the Dynasty", she believed that among so many projects, she would have at least one leading role.

If he encounters difficulties, Cheng Xi will definitely help him.

She stood firmly on Cheng Xi's side at the time, knowing that Cheng Xi was a grateful and sentimental person.

It's a worthwhile investment.

Jing Tian stared at Cheng Xi intently; her target was the heroine of "The Mermaid."

But it seems that Cheng Xi doesn't like her at the moment!
Seeing the discussion below, Cheng Xi stopped temporarily.

When everyone had almost digested it, he continued:
"Everyone must be curious about what specific projects we will be involved in. Come, let's take a look at our 'Plan Z'."

Cheng Xi said this while pointing his palm backwards.

At this time, the staff lifted the red cloth at the back, and an extra-large canvas board appeared in front of everyone.

There was only a letterhead written on it:

Zuibai Entertainment’s “Plan Z” project.

Then there is a series of specific project names below.

Variety shows: "Running Man" Seasons 1 and 2, "Sisters Riding the Wind and Waves".
TV series: Nirvana in Fire, Detective Chinatown, Love O2O, My Sweetheart, My Sweetheart, Wu Xin: The Monster Killer, Day and Night, Yu Zui, and Nothing But Thirty.
Movies: The Mermaid, Mojin: The Lost Tomb, The Unknown, Donkey Gets Water, Detective Chinatown 2, The Richest Tomato.
Everyone looked at the project names one after another. Some were familiar, but more of them appeared for the first time.

"How did 'Detective Chinatown' become a TV series?"

"And 'Detective Chinatown 2' is indeed in the works. I've been looking forward to it for a long time. I haven't had enough of 'Detective Chinatown 1' yet!"

"What's the meaning of the first project 'Mermaid'? I haven't received any news at all."

"I don't know which one of these is a collaboration with Stephen Chow. I'm so anxious! Let's get to the Q&A soon!"

The reporter was also frantically pressing the shutter button at this time.

A flash of light was directed at the people in the speaking booth and the project details behind them.

"Of course, if there are more good scripts in the future, the 'Plan Z' list will continue to be added. We have also partially finalized the film release dates. I will ask Mr. Li to explain the details to everyone."

Next, Li Wentao began to give a general introduction to the projects and selected a few representatives to give a key introduction.

And announced some movies that have already confirmed their release dates.

This is also the case when studying at Huayi. They just casually determine the schedule first.

What I mean is that I'm not afraid of you competing for the box office during my schedule, as long as you have the ability.

This is a kind of confidence and also a deterrent.

Careful people present also noticed that while Li Wentao introduced many projects, he did not mention "The Mermaid".

There is no introduction whatsoever.

Li Wentao: "I just gave a brief introduction to these projects. I'm sure everyone is curious why I didn't mention The Mermaid."

"Now, let's move on to the third item of our press conference: Mr. Stephen Chow will announce the movie 'The Mermaid'! Welcome everyone!"

Cheng Xi and Li Wentao led the enthusiastic applause, and the conference hall was filled with thunderous applause.

Stephen Chow: "First of all, I would like to thank Director Cheng and Mr. Li for the introduction, and thank you all for coming."

"Zuibai Entertainment is a very good company. Thank you Director Cheng for your warm invitation. We at Bigo Group are now jointly developing the film 'The Mermaid'."

"I will star in this film, and Director Cheng will co-direct it."

When everyone heard the words "starring me" coming from Stephen Chow's mouth, the scene even became a little chaotic.

All of them were talking and even screaming.
After all, although many of the people present were media reporters and industry insiders, there were also many who were fans of Stephen Chow.

Especially those born in the 8090s and s, it can be said that no one has not seen Stephen Chow’s movies.

I initially thought the rumor post was fake, but unexpectedly, rumors often become true in the end.

Especially those related to Cheng Xi, most of them have been confirmed.

There are some gossips about Director Cheng that we can't verify.

But work-wise, it all started with the casting for “The Beginning.”

Every time someone leaks information about the male and female protagonists, their partners, etc., most of them are almost accurate.

Unexpectedly, Director Cheng did something big again this time.

Cheng Xi was also very satisfied with everyone's reaction. It can be seen that the movie starring Stephen Chow was indeed a sensation.

Especially the cooperation with Zuibai Entertainment, this is a powerful combination.

As long as the quality of the movie is good, there will definitely be a lot of people going to the cinema to support Stephen Chow and Director Cheng.

Stephen Chow: "Thank you everyone."

Actually, Stephen Chow doesn’t like to say much in public. Once he’s made the announcement, that’s all he needs to do.

Seeing this, Cheng Xi took over the conversation and said:
"I'm very happy to have Stephen Chow work with me on this film. He has always been my idol and I spent my childhood watching his movies."

"Even now, I still review classic films like 'The King of Comedy', 'Kung Fu Hustle' and 'Shaolin Soccer' from time to time."

"We're investing 3 million yuan in this film, which will be jointly produced by Zuibai Entertainment, Bigo Group, China Film Group, Wanda Pictures, Youku, and Sohu."

When the 3 million yuan investment came out, everyone was shocked again.

The highest investment in Cheng Xi's films so far is only 3 million yuan, but this time it has directly reached million yuan.

In 2014, it was a top-notch production.

It seems that Director Cheng and Zuibai Entertainment are preparing to join forces with Stephen Chow to make a big splash.

Soon the press conference entered the Q&A session, hosted by Li Wentao.

Reporter 1:

"Hello, I'm a reporter from Daily Entertainment. I'd like to ask Stephen Chow why he decided to star in the movie 'The Mermaid'?"

Stephen Chow must have known someone would ask this question, and he was prepared long ago:
"To be honest, it's been a while since I've returned to the big screen. I'm grateful to Director Cheng for his trust in me and for inviting me this time."

"I participated in this film because I was attracted to his story. 'If there is not even a drop of clean water or a breath of clean air on Earth, no amount of money will be of any use,' is also my recent experience."

Cheng Xi couldn't help but smile inwardly when he heard this, because he knew that Stephen Chow loved money.

There's nothing wrong with loving money; everyone loves it. As long as you earn it legally, it's fine. People with weaknesses are actually more lovable and easier to deal with.

"Secondly, the story of The Mermaid is very similar to my style, which makes me confident that this film will suit me and that the audience will like it."

"Most importantly, I was moved by Director Cheng's trust and sincerity."

"Director Cheng and I had very little contact in the past, but after this meeting, I realized that he is a true filmmaker who is willing to give everything for good films, so we hit it off immediately."

Translated, it means that Director Cheng is very generous with the money and the script is very good.

I'm sure the audience will accept it. And I like money, so why not?

When the reporters below heard Stephen Chow praising Cheng Xi, they all turned their cameras to Cheng Xi.

Seeing the relaxed smile on Cheng Xi's face, the reporter captured this scene accurately.

"Geniuses appreciate each other!"

This can be used as the title of this time, and the click-through rate will definitely go up!

Reporter 2:

"I'm a reporter from NetEase News. Mr. Cheng Xi, this is your first time tackling a 3 million RMB blockbuster film. What are your expectations for the box office for 'The Mermaid'?"

Cheng Xi:

"This was a sincere press conference. Since my journalist friends asked about it, I won't hide it."

"This time I am aiming to break my own record. Of course, this is my dream."

"As for the box office revenue, it will depend on the support of the audience."

Everyone smiled knowingly when they heard Cheng Xi being so frank.

He is indeed a young boss.

Unlike Feng Kuazi and Guo Shi, who just played Tai Chi when asked about the box office.

I clearly have an expectation in my mind, but I just don't say it, so as to avoid being slapped in the face and having others use it to make a fuss.

Because no matter what you say, someone will always find a way to refute you.

If something is not said, you will have no target to attack.

But Cheng Xi is not afraid, you can talk as much as you want.

Reporter 3:

"I'm a reporter from the China Times. I'd like to ask Director Cheng Xi, I happened to have read the novel 'The Mermaid,' which contains many plots about environmental protection. Is 'The Mermaid' also about environmental protection?"

Cheng Xi:

"The environmental theme is definitely the core idea of ​​this film."

"But the difference between the film and the novel lies in how to present it to the audience in an image format. We will explore this theme on an interesting basis."

"When we adapted the script, we hoped that the audience would have fun while watching the movie, and that after watching the movie, it would resonate with them and spark their imagination. Then our movie would be a success."

Reporter 4:

"I'm also thinking about Director Cheng. Your company has a lot of 'Plan Z' projects, so it must require a lot of actors."

"Excuse me, will Zuibai Entertainment still use mostly Zuibai actors like before?"

Cheng Xi:

"We do need a large number of actors to support our 'Z Plan'. However, when we at Zuibai Entertainment select actors, we always look at their suitability first. Suitability for the role is the top priority."

"I believe that Sister Binbin, Sister Yang Mi, Sister Jing Tian, ​​and Baoqiang who came to the venue all deeply understand this."

"Including this project, we will not favor the Zuibai series. We will promote those who are suitable and capable."

Of course, everyone only believed half of Cheng Xi's answer.

But Cheng Xi had to say some polite words, because he now represented the face of Zuibai and the image of the group.

And he didn't explain what an adapter is or what a capable person is.

The final right of interpretation still belongs to Cheng Xi.

Next, everyone asked a lot of questions about "Project Z" and Stephen Chow.

The last part is a group photo of Zuibai people together, followed by the details of "Plan Z".

I believe this photo will soon appear on major platforms, portals and newspapers.

To create momentum for these projects of Zuibai Entertainment.

The reporters attending the meeting had already modified the press release to include question and answer content.

Send it to your company as soon as possible, just to grab the news hot spots as early as possible.

In an instant, the news that Stephen Chow would star in Zuibai Entertainment's new movie "The Mermaid" spread completely.

Along with this news, Zuibai Entertainment’s “Plan Z” was also released.

Of course, Cheng Xi announced this on Weibo immediately after the meeting.

【Drunk White:
Yes, Stephen Chow and I are working on a movie together.

"The Mermaid", co-written and directed by Stephen Chow and me and starring Stephen Chow, has recently begun preparations.

The total investment is 3 million yuan!

I’m very happy to be able to work with my idol this time. Are you looking forward to this movie?

In addition, Zuibai Entertainment will develop at least 16 projects including variety shows and film and television within two years.

The investment amount is between 20 billion and 30 billion. We welcome all ambitious people in the industry to join our Zuibai family.

Contribute more and better film and television content to the audience!

Thank you! (Photo attached)

@Stephen Chow Studio @Drunk White Entertainment @Drunk White Studio @China Film Group @Wanda】

After Cheng Xi posted on Weibo, Zuibai’s publicity department immediately followed up.

The actors and staff of Zuibai also forwarded the post.

Fan Binbin, Yang Mi and others also helped spread the word.

This can be said to have caused a huge uproar.

[It really is starring Stephen Chow! And he's working with Mr. Zui Bai! Oh my god, my youth is back!]

Is "The Mermaid" a Spring Festival movie? Sure, I'll definitely bring my whole family to support Stephen Chow and Director Cheng!

I'm really impressed by Director Cheng's boldness. He's spent 200-300 million over two years, and 300 million on a single film. Looks like we're about to see something good!

[I still have to rely on Director Cheng! I told you, I don't believe other people's reports of working with Stephen Chow, but I definitely believe Director Cheng!]

Of course, in addition to support, there are also some who express doubts.

Cheng Xi looked at the comments and found one of them was pushed to the top.

[Teacher Zuibai and Stephen Chow have invited the main actors, can we invite Uncle Da as well and fulfill our childhood dream?]

[Yes, yes, without Uncle Da, I always feel that Xingzai is incomplete. The two of them are a combination! ]

When Cheng Xi saw this, he also remembered that Uncle Da had to film "The Wandering Earth" despite being old and sick.

Later,
When I saw this news, I felt mostly regretful.

He has played golden supporting roles all his life, but he remains in the audience's hearts more than many other actors who played leading roles.

So Cheng Xi replied:
【Zuibai: Thank you for your feedback, we are already in contact! 】

[Really? Director Cheng is truly an idol for us young people. He understands what we want most!]

If Stephen Chow is alone, I might not go to the theater. But if Stephen Chow and Uncle Da are both there, I will definitely go to support him!

[At this point, I just want to shout out: Director Cheng is awesome, long live Director Cheng! ]

[+1 to the above, Director Cheng's place is simply a wishing well for young people! ]

Looking at the comments from netizens, Cheng Xi also laughed.

Wishing well?
you do not say!

He previously gave 100 million yuan to each of five netizens, and now he wants to invite Stephen Chow to come out of retirement.

And it is also possible to put Stephen Chow and Uncle Da together.

Isn’t it just that Director Cheng gives netizens what they need?

But Cheng Xi also knew clearly that Uncle Da and Stephen Chow basically had no contact with each other now.

In Dashu's own words:

"We have no grudges against each other, it's just that we are no longer on the same level. He has his own circle."

Cheng Xi understands, but he can’t resist the fans’ feelings.

So we are still in further contact.

Uncle Da also expressed that he is willing to work with Stephen Chow.

In that case, why not make the audience’s dream come true?

And get some good box office revenue by the way.

Stephen Chow and Uncle Tat-suk make money, the audience is satisfied, and the movie box office is booming.

Of course, all of this.

Cheng Xi is of course the biggest beneficiary.

Who says he understands the audience?
(End of this chapter)