The Birth of the Best Director

Chapter 210: I'll direct the movie "Peerless"!
……

Chen Kaige extended a warm invitation, so Lu Zhiyuan had no choice but to stay and have a simple meal.

It has to be said, Old Chen really knows how to enjoy life.

It was just a simple meal, but we prepared more than a dozen dishes, each one of which was exquisite.

"Xiao Lu, eat whatever you like, it's all home-cooked food."

Chen Kaige invited Lu Zhiyuan to eat, while his wife and son could only stand on the side and take their seats after receiving his permission.

This kind of family atmosphere made Lu Zhiyuan feel very uncomfortable.

That's too feudal.

"Director Chen, thank you for your hospitality."

Lu Zhiyuan exchanged a few polite words, then asked, "My film 'Pacific Rim' did quite well. Starlight Cinema is planning a celebration banquet. Director Chen, which hotel do you think is the most upscale?"

"I always felt that the decor at the Summer Palace Aman was a bit too old-fashioned. And after going there a few times, it lost its novelty."

Why should we ask ourselves this question?
Chen Kaige was stunned for a moment, then looked at the dishes his family was eating, each one so exquisite.

It must have made Lu Zhiyuan realize that he had refined taste.

Thinking of this, Chen Kaige couldn't help but smile smugly and whispered a few words to his wife.

Then, as if making casual conversation, he said, "Hong, whose wedding did we go to last time? It was held at the Waldorf Hotel in Jinyu Hutong. I thought it was a nice place."

"A place recommended by Director Chen is definitely a good choice. So I'll choose the Waldorf Astoria for my celebration party! Director Chen and Sister Hong must come."

Lu Zhiyuan gave a compliment, then waved to Chen Kaige and walked out of the courtyard.

Not long after, a Maybach pulled up from the side and picked up Lu Zhiyuan.

Not long after Lu Zhiyuan left, Chen Hong couldn't help but ask, "Old Chen, why did Xiao Lu ask about the location of the victory celebration banquet for no apparent reason?"

"His real intention is not what it seems."

Chen Kaige smiled faintly and explained, "The hotel isn't the key point. He was trying to tell me, through this subtext, that he values ​​my opinion and considers me a close friend."

"Xiao Lu is indeed an interesting person."

Chen Kaige's father was a veteran director at the Beijing Film Studio and one of the earliest teachers at the Beijing Film Academy.

He is highly respected in the entire film industry.

His students are all over the world.

Chen Kaige himself lived up to expectations, taking over his father's responsibilities and winning the Palme d'Or early on, becoming another leading figure in the Beijing Film Academy circle.

Over the years, the films he has made have not been very successful.

However, his influence within the industry is considerable.

Unfortunately, his eldest son had no interest in the entertainment industry and aspired to work in finance.

Otherwise, he could do what his father did back then, bring his son along to make movies, and let his son become another flag bearer under his wing!

Arthur is handsome and was born to be in the entertainment industry, but unfortunately, he is still too young.

The market is changing so fast these days that Chen Kaige feels like he can't keep up with the times.

But his connections remain.

He actually had a plan B: to cultivate Lu Zhiyuan into his own little brother and transfer his personal connections to Lu Zhiyuan.

Then, he sent his son Arthur to become Lu Zhiyuan's apprentice and learn the new generation of Hollywood filming techniques from Lu Zhiyuan.

Whether he succeeds or fails, given Lu Zhiyuan's character, he certainly won't mistreat his son.

In this way, the Chen family can also claim that the perseverance of three generations of filmmakers has brought honor to the ancestral hall of Chinese cinema.

“Xiao Lu, if he wants to walk a smooth road, he shouldn’t be collaborating with Starlight Brilliant. Taking over from me and becoming the next standard-bearer of our Beijing Film Academy lineage is the best choice.”

Thinking of this, Chen Kaige was immediately filled with high spirits.

He had a feeling that he had a chance to take Lu Zhiyuan as his subordinate.

This is so cool.

"Hong, find an opportunity to talk to Rebati and let Arthur hang out with Hani so he can get to know his junior sister. Once they're familiar with each other, I'll find another chance to have Arthur become Xiaolu's apprentice. That way, our cooperation will be a natural outcome."

Chen Kaige would absolutely never allow his son to become an apprentice of someone else.

Most importantly, you can't rely on most people in this circle.

However, Lu Zhiyuan is an exception.

Look at Hanikezi, a country girl from a remote area, who became a world-famous superstar in just two years thanks to Lu Zhiyuan's help.

Most importantly, even though Hanikezi has become so famous, she is still just like any other student, not flaunting her wealth or being high-profile, and diligently studying at school.

This family tradition and upbringing are just like my own family.

"If Arthur can become Xiao Lu's apprentice, then I can relax a bit."

Chen Hong also thought it was a good idea.

The main point is that Lu Zhiyuan is a truly talented and virtuous person.

Every time I attend Lu Zhiyuan's celebration banquet, the hotel walls are covered with countless concept drawings, each one exquisitely beautiful, like visiting an art exhibition.

The artistic atmosphere is simply overwhelming.

What is an artistic life?

Just look at Lu Zhiyuan and you'll know.

In comparison, Chen Kaige was inferior.

……

At Dilraba's home.

The three of them huddled together and whispered among themselves.

After discussing for a while, Nazha noticed it was getting late and exclaimed, "Senior Reba, Sister Xiao Ai, I have an appointment with Brother Yuan. I'm going to his house this afternoon. I have to go now."

I rely on!

That bastard Kun, how could he be so wicked! He's caused so much trouble behind Yuan's back?

No.

I have to report him!
At that moment, Nazha was extremely anxious and rushed over to tell on him.

But at that moment, Dilraba suddenly added, "Nazha, what we just told you is top secret. You must not tell anyone, especially Brother Yuan."

Naza's steps froze for a moment.

She looked a little embarrassed, feeling that Dilraba had seen right through her little scheme.

Taking a deep breath and calming her expression, Nazha turned her head, pointed to the sky, and said solemnly, "Senior Reba, don't worry, I won't tell anyone."

Go ahead. Be careful on the road.

Dilraba then opened the door and let Gulnazar out.

Watching Nazha's rapidly departing figure, Zhang Tianai sighed and said softly, "Dilraba, she'll definitely tell on us."

"I know."

Reba nodded expressionlessly, a slight smirk playing on her lips: "That damned Kun, what he said makes some sense. But even he can figure this out, so how could Yuan not?"

"Kun's IQ is at most 120. But I feel that Yuan's IQ is definitely over 150."

"If Brother Kun can figure it out, how could Brother Yuan not understand it? He's just too lazy to change anything."

"After all, Sister Tian Tian can help him make movies and solve many of his worries. At least until something happens in Sister Tian Tian's family, Brother Yuan will not separate from Sister Tian Tian."

"Moreover, we also benefited. With Sister Tian Tian protecting us, at least in terms of public opinion, no one will attack us for no reason."

"In this world, is there anything that only brings benefits without taking any risks?"

Zhang Tianai was stunned after hearing what Reba said.

That makes sense.

You two are so smart, and Kun and I are the only fools?

No.

Kun is quite cunning.

I'm the only fool.

In addition, there's that silly Nazha.

Suddenly realizing something, Zhang Tianai looked at Dilraba with a puzzled expression: "Since A Yuan knows these things, why did you still ask Nazha to remind him?"

"This is called stirring up trouble."

Dilraba smiled and glanced at Zhang Tianai, then took her arm: "Brother Yuan knows about Sister Tiantian's risks of getting into trouble. But he doesn't know that I know about these risks too. I want him to know that I'm also sharing these risks with him."

Zhang Tianai's mind was filled with greetings.

What does it mean?
Are you here to play a guessing game with me?

Dilraba knew that Zhang Tianai couldn't understand, so she smiled and said, "Brother Yuan knows that I'm sharing the risks with him. So, given his personality, he will definitely re-evaluate our relationship from now on."

"Although he seems cold and says every day that he is a selfish and emotionless person, we all know very well that he just doesn't want us to cling to him and annoy him every day."

"However, he took all the risks himself. We all lived under his wing."

"If nothing unexpected happens, it won't be long before he finds me and makes proper arrangements for my future."

Without Lu Zhiyuan, both Dilraba and Zhang Tianai would know very well that all the messy unspoken rules of the entertainment industry would befall them.

In fact, to make money in the entertainment industry, unless you have a powerful backer, you have to act subservient, no matter how big a star you are.

We cannot afford to offend any client.

They can't afford to offend even an ordinary reporter.

When attending events, if reporters need to interview her, Dilraba might not give them face. For example, if the reporter asks Dilraba to look at the camera, and she doesn't pay attention and walks away haughtily.

Let's see how the other party writes negative articles about her.
Countless cautionary tales lie ahead; having been in the industry for three years, Dilraba has seen quite a few!

"I understand. Reba, you're trying to test A-Yuan! To see if he's really determined to be fixated on Jing Tian?"

Zhang Tianai finally understood.

With her small brain, it took her a long time to figure it out.

It turns out that everyone except her knew that Lu Zhiyuan was just dating Miss Jing Tian and using her connections to make his own movie.

However, once Lu Zhiyuan achieved success and fame, Miss Jing Tian became worthless to him.

Who among those who have achieved great success would marry a princess?
Just like in ancient times, which ambitious young man would marry into the royal family?
Absolutely impossible!

"That silly girl Nazha is just cannon fodder you threw out."

After figuring out the above points, Zhang Tianai seemed to understand why Dilraba had revealed everything that had happened to Gulnazar.

Nazha thought that Dilraba was very close to her and was sharing secrets with her.

It turns out they wanted her to be a scapegoat.

Poor Nazha.

……

Dongshan Villa.

At Lu Zhiyuan's home.

Instead of going to the 798 Art Zone today, Lu Zhiyuan invited Nazha to his home.

This was the first time she had come to Lu Zhiyuan's home alone.

"I wonder if Sister Tian Tian is here?"

Naza felt inexplicably nervous, yet also filled with excitement, experiencing the thrill of an affair.

It made her little heart beat faster and faster.

I'm really looking forward to what will happen next.

"Oh dear, why is your hair all messed up?"

Before ringing the doorbell, Nazha took out a small mirror and did her makeup.

She knew that Lu Zhiyuan could see her clearly through the security camera at the entrance.

Nazha is particularly concerned about her beauty.

Although she was a bit absent-minded, she was also very clear that she had nothing but this face.

"come in."

The door opened automatically shortly after I rang the doorbell.

Naza cautiously walked in.

The courtyard of Lu Zhiyuan's home adopts the Japanese dry landscape design, with white sand symbolizing lakes and seas, blue stones representing mountains, and neatly trimmed boxwood trees.

There was frost this morning, but after sunrise, some of the frost melted and turned into glistening dewdrops that dripped from the boxwood trees.

For some reason, Nazha suddenly really liked this house.

I wish I could live here every day.

"Brother, where are you?"

Naza walked around downstairs but didn't see Jing Tian or Lu Zhiyuan. She only saw countless cameras in the house.

Her hopeful heart suddenly turned colder than the weather outside.

"I'm in the art studio on the third floor, come up here."

Hearing the noise downstairs, Lu Zhiyuan replied.

Naza looked up at the countless cameras, hesitated for a moment, then mustered her courage and went up to the third floor.

"Wow!"

Naza carefully pushed open the door.

The next moment, countless paintings came into view.

They have all styles.

Some are hanging on the wall.

Some were stacked at the back, while others were casually laid out on the easel.

It opened up a whole new world for her.

I feel like I've come to know Lu Zhiyuan in a new light.

However, what Nazha found most strange was that in Lu Zhiyuan's studio, there was a hemp rope running through it, with special art clips attached, holding more than a dozen paintings.

In Nazha's eyes, all of these dozen or so paintings were exactly the same.

"Brother, is this Monet's 'Water Lilies'? But why did you paint so many of them?"

Lu Zhiyuan's paintings are like photocopiers.

Every detail is exactly the same.

At least, Nazha couldn't see any difference.

“Take a step back and take out your contact lenses. Look at these paintings again. Look at them from different angles of light.”

"You'll find that the feeling of light and shadow is slightly different."

"I asked you to come here so that you can help me find your favorite painting among these paintings."

Lu Zhiyuan is a copy ninja.

He was able to copy down every detail of any painting he had ever seen.

However, he could not replicate the emotional projection of Monet.

He really liked that painting.

However, the painting ended up in Gao Yuanyuan's hands. This crazy woman actually wanted to use the painting as a dowry to ensnare him.

How could he possibly let Gao Yuanyuan have her way?
You think you can trap him with just one painting?

He couldn't get his hands on Monet's paintings... He painted a dozen or so himself, and although they weren't 100% perfect copies, they were at least 99% accurate!

“This… is amazing!”

Naza carefully removed her contact lenses.

However, only one was removed.

Following Lu Zhiyuan's advice, she took a half step back and began to examine the paintings again.

In an instant, it was as if Nazha had opened up a new world.

On the drawing paper, the brushstrokes that initially looked somewhat mottled suddenly merged into one after the glasses were removed, making the scenery in the entire painting seem to come alive.

The essence of light and shadow flows within it.

It was as if the painting had come to life, and had a sense of the passage of time.

This feeling is so amazing.

She could even sense that the flow of light and shadow conveyed Lu Zhiyuan's feelings when he put pen to paper.

"Brother, the third one! I like the third one."

Naza scanned through the paintings one by one. At first, she didn't feel anything special, but soon she noticed that all the paintings had slight differences.

The third picture gave her a feeling of nostalgia for the past.

"It was definitely the right decision to call you here."

"Only a pure heart like yours can find that feeling of longing for the passage of time through the most intuitive first impression."

Lu Zhiyuan smiled and nodded, then carefully put the third painting away inside the acid-free cardstock protective sleeve.

"Brother, are you trying to say that I'm an idiot?"

Only fools have pure hearts.

Hearing Lu Zhiyuan's praise, Nazha couldn't help but pout.

Unhappy.

"How cute is a little fool? A little fool is even cuter when he's being cunning. It's like watching a comedy."

After putting the painting away, Lu Zhiyuan searched for some materials in his studio, planning to frame it himself at some point.

As the saying goes, "The painting is 30% painting and 70% mounting."

Doing it yourself not only adds to the fun but also gives you a great sense of accomplishment.

"Brother, how did you know I had something on my mind?"

After Nazha entered the room, she felt like she had a tense expression on her face and didn't want to tell the secret at all.

She planned to tell Lu Zhiyuan the secret at a suitable time.

After all, Lu Zhiyuan's home is under constant surveillance by cameras.

It made her feel very uncomfortable.

"When you came in, you fidgeted with your hands and toes, and you were hesitant and unsure of what to do. You were clearly preoccupied."

“You keep glancing at me, as if you want to say something but then stop. It’s obvious you have some secret you want to share with me.”

"But then again, you feel that you can't just tell me this secret, and you're worried that if other people find out about this secret through my home security cameras, it will get you into trouble."

"I reckon this secret is most likely related to me, but you were specifically told not to tell me casually."

“And this camera in our house can only be seen by Tian Tian… So, isn’t it obvious what you’re hiding in your heart?”

At this point, Lu Zhiyuan chuckled softly.

The answer is ready to come out.

Nazha wanted to tell herself a little secret, but this little secret might not be so friendly to Miss Jing Tian.

"Brother, you're scary."

Are all smart people like you?

Naza desperately wants to escape right now.

This is too terrible.

She felt as if she were naked in front of Lu Zhiyuan, and that he could see right through her.

"I don't know what other people are like. But when I see you looking so silly, I can't help but want to tease you."

After putting the painting away, Lu Zhiyuan took off his work clothes, a special apron-like garment with many pockets for storing his tools.

However, when I'm not working, these clothes are particularly uncomfortable to wear.

"Let's go, I'll take you to the tea restaurant near the entrance for afternoon tea. It's on me."

After straightening his clothes, Lu Zhiyuan took Nazha out.

“Brother, there are no security cameras here. Let me tell you that secret… Senior Reba and Sister Xiao Ai told me this morning.”

"I was shocked! I never imagined that Brother Kun had been up to so much behind the scenes!"

Naza regards Lu Zhiyuan as her father's savior and is extremely loyal to him.

Kun Ge wants to harm others, and Nazha won't say much.

However, Nazha would never allow Kun Ge to harm Lu Zhiyuan.

"Nazha, thank you for telling me all this. But don't worry, everything is going according to plan."

As Lu Zhiyuan spoke, he opened the door to the tea restaurant.

He ordered himself a milk tea and asked Nazha what she wanted to eat: "How about the pineapple bun? I think this place is alright."

"Oh well."

At that moment, Nazha's head was buzzing a little.

It's all part of Lu Zhiyuan's plan!

What exactly is the plan?
He thinks so much every day, yet he can still paint and make movies... His brain's CPU is at least 30 generations more advanced than mine, right?

"Nazha, what are your plans for your life? Well, the word 'plan' might sound a bit strange to you."

Naza has a plan? That's a joke.

Lu Zhiyuan shook his head and chuckled, then asked again, "Can you tell me, before you go to sleep at night, do you ever dream about what kind of person you want to become?"

When the topic of dreaming came up, Nazha immediately perked up.

“Brother, I dreamed before that we were taking a taxi to catch a plane. When we got out of the car, it was snowing heavily, and we were both soaked to the bone.”

Hey!

Their hair turned white from being soaked in snow, isn't that a sign of growing old together?
Nazha felt that the dream had a very good meaning.

So romantic!

"Is this your dream? I can help you make it come true. I'm planning to film in Kashgar again for the movie 'Pacific Rim 2'."

"I can never forget the Pamir Plateau."

"The Pamir Plateau possesses a magnificent and majestic mountain range that can evoke a sense of desolation and awe, as if it were an alien battlefield."

"It snows in the Pamir Plateau in March and April too. I'll get you soaked in the snow then, to help you relive your dream. What do you think?"

After the celebration banquet, Lu Zhiyuan decided to launch the "Pacific Rim 2" project.

Before that, he needed to take a few people on a trip together.

No, it can't be called tourism. How can directing be considered tourism?
It should be called "scouting the scenery".

He absolutely loves being a director.

It's because he can follow his own whims and travel all over the world to enjoy the most magnificent scenery on Earth.

Moreover, he can use his own visual composition to capture these most magnificent landscapes in his films, allowing audiences around the world to appreciate them.

Listen quietly as they shout, "Brother Yuan is awesome! A world-famous painting!"

Every time a film is completed and he sees those breathtaking scenes appear on the screen, that is the happiest moment of his life.

As for other things, he didn't care at all.

"Brother, you're really speechless."

When Nazha heard that Lu Zhiyuan wanted to recreate the scene of her dream in this way, she was practically speechless.

How can there be such an insensitive person?

I'm telling you about experiencing a snowfall so you can feel the beauty and sentiment of growing old together in the world.

Are you really going to take me out for a snow shower?

It's absolutely hilarious!
"Brother, you're laughing. You're joking with me on purpose, aren't you?"

At that moment, Nazha suddenly noticed that Lu Zhiyuan had a slight, barely suppressed smile on his lips as he drank his milk tea.

She came back to her senses in an instant.

Lu Zhiyuan was deliberately teasing himself.

He called himself a little fool, and he liked to tease little fools.

Also.

If both people are smart, they can tell what the other is thinking just by shifting their position.

What's the point of two people being together like that?
A smart person like Lu Zhiyuan should play with a simpleton like myself. He can feel the fun, and I can feel his sincerity.

That's what's interesting.

"Nazha, let's talk about your dreams again. Stop with those nonsensical daydreams. Tell me what your truest thoughts are."

"You want to be beautiful, you want to make a lot of money, you want to live the life of a princess, you want everyone to praise you, to say you're pretty, to say you're cute, in short, you want everyone to like you... right?"

Naza nodded emphatically for every sentence Lu Zhiyuan spoke.

That's right, that's right.

That's the kind of life I want to live.

"The idea is great. But how do we make it happen? You're always so absent-minded, how am I supposed to guide you in making a movie?"

"Sometimes, I really want to open up your skull and put in a little bit of protein."

Lu Zhiyuan has been training Nazha for almost a month, hoping that Nazha can feel Friedrich's romantic aesthetics.

Under normal circumstances, after a month of exposure, Nazha should develop a sense of melancholy and sharpness.

But now, Naza's temperament hasn't changed at all.

She's still that same fool who gets taken advantage of.

"Brother, how could I be confused? I'm super smart. You have security cameras at home, but I didn't say anything, did I?"

Really drunk!

She's even learned to make excuses!
You're being used as a pawn by everyone, and you're even smug about it.

Lu Zhiyuan sighed and said, "Nazha, go back to school and ask for leave. Stay at my house for a while. I'll be flying to Kashgar soon, and you'll come with me."

"Although you won't have many scenes in the movie, I hope you learn how to be a good actor."

"You have to find that feeling. You understand?"

"The feeling you give me right now is like a meticulously packaged dessert in a five-star hotel; it looks very luxurious and makes you look forward to it."

"As a result, the customer took a bite and found that the taste was terrible, and he couldn't help but want to spit it out."

Do you understand how I feel?

“If you keep going like this, you won’t be able to act at all. If you were on another film set, and this film set isn’t yours to own, the director would give you a real dressing down.”

"The entire crew, from top to bottom, will look down on you."

"You will not make any progress, you will only receive endless insults and ridicule."

"In reality, things will turn out quite differently from the praise and approval you want from everyone."

At this point, Lu Zhiyuan noticed that Nazha's eyes were slightly red, her lips were pouting, and tears were about to fall.

"I couldn't help myself. I'm sorry, I'll be more careful next time."

Unable to hold back any longer, Lu Zhiyuan realized his attitude had been too harsh, so he stopped his verbal attack and took a sip of milk tea.

While wiping away her tears, Nazha looked at Lu Zhiyuan with a wronged expression: "Brother, I know you want to scold me awake, to awaken my acting talent amidst pain and despair, just like Senior Dilraba."

"Go ahead and curse me. I'll be fine once I wake up."

Naza's attitude of giving up made Lu Zhiyuan feel somewhat helpless.

why?
Why is it?
Why can she so confidently slack off and still want to awaken her acting talent?

You need one of these too!
Otherwise, how can one awaken?

"Brother Yuan, what a coincidence! I never expected to run into you here."

Lu Zhiyuan was about to pay the bill and leave with Nazha when a chubby boy wearing glasses excitedly ran over.

The other person's accent was quite obvious; you could tell they were from the Cantonese-speaking region.

Knowing yourself, is it because you're in the entertainment industry?
He looks familiar, but he shouldn't be an actor.

So, there's only one possibility left: this chubby guy with glasses is a director from Hong Kong or Taiwan.

I can't see eye to eye with most Hong Kong and Taiwan directors.

Only one person called to invite me.

He is Zhuang Wenqiang.

The director of the film "Project Gutenberg".

“Brother Yuan, I wanted to call you, but I was afraid of bothering you…” Zhuang Wenqiang looked at Lu Zhiyuan with some embarrassment.

He has finally finished writing the script for "Project Gutenberg".

However, although many people in the industry found the story interesting, no one dared to invest in filming it because the subject matter was too sensitive.

When he was at his wit's end, someone gave him a piece of advice.

Tell him to go find Lu Zhiyuan.

Lu Zhiyuan has a powerful background; he is an internationally renowned director and has won the Palme d'Or. He also has an excellent relationship with Yu Feihong's family.

Yu Feihong's "Love Comes Again" even got a horror movie released.

His film "Project Gutenberg" only involves some international counterfeit currency groups. Although the subject matter is sensitive, it is certainly not as sensitive as a ghost movie.

"Are you alright?"

Lu Zhiyuan could roughly guess why Zhuang Wenqiang was looking for him.

Given the current censorship environment, the movie "Project Gutenberg" definitely cannot be released in mainland China. If it can only be shown in Hong Kong, it certainly won't break even.

But if you can use your connections to sell to North America, the scope of your business will open up completely.

However, with an all-Chinese cast and crew, even Chow Yun-fat's influence in Hollywood is quite limited, so it's highly unlikely that North America will buy the film's rights.

"Brother Yuan, let's talk in private."

When Zhuang Wenqiang saw Lu Zhiyuan on a date with a pretty young woman, under normal circumstances, he should have kept his distance.

However, having finally managed to defeat Lu Zhiyuan, this big boss, in the wild, he couldn't miss this opportunity.

At this moment, Zhuang Wenqiang pulled Lu Zhiyuan aside and said mysteriously, "Brother Yuan, I went to see Miss Gao through Brother Feng's connections."

This "Brother Feng" refers to Du Qifeng.

Chong Man-keung and Alan Mak have been partners for many years.

Alan Mak served as To Kei-Fung's assistant director for many years.

The relationship between these three is similar to that between Su Lun, Xin Yukun, and Lu Zhiyuan.

Gao Yuanyuan had previously filmed Du Qifeng's "Don't Go Breaking My Heart," so if Zhuang Wenqiang wanted to find Lu Zhiyuan, going through Gao Yuanyuan would indeed be a shortcut.

However, he had no idea what had recently happened between Lu Zhiyuan and Gao Yuanyuan.

At this moment, Lu Zhiyuan only wanted to refuse.

“Brother Yuan, Miss Gao has agreed that if the ‘Project Gutenberg’ project is launched, she is willing to play the female lead in my movie.”

"However, this script is very risky and may not pass the censorship. What Ms. Gao means is that you may have connections and can help me."

Zhuang Wenqiang looked at Lu Zhiyuan with a pleading expression.

He put a lot of effort into the script for "Peerless," and he certainly couldn't let it rot in his hands.

He was confident that this film would become a classic crime movie.

"First of all, we don't know each other. Secondly, I can't help you with something so big just because Gao Yuanyuan said something..."

Lu Zhiyuan instinctively wanted to refuse.

Upon hearing Lu Zhiyuan's meaning, Zhuang Wenqiang immediately became anxious: "Brother Yuan, Miss Gao said that as long as you help me with this, she will give you that painting. She will give it to you unconditionally."

impossible!
She's definitely lying!

Lu Zhiyuan remained silent, coldly staring at Zhuang Wenqiang.

Zhuang Wenqiang also knew that Lu Zhiyuan was a well-known smart man in the industry.

My little tricks definitely won't fool him.

At this moment, Zhuang Wenqiang smiled awkwardly: "Miss Gao said she hopes you will play the male lead! Just once."

It's that simple?
He plays the male lead, and she plays the female lead, acting as a couple in a movie?
Then, she gave herself the Monet painting?

wrong.

Given my own worth, I could earn $1 million from making one movie. Why would I want to spend the same amount of time playing the lead role in someone else's film?

but……

Money can't buy what you truly love!
Each of Monet's paintings is a unique piece.

If Gao Yuanyuan doesn't sell, it's no use having money.

At this moment, Lu Zhiyuan suddenly felt that the 99% similar imitation that Nazha had previously chosen was no longer appealing.

A fake is a fake. No matter how similar it may be, it's still fake.

He wants the real thing!

"I can be the male lead."

After thinking it over, Lu Zhiyuan agreed.

After filming "Pacific Rim 2" is finished, during the months of waiting for its release, I can take some time to act in a movie myself; that shouldn't be a problem.

"Brother Yuan, it's settled then!"

At that moment, Zhuang Wenqiang jumped up excitedly.

He had prepared a whole speech to persuade Lu Zhiyuan.

Now, it's no longer necessary.

"Wait a minute."

Lu Zhiyuan stopped Zhuang Wenqiang and offered his opinion: "I'll play the male lead. I can also be an investor, and I can contact Universal Pictures in Hollywood to sell our film to the North American market..."

what?
this! ! !
It's like a pie fell from the sky!

Upon hearing Lu Zhiyuan's words, Zhuang Wenqiang excitedly tried to pinch his philtrum, fearing he might faint and miss this earth-shattering good news.

"However, I have a request."

With Zhuang Wenqiang listening attentively, Lu Zhiyuan finally spoke up: "I want to be a director. You'll be my assistant."

what?
This is too overbearing!

Are they trying to steal my project right away?
At this moment, Zhuang Wenqiang suddenly became conflicted.

"I've heard about the subject matter of your film. It's very sensitive. With your status in the industry, you, as the director, can't handle it."

"Besides me, who else can you possibly invite as the main character?"

"Brother Fa?"

"No, his global influence isn't enough!"

Lu Zhiyuan smiled and shook his head, shattering Zhuang Wenqiang's bravado with a single sentence.

"My story, thanks to the box office success of my movies over the past few years, is known almost worldwide."

"The male protagonist you designed for 'Project Gutenberg' is so similar to my life experience."

"Under these circumstances, the film would generate tremendous buzz worldwide without much promotion... and yet you're only thinking about releasing it domestically?"

"You can rest assured that you have a broad vision and can look far ahead!"

"Who am I?"

"I am a top-tier Hollywood director. Pacific Rim's box office performance last year was second in the world and fourth in film history!"

"If I'm the male lead, the film will definitely have a global reach. However, as an actor, I'm a newcomer. I need a well-known, established male actor to mentor me."

"Brother Fa, it's almost there."

"The other male lead, the painter, must be a top Hollywood actor!"

"Danzer Washington, or Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicolas Cage... who do you think would be more suitable?"

Apart from Nicolas Cage, the other two are both true A-list Hollywood stars.

Nicolas Cage previously starred in films such as "Face/Off" and "Lord of War".

Especially Lord of War, which left a deep impression.

If he can capture the essence of the character in "Lord of War," he will surely bring a different kind of charm to the crime film "Project Gutenberg."

"As for supporting roles, you can pick any second or third-tier star in Hollywood. I believe that with my name, I still have some appeal."

After Lu Zhiyuan set out these conditions.

Zhuang Wenqiang was dumbfounded.

His little hands were trembling, and he couldn't help but adjust his glasses.

How to do?
At that moment, all he wanted was to sign the contract immediately!

Although this film was his life's work, no one invested in it, and it couldn't pass censorship. How could he possibly make it?
Moreover, his main profession is screenwriting, and "Overheard" is one of his screenwriting works.

While he has a strong desire to be a director, he yearns even more for his work to become a true blockbuster.

Initially, he only wanted to ask Lu Zhiyuan for some investment, and then have Lu Zhiyuan use his connections to help him with public relations in mainland China and get the approval process sorted out.

Who knew that Lu Zhiyuan wanted to usurp the throne!
"Brother Yuan..."

Zhuang Wenqiang's lips trembled slightly; he wanted to negotiate some terms.

“I know. You want to be a director too. Well then, I'm not an unreasonable person. We can add your name to the director's section.”

"But I have to be number one."

"Otherwise, I have no interest in helping other people with their projects."

Besides science fiction films, Lu Zhiyuan also thinks crime action films are very interesting.

However, foreigners always seem to miss something when they photograph this thing.

Those directors from Hong Kong and Taiwan are always making police and gangster movies. They're certainly exciting, but the quality is a bit too low.

After seeing so many, I'm really getting tired of it.

The film "Project Gutenberg" combines the tension and excitement of Hong Kong and Taiwan police and gangster films with a broader scope.

If filmed well, it could become a classic.

Lu Zhiyuan was very interested.

As for falling flat on one's face?

In any case... the probability of winning the domestic box office champion for a month, or even the champion for the whole year, is still very high.

At the same time, he could also get Monet's painting from Gao Yuanyuan.

Gao Yuanyuan, you wanted to be the leading lady in a blockbuster movie, you should have said so earlier!

"Zhuang sir, make the project proposal look good. In a couple of days, I'll take you to Los Angeles to walk the Oscars red carpet."

"When the time comes, give me a list, and I'll call over the actors you need and interview them one by one."

Lu Zhiyuan is a man of his word.

I absolutely do not deceive Zhuang Wenqiang.

Although he had no connection with Denzel Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio, or Nicolas Cage.

But it doesn't matter.

A famous director is making a crime action film and is sending out invitations to many people... Even if the person on the other end is a top Hollywood star, once they receive an invitation, they have to come.

Even if they ultimately fail to reach an agreement, they still have to save face.

If it doesn't work this time, there's always next time.

Especially Nicolas Cage.

In 2012, Nicolas Cage's Ghost Rider 2 was a complete flop, grossing $1.3 million worldwide, but with a production cost of $1.5 million.

In addition, the rotten tomatoes only had a freshness rating of 17%!

It's the worst movie ever.

He also won a Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Actor!

It has reached its lowest point.

If Lu Zhiyuan were to help him at this moment, he would kneel down before Lu Zhiyuan.

As for the salary.

He'll agree to a million US dollars if the transfer is fast enough. Otherwise, the bank will sue him immediately.

This price is even cheaper than Chow Yun-fat's!

Nicolas Cage's recent box office flops have little to do with him personally; it's more that those projects were destined to flop... Even if Leonardo DiCaprio were to lead them, he probably wouldn't be able to salvage them.

Those film studios, seeing Nicolas Cage mired in debt, took advantage of his remaining popularity and influence to frantically rake in money in the market.

This behavior is actually quite similar to how the Hong Kong entertainment circle uses Yang Mi (a celebrity's nickname).

However, there is one big difference between the two.

Nicolas Cage's acting is flawless.

His delivery of lines in "Lord of War" and his unique husky voice have a sense of tearing through their low, hoarse tone.

Sometimes, they can become neurotic and talk incessantly.

Sometimes, he could also unleash a barrage of words, accompanied by rapid breathing, conveying his anger and madness.

His dialogue style is actually a perfect match for the character of the "Painter" in the movie "Project Gutenberg".

"Zhuang sir, imagine Denzel Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicolas Cage, in a brightly lit dance floor, with dreamy eyes, lighting up a US dollar bill with a lighter, leisurely smoking... and then saying, 'Money is God's fart!'"

"This is the pinnacle of your Hong Kong-style criminal aesthetics. Don't you want the whole world to see it?"

As Lu Zhiyuan described the movie scenes to him, Zhuang Wenqiang naturally conjured up some extremely frenzied images in his mind.

Money is God's fart!
This line struck him right to the core.

In other movies, characters will most likely say that money is the devil.

But the painter is a very eccentric and unconventional character.

The saying "Money is God's fart" can be translated as "Money is nothing but bullshit"... This saying is so apt!
In short, Zhuang Wenqiang had a good feeling about it.

It has to be said, a great director is just different.

Bring in top Hollywood actors to make an international crime film, dealing with US dollars... that instantly elevates the film's status!
He might even have to cut out the Thailand line and replace it with a Colombian drug lord... Wouldn't that be more exciting?

As for the new location for the character [Li Wen]... Canada is not qualified, it has to be a well-established European art school.

Only an institution of this caliber, such as the Florence Academy of Fine Arts, is worthy of Lu Zhiyuan's attention.

Or perhaps the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts?
Haha!

In short, it has great potential!
Go back and revise the script immediately!
Moreover, if it's filming in Hollywood... why should I be afraid of censorship?
(End of this chapter)