Huayu Entertainment: You have been directing for three generations, are you comparing your qualifica

Chapter 116: A Look at Mainland Actresses

In just one day, the HR person walked into Tian Xiaole's office carrying a box of resumes.

"Director Tian, ​​these are all the resumes so far. These are all paper copies sent directly to the company, as well as emails. You can check them directly in your email."

"Okay, I'll take my time reading it."

Tian Xiaole felt a headache coming on when he looked at the more than two hundred resumes. As for the ones sent by email, he didn't plan to look at them.

It's not just a matter of attitude; it's also a reflection of one's own strength and confidence, so I don't want to waste this time.

Because of co-productions, the competition among mainland actresses is much fiercer than that among male actors.

Hong Kong actresses are actually quite pitiful. Co-productions in Hong Kong tend to promote male stars, leading to a potential generational gap in the number of actresses.

In the office, the only sound was Tian Xiaole turning pages.

Actually, it's quite quick to tell. If someone's temperament and figure are suitable, it might take some comparison, but if they're not, you can tell at a glance.

At the very top are the resumes of three actresses: Zhao Yanzi, Zhou Xun, and Xu Jinglei.

Zhang Ziyi, who was missing, joined the cast of Feng Xiaogang's "The Banquet".

Hua Dan is a term used in traditional Chinese opera to refer to a character.

With the development of film and television dramas, actresses have become the most attractive characters on both the big and small screens.

In the year 2000, the Southern Metropolis Daily proposed the concept of the "Four Little Actresses," and the selection was carried out in conjunction with hundreds of news media outlets.

As of 05, before the new batch of "Four Little Actresses" was selected, they could not yet be called "Big Actresses".

With this in mind, Tian Xiaole had an idea. With the development of the Internet, it was no longer necessary to rely on print media to create momentum; Leyu.com could handle it perfectly well.

It's not the right time yet; the young actresses haven't gained momentum.

Tian Xiaole turned his gaze back to the resume in his hand. Zhao Yanzi was currently embroiled in scandals, and the incident of her wearing ugly clothes had been brought up again, making her the target of public criticism.

Even putting aside these trivial matters, she still possesses an intellectual and elegant charm.

Zhou Xun's height is a major flaw. He has no self-awareness at all. What misunderstanding does he have about being tall?
Xu Jinglei was promoted by "her own people" and given the image of a talented woman, but now she is deeply involved in a love triangle scandal, which is not suitable for her.

Fan Binbin agreed to give her an audition opportunity, and Tian Xiaole took out her resume separately and put it aside.

Li Binbin's temperament doesn't match; he's too thin and lacks the gentle and elegant charm.

Qinqin looks good in period costumes. She and Zhou Xun are among the few actors with a certain charm, but they are much less good in modern dramas.

Tian Xiaole stopped in front of a resume. First of all, she had a good figure and fair skin.

Li Xiaoran, who is known as Li Dabai, unfortunately has a bitter face, so she is immediately ruled out.

If a suitable role comes along, we can consider collaborating.

At this time, she was not yet with that Red Boy.

Yan Danchen is good; her portrayal of Chang'e is beautiful enough, with a gentle and refined feel. She's also a senior at the Beijing Film Academy. Inviting her to audition would shut up those teachers.

Just as I was thinking about it, the next resume I found was from the Central Academy of Drama.

Judging from the photo on her resume, she has an outstanding temperament, is a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama, and has guaranteed acting skills, earning her the title of "Da Qingyi" (a leading actress in Peking Opera).

Unfortunately, he never had the chance to make a name for himself and remained a nobody in the entertainment industry.

Later, in order to become famous, he followed Huang Shengyi's example and accepted the invitation from [Men's Wear] magazine to take large-scale nude photos.

Unfortunately, it only had a brief period of popularity before fading into obscurity.

Give her a chance, let her audition for the lead role.

They flipped through the pages very quickly, some being glanced at and then tossed aside.

Surprises often come unexpectedly. Tian Xiaole looked at the photo on the resume in front of her, which was a casual snapshot, and it caught her eye.

She possesses an exceptional temperament, with a tall and slender figure, a gentle and graceful demeanor, and a very infectious smile.

According to the casting requirements released, there are quite a few actresses suitable for this role, especially from the three top universities, some of whom have graduated and some are still studying.

No wonder big directors like to select actors from the Central Academy of Drama; they all have extensive experience in stage plays.

After selecting two more resumes that met the requirements, there were still hundreds left, but Tian Xiaole didn't plan to look at any more.

He called over his assistant and handed over the selected resumes.

"Notify these people to come to the company for an interview on the 12th."

"Okay, boss."

The assistant left with the resumes; with Chen Zhixi around, she felt much more relaxed.

After giving his instructions, Tian Xiaole prepared to go back. He had been looking at resumes all afternoon and his head was a little fuzzy.

Meanwhile, actresses in the industry have been receiving audition notices one after another.

The actor who received the call began to adjust his mindset, hoping to present his best self and secure a role.

A day passed, and the actor still hadn't received a call, so he knew he had lost the opportunity.

"Xiao Fan got a call for an audition, but what about the other one, Binbin?"

"Sister Binbin didn't receive it."

"Okay, I get it."

Wang Zhonglei rubbed his temples. The two Binbins were already dissatisfied because they weren't included in the company's major project, "The Banquet."

The two of them argued at the company every day, giving him a huge headache.

The book "Mo Gong" that I promised to give to Fan Binbin was also taken by Tian Xiaole. Although I haven't told her yet, the truth will eventually come out.

Fortunately, he got this audition opportunity, and Wang Zhonglei has a lot of confidence in Fan Binbin.

After all, they've already partnered with the Thieves Alliance on a much bigger project; there's no way they can't handle this one.

Once "The Thieves" is released, Fan Binbin will definitely rise to fame and become Huayi Brothers' top actress.

Li Binbin and her sister have a huge falling out and are arguing a lot. Li Binbin is demanding resources and doesn't want to be overshadowed.

With so many artists at Huayi Brothers, but only so many projects, resources can be really hard to allocate.

···
11 number.

"Shark Tale" grossed over 100 million yuan in mainland China in 17 days and reached 200 million US dollars worldwide.

China Film Group Corporation announced the news immediately.

Netizens cheered, they did it, they made a director worth 2 million US dollars worldwide.

Xiao Le shared the report and congratulated his boss, making him the fourth director in mainland China to have a film gross over 100 million yuan.

But in reality, it's not quite, because it's a foreign language film.

Compared to its global box office of $200 million, its domestic box office of over 100 million is insignificant.

"Seven Swords" was unable to turn the tide, with box office takings totaling only 6480 million, making a huge loss inevitable.

The emphasis on the script, which had been polished for several years, during promotional activities became a joke.

The plot is the film's biggest flaw; no audience member can understand it.

In just one night, Lionsgate learned of the news in China and, as if to show off, posted a poster on its official website announcing that The Shallows had surpassed $2 million in global revenue.

Hollywood news media also reported on it.

The details of Tian Xiaole's collaboration with Lionsgate, including the profits he would gain and the awards he had received, were disclosed in great detail.

Lionsgate sent an email to Tian Xiaole informing him that pre-production for "Annabelle" was complete and that James Wan would once again be directing the film.

Fox was pleased with Tian Xiaole's success.

At least their judgment wasn't wrong.

Fox sent an email asking the recommended actors to come for training, including physical exercises, to get used to the intensity of Hollywood filming.

Tian Xiaole met Huang Bo in the office and told him the news.

"I haven't taken on any acting roles during this period. I've hired an English tutor to practice my spoken English, so I'm sure I can communicate normally without any problems."

Tian Xiaole wasn't sure about Huang Bo's English level, but his Mandarin had become much more standard.

"Director Tian, ​​Chairman Han and Director Huo have arrived."

Chen Zhixi knocked on the door and came in, saying.

"Take them to the meeting room, I'll be right there."

After Tian Xiaole finished speaking, she looked at Huang Bo and said, "Pack your things and head over there. Someone will pick you up."

"I'll go back and give them instructions, and we'll leave tomorrow."

Huang Bo smiled broadly. His girlfriend had been through thick and thin with him, and after he became famous, she had never had any scandals. She could be considered a good man.

In the conference room.

Han Sanping sat imposingly in the main seat; no one could challenge him for the position today.

Huo Wenxi sat at one side of the long table, accompanied by his assistant and legal counsel.

While the lawyer was reviewing the contract, Tian Xiaole introduced Chen Zhixi to the two of them:

"This is my company's director; she's in charge of producing 'Ip Man'."

"Chairman Han, Director Huo, I am Chen Zhixi."

Chen Zhixi greeted the two of them, speaking with neither arrogance nor servility. She was no longer just a minor actress; she represented Tian Xiaole.

"Let's exchange phone numbers with my secretary so we can communicate more easily in the future."

Han Sanping sat in his seat and spoke calmly.

"Hello, Director Chen."

Huo Wenxi stood up and extended his hand.

She has the right to put on airs; she might even need to rely on him in the future.

The share of [Ip Man] had already been determined, the contract was in order, and the three parties quickly signed the investment agreement.

Han Sanping took over the distribution rights in mainland China.

Huo Wenxi took the initiative to speak to Hong Kong Island and Southeast Asia, and Tian Xiaole also agreed. Ying Huang is quite capable in this regard.

Huo Wenxi handed the signed contract to his assistant and looked at Tian Xiaole, saying:
"The crew's pre-production work is progressing quickly, and most of the filming locations are real. We need to get the actors in place soon."

"Yes, the auditions start tomorrow and should be completed in a day or two."

"Then let's wait for Director Tian's good news."

Huo Wenxi greeted Han Sanping and left with his men.

Seeing that Han Sanping had something to say, Tian Xiaole stayed to wait for what was to come.

Then I heard him say, "This little thing is just not enough. You've been resting for so long, why don't you make a big one?"

Tian Xiaole is also considering this issue.

However, the domestic market will have to wait a while longer, and big-budget films will face pressure to break even.
Alternatively, he could open up overseas markets, but he would need to have influence in Asia at least.

Of the several films he's made, only "Bouquet" has any real impact on everyday life.

"Uncle Han, how many large screens are there in China now?"

Han Sanping thought for a moment and replied:
"This year, 55 new cinemas and 272 new screens have been added, bringing the total number of screens nationwide to 2700."

Based on the national total of 1850 in 02, this year's growth rate reached 45%.

Big producers need to wait a bit longer; there's no need to rush.

The first priority now is to increase brand awareness and make the name Tian Xiaole a guarantee of film quality.

Only when we make a blockbuster film will audiences be willing to pay for it.

12 number.

Reporters staked out downstairs at Xiaole Film Studio and could easily take photos of a large number of female celebrities, which are all over the internet.

In the audition room, Tian Xiaole sat in the main seat, and Chen Zhixi, the producer, sat next to him.

The first person to enter was Fan Binbin, with whom she had previously sampled wine. To fit the role, she wore light makeup and had her hair styled in an updo.

She concealed her own stunning beauty.

However, she is still not suitable for this role; her face has a strong aggressive look, which doesn't match her intellectual and gentle temperament.

Tian Xiaole has to be responsible for the film; it's not about giving in to her demands just because you've slept with her.

A film with an investment of tens of millions, and the actress's underwear is either gilded or studded with diamonds. Does she want a role just because she has a one-night stand?

Tian Xiaole bluntly stated, "You're not suitable for this role."

Hearing the rejection, Fan Binbin couldn't hide her disappointment, but she still managed a smile and said in a playful tone:
"I was the first to know the news and prepared for a long time. I'll probably have the shortest audition. Director Tian, ​​if you find a suitable role, you'd better think of me."

Fan Binbin knew very well that if it didn't work this time, there would be a next time.

She's not a young girl fresh out of school who throws a tantrum because she didn't get the bag she wanted.

"You know what, there really is a role that suits you. How about playing the female lead in 'Rob-B-Hood'?"

Tian Xiaole asked with a smile.

The role was originally intended for Tang Yan, but a better option was found. The female lead in "Mo Gong" is at least not just a pretty face and will be more outstanding.

Upon learning the news, Cheng Long called Tian Xiaole and asked her to make a recommendation.

It's obvious who is more valuable: focusing on actresses or cultivating a relationship with a renowned director like Tian Xiaole, not to mention the Hollywood resources involved.

Jackie Chan's starring role in Disney's "Round of the Earth in 88 Days" resulted in box office and critical failure, after which he has no resources left in Hollywood.

Sure enough, Fan Binbin's eyes lit up when he heard this.

I'd much rather work with an international superstar like Jackie Chan than with a second or third-tier actor like Vincent Zhao.

Zhang Ziyi might be willing to do something like catching grape skins with her bare hands in public to gain a stronger connection in Hollywood and have better opportunities.

Fan Binbin quickly calmed down. "Baby Project" was a project between Huayi Brothers and Yinghuang Entertainment, and she knew some of the inside details. She asked with suspicion:
"Didn't Jackie Chan personally decide on the female lead role?"

“It was originally confirmed, but Huayi has the right to put people in charge and invest in projects, so I took over the role.”

Tian Xiaole didn't explain much, just that he had the authority to make the decision.

Fan Binbin chose to take the role without hesitation; she would only refuse if she were out of her mind.

"Did Fan Binbin get the role? He's smiling so happily, should we still audition?"

Those waiting outside the audition room were filled with questions when they saw Fan Binbin come out with a smile on his face.

The group only relaxed when the assistant called the next person in for an audition; the roles hadn't been decided yet.

Since only one female lead was auditioned, there was no need to go through the extra work once she was confirmed.

The second person to enter was Yan Danchen, who played the fairy Chang'e. Dressed in white, she gave off a cool and noble feeling and was hailed as a classic character who was untouched by worldly affairs.

She lost the role of Little Dragon Girl in "The Return of the Condor Heroes" to Liu Yifei, who had the advantage of money.

"Hello, Director Tian."

Yan Danchen greeted him respectfully; the person in front of her was a famous director.

"Senior Danchen, relax, there's no need to be so serious."

Tian Xiaole said with a smile, revealing a friendly expression.

The significance of the character Zhang Yongcheng lies not only in highlighting the forbearance of women in chaotic times, but also in balancing the hard-hitting tone of the action film.

The film primarily focuses on the emotional storyline within the family, expressing it subtly yet delicately. Through the daily interactions between the couple, it portrays Ip Man's tender side.

Yan Danchen's audition went quite well, and her acting skills were also good, but she lacked a bit of an intellectual feel.

Tian Xiaole said tactfully, "Senior Sister Danchen, I'll let you know if there's any news."

Yan Danchen had guessed the result; she didn't get the role because she had said the same thing during her previous audition for "The Thieves' Alliance."

She adjusted her mindset and walked out of the audition room.

He didn't want others to see him looking dejected, so Fan Binbin walked away with a smile on his face.

The next person to enter caught Tian Xiaole's eye, and she couldn't help but scrutinize them from bottom to top.

Zhang Li was a little nervous. She was overjoyed when she received the audition notice, and she almost came with panda eyes.

When the Central Academy of Drama learned that she had received an audition notice from Xiaole Pictures, they generously granted her a leave slip. It was her first time auditioning, and although she was a junior this year, she had never had an acting opportunity.

She deliberately wore knee-length shorts to show off her best features.

"Nice legs, very straight, and more voluptuous than Tang Yan's," was Tian Xiaole's assessment.

After the performance ended, she gave the reasons for rejection that she could accept.

"You're too young; you don't have the feel for being a good wife and mother."

Although Zhang Li was very disappointed, she couldn't refute the reason for her elimination.

Next up is Zeng Li, who graduated several years ahead of Zhang Li and is known as a leading actress at the Central Academy of Drama.

How can I describe her?

She has a tall and outstanding figure, possesses a classical and elegant Eastern temperament, and exudes a heroic spirit, yet her deep eyes also carry a touch of charm.

The only downside is that her face is a bit long, which will be more noticeable on the big screen.

Of those in Zeng Li's class, Zhang Ziyi is definitely the most successful, and the others are also gradually making their mark.
She hasn't made much progress, and while she claims to be indifferent to fame and fortune, she went and took some revealing photos, proving that she still has a desire to become famous.

"We will let you know when there are results."

Zeng Li smiled, giving off a friendly vibe: "I suppose my chances aren't great either."

After saying that, she took a business card out of her pocket and handed it to me with both hands:

"I hope to have the opportunity to work with Director Tian in the future. I have always been very confident in my acting skills."

"Yes, if there's a suitable role, I'll contact you."

Tian Xiaole accepted the business card. It was the first time during an audition that an actress had so readily offered her her contact information without any hesitation.

The business card only listed my name, occupation, and phone number.

The content was very concise, as if it had been prepared in a hurry.

All I can say is that brave people first enjoy the taste of fame.

The last person to audition was Gao Yuanyuan.

She sported a neat short haircut, wore light makeup, had fair skin, and wore a simple dress. She had a full figure but didn't look fat.

She gained widespread attention for filming a "Qingzui" lozenge commercial and was dubbed the "Qingzui Girl".

Although he is not formally trained, his acting skills surpass those of many academic actors.

In 03, she starred in "The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber" as Zhou Zhiruo.

She starred in the film "Shanghai Dreams", which was nominated for Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival.

Her career has been going smoothly, but her love life has been turbulent. She was recently dumped by a jerk who is against marriage.

"Have you sorted out your relationship issues? I don't want any trivial matters outside of filming to affect the shooting schedule."

"Ah~"

Gao Yuanyuan was stunned for a moment. Did this mean she had succeeded in the audition?

She realized what was happening and answered honestly:
"Don't worry, Director Tian, ​​I'm single now, nothing can affect me."

"Here is the script. Take it back and analyze the characters and plot. The crew has almost finished the pre-production work and will notify you to join the crew soon."

Tian Xiaole handed her the script for "Ip Man" and reminded her to keep it a secret.

Gao Yuanyuan accepted the award with both hands, appearing very excited. She hadn't expected to get another chance after just losing a leading role.
"Thank you, Director Tian. I will definitely play the role well and not let you down."

Gao Yuanyuan went out carrying a file bag containing the script. Her agent, who was waiting outside, went up to her and asked expectantly:
"Yuanyuan, how did the audition go?"

"What do you think this is?"

Gao Yuanyuan waved the file bag in front of her agent: "Director Tian wants me to familiarize myself with the movie script as soon as possible."

"Is that all?"

The agent covered his mouth, looking incredulous.

"Ladies, this way please sign the contract."

Chen Zhixi was very emotional, as she had once been one of them, constantly auditioning and being rejected, and getting a role would excite her for a long time.

"Just call me Zhixi. I'm the producer of [Ip Man]. We'll be living together for the next two months."

"Hello Director Chen, I'm entrusting my daughter Yuanyuan to you while she's on set."

Gao Yuanyuan's agent was very humble and spoke very politely.

"Although it's a Hong Kong production crew, there's no need to worry about being bullied. Director Tin and Ying Wong specifically emphasized this issue."

Chen Zhixi gave the two of them a reassuring smile.

Hearing this, Gao Yuanyuan felt much more at ease. During the filming of "Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre", she was often lectured by the director on set because of her lack of experience.

A series of derogatory remarks were made, such as "Because of you, no one can finish work," and "Just seeing her gives me a headache."

She was under too much pressure during that period, and her hair even developed patches of baldness.

···
Gao Yuanyuan was photographed by reporters who had been lying in wait as she left Xiaole Pictures with her agent, carrying a file bag.

All the auditioning actors left empty-handed, but she was carrying something in her hand, which she was carefully holding in her arms. I had a rough idea of ​​what was going on.

Soon, the photo appeared on the portal website with an eye-catching title.

"Gao Yuanyuan is suspected of winning the female lead role in 'Ip Man'!"

Immediately afterwards, a large number of media outlets came to confirm the news.

Chen Zhixi gave an affirmative answer, and her official account was also updated.

"Welcome Ms. Gao Yuanyuan to the cast of [Ip Man], where she will play the female lead."

No one in the industry expected that Gao Yuanyuan would get the opportunity.

Considering the audition details that were made public, everything makes sense; she really is the most suitable candidate.

Director Tian Xiaole remained as fair and impartial as ever, not giving anyone special treatment and adhering to the principle that the play is of utmost importance.

This is a consensus within the industry.

At the same time, Yinghuang also announced other supporting actors, including Ren Dahua, Fan Shaohuang, Lin Jiadong, Shi Xingyu...

The cast has been revealed, and Hong Kong media are swearing and writing cheat sheets.

Mainland netizens, however, were thrilled.

The mainland actors breathed a sigh of relief.

The supporting cast is full of talented actors, all with martial arts backgrounds, so I'm looking forward to the hard-hitting action scenes.

···
Zhao Liying has been studying a lot lately. After finishing her acting class, she would review the lessons she had learned that day in the dormitory arranged by the company.

She knew that only by improving herself as quickly as possible could she have a chance to get ahead.

The sudden ringing of the phone in the quiet room startled her.

The call came from the company's new director, and she answered it promptly without delay.

"Hello, Director Chen, this is Liying."

"Liying, get ready. Director Tian wants you to train with the [Ip Man] crew. Start with a small supporting role. We'll let you know when it's time to leave together."

"Okay, Director Chen, I'll get ready."

Zhao Liying gripped her phone tightly, revealing her inner turmoil.

Then I heard someone on the other end of the phone say, "Don't be so formal. I'm only a few years older than you. You can call me Sister Xi or Sister Chen."

"Okay, Sister Xi, I'll be ready."

Zhao Liying repeated herself, saying that despite her rural background and the fame-driven entertainment industry, no one knows how hard she has worked, but now she is finally seeing a glimmer of hope.

(End of this chapter)