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

Chapter 125: [Pacific Rim] Meet and Greet, [The Promise] Premiere
Tian Xiaole extended the audition process for several days, and the actors were almost finalized.

Except for a few characters with more significant roles, the story can basically end there.

This was Liu Yifei's second audition for Tian Xiaole's role; the first time was for "The Coffin in the Mountain".

"Director Tian, ​​I'm here for the audition."

Liu Yifei, dressed in sportswear and with her hair tied in a high ponytail, stood gracefully in front of Tian Xiaole, giving him the impression of youth and beauty.

"I haven't congratulated you yet, but the album is selling well."

"It's all thanks to the support of our fans."

Liu Yifei never expected that her first album would sell 80 copies, a result that surpassed that of professional singers. She had just held a grand celebration banquet.

"The female lead's image is very important, and there are many competitors. You will need to undergo a period of physical training, and in the end, you may not be chosen as the female lead. Do you still want to consider it?"

Tian Xiaole said earnestly to Liu Yifei.

Jing Tian has connections with Wanda and has been promised a chance. If she can't persevere, Liu Yifei is one of the candidates for the female lead.

She has a dance background, is hardworking, and is a rare actress with a heroic spirit.

"Coach Tian, ​​I can endure hardship. No matter how intense the training is or how tiring it is, I can persevere."

Even if it's not the female lead, I'd be willing to take any role.

Liu Yifei is not ignorant. Her mother and godfather wanted her to go to the big screen, but she never had the opportunity.

The Pacific Rim project is so large that if we could participate, it would definitely be able to change our current passive situation.

The main female character is definitely the female lead, and there's also the base manager, but Liu Yifei is a bit young and looks quite immature.

Seeing that Tian Xiaole remained silent, Liu Yifei grew anxious:

"Director Tian, ​​when I was filming 'The Return of the Condor Heroes,' I wore a wig weighing seven or eight pounds for half a year, and I persevered. I'm not as weak as I look..."

"Alright, then you can participate in the training later. As for what role you'll play, we'll talk about that later," Tian Xiaole said.

Once the training results are out, we'll see what roles they can play. Then we'll work on their makeup and find more angles during filming.

"Then, Senior Brother Tian, ​​I'll head back now."

Liu Yifei beamed with joy, eager to tell Liu Xiaoli the good news.

Looking at the little girl Chen Zhixi brought in, with her big, round eyes surveying the unfamiliar surroundings, she dropped her ID card as soon as she opened her mouth.

"Hello Director Tian, ​​my name is Guan Xiaotong, and I am seven years old."

"He is already eight years old (by the traditional Chinese age reckoning)."

Guan's father added from the side.

"Wow, you've grown so much in the blink of an eye."

Tian Xiaole pinched Guan Xiaotong's cheek, earning an impatient look in return. He didn't care; that's just the personality of a girl from Beijing. He glanced at Guan Shaozeng beside him:
"Teacher Guan, the role of the young female lead will be given to Xiaotong."

"Thank you, Director Tian, ​​for giving Xiaotong this opportunity. Please give my regards to Professor Tian."

The film and television industry in Beijing is only so big, and the older generation all know each other.

[Pacific Rim] Due to age restrictions, many familiar actors were unable to participate in the auditions.

Shu Chang and Yang Mi are both new faces. Among the new generation of actresses, the former's acting skills are among the best.

The latter, on the other hand, has a more prominent jawline and a somewhat square face because her face hasn't been altered, but her eyes still have a certain charm.

The film "Pacific Rim" doesn't need many female characters, and even fewer with lines. The announcer is relatively important and has a few lines. Shu Chang is a suitable choice for the role.

A passerby on Hong Kong Island, representing the reactions of ordinary people when disaster strikes, appears on camera only once.

Yang Mi was very disappointed. She had come here specifically for the second female lead role; she didn't even dare to dream of being the lead. Such a big project wouldn't fall into her lap without connections or a powerful background.

"Thank you, Director Tian. I'm happy as long as I have a role to play. I will do my best to portray it well."

"Yes, this role doesn't require training. The production crew will notify you in advance when filming begins."

Yang Mi's acting skills are not as formulaic as they were after the gambling incident; she still has some natural talent.

Giving her a cameo role would be no problem.

"Sissi, I passed the audition and have been confirmed for the role."

As soon as Shu Chang got back into the van, he couldn't wait to share the good news with Liu Yifei.

"Congratulations, Changchang. I haven't decided which role I'll be playing yet; I'll find out after training."

"Among actresses of your age, you are the most famous. The leading role is definitely yours. Keep it up!"

Shu Chang cheered on her best friend, believing it was a sure thing.

When Liu Yifei returned home, she told Liu Xiaoli the news. The latter was also very excited, after all, she got the role without spending any money.

···
Zhang Hanyu is an acquaintance; he auditioned for the role of "The Thief" and looks very masculine, fitting the image of a soldier perfectly.

Tian Xiaole considered whether or not to give him a role, since he was from Huayi Brothers and she didn't want them to take advantage of her.

Seeing that Tian Xiaole didn't say anything, Zhang Hanyu also lost hope. Huayi hadn't invested in this drama, so they probably wouldn't give the role to an outsider.

"I can give you a role as a team member, but it requires physical training. Are you okay with that?"

Putting aside the matter with Huayi for now, we need to consider the fit of the roles. With such a large investment, this is not the time to act impulsively.

"As long as I have a role to play, I'm willing to accept any arrangement from the production team."

"Okay, I'll let you know when the training camp starts."

After everyone left, Tian Xiaole made a phone call.

"Uncle Wu, remember to attend the press conference."

"Haha, no problem, I'll be finishing filming here soon."

Tian Xiaole reserved a role for Jiang Wu, who would play the father and son of Huang Xiaoming. Since Jiang Wu's drama was in its later stages of production, he didn't need to audition and was cast directly.

With this, all the main actors for Pacific Rim have completed their auditions.

Tian Xiaole plans to find actors from Beijing Film Studio and Beijing Film Academy who have a few lines but few scenes.

Not only are they inexpensive, but their acting skills are also guaranteed.

The media learned of the conclusion of the auditions for Pacific Rim immediately, but it is still unknown which actors have been confirmed.

Tian Xiaole asked the actors to keep it a secret, and said that a press conference would be held later. As it is a big-budget project, it is necessary to keep the project in the public eye.

December has arrived.

As the mainland market continues to improve, cinema chains are expanding rapidly, and the number of large screens is increasing.

Major film and television companies tacitly agree that the Lunar New Year film season is a battleground for all.

Hong Kong director Chan Ho-hing kicks off the Lunar New Year film season with "Perhaps Love".

It was released on the 1st, away from the fierce competition in the middle of the month.

"I have high expectations for [The Promise]. Two art films were released in December, and only [A Chinese Tall Story] at the end of the month poses a slight threat."

In Han Sanping's office, Tian Xiaole spoke with a hint of envy about China Film Group's deep affection for "The Promise".

"A Chinese Odyssey" was a box office flop when it was released, but after two years, its reputation completely turned around and it became another classic by Stephen Chow.

"A Chinese Odyssey Part Two: Cinderella" is directed by Jeffrey Lau and is a rehash of "A Chinese Odyssey".

"Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles" marks Zhang Yimou's return to art films after "Hero" and "House of Flying Daggers," and is a collaboration with Ken Takakura, whom he has always regarded as an idol.

None of them seem to pose a threat to [Wuji].

Whether it's the media, officials, or industry insiders, everyone thinks this way and is waiting for "The Promise" to sweep the Lunar New Year film season.

"Haha... This is Chen Kaige's representative work in his transition to commercial films, so it's not an exaggeration to attach great importance to it."

Han Sanping was already dreaming of another Zhang Yimou emerging, since Chen Kaige was a true member of the Beijing circle, and his projects could be involved.

With Zhang Weiping, who's all talk, around, China Film Group can't get involved in Zhang Yimou's projects.

"Never mind all that, let's first confirm the release date for 'The Thieves'."

Han Sanping took a form from the bookshelf behind her and handed it over.

"This is the preliminary release schedule for the film over the next three months."

Tian Xiaole took it and started reading.

There's a movie called "King Kong" on January 12th, a Hollywood blockbuster.

On January 25th, "Fearless" starring Jet Li and Sun Li will be released, continuing the "Fist of Fury" series.

When Tian Xiaole saw the date in February, she smiled.

In later generations, film and television companies would fight tooth and nail to get a spot in the Spring Festival film season.

There are only a few obscure movies now, and they are all art-house films.

【The Empire】, a French import, sounds like an epic blockbuster from the title, but it's actually a suspenseful action film.

The male lead is played by the same actor who starred in "Léon: The Professional".

[Perfect Couple] is a romantic comedy directed by Johnnie To, starring Sammi Cheng and Richie Jen.

【The Scent of Love】A Chinese art film starring Zhang Jingchu and Fan Wei.

"Let's just schedule 'The Thief' for the first day of the Lunar New Year. I have confidence in the movie."

Tian Xiaole smiled and handed the form back.

"According to Chinese custom, we would have just finished our reunion dinner that day. It would be better to have it a few days earlier or later."

Although Han Sanping agreed to release the film during the Spring Festival, there were still some doubts about choosing the first day of the Lunar New Year, given that it is a tradition that has continued for thousands of years.

"The first day of the Lunar New Year is the perfect time to watch movies, which aligns with our 'family-friendly' slogan. Also, there are fewer entertainment options during the Lunar New Year now, so we need to cultivate the habit of watching movies during the holiday."

Seeing how confident Tian Xiaole was, Han Sanping didn't know where his confidence came from, so she could only nod in agreement and then talk about the selection of actors for "Pacific Rim".

Tian Xiaole listed the selected actors, and Han Sanping asked, somewhat puzzled:

"The male actors are all talented and their appearances are also suitable, but why not just confirm Liu Yifei as the female lead?"

She's the most famous and meets the age requirement, but Jing Tian has never heard of her. What's her background?

With such a large project, giving a chance to an ordinary person, Han Sanping didn't even need to guess; he knew the other person must have some powerful connections.

"She was recommended by Wanda, and her image fits the character well, so we gave her a chance. As for the final choice of the female lead, we'll see how well she performs in the physical training."

The scale of "Pacific Rim" is very large. Although Tian Xiaole holds a dominant position, he has also given several companies the right to supervise, and there will be clear instructions regarding the selection of actors.

···
With the release of "The Promise" drawing ever closer, the promotional campaign is in full swing.

It's not clear what the content is, but the visuals shown are an aesthetic feast.

It's practically the pinnacle that art students aspire to.

The film "Perhaps Love" ignited the Lunar New Year film season, but due to its subject matter, its box office performance in mainland China was mediocre.

After achieving 18 million in sales in its first week, the company has since shown signs of decline.

Whether it was to ride the wave of popularity or to seek attention, Sandra Ng complained to the media that "The Promise" was "not good."

The cast is "not strong enough".

They mocked Cecilia Cheung's breasts, suggesting they weren't actually that big and were computer-generated.

Chen Hong wasn't one to back down either, and directly retorted: making malicious comments without even watching the movie and making personal attacks on the actors shows a lack of manners and upbringing.

After a few back-and-forth exchanges, the two directors' wives officially clashed.

Chen Hong, seemingly still not satisfied or wanting to maintain the buzz, revealed that the box office figures for "Perhaps Love" were inflated, with the actual box office revenue being only 8.5 million.

Just as netizens were getting ready to gossip, Sandra Ng went silent.

It turns out that Mrs. Heung from Hong Kong Island is very protective of her daughters; Cecilia Cheung is her goddaughter.

The focus of netizens and the media has shifted again.

Tian Xiaole chose the China Film Auditorium for the "Pacific Rim" film crew's meet-and-greet.

A film that made investment history, the first domestic sci-fi blockbuster, everyone was curious about who the lucky few were who got the opportunity to play roles.

Leyu.com continues its exclusive live text and image coverage. The male lead is played by Hu Jun, a renowned actor from the Central Academy of Drama, as the pilot of the "Red Whirlwind."

Features: nuclear-powered, equipped with plasma cannons, laser weapons, ultrasonic attacks, etc., 68 meters high and weighing 1500 tons.

Female leads: Jing Tian, ​​Liu Yifei, to be determined.

Military Commander: Chen Baoguo, piloting the [Undying Blade] mech, activated the self-destruct sequence to cover the troop's retreat.

Team member: [Flame Fang] pilot, played by Liu Ye, a film emperor also from the Central Academy of Drama.

Features: nuclear-powered, equipped with plasma cannons and laser weapons, adept at close-range combat, 78 meters tall, and weighing 1800 tons.

Team members: Jiang Wu and Huang Xiaoming, the only father-son duo, piloting the mecha "General".

Features: The only three-armed mech, fast speed, and equipped with various types of missiles.

Hong Kong Island businessman: Lau Tak-wah, black market trader.

Scientist: Li Xuejian.

Mathematician: Ge You.

The male protagonist's brother dies in battle: Zhang Hanyu.

Announcer: Shu Chang.

"..."

Apart from Liu Dehua and Huang Xiaoming, all the main creators were present on set.

The reporter was most curious about why the female lead hadn't been cast yet, and also why the role of the second female lead, the base assistant, hadn't been confirmed.

Also, why is there an unfamiliar face among the main creative team?

"Director Tian, ​​I'd like to ask, who is the girl next to Yi Fei? Is she also a member of the main creative team?"

Hearing the reporter's words, Jing Tian felt a little dejected. Standing around her were all well-known actors and big stars, while she was still an ordinary person.

She suddenly felt a warmth. Liu Yifei noticed her embarrassment, took her hand, and gave her a smile.

Tian Xiaole answered without hesitation, "Jing Tian is also a member of the main creative team. As for the roles that haven't been confirmed yet, it will depend on the progress of the training."

"Director Tian, ​​are the mecha parameters and a series of weapons that were just announced possible in the future, or are they your own ideas?"

"With the development of domestic industry, I believe that the high-tech weapons shown in the film will all be realized in the near future."

Tian Xiaole's words were resounding and powerful.

During the more than one-hour media conference, the main creators were interviewed one by one, and they all praised the production team, expressing their joy at being able to participate in such a large-scale production.

Actors who need to pilot mechs will all go to an airbase for three months of training.

This includes physical fitness, simulated driving training, etc.

The press conference concluded, and the cast and the announced mecha specifications sparked widespread discussion online.

"The Pacific Rim, with an investment starting at 500 million, announced its main cast today, featuring many talented actors and newcomer Jing Tian!"

"Hu Jun and Liu Ye, two Best Actor winners from the Central Academy of Drama, are collaborating again!"

"The female lead for [Pacific Rim] is still undecided; Liu Yifei and non-professional actress Jing Tian are vying for her..."

"Is the high-tech weapon designed by director Tian Xiaole just his own idea, and can it be realized in the future?"

Blasted!

Beijing Film Academy exploded!

For such a large project, Beijing Film Academy only had two people shortlisted, and the main roles were played by students from the Central Academy of Drama.

Even Tian Xiaole couldn't escape this vicious cycle!

The top directors at Beijing Film Academy like to use actors from the Central Academy of Drama!
In Lao Tian's office, several directors from the performing arts department came over to complain.

"Professor Tian, ​​we at Beijing Film Academy should support our juniors more. Look at Xiao Le's new play, it's almost been monopolized by the Central Academy of Drama."

Old Tian bluntly stated, "Who can we blame? The quality of the students over there is indeed better. Such a big project can't be done by just finding any actors."

Seeing that the two heads of the performing arts department were a little embarrassed, Lao Tian didn't want to discourage them any further.

"The female lead hasn't been decided yet; maybe they'll choose that girl, Liu Yifei."

"That girl named Jing Tian, ​​isn't she going to take the art college entrance exam soon?"

The two teachers exchanged a glance; they couldn't let the neighbor snatch such a promising talent away.

"Sisi, you need to be prepared that you won't be the female lead. I've inquired about that girl named Jing Tian, ​​and she's an actress recommended by Wanda."

Liu Xiaoli felt a bit bitter and realized how terrifying superpowers could be.

"Any role is fine, it doesn't have to be the female lead."

Liu Yifei seemed unfazed and continued stretching her legs to improve her flexibility.

···
Ning Hao was auditioning actors for "Extreme Job" when he saw that Tian Xiaole had finished, so he insisted on calling him over.

He even went so far as to claim that the cast of "Stone" was also provided by him, and that he was going to check it out this time.

Bad Monkey Studio.

Tian Xiaole didn't disturb Ning Hao, who was auditioning, and lay lazily on the sofa in his office.

Ning Hao's success is inseparable from his wife, Xing Aina.
A director and a screenwriter, together they're amazing.

The wall is covered with analyses of the movie's plot and diagrams showing the relationships between the characters.

When Tian Xiaole was writing the script, he didn't have much time or energy; he just focused on replicating the plot and adapting it to a more localized style.

Xing Aina filled in the gaps, continuing Ning Hao's signature humor.

"Director Tian."

Among so many actors waiting to audition, only Xu Zheng could be so casual, having acted in two films as Tian Xiaole and also collaborated with Ning Hao.

"You passed the audition?"

"They gave him a villainous role."

Although he wasn't the lead actor, Xu Zheng had no complaints. Tian Xiaole provided the script, and Ning Hao was in charge of directing.

Being able to connect is a matter of relationship.

Ning Hao seems to have a particular preference when it comes to choosing actors; he doesn't seem to like handsome men and beautiful women, and instead prefers familiar faces on screen.

Wang Shuangbao's breakthrough role was in "The Gun Robbery," where his excellent acting as a ruthless bandit led viewers to mistakenly believe he was the real culprit.

He plays the main villain again this time. He looks fierce, but he is also very talented in comedy.

"Senior Brother Tian, ​​Teacher Xu."

Upon seeing the person who arrived, Tian Xiaole asked, "How did the audition go?"

Dong Xuan smiled and said, "I got the role of a female criminal police officer."

"Teacher Dong, please have a seat."

Xu Zheng had already made way for Dong Xuan to sit down, as he knew she was a contracted actress with Xiaole Pictures.

Maybe it will be the next Tangyan.

Now he's starring in big-budget productions costing hundreds of millions, and acting opposite superstar Andy Lau.

"No need, I just saw Senior Brother Tian here and came over to say hello. You guys chat."

Dong Xuan left, showing great discretion and restraint.

Xu Zheng became a familiar face and then left on his own initiative.

By the time Ning Hao had finished auditioning everyone, Tian Xiaole was lying on the sofa, almost asleep.

"You said Sandra Ng was a big mouth and had no brains, but it turns out there was another reason!"

Ning Hao looked at the news online with a surprised expression.

"Oh, why would she offend Director Chen?"

Xing Aina asked curiously.

"The Southern Metropolis Daily provided an analysis, stating that in addition to competition from other films released during the same period, it also happened to be a key point for Oscar nominations, and that Sandra Ng was using it to promote her boyfriend Chen Kexing's film."

Ning Hao was reading the news online.

“Being a Hong Konger means you have guts; you’re not afraid of Producer Chen,” Xing Aina said.

"You two shouldn't worry about other people's business, I'm starving."

Tian Xiaole stretched, it had been a long time since she had taken a break from her busy schedule.

"You have the nerve to ask me to give audition advice, and you're almost asleep."

Ning Hao complained for a moment, then said, "Aren't you curious about which actors I chose?"

"You are a qualified director, and I trust your judgment."

···
While the three were having dinner at a private restaurant, Wuji ran into trouble again.

I don't know what Wang Changtian was thinking, actually letting a female host who had only signed a contract a few days ago interview Chen Kaige.

The very first line was a critical hit: "If the outcome of [Wuji] isn't as good as you expected, will it hurt your pride?"

The interview, originally planned to last an hour, was hastily concluded in five minutes.

Chen Kaige, a man who cares so much about his image, threw down the microphone in public.

Still not satisfied, he chased after her backstage and questioned her: "It's like attending my child's one-month celebration and asking what would happen if the child died!"

After eating and drinking their fill, Tian Xiaole and Ning Hao chatted together. The recent news was dazzling, and there was just too much gossip to keep up with.

"It's likely that this newcomer from Guangxian will have a hard time making a name for himself in the future."

Xing Aina couldn't help but sigh.

"It's normal for Director Chen to get angry. For a director, a movie is like his child. It hasn't even been released yet, so it's really inappropriate to curse it like that."

Ning Hao felt a sense of empathy.

"I'm afraid my words might come true, and then it'll be Director Chen who looks bad." Tian Xiaole shook his head.

"Oh, what inside information do you know?"

Ning Hao curiously came closer.

"I haven't even seen the preview screening, what would I know? But you'll find out after the premiere of [The Promise]."

Tian Xiaole said mysteriously.

···
The premiere of "The Promise" will be held on the 12th.

Everyone in the industry has to give Chen Kaige face, plus Han Sanping. If you don't take the initiative to come over, then you're being unreasonable.

Feng Xiaogang, who is currently filming "The Banquet," and Jiang Wen, who is filming "The Sun Also Rises" in Xinjiang, have both promised to attend the premiere.

Actors and celebrities who received the invitation to "The Promise" responded immediately.

If you haven't received it, it means you're not high-ranking enough.

No wonder Chen Kaige was furious. To ensure the premiere went perfectly, they even did a rehearsal two days in advance, which shows how much importance they attached to it.

The CPPCC Auditorium was decorated in a very festive manner.

The area was filled with 【Wuji】promotional flags, and the red carpet stretched from the lobby all the way to the intersection.

Ensure that every guest can step onto the red carpet when they get out of their car.

Hundreds of warriors, dressed in red robes and wielding long spears, stood on both sides.

The surrounding decorations were meticulously arranged, replicating movie scenes, covered with flower petals, and red lanterns hung on the branches.

Two enormous banners hung on either side of the auditorium's main entrance.

It says the two characters "无极" (Wuji) on it!
Director Chen seems to have a lot of energy to spare; the premiere was much larger than that of "Hero".

(End of this chapter)