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

Following the opening ceremony, there will be a 10-day judging period, during which the jury will conduct multi-dimensional discussions on the artistic merit, ideological content, political themes, and other aspects of the shortlisted films.

The winners of each award were ultimately determined by a vote.

During this period, the films shortlisted for the main competition will receive attention from filmmakers, critics, media, and movie fans from all over the world.

"Shoplifters" has been screened for five consecutive days, and word-of-mouth has fully fermented. Both the media and film critics have praised the film one after another.

"Brother Le, something bad has happened! Someone is slandering our movie."

Tang Yan angrily threw the newspapers she was holding onto the table.

During a break from filming the commercial, she saw the media report and rushed back to share the news.

"What did you write that made you so anxious?"

Tian Xiaole calmly flipped through the newspapers. To be honest, quite a few newspapers were involved, including local authorities and unknown tabloids.

Other European media outlets also joined in the discussion.

This means they're all pointing their guns at someone else!
Tian Xiaole was very familiar with this process.

The high praise for "Shoplifters" has made some filmmakers feel threatened and start to get restless.

Tian Xiaole smiled and shook his head, which could be considered a different kind of recognition of the film.

"The movie has been misinterpreted like this, and you can still laugh?"

"Don't rush, let me see what's written."

Tian Xiaole asked Tang Yan to pour him a cup of coffee before he started looking at the news report.

"——【Shoplifters】is wrapped in the guise of illegality, yet it attempts to rationalize everything with 'love'..."

The premise of the perpetrator and victim sharing empathy is psychologically disturbing to watch. "Revolver"

"--The director of [Shoplifters] is too young and lacks social experience. Under his lens, some characters lack reasonable logic."

Especially the "sudden pang of conscience"—the story initially revolves around a life of theft, but then suddenly becomes overly sentimental in the latter half, bordering on idealistic. —Berlin Morning Post

"—The expression in 'Shoplifters' is too straightforward and lacks originality. The plot lacks comedic tension, weakening the thematic expression." (Berlin Film Bulletin)

"........."

After reading through all the "critical" reports, Tian Xiaole could only say that they were all lukewarm and didn't hit the nail on the head.

To make a story about an Asian family understandable to Westerners, one should start with cultural and emotional aspects.

They were given a chance, but they didn't know how to seize it.

"Brother Le, how do we fight back?"

Tang Yan eagerly handed the coffee to Tian Xiaole and asked curiously.

She wasn't completely clueless; she had been to Cannes with others.

"I asked my assistant to arrange an interview with the Berlin Daily, not to interview me for an exclusive feature, but to use their channels to express my rebuttal."

"Okay, I'll have my assistant contact them right away."

········
In the hotel conference room, staff from the Berlin Daily were preparing for an interview, adjusting the backdrop, lighting, and microphones...

"Tian, ​​my name is Julia Teichmann. Thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed by the Berliner Zeitung."

Julia was blonde and blue-eyed, wearing black-rimmed glasses, a white suit, and high heels—a typical European white elite look.

"You're welcome. I should thank you for speaking up for me."

The Guardian criticized Tian Xiaole as a "traitor," while the Berlin Daily sided with him, and the two sides engaged in a heated exchange of words for several rounds.

There's definitely an element of hype and showmanship involved, but I'm always speaking from his perspective.

"The equipment is ready, let's begin!"

As her fame grew, Tian Xiaole rarely appeared in public anymore, whether in China or abroad.

Sitting in front of the camera lens, he remained as calm and composed as ever.

"It is an honor to have invited director Tian Xiaole, who won the Silver Bear Award at the 55th Berlin International Film Festival and is also the biggest favorite for this year's Golden Bear..."

"Hello to all the film fans of the Berliner Zeitung, I am Tian Xiaole, a director from China."

Tian Xiaole sat in a chair, crossed his legs, and waved to the camera.

Julia smiled and began asking questions according to the script, all of which had been prepared before the interview.

"Tian, ​​Cannes called you a 'traitor,' what is your response to that?"

“I don’t belong to any organization or film festival. I only serve the film industry. The term ‘traitor’ is absurd. I can understand it as being overly critical.”

Julia showed an expression reminiscent of an elderly person looking at their phone on the subway. Chinese proverbs, though simple, require translation into stories or allusions to be understood.

Tian Xiaole simply explained the meaning of "love to criticize harshly".

"Chinese culture is indeed profound and extensive."

Julia nodded repeatedly, though it was unclear whether she truly understood or was merely pretending.

"Shoplifters received good reviews after its premiere, but the outside world mostly gave negative interpretations of the film. What's your opinion?"

"I think it's too superficial."

Tian Xiaole shook her head, placed her hands on the armrests of the seat, and looked relaxed:

"The film's metaphors and profound expression are precisely its essence. An ordinary person's life can be seen in a glance, and the answer is given in the very first shot of the film."

A good movie can force viewers to think about whether the "evil" of the lower classes is justifiable under the oppression of the system, and whether the definition of family must be based on blood ties...

Suddenly, Julia asked a question that was off-script:
"How can we explain the lack of corresponding criticism of the illegal acts depicted in the film?"

Tian Xiaole was not surprised at all; a host who doesn't create drama wouldn't be a professional host.

He calmly replied:

"The reason why films are morally ambiguous and employ numerous open-ended narratives is that they transcend the traditional notion of good versus evil, becoming an open mirror of society..."

"..."

After the interview, Julia received the exclusive content she wanted. She stood up, shook Tian Xiaole's hand, and said praisefully:
"Tian, ​​your rebuttals always get straight to the point. Those film critics who analyze movies are still too superficial."

"I just hope that when you report on it, you won't misinterpret what I mean."

"Of course not, we are a professional film newspaper."

Julia patted her chest, making a firm promise, and seeing Tian Xiaole taking off his headset, she offered to help.

Smelling the delicate perfume, Tian Xiaole didn't refuse.

"Tian, ​​the stance you're conveying is very unique. Could I do a feature on you?"

Foreign women are direct; they know their strengths, and when you whisper in their ear, it tickles your senses.

But for Tian Xiaole now, he's completely untouchable; Tang Yan has squeezed every last drop out of him.

"I don't have much time for you; I have to prepare for the awards ceremony."

As a veteran media professional, Julia knew what Tian Xiaole meant. He was worried that during the selection process, there would be a constant stream of smear campaigns against the film, and he was prepared to fight back at any time.

"What happened after the awards ceremony?"

"That would be even busier, with film copyright transactions and a ton of things to do back home, I wouldn't have time to stay in Berlin."

With a disappointed look in her eyes, Tian Xiaole saw the person off and returned to her room, where the other main actors of the crew gathered around.

"Xiao Le, isn't one interview enough?"

If we're talking about who's anxious, Gong Li is the most anxious. "Shoplifters" gave her hope of winning an award.

"There's been too much criticism of the film. Since we don't know who did it, we're just muddying the waters."

"What to do?"

"Sister Li, you're more familiar with Berlin. Why don't you go find those film critics and newspapers who take money to do their jobs? We can do it like this..."

·······
As the closing ceremony approaches, various opinions are rampant, especially regarding the films that received high ratings at this year's event, which have been interpreted in different ways.

"—The director of 'How I Spent This Summer' intended to present the naked state of people in nature and loneliness through a minimalist style, but failed to cover up the weakness of the story and the failure to delve into the social roots of loneliness..."

"The film 'I Want to Whistle' portrays women worse than '4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days'..."

"—The ghostwriter's attempt to blame the Iraq War on CIA manipulation is an attempt to whitewash the aggressors..."

"—【Honey】tryes to cloak itself in political correctness, but only scratches the surface of issues such as ecology, poverty, and the collapse of traditions..."

·······
Negative reviews of several popular movies continue to appear in the news.

It accurately grasped the film's pain points and pointed out its shortcomings incisively.

Such a professional level immediately attracted the attention of film critics and the media.

In an effort to showcase their expertise and capitalize on trending topics, many began posting comments, dissecting the film's message from various angles and highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.

For a moment, the moviegoers were stunned.

Are there really no good movies if several films are judged to be worthless?

Just then, the Berliner Zeitung broadcast an interview with Tian Xiaole.

Film critics' analyses of "Shoplifters" were criticized by Tian Xiaole as superficial and foolish.

The film resonates with the same emotions; it transcends cultural differences and sparks global reflection on poverty and love.

After some back and forth, with several films secretly competing, discussions about "Shoplifters" continue to be heated.

Several major official media outlets in Berlin have listed it as a top contender for the Golden Bear.

As the closing ceremony approached, the judges continued to select the winners of the awards.

The Golden Bear, which symbolizes the highest honor, has remained unresolved.

Inside the Berlin Film Palace conference room sat seven members of this year's jury.

Jury president Werner Herzog tapped the table and said:

"Ladies and gentlemen, tomorrow is the closing ceremony, and it will be time to decide who will win the grand prize."

Now, please state your position and give your reasons for voting.

As he spoke, he turned his gaze to Yu Nan: "Yu, you've consistently voted for Shoplifters, tell me your reasons."

"can."

Yu Nan is very confident. The film's quality, popularity, and Berlin's preferred political stance all come together, giving her more confidence to vie for the award.

"【Shoplifters】deconstructs traditional family values ​​in the gentlest way, and this way of expression transcends national borders and cultures."

Especially Gong Li's crying scene in the interrogation room, it was soul-stirring without needing many words, she truly lived up to expectations..."

"I second the motion."

American judge Renée Zwieger raised her hand in approval.

"The film shows us how we treat the 'invisible people' in society, and it deserves this award."

"I still recommend 'Honey.' The film perfectly captures the political climate of Berlin and also explores the hardships women face raising children alone..."

Francesca Comencini, a judge from Italy, shared her views.

"I second the motion."

The judges from Spain flipped through the information on several films in their hands and cast their votes.

“I like the story of Shoplifters. Every character is struggling to survive, which reminds me of the poor in the slums of Somalia.”

"I vote for Shoplifters! It has the highest popularity and ratings, and it deserves this Golden Bear award."

"Newspaper ratings and film critics' criteria are not the criteria for awards. I vote for [Honey]!"

With the last judge finished speaking, the vote count was tied at 3-3.

Everyone present turned their attention to the chair of the judging panel.

His final vote will determine who receives the highest honor.

"Mr. Chairman, what is your choice?"

"me?"

Werner Herzog smiled, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table.

"Both 'Shoplifters' and 'Honey' are good; they offer profound insights into human nature..."

Therefore, my choice is…

·······
On the 20th, the main cast members, including Chen Hong and her son, gathered in the hotel room where Tian Xiaole was staying.

According to the unwritten rules of film festivals, receiving a film from the organizer means you are eligible for an award.

It's the last day, and we still haven't received any official movie offers.

Tian Xiaole looked at the phone on the coffee table and thought of the chaotic public opinion of the past few days.

The popularity and critical acclaim of "Shoplifters" were the highest at this year's film festival, but it also attracted criticism from other filmmakers.

Over time, things got really messy and chaotic.

"Did we go too far and not even get a consolation prize?"

"The final grand prize is usually decided last, so it's a good thing to be notified later."

Hearing Gong Li's explanation, everyone's tense mood relaxed a bit. Gong Li had been the head judge before, so of course she was familiar with the rules.

"Gong Li's words are golden, the grand prize is definitely ours," Ge You said with a smile.

"Alright, everyone stop gathering here. I'll let you know when I have any news..."

"Buzzing..."

Just as Tian Xiaole was about to shoo the person away, her phone, which was on the coffee table, started vibrating incessantly.

Everyone looked over at the same time, and their breathing quickened.

A phone call at this time...

"Let me take it."

Tang Yan, who was closest, picked up the phone with both hands and handed it to Tian Xiaole, who glanced at everyone and immediately turned on speakerphone.

"Director Tian, ​​on behalf of the film festival organizers, I would like to invite you and your film crew to attend the closing ceremony and awards presentation tomorrow."

"Okay, I will be there on time."

"..."

"Ahhh~"

"Oh oh oh~"

After the phone call ended, everyone in the room danced with excitement. Although none of them were newcomers, they all had a deep longing for the award.

"Brother Le, you're awesome! You're leading us on the red carpet again."

Ugh!

Tang Yan was a little too excited. She hugged Tian Xiaole's arm and gave him a kiss.

Gong Li, on the other hand, wasn't surprised at all. She already has a child, so what's wrong with a little kiss?

Ge You revealed an expression that said, "I knew it."

Chen Hong glanced at Tang Yan and thought to herself: This woman is like me. I should take advantage of my youth and beauty and get close to a big director as soon as possible.

"Everyone, get some rest tonight and be in top form for the closing ceremony red carpet tomorrow."

"It's still early, why are you two in such a hurry to go to sleep?"

Ge You chuckled and teased.

Everyone looked at the two of them and let out ambiguous laughter. Tang Yan then realized that they were teasing her.

Tang Yan is a married woman of many years with a three-year-old daughter, and she doesn't flinch when teased.

What comes out of the mouth is the absolute truth:
"Yes, busy having a son."

After saying that, she glanced at Tian Xiaole, which meant that they had publicly acknowledged their relationship within the industry.

Gong Li noticed Tang Yan's cautiousness and couldn't help but think of herself back then. She didn't mind lending a hand:
"That's great, let's give Xin Xin a little brother."

"Um?!"

Ge You looked puzzled, and Chen Hong also looked over curiously.

"Who is Xin Xin?"

"Ask them."

Gong Li then passed the question to Tian Xiaole and Tang Yan.

"Could it be..."

Looking at the two of them, Chen Hong had a guess in her mind. She looked at Tang Yan with higher regard. With a child, Madam Tian's position was half secured.

"Tian Xin is our daughter, her nickname is Xin Xin, and she is three years old this year."

Seeing the curious looks on everyone's faces, Tian Xiaole admitted it.

"Good lad, you've done a great job keeping it a secret."

Ge You started rummaging through her pockets, but found nothing: "I'll definitely make up for the gift when I get back."

"Thank you, Uncle Ge." Tang Yan's eyes were red. When she heard Tian Xiaole admit their relationship, she felt like crying.

The grievances I endured over the past few years have finally been acknowledged.

Gong Li looked at Tang Yan and felt sorry for her. Her child was so old, yet she didn't even have a proper status.

If she hadn't exposed it today, who knows how long the secrecy would have taken.

Although it won't be made public, at least her circle of friends and family knows that she exists.

Chen Hong looked at Tang Yan and felt a deep empathy. Back then, when she was heavily pregnant, she asked Director Chen to take responsibility for her, which was also a gamble on the future.

"We hope you will keep Xin Xin's matter a secret and do not want the child to be disturbed."

Tian Xiaole gave instructions to everyone.

·······
"Brother Le, don't blame Sister Li, she's helping me..."

After everyone left, Tang Yan straddled Tian Xiaole's lap, hugging him tightly like a koala.

“Xin Xin is the only eldest daughter of the Tian family, and no one can change that. She should also interact more with the younger generation in the circle.”

"You really think so?"

"Well, then how about that?"

Tian Xiaole lifted her bottom and adjusted her to a comfortable sitting position, because the dragon had already awakened.

"It's okay to get to know each other, but Xin Xin is still young, you can't just arrange a marriage for her when she's little."

Tang Yan straightened up and wrapped her arms around Tian Xiaole: "Just now, I heard Producer Chen say that he wanted to see Xin Xin, as if he wanted to arrange a marriage between Arthur and his children."

"Don't worry, Xin Xin doesn't like Arthur."

When Tian Xiaole thought of the famous scene where "Arthur" invited her to sit down, Tian Xin had to lift the table.

Old Deng doesn't invite me to meals. If that's not treating me like her own daughter, then everyone should just skip the meal.

"Brother Le, what's in your pocket? It's poking me."

Tang Yan pretended not to understand and began to rub herself up and down.

"With a gun."

"You're not a police officer, so why would you have a service weapon?"

"If you're so curious, then I'll show you."

Tian Xiaole supported her bottom and walked towards the bedroom.

Soon after, the sound of rain pattering against loquats could be heard.

(End of this chapter)