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

On February 21, 2010, Berlin was covered in heavy snow.

After ten long and arduous days, the Berlin International Film Festival came to a close.

Compared to the lively red carpet at the opening ceremony, the closing ceremony was much more "shabby".

Some film crews that didn't receive invitations for unspoken rules have already left, as have those that came to sell their films.

Since the opening ceremony, Berlin has screened over a hundred films, but only a handful of those aspiring filmmakers have made it this far.

Tian Xiaole heard from Gong Li that the actor who filmed "Three Guns" did not receive any calls about unspoken rules, but the actor who filmed "Reunion" did.

This is not surprising; the film was nominated because of Zhang Yimou.

The red carpet event is about to begin, and the entire Potsdam square has been transformed into a sea of ​​red, appearing dreamlike under the embellishment of heavy snow.

Inside the hotel, Tang Yan was dressed warmly, wearing a black lantern-sleeved top and a floor-length skirt with plum blossom prints. With her exquisite makeup, she looked elegant and beautiful.

Gong Li wore a purple fishtail tulle dress with intricate and delicate embroidery on the bodice, paired with two rings of jewelry around her neck, exuding luxury and elegance.

"The weather is terrible, so I've prepared some amazing tools for you."

Tian Xiaole asked her assistant to buy red scarves in Chinatown and gave one to everyone.

"This is good, it's warm and looks good."

Tang Yan was wrapped around her neck, paired with a luxurious dress, and that touch of red was the perfect finishing touch.

A sweet smile can melt some of the snow in Berlin.

"This is the smaller size, specially prepared for the two of you."

"Xiao Le is so thoughtful."

Chen Hong took it from Tian Xiaole and wrapped it around Arthur's neck.

With her mother's help, Zhao Jinmai also brought it along.

The two little ones are like festive Chinese New Year dolls.

"Sister Li, if it affects your endorsement, you shouldn't wear it."

The two jewels around Gong Li's neck are for products she endorses, and she has an obligation to promote them.

She hesitated for a moment, but still put on the sash: "We are a whole, I can't be an exception."

·······
The closing ceremony red carpet is the most anticipated part, drawing the attention of filmmakers worldwide.

Tonight, a host of awards will be announced.

The inclement weather in Berlin did not dampen the enthusiasm for the red carpet.

In front of hundreds of media reporters and movie fans, well-known filmmakers, directors, and entertainment stars, dressed in their finest attire, walked the red carpet.

When Tian Xiaole led Tang Yan, Gong Li, Ge You, and others to the scene, they were taken aback by the enthusiastic fans who braved the wind and snow.

There are plenty of female celebrities who prioritize beauty over warmth.

Western female celebrities tend to be quite daring in their choices, with dresses featuring plunging necklines, bare backs, and long legs being commonplace.

Even though they were shivering from the cold, they still managed to force a smile and strike various poses for the photos.

Yu Nan's look is eye-catching, with straight long hair, black lips, and heavy makeup, giving her a wild and untamed appearance.

Each film crew or actor walked the red carpet amidst deafening shouts, demonstrating the enthusiasm of the fans present.

The fact that "Shoplifters" was placed in the second half of the film demonstrates the importance the production team placed on it.

After all, the order in which people walk the red carpet can also signify something.

Soon, at the staff's notification, the "Shoplifters" made their appearance.

As Tian Xiaole and his entourage walked onto the red carpet, the media on both sides immediately became agitated.

In unison, cameras were pointed at the group, and shutter buttons were pressed repeatedly.

Puff puff

Pfft pfft~

In the past few days, "Shoplifters" has garnered a lot of attention and buzz in Berlin, with local media and film critics predicting that the film is a strong contender for the Golden Bear.

Gong Li, who plays the female lead, is undoubtedly a strong contender for the Best Actress award.

Compared to the other film, "Shoplifters" has a lower probability of winning the Golden Bear than Gong Li has a higher probability of winning Best Actress.

Several media outlets from China waved frantically in greeting.

Tian Xiaole, Tang Yan, Gong Li and the others stopped, faced them, and gave them time to take photos.

Just as they were about to leave the red carpet, a familiar scene unfolded once again.

The organizers kept Gong Li, cleared the area for her, and gave her an extra minute for a solo photoshoot.

With her hands on her hips and a cold, stern face, her resolute gaze swept across the room from left to right. Under the flashing lights, she didn't even blink, exuding an aura of dominance.

The touch of red on her neck, matching the color of the red carpet, perfectly complemented the atmosphere of the closing ceremony.

·······
On the red carpet at the closing ceremony, every film crew from the main competition unit who walked there was stopped by the host for an interview.

Shoplifters is no exception.

"Tian, ​​this is your first time in Berlin and you've already won the Silver Bear. This is your second time walking the red carpet at the Berlin Film Festival. Tonight, are you confident you can win the Golden Bear?"

Upon hearing this, Tian Xiaole smiled and said without any modesty:

"Of course, I'm here for the Golden Bear. If a director doesn't even have confidence in his own work, why would he participate in the competition?"

The female host was shocked to hear such confident and arrogant words, a stark contrast to the humble, low-key, and polite Asian film crews she had interviewed.

However, she didn't ask any further questions, and saw Gong Li walking over:

"Li, you're a strong contender for Best Actress tonight. Are you confident you can win this award?"

Upon hearing such flattering words, Gong Li carefully chose his words and slowly said:

"Whether I win an award or not, and whatever award I do win, it is all recognition from the Berlin Film Festival."

Right.

This humble and modest response is the standard answer she's familiar with.

"Good luck to you tonight."

"Thank you."

Gong Li caught up with Tian Xiaole and the others, and left her name on the autograph wall.

·······
Stepping into the cinema again, Tian Xiaole had a different feeling.

Unlike the last time when I won the award without even realizing it, this time it will determine whether I am one step closer to winning the three gold medals.

Although he spoke with great confidence, he had lowered his expectations. These white men might actually be planning to sabotage him.

The awards ceremony was almost full; Tian Xiaole and his crew were the last to arrive.

Guided by staff, they led Tian Xiaole and the others to the third row, right in the middle.
"Tonight is something to look forward to."

With such a prominent location, Gong Li's expectations are raised to an extreme.

As a regular at film festivals, she knew very well that the seating arrangements were not random.

The cast and crew of "Shoplifters" are sitting here, which means they've at least won a prestigious award.

[Reunion] The crew sat behind them, on the right side, a bit far apart.

Gong Li and Ge You sat inside, with the two little ones in the middle, Tian Xiaole sitting near the aisle, and Tang Yan sitting to their right.

After taking his seat, Tian Xiaole could feel several unfriendly gazes lingering or sweeping over him from behind.

He turned around and saw that the people sitting around him were all older white male filmmakers.

Tian Xiaole gave what she thought was a kind smile, but what she received in return was indifference, eye rolls, and cold snorts.

"Brother Le, it seems like they have a problem with you?"

"Really? They seem quite friendly."

As time went by, the awards ceremony was drawing ever closer.

Tang Yan unconsciously grabbed Tian Xiaole's hand, feeling nervous for the latter.

If Tian Xiaole wins both awards, he will truly solidify his status as the number one director in Chinese-language cinema, without any controversy.

As Mrs. Tian, ​​she wielded even more power within the circle.

domestic.

Weibo provided a live stream of the entire red carpet event, including the subsequent awards ceremony.

This is an exclusive broadcasting partnership signed between Weibo and the Berlin Film Festival.

Many people in the industry stayed in the live stream room and watched the entire broadcast.

The high level of treatment Tian Xiaole and his group received made many people feel envious.

Even the red scarves around their necks couldn't compare to their red eyes.

Gong Li's special treatment of having the red carpet cleared for her is the envy of many female celebrities in the industry. This is a status she has earned through one award after another.

Artists under Xiaole Pictures, some at the company and some on set, watched the live stream.

Wang Luodan, Zhao Liying, Zhang Li, Zeng Li, and others.

They noticed that Tang Yan took the initiative to grab Tian Xiaole's hand. While cursing her as a slut in her heart, the envy in her eyes was undeniable.

This scene was broadcast live in hundreds of countries and regions around the world, and they wanted the same treatment.

Hengdian, the film crew of "Brotherhood of Blades".

Lu Yang took a day off, and everyone gathered together to watch the live stream and cheer for their boss.

"Ahhh, it's so sweet!"

"Sister Yan and Director Tian, ​​could it be that..."

Upon seeing Tian Xiaole and Tang Yan holding hands, the crew members started teasing and joking around.

"Don't spread rumors. It was just holding hands, what's the big deal?"

Lu Yang yelled, always maintaining his image as a single boss, while already thinking about how to please Tang Yan.

Yang Mi curled her lip in disdain, her thoughts unknown.

The cast and crew of "My Beautiful Boss".

Jing Tian, ​​who had been all smiles, suddenly collapsed, feeling empty inside, as if her favorite toy had been snatched away.

Lu Zhen noticed her displeasure and tentatively suggested, "Tian Tian, ​​how about we switch to another live stream?"

"No need, I want to cheer for Brother Xiao Le."

The cast and crew of "The Orphan of Zhao".

Director Chen rarely finished work early, and he was already squatting in the live broadcast room, watching Tian Xiaole holding Arthur's hand, and he felt quite uncomfortable.

This global gathering of filmmakers should have been attended by him, as a father, leading Arthur.

Who is the real father?
Fan Binbin, wearing a silk nightgown and a face mask, leaned back on the sofa, watching the live stream.

When Tian Xiaole and the others appeared on the red carpet, she stared intently at Tang Yan, fantasizing about replacing her.

She was holding Tian Xiaole's hand, enjoying the adoration of media from all over the world.

Upon seeing Gong Li being cleared out, Fan Binbin immediately sat up, his eyes gleaming with a piercing light.

This is what actors should strive for!
"This is the treatment a true queen should receive."

Gong Li's award-winning films were all directed by Zhang Yimou and Chen Da.

Therefore, it can be concluded that if she wants to win the award, she has to cling tightly to Tian Xiaole's leg.

Thinking of this, Fan Binbin looked at Tang Yan with three parts jealousy, five parts envy, and two parts resentment, wishing he could take her place.

"..."

·······
Berlin, Cinematheque.

Jury Chairman Werner Herzog is giving his opening remarks:

"Welcome to the world's best filmmakers gathered in Berlin. After our fair, just, and transparent selection process... tonight—we will present the new Golden Bear Award."

On the large screen that followed, the films were introduced in sections such as "Encounter," "Panorama," "New Generation," and "Main Competition," showing how they have evolved to their current state.

Nearly an hour later, the main event began.

The awards for non-competitive categories have begun to be presented.

As awards were accepted one by one, Tian Xiaole started to get restless; his composure wasn't quite up to par yet. At this point, the awards ceremony reached its climax with the presentation of the top prize in the "Short Film" category.

"The winner of the Golden Bear for Best Film is—[The Bank Time], congratulations!"

As they entered the main competition, the previously listless crew straightened their backs and perked up.

These kinds of people are obviously the ones who received calls about sexual harassment.

"Hopefully, they won't call our names up ahead."

Tang Yan muttered to herself, knowing very well that the awards in the main competition become more prestigious towards the end.

Before Tian Xiaole could even make a couple of jokes, the competition awards ceremony had already begun.

He put away his joking mood and sat up straight.

A member of the judging panel walked onto the stage, opened the envelope, and read aloud:
"The Silver Bear for Outstanding Achievement (Music) goes to—[How I Ended This Summer], congratulations!"

Tang Yan breathed a sigh of relief; not having read out the movie title meant she had taken a step forward.

Tian Xiaole was already nervous because it concerned his dream of winning three gold medals, and the nervous Tang Yan sitting next to him made him even more nervous.

On stage, the awards ceremony continued.

Da da da……

The sound of high heels came from the awards stage.

The judging panel for the awards ceremony was replaced by Yu Nan.

Tian Xiaole subconsciously looked at Gong Li, only to see that the latter's expression remained unchanged, but if you looked closely, you could see that his breathing had become a little rapid.

"Could it be Sister Li?"

Tang Yan muttered softly, "If that's the case, then what happens next..."

She started rambling again.

On stage, Yu Nan opened the envelope, glanced up at Tian Xiaole, and read aloud:
"The Silver Bear for Best Actress goes to Gong Li. Congratulations!"

Then, she read it again in Chinese.

Wow~
Wow~
The audience burst into thunderous applause.

Gong Li's performance in "Shoplifters" is undeniable, and this award is beyond dispute.

Tian Xiaole and others stood up and gave Gong Li hugs one by one to congratulate her on winning the award.

"Xiao Le, behind you..."

"It would be a great success if we could help Sister Li win the Best Actress award. From now on, it's all up to luck."

Tian Xiaole felt Gong Li's heavy softness and gently patted her back to comfort her.

It's rare for a film to win two or more awards at the same time, but it's not unheard of.

On stage, the citation for Gong Li's award was read aloud:
"With restrained yet penetrating details, she infuses the softness and resilience of women from the lower classes into their every gesture... using the most understated approach to unleash the most powerful emotional force."

Gong Li, holding her long gown, walked confidently onto the stage and accepted the trophy and certificate from Yu Nan.

"Thank you to the organizing committee for the recognition. I am even more grateful to director Tian Xiaole for this award. He is a very charismatic and talented director..."

Finally, thank you to all the staff and crew for their hard work. Because of you, Chinese films will only get better and better. Thank you!

It was already late at night in China, but many people in the industry were still watching the live stream.

While happy for Gong Li winning Best Actress, I also worried about Tian Xiaole.

Industry insiders are well aware that, although major film festivals have not explicitly stipulated that Best Picture and Best Actor/Actress cannot be awarded at the same time.

However, in most cases, in order to balance the considerations and expand the influence of the award, the following measures are taken.

The Golden Bear and Best Actor or Best Actress awards are rarely given to the same cast and crew at the same time.

Moreover, Tian Xiaole has already conquered the most difficult Palme d'Or; if he were given the Golden Bear as well...

It is foreseeable that another director will be added to the list of three award-winning directors in the near future.

If it's white skin, then it's fine to give it to them.

It's a pity she has yellow skin and is still so young.

But there is still hope.

In the 60-year history of the Berlin Film Festival, the films that won the Golden Bear in 1980, 1982, and most recently 1990, have also won other awards.

People close to him, such as Lao Tian, ​​Lao Mouzi, Lu Yang, and Guo Fan, began to feel regret.

The odds of winning an award are too low, and the requirements are too high, especially since it's not someone you know.

Other directors didn't think about it much, such as Director Chen.

Everyone here is a Palme d'Or director. Even if your own award is only half as prestigious, it doesn't diminish the fact that you are a Palme d'Or director.

If Tian Xiaole were to win another gold medal, wouldn't Director Chen be inferior?
Many directors share this view, and Lu Taro cursed fiercely in the live broadcast room.

········
After Gong Li finished giving her acceptance speech, she took the trophy backstage to have it engraved and then gave an interview to official media.

"Sister Li is absolutely right."

Tang Yan's eyes sparkled with envy.

Tian Xiaole remained silent. If he were to take this up, and she was shamelessly trying to win the Best Actress award, what would he do?
Originally, the character only played innocent and naive roles, but now she's become much stronger, though only to a limited extent.

On stage, it was time to present the Best Actor award.

"The Silver Bear for Best Actor goes to Girigri Dobkin."

Everyone wants honors, especially awards that prove one's worth.

Ge You's last hope was dashed; winning Best Actor and Best Actress for a single film is extremely rare.

The award judges on stage were known for causing trouble; they spoke in a drawn-out tone:

"Wait, there's another winner... Sergei Puskopalis, congratulations!"

The male lead has two roles, and they're both from the same movie.

At this moment, Ge You truly gave up.

"Uncle Ge, we'll come again next time."

"As Mrs. Arita said, I'll have a chance to win the Best Actor award sooner or later."

Ge You's words made Tang Yan beam with joy, almost like she was being placed in a placenta.

"Tangtang, what's the good news? You're even happier than me winning an award?"

Gong Li returned with the trophy and certificate, looked at Tang Yan with her smiling eyes, and asked curiously.

"Sister Li, let me see the Best Actress trophy."

Tang Yan changed the subject; she would never admit that the word "Madam Tian" could make her happy all day.

On stage, the awards ceremony continued.

"The Silver Bear for Best Screenplay goes to Wang An'an and Jin Na for [Reunion]. Congratulations!"

As soon as he finished speaking, Tian Xiaole and the others stood up and applauded to congratulate him.

So far, Chinese-language films have all achieved success.

Only the three most prestigious awards remain to be presented.

Shoplifters' early win of an award brought a sigh of relief to other film crews.

It has been more than a decade since a film won two awards at the same time.

Soon, it was time for the Best Director award ceremony.

Tian Xiaole has lost interest in everything except the Golden Bear Award.

"The Silver Bear for Best Director goes to Roman Polanski, The Ghost Writer. Congratulations!"

As the final moments approached, Tang Yan became nervous again.

She held Tian Xiaole's hand tightly; there were still two big prizes left, and she had a chance to win both.

Both the jury and the Golden Bear are film awards, not honors.

The judging panel for the awards ceremony has changed again.

Without any formalities, the results were announced directly:

"The winner of the Grand Jury Prize, the Silver Bear, is—[Honey]! Congratulations!"

As the words fell, Tian Xiaole applauded in congratulations, a glimmer of hope igniting in her heart—perhaps…

He turned to look at the award-winning film crew, and his eyes met those of the director of "The Honeybee." They immediately disliked each other.

Soon, after the long and tedious acceptance speech, it was time for the highly anticipated and much-anticipated grand prize: the Golden Bear!
When jury president Werner Herzog walked onto the stage, everyone in the audience, whether they were members of the film crew who had been subjected to unspoken rules or invited guests, perked up.

All that time spent making dumplings was for this plate of vinegar!

"Ladies and gentlemen, dear filmmakers, tonight we gather here to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Film Festival and to congratulate you all on your extraordinary artistic achievements over the past year..."

Now, I will announce the winner of the Golden Bear, the highest honor of the 60th Berlin International Film Festival.

Werner Herzog paused, looked up at the diverse crowd below the stage, and then read out the citation for the award-winning film:
"This film rejects black-and-white moral judgments and challenges the boundaries of audience empathy. It's like a mirror, reflecting how we treat those who 'don't deserve to be loved'—and this is a common characteristic of all great films..."

At this point, thunderous applause and cheers erupted from the audience.

Almost everyone guessed the answer.

At this moment, Tian Xiaole sat blankly in her seat, trying her best to control her emotions before the answer was announced.

Tang Yan had gone mad, repeatedly muttering to herself, "Is it us? Is it us?"

Ge You and Gong Li weren't much better off; they were both trembling with excitement.

The latter, burdened by guilt from winning the Best Actress award, had already forgotten it and was constantly praying in her heart.

Only Arthur and Zhao Jinmai remained calm, even appearing somewhat sleepy.

The answer will be revealed by the chair of the judging panel, Werner Helge:
"The winner of the Golden Bear at this year's Berlin International Film Festival is—ShopliFters! Congratulations!"

Wow~
Wow~
The entire audience rose to their feet and erupted in thunderous applause.

All eyes turned to the excessively young director.

From today onwards, I am a double-gold director.

They share a common belief: with Tian Xiaole's talent, he will become the youngest director to win all three major film awards.

Meanwhile, on stage, to show respect for Tian Xiaole, the judge read it again in broken Chinese.

"Shoplifters!"
Please invite the main cast and crew to the stage to accept the award!

"Brother Le, you did it."

Tang Yan shouted excitedly, her face already flushed.

Tian Xiaole smiled, buttoned up her collar, and stood up to hug each member of the crew.

"Let's go up on stage to receive our award."

At this time, late at night in China, the live stream room had already exploded.

The screen was filled with comments like, "Director Tian is awesome! He's brought glory to our country!"

Major media outlets, after modifying the award details in their previously unused press releases, updated them on various online platforms.

The directors, who were already asleep, were repeatedly woken up by phone calls from their assistants, who informed them of the latest news from Berlin.

"Xiao Le, how could you take the Golden Bear?"

Director Chen angrily slapped his pillow, declaring that he could no longer associate with Tian Xiaole (the director of the Palme d'Or).

After venting his frustration, he sighed, propped himself up with pillows, and lay down to sleep, but he couldn't fall asleep no matter how much he tossed and turned.

On the other side, Lao Tian, ​​who had endured all this time, saw the final result and went to sleep with a yawn.

Similarly, I tossed and turned and couldn't fall asleep.

I feel the pressure.

"Oh, this is really worrying."

Old Tian decided to stay awake, put on a coat, and found the storyboard for "The Embalmer," determined to make every shot perfect.

The happiest people are the artists under Xiaole Pictures; the higher the boss's achievements, the higher their status in the industry.

Although he has already become the envy of actors and celebrities in the industry, that doesn't stop him from layering on several more layers of armor. (End of Chapter)