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

With the popularity of the movie "The Photo Studio", Huang Bo has been a little troubled lately.

He was initially persuaded by Tian Xiaole to play the role of Wang Guanghai with just a few words, and he approached it with the mindset of challenging his acting skills.
When the movie was released, the character he played became the object of everyone's scorn, and his personal Weibo account was even more unbearable to look at.

Needless to say, offline events have been completely ignored; no brand has dared to invite anyone during this period.

"She already looks old, and with that worried look on her face, she looks even older."

Seeing Huang Bo's worried expression, Tian Xiaole chuckled and teased him.

"Director Tian, ​​I don't dare to go out now, and I don't dare to go on roadshows. I'm afraid I'll be beaten to death by the angry crowd."

Huang Bo is starting to regret it; given the current popularity of the movie, his personal image has been severely damaged.

He portrayed the traitor Wang Guanghai with remarkable realism.

Although he eventually had a change of heart and wanted to help the main characters leave the city, it was too late.

This character's existence vividly represents a segment of the population at that time.
A fence-sitter, switching sides when the situation turns against them, deserves no pity.

Knowing Huang Bo's concerns, Tian Xiaole reassured him, "Don't worry, the role won't affect the actor."

Huang Bo took a sip of coffee and, noticing that Tian Xiaole was in a good mood, tentatively said, "Director Tian, ​​how about arranging for me to go to Hollywood to lay low for a while?"

"After all this fuss, all this worry and fear, you've come to me asking for the role back?"

"No one in China offered me acting roles for a while, and I felt guilty for letting down the company that had nurtured me..."

Huang Bo spoke very well.

After thinking for a moment, Tian Xiaole realized that Huang Bo had indeed suffered an undeserved misfortune, and the audience's pent-up emotions were all directed at him.

Even more extreme cases involved direct attacks on his family members, and even threats.

Tian Xiaole tapped her fingers on the table, the rhythmic sound echoing in the office.

At Pangu Pictures, post-production on "Humanity 4" is complete, and they are currently working on the script for "Gone with the Wind 3." Adding a Chinese character shouldn't be too difficult.

Thinking of this, Tian Xiaole looked at Huang Bo, suggesting that it might be good for him to lay low for a while:

"Go get a role in 'Rush 3'."

Having achieved his goal, Huang Bo left with a big smile. By the time he returned from Hollywood after a year or two, the public would have long forgotten about his portrayal of Wang Guanghai.

···
After the National Day holiday, the daily box office of "The Photo Studio" dropped to 40 million, which delighted all the production companies.

According to the usual pattern, the box office should have been halved in the second week.

However, the unique subject matter has kept the film popular, and its popularity is even increasing.

"Xiao Le, you can submit the extension application now."

Han Sanping spoke in a matter-of-fact tone, saying that there was no problem with obtaining an extended key for this type of subject matter.

"Okay, I'll have someone submit the application later."

"Just a reminder, this extension is for a month, and we're aiming to break 10 billion in box office revenue."

Upon hearing this, Tian Xiaole gave a wry smile. He genuinely didn't care about the box office, but he couldn't argue with the other producers who did.

"By the way, should we pull your company's film, 'West Wind,' from the release schedule?"

Directed by Gao Qunshu, the film is scheduled for release at the end of the month.

"No need, just use it normally."

The movie is coming to an end of the month, so it shouldn't have a big impact.

···
"Boss, director Zhang Yimou has sent an audition invitation."

Chen Zhixi knocked on the door and came in, handing the faxed document to Tian Xiaole.

I glanced at it and saw it was an audition invitation for "The Flowers of War".

This left Tian Xiaole a little confused. Hadn't they said before that they were going to hold a nationwide audition for new talent?

Chen Zhixi noticed Tian Xiaole's confusion and offered her own guess:

"Our company's actresses are all A-list, so maybe we want to put together an all-star lineup."

In Tian Xiaole's opinion, it might have been Zhang Dapao's idea. The latter likes to use popular actors and often interferes with Zhang Yimou's casting decisions.

The two have been working together for over a decade, but in recent years Zhang Dapao has become quite fond of interfering in casting, showing absolutely no self-awareness.

Without Zhang Yimou, he's nothing!
Tian Xiaole shook her head and said casually, "Ask the company's artists; those who want to audition can give it a try."

Zhang Yimou is known for his ability to mentor actresses, and sending them to receive guidance can be incredibly beneficial.

The roles offered are too small; I doubt they would accept them.

They're not artists from other companies who need to make cameo appearances or guest appearances to curry favor.

"Is there anything else?" Tian Xiaole asked.

"A symposium on Nanjing photo studios will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, and the Ministry of Culture and Art. We invite you to attend."

"Such high specifications?"

Tian Xiaole was a little incredulous that these companies had actually joined forces to host this event; the scale of the event was undeniably high.

However, it makes sense when you think about it. From the moment the project was initiated, the island nation was on the defensive and tried every means to resist it, which led to the strong support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

After the film's release, it received such a great response that the higher authorities had no choice but to take it seriously.

Although Tian Xiaole disliked this kind of formalism, she had no choice but to go, as she couldn't offend people in the cultural system for no reason.

···
The symposium was held in the auditorium of the Film Bureau, with representatives from the arts, publicity, and critic fields, as well as senior media professionals, participating in the discussion.

Experts and scholars discussed the issue from various perspectives, including cultural thought, art appreciation, the history of the War of Resistance against Japan, and even more outrageous aspects such as commercial operations.

Director Tian Xiaole had no say at all and could only listen attentively, which made him quite happy to be in such a relaxed position.

The morning session is over, and there's still the afternoon session.

As the experts and professors gave their detailed analysis, Tian Xiaole became sleepy and started to doze off.

"Director Tian, ​​as a film director, what are your thoughts?"

Tian Xiaole was a little confused when he was suddenly called out, as he hadn't heard these people bragging about anything.

Someone nearby repeated the question: "Director Zhang asked, can this kind of realistic anti-Japanese war subject matter continue to be replicated?"

copy?

That's absolutely incredible!
Whether you value the film's box office or its content, it is essentially a film about suffering.

One or two films are fine, but it's appropriate to convey patriotic ideas appropriately.

But if all the movies you go to are filled with this kind of subject matter, even the most patriotic person will feel a sense of resistance.

Tian Xiaole shook his head and said, "It's good to have one or two films on the theme of the suffering of the Chinese people. They mainly serve as a warning and educational tool. Too many of them will tire the audience out."

That was a very tactful way of putting it, but judging from the leader's expression, it seemed like he hadn't taken it to heart.

···
In the film market, it seems like we've gone back to the days of exclusive screenings of "Aftershock".

However, the main focus this time is the photo studio, and it wouldn't be an exaggeration to describe the October schedule as a complete sweep.

On the 8th, the box office grossed 4.6 million.

On the 9th, they received 4.91 million.

No. 10: …

On the 11th, the box office exceeded 5.6 million.

All the film companies that invested were overjoyed, not only because of the amazing box office returns, but also because they gained a good reputation.

Only Tian Xiaole could lead them through such a great opportunity.

As for other industry peers, they can no longer feel jealous; all they see is envy.

I especially envy those film companies that were chosen by Tian Xiaole. They are just smaller in size and their publicity channels are not mature enough.

After careful consideration, Gao Qunshu decided that "The Wind Rises" would not have a premiere and could be released directly.

Because this is a realistic film, he didn't have high expectations for the box office, in order to save the company money.

Furthermore, the focus of the film market is on "photo studios," and they're content with just scraps.

The auditions for "The Flowers of War" by the artists under their management have yielded results. Just as Tian Xiaole predicted, all the leading actresses were rejected, and they were given some minor roles instead.

The company's artists have no shortage of performance opportunities, but they've all turned them down.

"Director Zhang's requirements are quite demanding. He wants someone who is both innocent and seductive, with a captivating gaze."

Chen Zhixi complained indignantly, "Even Fan Binbin didn't meet the requirements." Tian Xiaole asked curiously, "Who in the company went to audition?"

"Wang Luodan, Zhao Liying, Dong Xuan, and Yang Mi all went."

It's not surprising that these people were eliminated; their acting skills were just so-so.

The two were discussing the management of artists, arguing that keeping them under Xiaole Pictures was unprofessional and that a professional agency needed to be established to manage them.

Tian Xiaole entrusted this matter to Chen Zhixi.

"Boss, what's the name of the talent agency?"

Tian Xiaole is terrible at naming things, and she really can't think of a good name right away.

"You should think about it too, as long as it's catchy and easy to remember."

Chen Zhixi pondered for a moment, then slapped her thigh and said, "9 is the ultimate number, how about calling it 91 Entertainment?"

Hearing this name almost made Tian Xiaole strain her back, and she said in an annoyed tone:

"Not good, let's choose another one."

"New company, new beginning, let's call it Qidian Entertainment."

Tian Xiaole shook his head, not expecting Chen Zhixi to be even more terrible at naming things.

“Call it Lotte Entertainment, it’s simple and easy to pronounce.”

Chen Zhixi was disappointed that her carefully chosen name was not adopted, but she dared not object to Tian Xiaole's chosen name.

It's not even as good as her 91 and starting point!
The two were discussing plans for the artist when the assistant knocked on the door and came in.

"Boss, Chairman Yang from Juling Pictures wants to visit you, saying there's a potential collaboration."

"Xiao Yang, you go and greet them."

Tian Xiaole had some guesses that the collaboration on "The Legend of the White Snake," which had been in preparation for more than half a year, was probably for special effects.

···
In the conference room, Yang Zi, wearing sunglasses and with his legs crossed, surveyed the layout.

"Xiao Le Pictures' conference room is just so-so. When our company grows bigger and stronger, we'll definitely make one that's much more impressive than this."

"After all, this is a place for receiving guests; we can't be too stingy."

Huang Yiyi nodded, already used to Yang Zi's arrogant tone.

She was filled with mixed emotions. If she had clung tightly to Tian Xiaole back then, she would be the First Lady of Chinese Directors today.

The main reason is that she went to Hong Kong Island and was influenced by the atmosphere there, believing that actresses should marry a rich man.

It's a pity I missed it!

The conference room door was pushed open, and Chen Zhixi walked in wearing high heels, immediately noticing Yang Zi wearing sunglasses inside.

"Chairman Yang, what collaboration opportunities does your company have?"

Chen Zhixi didn't mince words and spoke very directly.

If it weren't for Tian Xiaole's instructions, the owner of this small film company would never have been able to meet her.

"Regarding cooperation matters, I will only discuss them with Director Tian."

Yangzi felt neglected, as he couldn't even get a meeting with Tian Xiaole, and his tone became somewhat arrogant.

"Director Tian is very busy. If you need anything, just tell me."

Chen Zhixi was getting a little impatient.

"A 30 million project, can you make the decision? Let Director Tian handle the negotiations."

Yang Zi took off his sunglasses, revealing a pair of narrow eyes, and felt that he had Chen Zhixi under his control.

"I plan to entrust the post-production special effects for 'The Legend of the White Snake' to Coloroom Pictures. My requirements are simple: I don't expect it to reach the level of 'Pacific Rim,' but it should at least be close."

"Oh, then we need to add at least one zero."

Chen Zhixi found this person inexplicable, wondering where his confidence came from, wanting an effect worth hundreds of millions with only 30 million.

Then she added, "And there's a queue; the 'Colorful Streamers' are already overwhelmed."

Ahead of it are "Painted Skin" and Ning Hao's "The Great Heist".

Yang Zi felt that Chen Zhixi was asking for an exorbitant amount and that he couldn't even get the most basic respect.

At this moment, Huang Shengyi gently patted his hand to soothe his emotions.

Yang Zi also knew that Xiao Le Pictures was an industry giant, and his small startup couldn't afford to offend it.

"Just tell me what level of special effects 30 million can get, and I'm willing to pay extra to jump the queue."

"Lowest level, no queue jumping allowed."

"In that case, forget it."

Yangzi put on sunglasses, got up angrily, and left, feeling very embarrassed.

"Director Chen, I'm sorry, that's just his personality. We'll have the opportunity to work together again next time."

Huang Shengyi bowed in apology, quickly left the meeting room, and caught up with the sulking Yang Zi.

Watching Huang Shengyi leave, Chen Zhixi chuckled and shook her head. If she had Tang Yan's decisiveness, Tang Yan's position would be hers now.

···
Half a month after its release, the headlines for "The Photo Studio" are still dominated by movie-related news.

"【Nanjing Photo Studio】After 15 days, it grossed 6.74 million yuan, surpassing 【Aftershock】 to become the second highest-grossing Chinese-language film."

"Daily box office is hovering around 20 million, still 400 million short of Pacific Rim's box office..."

"Taiwanese films grossed over 100 million NTD, becoming the highest-grossing imported film in mainland China..."

While everyone in the industry was speculating whether the film could break the 10 billion yuan box office mark, China Film Group announced that "Photo Studio" had obtained the extended key.

Immediately, there was a lot of discontent within the industry, but people could only complain privately, as the subject matter of this film did not allow for any other dissenting voices.

But one thing is certain: the film market is getting better and better, with several blockbuster films already released this year.

This is the "Colorful House".

Ning Hao's film "The Great Heist" has wrapped up filming and is currently in post-production.

"I don't dare to hope for 1 billion yuan in box office revenue, 300 or 400 million yuan will be enough."

Ning Hao remarked with emotion, expressing his anticipation for the film he would direct.

"You do have some self-awareness, but isn't a target of 4 million a bit too low?"

"That's not low. So far, only you and Feng Xiaogang have managed to surpass 4 million in box office revenue."

Ning Hao changed the subject and said boastfully, "Keep an eye on the post-production of 'The Great Heist' for me. I need to apply for an award at the Golden Horse Awards."

Seeing his smug face, Tian Xiaole mercilessly retorted, "You've never even won a Golden Horse Award, yet you've already become a judge. That's quite interesting."

The Golden Horse Awards approached him to be a judge, but he declined.

They're even reluctant to give out a chairperson position for the judging panel; they're really guarding against it!

"Do you think everyone is like you? You're such a pervert," Ning Hao retorted irritably.

The two chatted idly as they walked toward the production area of ​​Pacific Rim 2.

80% of the technical staff are working hard on the post-production special effects for this movie, and the progress is good compared to the first film.

A group of people were gathered around a computer, their eyes fixed on the screen. Tian Xiaole curiously went over to take a look.

A completed video is playing, showing a monster tens of meters tall leaping out of the water. It has an inverted triangular head, a pair of grayish-brown eyes, a sharp horn on its forehead, and its whole body is covered with dark scales. Its long, thin tail is swinging irregularly.

Extending its sharp claws, it stomped and crushed the Statue of Liberty, creating a powerful visual impact.

"These special effects are on par with top-tier Hollywood standards." Ning Hao was dumbfounded, his mouth agape.

In his memory, it was on par with the quality of "Transformers 2".

He turned to look at Tian Xiaole, a fawning smile on his face:

"Director Tian, ​​the special effects for 'The Great Robbery' should be done like this."

"Sure, as long as the money is there."

Tian Xiaole patted Ning Hao on the shoulder and explained, "Even for just a dozen seconds of footage, each frame takes several hours to render. The expensive part is the time cost."

"Even a little bit will do."

Ning Hao, swallowing his pride, compromised. The production cost of "The Golden Era" was only 100 million yuan, leaving little money for special effects. (End of Chapter)