It's reasonable for me to be a three-time Golden Horse Award-winning director and an all-around

Chapter 158 The Leading Figure of the Seventh Generation of Directors—Lü Rui! (Seeking Monthly Tickets)

Entering October means that 2005 has entered its fourth quarter.

At this point in time, the entertainment industry unconsciously enters an "accelerated" phase.

Although being a celebrity is different from working in an office building, everyone essentially has "KPIs" to achieve.

For example, the newly formed Super Girls were used by Mango Entertainment as "tools" to boost their performance, and were taken around to hold concerts.

The registration for the Golden Rooster and Golden Horse Awards has officially ended, and the intense judging period has begun.

Ultimately, "Taken" declined to participate in the Golden Rooster Awards, and Lu Rui remained unmoved despite repeated invitations from the organizers.

In his view, commercial films only care about two things: box office!

As long as the box office is high enough and it makes money, it doesn't matter whether it wins an award or not.

Does the absence of the Golden Rooster Award diminish the film's value?
Are you kidding me?
Do you understand the significance of the only Chinese-language film to gross 3 million yuan at the box office?
Strictly speaking, that's 3.72 million, firmly holding the top spot in the domestic film market (including Hollywood imports) box office chart!

This title alone carries hundreds of times more weight than his Golden Rooster Award!
Besides, even if they went, they wouldn't have a chance to win an award and would be destined to be just an extra in those art films whose names they'd never even heard of.

Rather than being someone else's stepping stone, it's better not to go at all.

“截止当前，东南亚这边的上映已全部收官，国内票房3.72亿、香江票房6783万港币、湾湾票房2.86亿新台币、新加坡769万美元、马来西亚496万美元、霓虹票房21亿日元、南韩票房36.6亿韩元……”

In the conference room of Ruishijie, Lü Rui was reading out the box office results from a report.

With each number announced, the smiles of Han Sanping, Ren Zhonglun, Wang Changtian, Dong Ping, Yu Dong, Wang Zhonglei, and Ye Ning below grew even brighter.

It's over, and now it's time to split the profits. Nothing could be more exciting than that.

"After the box office revenue from each region is aggregated and shared with the cinemas, the total revenue share is 2.73 million yuan. With the addition of fees for pre-roll ads, product placement, and other advertising, the total revenue reaches as high as 3 million yuan!"

"Clap clap clap!"

The meeting room erupted in applause.

Even if you only get the lowest percentage (5%) of the 3 million in distributable revenue, you can still get 1500 million.

This doesn't even include the revenue from the sale of the copyrights and the North American market release.

If we take a long-term view, once we've fully expanded to DVDs, online platforms, cable TV channels, and other distribution channels, our revenue could soar to at least 2000 million!
Not to mention the subsequent revenue sharing from North American theaters, DVDs, merchandise, sequels...

A high-quality film can often bring long-term benefits to the production company for decades.

For example, the movie "Gone Girl" produced by Ruishijie in 01 still brings in nearly seven figures in revenue every month.

Let's watch "Taken" again.

Taking Enlight Media as an example, an investment of 1100 million yuan yields 1500 million yuan in revenue sharing, and 300 million yuan in revenue sharing from issuance is expected to be generated proportionally. Subsequent returns are projected to be no less than 500 million yuan.

The return rate is as high as 109%!

To achieve such returns in the film market is practically a dream come true!
It's important to know that the current film market releases over 200 films every year, but only 5% of them can barely break even.

The revenue generated by "Taken" is something that even many listed companies can only dream of!
The applause, which lasted for a minute, gradually subsided.

Ren Zhonglun was quite tempted: "How about we hold another celebration banquet?"

“I think it’s a good idea!” Wang Zhonglei nodded in agreement.

"Let's hold it at the Great Hall of the People. I'll arrange the venue."

"Make it a big production. This is the highest-grossing Chinese-language film; we can't let the foreigners look down on us..."

The group discussed the topic with great interest, unable to hide their excitement.

As Lü Rui listened, he silently calculated the profits of Rui Vision.

Based on a 30% investment ratio, he would receive 9000 million, plus Ruixing Pictures' 20%, totaling 1.5 million.

After deducting the 4000 million investment cost, there is still 1.1 million left.

Including Warner Bros.' estimated share of revenue in North America, the total revenue could reach approximately 1.5 million RMB.

The return rate is as high as 275%!

This is a huge profit!
After discussing for a long time, the group finally decided to hold another celebration banquet in the Great Hall of the People.

Lü Rui didn't refuse. Since everyone wanted to celebrate, let's have some fun. Who knows how long it will be before we have another chance like this?

After the celebration banquet was scheduled, everyone left one after another.

However, Han Sanping and Ren Zhonglun were not in a hurry to leave.

"Are you sure you don't want to go to the Busan International Film Festival on the 6th? If you don't go, I'll take my film with me and see if I can bring any suitable movies back with me."

In recent years, South Korean films have been on the rise, and the Busan International Film Festival has gradually become the second largest film festival in Asia after the Tokyo International Film Festival.

With its global film collection, China Film Group Corporation (CFGC) naturally wouldn't miss the opportunity to attend the Busan International Film Festival.

Lü Rui shook his head: "I'm not going."

There were no awards to be won, the film wasn't nominated for any awards, and it had already finished its run and left theaters, so there was no need to go that far.

Moreover, unlike The Myth, Taken doesn't have Korean actors among its main cast.

"Let's not talk about that then. Let's talk about your new script." Han Sanping changed the subject. "I've received word that the ministry is paying close attention to this script and is working hard to coordinate..."

To be honest, Han Sanping didn't initially pay much attention to this script.

He's currently focused on producing big-budget films and has a completely indifferent attitude towards art-house and realistic films.

It was only because of Lü Rui's influence that he personally went to find Tong Gang.

However, what Tong Gang said after reading the script made him suddenly realize the true value of the script!

"Its unparalleled real-world significance and bold breakthrough in subject matter... destined it to attract nationwide attention after its release. Once the project is approved and filming begins, regardless of whether it wins awards, it will surely be recorded in history and forever remembered in film history!"

These words were what woke him up.

While the value of commercial films should not be underestimated, realistic films that carry unique "ideologies" often have a more profound significance in terms of social resonance and ideological shock once their influence spreads.

If China Film Group can participate, it will definitely reap a lot of honors!
Therefore, Han Sanping went all out this time, not only asking his former boss for help, but also using his family connections.

"Thank you for your hard work, Mr. Han," Lü Rui said sincerely.

Seeing this, Ren Zhonglun cursed Han Sanping inwardly for being too cunning, and immediately began to complain: "I owe him a lot of favors, and the city leaders are actually quite worried. If I hadn't repeatedly come to plead for him, the higher-ups would never have agreed..."

"Chairman Ren, you've worked hard," Lu Rui said at the opportune moment.

He's not an ingrate; it would be unreasonable for him to hide behind others and enjoy the benefits after they've gone to so much trouble to help him.

"You two should both be listed as producers. If this project succeeds, it will definitely be inseparable from the strong support of China Film Group and Shanghai Film Group!"

In addition, Lü Rui also plans to bring in Xi'an Film Studio and Beijing Film Studio to form a production company for "Dying to Survive".

Han Sanping and Ren Zhonglun exchanged a glance upon hearing this, and smiles appeared on their faces.

returning a Favour many times more.

Lu Rui continued, "The budget for 'Sunny Sisters' has been finalized. Would you two consider each taking a share?"

Ren Zhonglun's eyes lit up; he hadn't expected the benefits to come so quickly: "How much does it cost?"

"6000."

Han Sanping slammed his fist on the table: "China Film Group wants 30%!"

“Shanghai Film Studio also needs 30%.” Ren Zhonglun was not to be outdone.

Lü Rui was both amused and exasperated, and quickly advised, "Let's have 20% each for China Film Group and Shanghai Film Group, and I also promised to give Xi'an Film Studio 10%, with Huayi Brothers and Beijing Film Studio each taking 5%."

He originally planned to produce it solely as a company, but in the end he decided to share the profits.

As long as we can eat meat and drink soup together, others will definitely not stand idly by if we encounter trouble in the future.

“20% is fine too.” Ren Zhonglun was quite satisfied.

Last time, the movie only accounted for 5%, but this time it jumped to 20%, they made a huge profit!

"Xiying?" Han Sanping noticed the older brother and fell into deep thought.

Lu Rui picked up his phone and called Zhao Peng, asking him to come over and bring along the project proposal, investment contract, and other materials for "Sunshine Sisters".

Han Sanping and Ren Zhonglun also contacted their respective company's legal teams and asked them to bring their company seals to sign the contract.

This whole ordeal lasted until noon.

As the host, Lü Rui naturally couldn't let them leave hungry, so he immediately booked a private room nearby and invited Hou Hongliang to accompany them.

Before parting, Han Sanping was quite composed, promising to open up channels of communication as soon as possible.

Ren Zhonglun was probably too happy, so he patted his chest and promised: "At the latest by the end of next month, the project will definitely be completed. I'll give you a solemn promise!"

"Thank you both for your trouble."

Lü Rui knew how difficult it was; completing it in one or two months would be considered fast.

…That afternoon, Xi'an Film Studio, Beijing Film Studio, and Huayi Brothers Media Group arrived one after another and finalized the investment matters for "Sunny Sisters".

Beijing Film Studio and Huayi Brothers were fine; they easily came up with 300 million yuan.

However, Xi'an Film Studio found it extremely difficult to secure the 600 million yuan.

Lu Rui noticed their financial difficulties and generously offered to accept the payment in installments, saying there was no need to rush.

The production manager in charge of investment at Xi'an Film Studio was moved to tears: "Thank you so much, Director Lü. We will definitely raise the money as soon as we get back."

"It's okay, there's no rush."

"One thing at a time. Director Lü is willing to support Xi'an Film Studio, so naturally we can't hold you back."

After saying that, the production manager took his leave and left in a hurry.

Watching the other person's departing figure, Hou Hongliang's expression was quite something: "They're both state-owned enterprises, but I feel like Xi'an Film Studio is doing even worse than Shandong Film Studio?"

"Isn't this normal?" Lu Rui shrugged. "At least Shandong Film Studio has quite a few high-rated TV dramas. What does Xi'an Film Studio have besides its century-old brand?"

It's worth noting that even though Ruishijie poached many of its key personnel, Shandong Film & Television Group remained as stable as Mount Tai.

TV series such as "Railway Guerrilla", "Shi Qian the Flea on the Drum", and "Yan Qing the Prodigal Son" are all queuing up to be broadcast on satellite TV.

Looking at Xi'an Film Studio, the films they announced, such as "Chicken and Dog in Turmoil," "Snowflakes That Flutter," "We Are Like Sunflowers," and "Western Police Affairs," are probably just losing money to gain publicity, and at most they can get some bonuses from the government.

Getting them to give 600 million yuan at once is indeed not easy.

"That's true."

Hou Hongliang nodded, then changed the subject, taking out a document and asking Lü Rui to sign it: "This is the casting list for 'Soldiers' Sortie,' please take a look."

Lu Rui looked down at the list, which read: Wang Baoqiang, Chen Sicheng, Duan Yihong, Zhang Yi, Xing Jiadong, Zhang Renqiang...

Even though the production company changed, the original cast and crew were still selected.

He respected Kang Honglei's choice and signed the project agreement after making sure there were no problems.

With this, the preparation for the two new projects, "Sunny Sisters" and "Soldiers Sortie," has officially come to an end.

As for the specific start-up time, that depends on Zhao Peng and Kang Honglei's individual arrangements and coordination.

That afternoon, while everyone was busy with their own things, Lü Rui went to the cinema alone.

During the National Day holiday, the cinema was packed with people and very lively.

Among the films currently showing, "The Myth" remains the box office champion thanks to Jackie Chan's star power.

The huge poster prominently features Jackie Chan's name and a still from the movie, attracting a large audience.

As for the Hollywood import "Fantastic Four," audience feedback was not very good.

In other words, the concepts of Elastiman, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and Thing are more attractive to young people, along with their stunning special effects. On the other hand, the plot is not so appealing.

Looking at "Remote Control," it attracted many comedy film enthusiasts because of the presence of comedy star Ge You in the lead role.

In addition, the influence of Fu Biao has kept the popularity high.

After observing the audience, occupancy rate, and feedback from several cinemas, Lü Rui had a general idea of ​​the film's market performance.

As expected, the film's reputation will continue to grow as the first wave of viewers spread the word.

In the evening, Shen Ao called excitedly, saying that Bona Film Group had discovered after research that this film had huge potential!
As Lü Rui responded, he once again questioned Dong's distribution capabilities.

It's only now that they've realized its enormous potential? What were they thinking all along?
The following morning, the head of Ruishijie's publicity department contacted the media and released the data they had obtained from China Film Group.

"The comedy film 'Remote Control,' directed by Shen Ao and starring Ge You, Liu Tao, and Fu Biao, with Jiang Wen making a cameo appearance, grossed 763 million yuan on its opening day!"

Compared to the 800 million yuan box office revenue of "The Myth" on its opening day in mainland China, the figure for "Click" is not particularly outstanding.

Surprisingly, after its first day of screenings, the film's reputation soared, with viewers praising it highly.
"I am deeply moved. You never get a second chance at life, so you must cherish everything."

"Although there are quite a few plot holes, it's surprisingly fun."

"Watching Fu Biao being tricked by Ge You, even though I knew he was playing a villain, I still missed him."

"If I had a remote control like that, could I go back a few years, to when my grandfather was still alive..."

"Damn! You'll never believe it, but I was watching porn today and the 'little devils' announced they're making a 'time-stop' series, and it'll be done with a remote control too. Did they get the inspiration from that movie?"

……

Just like "Crazy Stone" before, "Remote Control" showed the potential to be a dark horse as soon as it was released.

After word-of-mouth spread, the box office easily exceeded 10 million yuan on the second day of the National Day holiday!
Shen Ao's name also soared along with the film's critical and commercial success, frequently appearing on various news pages.

"Brother Rui! Thank you! Thank you so much for writing this script for me. I've actually become one of the seventh generation of emerging directors..."

Back at the company, Shen Ao, unable to contain his excitement, found Lü Rui to express his gratitude after returning from an outreach trip.

The classification of directors as "seventh generation directors" is actually the result of marketing hype by the media and the market.

Before 2000, the most active directors were mainly from the fifth and sixth generations.

For example, directors like Zhang Yimou, Chen Kaige, Tian Zhuangzhuang, and Wu Ziniu, who graduated from the Beijing Film Academy in the 1980s, belong to the Fifth Generation.

Their works typically break away from traditional narratives, incorporating strong personal styles and reflections on history and culture, while also possessing both artistry and international influence.

The sixth generation mainly refers to directors who emerged after the 1990s, most of whom are graduates of schools such as Beijing Film Academy and Central Academy of Drama.

Their works focus more on the living conditions of marginalized people and urban youth, with a style that leans towards documentary and personalization, and often appeared in the form of independent films in their early years.

At the same time, this generation of actors was also known as "underground directors".

Works by authors such as Wang Xiaoshuai, Section Chief Jia, and Lou Ye have all been banned.

As for the seventh generation of directors, they are young directors who entered their creative active period after the 21st century.

The leading figure is none other than Lü Rui!

Even the widespread recognition and unified group division of the "Seventh Generation Directors" is due to him.

Since the founding of Ruishijie, the market has seen a surge in films that resonate with the lives and emotions of today's young generation, covering a wide range of themes, including both realistic themes and explorations of genre films.

The subsequent blockbuster success of works by Zhao Peng and Ning Hao further clarified the definition of the seventh generation of directors.

Now, with Shen Ao's "Click" achieving daily box office success of over ten million, the seventh generation of directors has undoubtedly become more prominent.

"Congratulations, haha!" Zhao Peng was genuinely happy for his former younger brother who had followed him. "My previous film, 'Hitch,' only grossed 85 million at the box office. Your film, judging from the situation, should have no problem reaching 100 million."

"I hope so," Shen Ao swallowed, his eyes filled with anticipation.

Lu Yang listened from the side, unable to hide his envy.

Lu Rui stepped forward and patted Shen Ao on the shoulder, encouraging him, "Don't slack off. These seven days of holiday are crucial. Whether we can reach 100 million depends on these few days."

"Yes, I know!"

Shen Ao didn't hesitate. He drank a few glasses of water and then turned around and ran off to promote the movie.

As Lu Rui had predicted, the film's daily box office revenue never fell below ten million in the following days.

The seven-day holiday has ended, with cumulative box office revenue reaching 7693 million!
This achievement once again astonished the industry!
If "Crazy Stone," released during the summer vacation, pioneered the "small investment, big return" model for low-budget commercial films, then "Click" undoubtedly continues this trend!

It's worth noting that "The Myth," which has been in theaters for half a month, has only just surpassed 8000 million yuan in total box office revenue.

While this is the reason for the rampant piracy of DVDs, in terms of profitability, it is clearly not as good as "Click".

The latter's production cost of 800 million yuan, compared to its box office of 7693 yuan in seven days, is simply outrageous!

Without considering cinema revenue sharing and taxes in the early stages, the return rate is as high as 861%!

Looking at those listed companies, how many can achieve such performance?
On the evening of the 8th, Lü Rui, along with Shen Ao, went to the celebration banquet for "Taken" at the Great Hall of the People, full of high spirits.

At the same time, many media outlets went to interview directors or companies that were going to release new films this year.

Unfortunately, the film crew of "The Banquet" closed their doors and declined interviews.

Zhang Yimou was busy working on a new script and didn't say much, but he offered his congratulations: "I've been following all the movies on the market lately, and I have to say, Lü Rui is definitely one of the best screenwriters of the younger generation. The success of Rui Vision's several films is all thanks to the excellent stories he wrote, which is truly rare..."

He was very modest, saying that "Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles" was made to fulfill his own dream and he didn't care about the box office.

But Chen Kaige said with great enthusiasm: "In 68 days, when 'The Promise' is released, it will be the moment when the Chinese film market witnesses a true miracle!"

He certainly has the right to be proud.

During this period, "The Promise" officially announced its intention to compete for the Oscars, and expressed its confidence that it would be nominated.

In order to qualify for the competition, Chen Kaige specially organized an emergency screening, inviting many film critics, experts and professors in the industry to participate.

Unsurprisingly, after watching the movie, this group of people raved about "The Promise," which further boosted his confidence.

"Taken" only grossed 3.72 million yuan in mainland China, but "The Promise" had already announced a box office target of 4 million yuan, leaving Lü Rui stunned for a moment...

(End of this chapter)