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

Chapter 256 Has he really become the Godfather? (Seeking monthly votes)

Bona Film Group and Edko Films jointly announced this morning that the romance film "Lust, Caution," directed by Li An and starring Tony Leung, Tang Wei, and Chen Chong, has wrapped up filming at the Shanghai Chedun Film and Television Base.

Filming began in Malaysia in September 2006, and later moved to Shanghai, where it was successfully completed after more than four months.

"The 57th Berlin International Film Festival has announced the main competition lineup: Chinese films 'Tuya's Marriage' and 'Apple' have been selected."

"The Film Bureau has announced the latest batch of films that have passed censorship: 'Getting Home,' 'Dying to Survive,' 'Protégé,' and 'Ming Ming'..."

……

August 1, morning.

Lu Rui was attending the premiere of "300" in Hollywood when his cell phone suddenly vibrated in his pocket.

He took out his phone and saw that it was a call from Han Sanping. His eyes lit up instantly, and he quickly went to a quiet corner of the corridor to answer the call.

"I've accomplished my mission. I've obtained the screening license for 'Dying to Survive' for you." Han Sanping's voice came through with a smile.

Lu Rui's heart, which had been hanging in suspense, instantly settled down. He quickly asked, "Didn't they mention any other modification requests from above?"

This film has been rejected three times already; he really can't make any more changes.

The main problem is that we can't make any more changes. If we do, some very important core plot points will have to be altered, which will inevitably disrupt the narrative coherence.

"Don't worry, there will be absolutely no problem this time! Director Tong personally gave his word and even coordinated with all parties involved. No one will dare to obstruct us."

Lu Rui breathed a sigh of relief and said earnestly, "President Han, please be sure to convey my gratitude to Director Tong!"

Han Sanping laughed heartily: "Don't worry, I've already thanked you on your behalf."

"I must thank you for helping me with everything I needed to get the screening license."

"Hey, don't be so polite with me." Han Sanping changed the subject, inadvertently making things a little closer. "We're family, no need for formalities. If you really want to thank me, go win a big prize and let me share in the glory."

"Don't worry," Lü Rui assured him repeatedly, "This film was originally aiming for the biggest award, and I guarantee I'll bring you a big one."

It won't be easy for Han Sanping to smoothly take over and secure his position as chairman of China Film Group; he'll need to have a substantial track record of achievements.

"The Golden Palm?"

"No, that's not it. I'm planning to try my luck at the Venice Film Festival."

Venice?
Han Sanping was taken aback and said with some surprise, "I heard Yu Dong say before that Li An's 'Lust, Caution' is also planning to go to Venice. The film just finished shooting, and after the post-production is completed, it should be just in time to register."

Lu Rui's heart skipped a beat, a glint of light flashed in his eyes, but he replied indifferently, "Is that so? That's quite a coincidence."

"I hope you can bring that golden lion back."

"Haha, I'll do my best."

After exchanging a few more trivial words, Lü Rui made an excuse to hang up the phone.

Instead of immediately returning to the premiere, he dialed Chen Tao's number, his tone instantly turning cold:
"Did you hear that filming for 'Lust, Caution' has wrapped up?"

Chen Tao replied, "Yes, the news of the wrap-up just came out, and I was just about to send you a message."

"Keep a close eye on him! Don't miss a single move!" Lu Rui's voice was resolute and left no room for doubt. "Hold back the information we've gathered for now, don't release it."
Continue to send more people to investigate further. When the right opportunity arises, we must strike decisively! We must not give "Lust, Caution" a chance to recover.

"Understood, Chairman Lü."

After hanging up the phone, Lü Rui straightened his suit collar, put on his usual harmless and gentle smile, and returned to the premiere venue.

The long-awaited opportunity for revenge has finally arrived!

However, at this crucial moment, he was not too excited. Instead, he calmly deduced various plans to suppress "Lust, Caution" in his mind.

If you don't move, it will be a blockbuster!
When you make a move, you must strike decisively and kill the enemy; you absolutely cannot allow them to get back up after falling.

"Lv, let me introduce you. This is Leonardo DiCaprio, a Hollywood superstar."

As soon as Lü Rui returned to the venue, Peter led a distinguished guest towards him.

"Hello."

The Leonardo DiCaprio in front of us still has a youthful air about him, with a handsome and upright face, and he is far from growing up to be ugly.

Lu Rui looked at him and couldn't help but feel quite surprised; he hadn't expected him to appear here.

The last time the two met by chance was at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

It seems that Leonardo was slapped hard by that "South African diamond" because of cheating or something.

Hollywood men tend to get arrogant after they become famous.

If this is the case for those who are ugly, then it goes without saying that it's for those who are handsome.

“Lv, hello, it’s a great honor to meet you. I’ve wanted to have a good chat with you for a while, but I’ve always been interrupted by various trivial matters.”

Leonardo seemed very amiable; after shaking hands with Lü Rui, he even gave him a hug.

This maneuver left Lü Rui somewhat bewildered.

He didn't seem to have much interaction with this person, so why was this guy being so enthusiastic?
After saying hello and Leonardo left, Peter seemed to notice his confusion and leaned over to whisper an explanation: "It's Oscar season now..."

"Oh!"

Lu Rui suddenly realized.

He almost forgot that he still had the right to vote for the awards.

Leonardo DiCaprio is currently vying for the Oscar for Best Actor and is one of the frontrunners, making this a crucial time for him to campaign.

In Hollywood, top actors are extremely passionate about pursuing all kinds of awards.

Because the box office success of the movies starring the lead actor is only temporary, and the box office record may be broken before long.

But if you can win an award, the glory of the trophy can be an achievement that accompanies an actor for a lifetime.

“Leon is different from other Hollywood actors. He has his own independent film company and is not bound by the four major talent agencies.”

Since Titanic, he hasn't been so obsessed with box office success; he's been more interested in chasing awards at various film festivals..."

Peter was still explaining things to Lü Rui.

"I remember he won the Berlin Film Festival Best Actor award, right?" Lu Rui asked curiously.

"That was back in 1997. Back then, he truly amazed the Berlin International Film Festival with his portrayal of Romeo in 'Romeo and Juliet'..."

Ten years have passed since 1997 to 2007, and the achievements of that time are indeed somewhat insufficient.

However, Lü Rui clearly remembered that this guy's path to the Olympics was extremely bumpy, almost no less difficult than Tang Sanzang's journey to the West to obtain Buddhist scriptures.

“Lv.” Peter suddenly remembered something and suggested with a smile, “If you’re interested in making an Oscar contender, you can go to Leon. If the script is good enough, he usually invests in the film himself, so it won’t put too much pressure on the crew.”

"Let's talk about it when we have a chance."

Lu Rui responded casually, not giving the topic any real thought.

A bid for the Olympics?

This isn't about script and film quality; it's about connections, background, and public relations skills. It even involves blood ties, family background, and racial advantages.

If these conditions cannot be met, even if he kidnaps the college president now, it won't make a difference.

The annual Oscar season is always the most exciting time of year in Hollywood.

This also led to an exceptionally lively premiere of "300," co-organized by Ruixing Pictures and Warner Bros.

"Director Lü."

Zhang Ziyi walked gracefully in a formal gown; she is never absent from such international occasions.

"Has 'Mei Lanfang' not started filming yet?" Lü Rui didn't ignore her; after all, they were both Chinese, so it wouldn't hurt to chat for a bit.

"Role training is still underway..."

After only a few casual words, Zhang Ziyi changed the subject and began enthusiastically "selling" herself, her words full of the implication of seeking cooperation.

Lu Rui didn't want to get involved in this, but then he caught a glimpse of Jackie Chan not far away. He made an excuse to "say hello" and left, leaving Zhang Ziyi standing there with a hint of resentment and helplessness on her face.

"Big brother, welcome, welcome..."

Lu Rui hurried forward, but before he could finish speaking, he saw Prince Fang following behind Jackie Chan, and the smile on his face faded slightly.

In terms of professionalism and skill, Jackie Chan is far superior to Li Lianjie, even though they are both kung fu superstars.

However, he has significant shortcomings in matters of children's education and personal relationships, which have become a persistent constraint for him.

This is probably what our ancestors meant by "no one is perfect"...

Putting himself in Lu Rui's shoes, he realized that he wasn't exactly a "perfect person" either. The main problem was that he didn't like being bullied or taking a loss, which often led him to get into trouble.

"Director Lu, I've finally found you!" Jackie Chan laughed and walked up to him, hugging him. "You're doing really well in Hollywood now, so you'll have to give us a hand in the future."

Lu Rui waved his hand modestly: "I dare not accept such praise. Brother, you have been working in Hollywood for so many years and have a solid foundation. I am just a newcomer. How could I dare to talk about mentoring you?"

"You're still a newcomer? Don't be modest, you're way better than my son..." Jackie Chan said, pulling Jaycee Chan from behind him. "What are you standing there for? Hurry up and say hello to Director Lui!"

"Hello, Director Lü."

Jaycee Chan is quite obedient in front of his father, after all, he needs living expenses, and his mother can't provide them, so he can only rely on his father.

"Ah hello."

Lu Rui nodded indifferently, showing little interest in talking to him further.

After chatting for a few minutes and exchanging contact information for overseas matters with Jackie Chan, they agreed to communicate anytime if needed, and then went their separate ways.

However, watching Jackie Chan and his son leave, Lü Rui suddenly remembered something Ren Zhonglun had mentioned before.

Jackie Chan apparently partnered with Shanghai Film Group to open a film company in Shanghai, I think it was called something like that...

Yaolai Films?
At 11 a.m., the historical war epic "300," a collaboration between Warner Bros. and Rising Pictures with an investment of up to $150 million, finally met the audience.

In fact, this movie is not well-regarded in the current market.

High production costs, audiences' growing preference for science fiction and superhero films, shifts in ideology and values, controversies surrounding directorial styles, niche subject matter, and bold production styles...

These are the film's flaws listed by the media.

In particular, the controversial directorial style and niche subject matter are fatal characteristics.

Director Zack Snyder first gained recognition with "Dawn of the Dead," and later made the controversial "Paranormal Activity."

Both of these films were low-budget horror movies, but now he has suddenly started to cross over and challenge himself with a big-budget production with a budget of $1.5 million.

Regarding the probability of success, there is undoubtedly a big question mark.

Even though James Wan had a precedent of successfully taking on a big-budget film from a small budget, the market still didn't have high hopes for Zack Snyder.

It's one thing for Ruixing Film Studio to be able to produce one director with unlimited potential, but can they possibly produce a second one?

Another point is that the subject matter is niche.

300 is a story set in ancient Sparta, Greece.

For the average viewer, this period lacked any points of resonance or appeal in modern society.

Furthermore, the film's main storyline, the Battle of Thermopylae, is relatively simple and unlikely to attract a wide audience like some films with more diverse themes.

Currently, the only advantage is that market competition is not so fierce.

The most exciting film of the same period, "Night at the Museum," has now been showing for more than 20 days.

Further back, films like "Borat" and "Casino Royale" had no impact on "007".

March and April are also off-season months, with no big-budget movies being released.

Therefore, the release date of "300" is not a problem. Now it depends on whether its quality can match the high cost of the investment.

In the front row of the theater, Zack Snyder clasped his hands tightly, his expression revealing his nervousness.

Lu Rui, who was sitting next to him, patted him on the shoulder and reassured him, "Be confident, this movie will definitely be fine."

"okay!"

Zack Snyder nodded emphatically, forcing a smile that looked more like a grimace.

There was no way around it; the pressure was just too great, causing him to lose control of his facial expressions.

But soon, as the main feature slowly began, the stunning visuals and gripping plot instantly captured everyone's attention.

Zack Snyder's worries, anxieties, and lack of confidence gradually dissipated in the epic narrative he created, replaced by an indescribable excitement and certainty!

On the screen, the Persian army loomed over the city like a dark cloud!
Hundreds of thousands of soldiers, carrying siege equipment, surged toward the narrow pass of Wenquanguan.

King Leonidas of Sparta raised his shield high, behind him three hundred warriors clad in bronze armor, their spears thrust out like a forest, their formation as seamless as a wall forged of steel.

"Our arrows can block out the sun!" The Persian envoy's mockery came through the screen, carrying the arrogance of a conqueror.

Leonidas slowly raised his head, his gaze sweeping over the warrior beside him, a defiant smile playing on his lips, and he loudly replied, "Then we can fight in the shade!"

Before the words were even finished, the three hundred warriors shouted in unison, "Sparta! Sparta! Sparta!"

The shouts echoed through the valley, as if trying to break free from the constraints of the screen, making the air at the premiere venue buzz.

The Persian arrows rained down like locusts, densely striking the pass, but were all blocked by the defensive line of shields formed by the Spartan warriors.

The next second, the warriors lowered their shields, thrusting their spears forward. The front-line soldiers fell, and the rear-line soldiers immediately filled in, their movements perfectly synchronized, carrying a primal and ferocious power.

Zack Snyder used oil painting-like light and shadow to depict the battlefield.

In slow motion, the moment the spear pierces the enemy's armor, the splattered blood is as vivid as blooming red plum blossoms.

In the fast-paced footage, warriors wield short swords to slay enemy soldiers with swift and fierce movements, each strike accompanied by the sound of wind breaking!

In close-up, Leonidas's resolute gaze and the warriors' ferocious faces are clearly visible.

In the distance, the retreat of the Persian army contrasts sharply with the steadfast defense of the Spartan ranks, creating an epic atmosphere.

When the Persian "Immortals" appeared, the three hundred warriors showed no fear, removing their armor and going shirtless to fight against the elite army with their bare flesh and blood.

Every collision between the two sides was heart-pounding, and the fighting spirit of fighting to the death ignited the entire stadium!

The audience at the premiere were already overwhelmed with excitement.

Some people clenched their fists and silently roared along with the warriors on the screen!
Some people couldn't help but stand up and applaud, but then subconsciously sat back down amidst the exciting battle scenes, afraid of missing a single shot.

Especially when they saw the Spartan warriors repeatedly repel the Persian army, which outnumbered them many times over, and turn the pass into the enemy's graveyard, the crowd erupted in uncontrollable cheers!

"This is amazing!"

"It's so cool!"

"Spartacus!!!"

A chorus of praises rose and fell, highlighting the brilliance of the film's plot.

The original film, which cost only $6500 million, had its total budget increased to $1.5 million by Lu Rui.

Although he pocketed $7000 million of it, which is equivalent to participating in the production at zero cost and taking a 45% share, he also effectively increased the production cost to $8000 million.

The extra $1500 million, under Zack Snyder's direction, made the war scenes more grand and the visual effects more stunning, and the themes of freedom and resistance were also vividly displayed through the ultimate artistic techniques!

His unique visual style also officially began to emerge from this film.

As the camera freezes on the moment when Leonidas is killed in battle, and tens of thousands of Spartans gather, shouting "Sparta!" and resolutely choosing to resist the Persian army, the screen slowly dims...

The next second, thunderous applause and cheers erupted at the premiere, and the sound lasted for a long time!

Peter, who was next to Lü Rui, suddenly slapped his thigh and said excitedly, "What a shocking movie! It got me so excited that I wanted to find someone to fight right away!"
"Haha, that was really exciting, not a single dull moment."

Lu Rui smiled and nodded, then turned his gaze to Zack Snyder, who was already unable to contain himself, and said, "Zack, wasn't I right? This movie is absolutely fine, top-notch quality, and the audience will love it."

"I saw it! I really saw it!"

Zach suddenly stood up and hugged Lü Rui tightly, his voice filled with joy and gratitude, "Lv! Thank you, thank you so much."

You gave me the opportunity to direct this film, encouraged me, and provided crucial guidance. Without you, I could never have made such a great film!

Lu Rui didn't feign modesty at this moment, but readily accepted the praise.

After all, he aspires to be the godfather of Hollywood, so of course he has to promote Zack Snyder's reputation.

Guests and media reporters in the back row came up to congratulate them, and many pointed their cameras at Lü Rui and Zack Snyder, capturing the latter's emotional gratitude.

During the subsequent press interview, Lü Rui did not appear, but left it to Peter and the main cast to handle.

Let the director enjoy these moments of glory; he can stay in the background and quietly rake in the money. After all, he didn't direct the movie, and he doesn't need this kind of spotlight.

Furthermore, his high profile as a Chinese screenwriter may negatively impact the film's acceptance in the North American market.

However, even though he tried his best to keep a low profile, he still couldn't hide the "domineering aura" that he exuded.

Following the premiere, 300 officially opened in North America in 3800 theaters.

The film grossed a whopping $7635 million at the North American box office in its opening weekend, averaging over $2500 million per day!
The film's stunning war scenes quickly spread among viewers.

The 300 muscular men not only attracted a huge following among female viewers in North America, but also garnered strong support from male movie fans.

Not only did it rank among the top in box office revenue during the same period, but it also received widespread acclaim from the audience:

"Putting aside the plot's plausibility, every frame's color grading and still shots are worthy of being called a world-famous painting."

"The twenty-four-pack abs shown in a single shot are enough to feast the eyes, and the dark red Spartan battle cloak as a large background naturally evokes images of 'Napoleon Crossing the Alps' and 'Liberty Leading the People,' which is excellent!"

"The plot is amazing! Very beautiful, emotional, and kept me on the edge of my seat for two hours!"

"Fortunately, I don't care about politics, and I've always tended to see movies as movies rather than allusions to political turmoil or historical events, so all I see in movies are interesting stories, beautiful characters, and great special effects!"

"I found the film's shooting style very interesting, conveying the atmosphere of the ancient world while also feeling like watching a super realistic animated film. I don't think this is a flaw in the film; on the contrary, it makes it even more colorful."

"Hunky men! All of them are my kind of hunky men! In the darkness, my hormones are raging, and I can't help but dig and dig in my little garden..."

"The oil painting style and slow motion, Zack Snyder is so cool! I love his movies, from horror films to big-budget productions, I love them all..."

"..."

February 1st arrived in the blink of an eye.

After a week in theaters, "300" has successfully surpassed $100 million at the North American box office, and its overseas box office is also progressing simultaneously.

According to Warner Bros.' expert panel, the film is expected to gross at least $6 million worldwide!
Compared to its production cost of $1.5 million, it undoubtedly made a huge profit!

Just then, a very heavy snow fell in the Heilongjiang region.

Therefore, Lü Rui immediately decided to leave Hollywood and return to China to finish filming the final scene of "Pacific Rim".

As for the box office performance of "300," he can keep track of it even when he returns to China, and it won't affect his ability to make money later.

However, to his surprise, Zack Snyder, who had just entered the ranks of Hollywood's top directors with "300," actually received high recognition from Warner Bros.

Warner Bros. warmly invited him to direct the DC Universe film "Watchmen," which had a budget of $1.3 million.

Zach Snyder naturally had no reason to refuse.

Then, on the day of the signing ceremony, he spoke into the microphone, praising Lü Rui to the skies, his words brimming with admiration:

"I want to say that without LV, there would be no '300', and I wouldn't be who I am today!"
He was the most important godfather in my career, the most visionary producer in Hollywood, and his guidance was a revelation…

(End of this chapter)