Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 289 Fourth and Eighth Brothers
At the headquarters of Donghai Tangren Company, a temporary audition room was bathed in the bright afternoon sunlight of spring, making the room exceptionally bright.

Liu Shishi, dressed in a sophisticated and capable black suit, looked dashing and sat next to Cai Yinong. The two looked like a pair of beautiful career women.

At this moment, a sense of indescribable surprise suddenly arose in the first sister's heart. In the past, when she participated in auditions for film crews, she always stood on the ground and was scrutinized by directors and producers.

This was her first time sitting on the stage as an interviewer, and the change in role made her a little nervous.

Cai Yinong glanced down at the gold watch on his wrist. There was still a while before the audition officially started, so he chatted with the lead actress.

"Have you finished filming your scenes in 'iPartment 2'?"

The lead actress nodded slightly, recalling the relaxed and harmonious atmosphere on set, and couldn't help but smile: "Filming has wrapped up."

Recalling the immense popularity of the first season of "iPartment," Cai Yinong's expression became somewhat unnatural. At the time, she confidently predicted that the show would flop, and that she, as the leading actress, would lose money on her investment. Little did she expect it to become such a huge hit, proving her mistake wrong.

He coughed lightly to cover his embarrassment, then subtly inquired, "Has the publicity team for this drama been decided yet?"

"It's probably not finalized yet. Yuanyuan and Director Wei are handling the publicity and distribution. But Yuanyuan mentioned it to me last time."

She wanted to hire Tengda Culture for publicity and distribution, since Yuanyuan originally came from Tengda's publicity department and was familiar with those people.

Upon hearing this, Cai Yinong couldn't help but have a wicked idea. Although Liu Shishi's studio had invested in "iPartment," the studio itself did not have the ability to promote and distribute the show.

Tangren Media and Tengda Culture have a close relationship. They can discuss it themselves, and the company should be able to get a share of the publicity and distribution business.

Having made up his mind, Cai Yinong changed the subject: "Has Xu Jinglei given a reply?"

When the topic of a cameo appearance came up, Liu Shishi looked helpless: "I've already promised her, and I'll make time to go in a few days."

Li Guoli, who was sitting in the center of the long interview table, had also heard about this matter and joined the discussion:

"The TV series 'Go Lala Go!' became a huge hit, and Xu Jinglei invited Shi Shi to make a cameo appearance in the movie version. It's obvious that she's trying to ride on the coattails of Shi Shi's popularity and gain a free ride on Shi Shi's immense popularity."

Liu Shishi rested her chin on her hands, looking weak and listless: "Ugh, so annoying. I couldn't refuse their kindness, and they even asked Tong Dawei to mediate. I softened and agreed."

Cai Yi Nong patted the female lead on the shoulder and comforted her, saying, "It will only take a day or two. We see each other all the time in the industry, so just consider it giving face to a senior."

I'll arrange for someone to publish a few press releases to generate buzz and make sure you don't waste your trip.

"That's the only way!" Liu Shishi muttered softly, still somewhat unhappy.

"By the way, Sister K, Director Li, please reserve the role of the Ninth Prince for Sun Yizhou from my studio."

“No problem. Once the crew starts filming, have him go directly to Hengdian to report for duty.” Cai Yinong agreed without hesitation. It was just a minor supporting role for the Ninth Prince, and with the First Sister personally asking, how could he refuse?

Li Guoli flipped through the resumes of the male actors auditioning, his tone gentle: "Shishi, when the actors come in for their auditions, you can speak up if you have any ideas. After all, they'll be acting alongside you, so we need to fully consider your opinions."

"Thank you, Director Li! I'm just here to make a cameo appearance and join in the fun. The final decision on who to cast is up to you," Liu Shishi said with a smile, appearing extremely humble.

The eldest sister was perfectly aware that the director was being polite because he was giving Mr. Song face. She couldn't be ungrateful; if she rashly interfered with the casting of the male lead, it would definitely make Director Li unhappy.

Li Guoli nodded slightly, extremely satisfied with the leader's humble attitude.

At the other end of the long table, assistant director Lin Yufen listened quietly to their conversation, somewhat surprised by how much the leading lady was favored by Cai Yinong and Li Guoli.

It was already unusual for the female lead to participate in the male lead's audition, but what was even more surprising was that Director Li actually had to give full consideration to her opinion. It seems that Liu Shishi's position in the company is indeed as important as everyone says.

"Yu Fen, although you and Shi Shi both work at Tangren Media, you don't have much contact on a regular basis. It's a rare opportunity to participate in the filming of 'Scarlet Heart' together, so you should get closer in the future."

Lin Yufen was taken aback upon hearing this, then turned to look at the teacher who had brought him into the industry. He vaguely understood the teacher's intention in giving him special advice, and said respectfully with a hint of gratitude, "I understand, teacher."

Seeing that his disciple understood his intentions, Li Guoli felt relieved and sighed softly. His energy had declined significantly in the past two years, and he planned to retire from the martial arts world after working for a few more years.

However, before retiring, he had to settle the group of people who had followed him from Hong Kong to the north. He didn't care much about the others, whether they stayed until Tangren went public or went elsewhere to find better jobs.

His only concern was his female disciple who had followed him for twelve years. After all, the entertainment industry had always been dominated by male directors, and a female director didn't have many good directing opportunities.

Liu Shishi's studio has now started operating artist management business, and will inevitably venture into film and television production in the future.

After careful consideration, Li Guoli intended to have Lin Yufen switch sides to the top female star, which is why he gave her this special advice at this time.

A little while later, at exactly 2 p.m., Cai Yinong instructed his assistant outside to ask the male actors who had come for the audition to enter in order of the numbers they had been assigned.

Soon, seven or eight male actors came in.

However, Li Guoli was still not satisfied. After taking a sip of strong tea to refresh himself, he asked the actress sitting next to him, "Shishi, what do you think of the performances of the actors just now?"

Liu Shishi recalled the interview process of the others in her mind, her expression solemn. After all, she was one of the interviewers and had a duty to do her job: "Not very good. Even I think it's not suitable. I guess it won't meet your standards."

“Yes, I was very dissatisfied with those people just now.” Li Guoli turned slightly to look at Lin Yufen and explained loudly, “When casting, the suitability of the role is the core priority.”

First, the characters' physical characteristics, such as age, appearance, and physique, must match the script's setting. For example, historical drama characters need a classical temperament, while workplace drama characters need to highlight their shrewdness and competence.

Furthermore, actors need to possess a certain charisma and presence. What does that mean? It means they need to convey the core of the character through micro-expressions and body language.

For example, a stoic villain needs masterful eye control; a single glance can send chills down someone's spine, while a sunny, approachable man needs warmth and a smile that can dispel gloom.

Li Guoli spoke eloquently, demonstrating a high level of professionalism. These words were not only spoken to Liu Shishi, but also a way of sharing his years of directing experience with Lin Yufen.

Liu Shishi kept Director Li's words in mind. These were not only factors for directors when casting, but also key points for actors when auditioning.

After giving the two some time to process their thoughts, Li Guoli continued, "Once the above conditions are met, we can basically select a candidate."

However, this is only a basic level of fulfillment, which some excellent actors can achieve. At a higher level, directors will comprehensively consider an actor's delivery of lines, emotional range, and even their improvisational abilities.

"Auditions are so complicated? I didn't think there were so many requirements when I auditioned before." The lead actress's mouth was slightly open, looking quite surprised.

Upon hearing this, Cai Yinong couldn't help but roll her eyes, but since there were other people present, she didn't want to embarrass the top female star.

He could only think to himself, "You're a resource-backed, nepotistic person. Almost every audition is pre-arranged. How could the director possibly make things difficult for you?"

Seeing Lin Yufen engrossed in taking notes, recording all the experiences he had shared, Li Guoli smiled with satisfaction. It was a good thing to take notes and think things through.

Previously, Lin Yufen had always served as his deputy, but from now on, he would have to take on the main responsibility.

"Call the next one."

The sound of steady footsteps grew louder as they approached, and soon a person pushed open the door and entered. Li Guoli and Cai Yinong exchanged a glance upon seeing the newcomer, both sensing a hint of caution in each other's eyes.

The newcomer possessed an extraordinary demeanor, giving off a free and unrestrained feeling. When her gaze fell upon Tangren's top female star on the stage, although she was extremely surprised inside, she did not show it on her face at all, and controlled her emotions very well.

"Director Li, Producer Cai, Director Lin, Teacher Liu, hello! I am Nie Yuan, auditioning for the role of Emperor Yongzheng."

Li Guoli observed Nie Yuan's every move after entering the house and nodded inwardly.

The other party's poised and elegant demeanor, including their composure when seeing the leading lady sitting on the stage, was a cut above the performances of the previous actors.

Moreover, the other party immediately stated that he was there to audition for the role of Emperor Yongzheng, not the Fourth Prince, which clearly showed that he was very confident in his imperial appearance.

Liu Shishi was also carefully observing Nie Yuan. From the moment he entered the room, she had a feeling that he was one of the strongest contenders for the male lead. Whether it was his appearance and demeanor or his humble yet arrogant attitude, he was clearly superior to the others.

Li Guoli quickly scanned the resume in his hand and got straight to the point: "Hello Nie Yuan, I am very satisfied with your appearance. I saw that you played the Qianlong Emperor in 'The Granary of the World'."

I imagine you have some experience with Qing Dynasty dramas. Could you first discuss your understanding of the character of Emperor Yongzheng in the drama, and how it differs from your previous portrayal of Emperor Qianlong?

"Although I've played a Qing Dynasty emperor once, I personally feel that Emperor Yongzheng and Emperor Qianlong are worlds apart in character. Emperor Yongzheng was ruthless and resolute..."

Nie Yuan was clearly well-prepared, having thoroughly understood the character in the play. His eyes shone with confidence, and he exuded a professional demeanor.

He spoke at length about Yongzheng's personality, governing philosophy, and emotional entanglements.

Li Guoli listened attentively to Nie Yuan's insights, nodding slightly from time to time. Some of his ideas were refreshing and gave him a different interpretation of the character.

Then, Nie Yuan was asked to improvise two scenes, which she handled with ease, demonstrating her acting skills and effortlessly passing the interview.

"Mr. Cai, what do you think?"

Cai Yinong didn't rush to answer, but instead turned his gaze to the top female star: "Shishi, if a director only needs to consider the artistic aspects when casting, a producer needs to consider much more."

Liu Shishi was a little surprised. How did a perfectly good audition turn into a lecture from the director and producer? Although she was puzzled, she listened patiently to see what different perspectives K-jie, as a producer, had to offer.

"Producers need to consider the smooth progress of a film and television project from pre-production to broadcast, so casting is also an important part of the process."

If something happens to the male lead during filming, it will hinder the progress, or the male lead may be blacklisted after filming, preventing the drama from airing. These are all things that producers must consider from the very beginning.

Cai Yinong paused for a moment, and seeing that Yi Jie seemed to be thinking, he continued, "So producers won't use people blindly; they at least need to have a basic understanding of the lead actors."

Aside from the need to promote someone regardless of the consequences, one must comprehensively consider the actor's popularity and appeal, the investors' approval, and so on.

Li Guoli coughed lightly, interrupting Cai Yinong's enthusiastic speech, reminding her that time was of the essence and that there would be plenty of opportunities to teach the "Queen" later.

Cai Yinong snapped out of his daze and chuckled, "Nie Yuan performed well and is currently ranked first. If there are no more outstanding performers than him, we can use him for the male lead."

The auditions continued, and after interviewing several more people, another heavyweight entered the room.

Yu Bo looked at the interviewers behind the long table, feeling a mix of emotions. He never imagined that he, the top I Ching master, would one day have to audition for a role at Tangren.

Back then, Tangren and Zhouyi were both leading companies in the period drama genre, almost splitting the market between them. Unfortunately, the company fell into difficulties and declined due to a falling out between the boss and his wife, forcing him to seek resources on his own.

Cai Yinong watched as the top employee of her old rival came to the company for an interview, and she also sighed at the unpredictability of life. She had also heard about Zhou Yi's problems. Rumors circulated that Zhou Yi was about to collapse and might go bankrupt at any time.

Thinking of this, I couldn't help but glance at the upright and proper-looking Sister Yi again, and marvel at Tangren and my own good fortune.

If it weren't for the generous donation from the top female star at the time, Tangren might not have existed during the period when Hu Ge was in a car accident.

In the drama "Scarlet Heart", Li Guoli and Cai Yinong were very fair in their choice of the male lead, and did not give Yu Bo any special treatment just because he was Zhou Yi's top actor.

After going through a very standardized audition process, Li Guoli lowered his head and pondered, comparing Yu Bo's performance with that of Nie Yuan before.

Seeing that the director hadn't spoken, Yu Bo stood quietly in the center of the audition room, a strange mix of anticipation and trepidation rising in his heart, as if he were back in the scene of his first audition when he first entered the industry.

"Yu Bo, to be honest, your performance was fine, but your temperament and image are too gentle. I personally think you are not suitable for the ruthless and cunning Fourth Prince."

On the contrary, the gentle and refined Eighth Prince would be more suitable. Although the Eighth Prince is the second male lead in "Scarlet Heart," his role is quite substantial. I hope you will carefully consider whether you can accept the role of the Eighth Prince.

Li Guoli advised the prince because he saw that Yu Bo's gentle temperament was a good match for the Eighth Prince.

Yu Bo hesitated for a moment. He could feel the director's sincerity, but he was still unwilling to play the second male lead. However, he also understood the director's unspoken meaning: in short, he had no chance of playing the male lead.

Haste makes waste, so Yu Bo thought for a moment and decided to delay: "Director Li, thank you for your consideration, but I am not prepared at all to play the role of the Eighth Prince. Please allow me to think it over and give you an answer."

“No problem, contact me after you’ve thought it through.” Li Guoli nodded. An actor who fits the role perfectly is worth waiting for.

(End of this chapter)