In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Time slips away silently like sand through your fingers during a leisurely and pleasant summer day.

The joy of the trip to Venice gradually settled into a promising future, while the daily life in the courtyard house became the norm of a sunny and bright life.

He didn't let himself relax completely; apart from occasionally meeting with Zuo Xiaoqing, he spent most of his time in the courtyard house in Xicheng.

This meticulously renovated courtyard is not only a comfortable residence, but also the best space for him to be alone and study.

He didn't slack off because of the film's nomination and his upcoming university life; instead, he became even clearer about his future direction. Acting was a hobby, a ticket into the industry, but his deeper desire was to become a director, controlling light and shadow and telling stories.

In his study, the latest VCR he brought back from Hong Kong became his closest companion. Duan Yunfeng collected a large number of VCRs of classic films from home and abroad for him through various channels, from works from the Golden Age of Hollywood to representative works of the European New Wave, and masterpieces by several Asian masters, filling an entire bookshelf.

Yang Guangming began a systematic study of "film analysis".

He didn't just watch it casually; he treated the process as a serious lesson.

A thick notebook lay open on his desk, with a remote control beside it. He would repeatedly watch a classic scene, analyzing frame by frame the camera angles, composition, lighting, actors' movements and staging, trying to figure out the director's intentions and narrative techniques.

He watched with great interest the rapid editing, sometimes like a whirlwind, and sometimes the long, tense shots, trying to understand the aesthetic choices and emotional logic behind them.

He also began reading books on directing and film theory, and gradually built his understanding of film language by combining them with examples from videotapes.

Xie Jin, Akira Kurosawa, Fellini, Kubrick... these names and their works became his silent mentors during his summer meditation sessions.

The courtyard house isolated him from the outside world's noise, with only the chirping of cicadas, the sound of the wind, and the subtle sounds of a video recorder running and pages turning, accompanying him as he immersed himself in that wondrous world of light and shadow.

Occasionally, Jiang Wen, Wang Shuo, and Feng Xiaogang would come over for a visit, puffing away in the cigar room, engaging in lively discussions in the tea room, or watching a newly acquired foreign film in the home theater.

Yang Guangming would also participate, listening to these industry veterans' sharp insights on film, literature, and current events, occasionally chiming in with a few words, which often sparked deeper discussions.

His insight and composure led these much older seniors to stop treating him as a young man and unconsciously overlook his age, regarding him as a peer.

July 26th, morning.

Yang Guangming had just finished a short analysis of Akira Kurosawa's "Seven Samurai," rubbed his slightly sore eyes, and was about to go for a walk in the yard.

The black, brick-like mobile phone on the desk suddenly rang, its ringtone sounding particularly jarring in the quiet study.

He glanced at the caller ID; it was an unfamiliar local number. After a slight hesitation, he pressed the answer button.

"Hello, hello."

"Is this Yang Guangming?" A middle-aged man's gentle yet slightly anxious voice came from the other end of the phone, his tone very formal.

"Yes, who are you?" Yang Guangming asked, somewhat puzzled.

"Hello, Yang Guangming! I am Ms. Zhao from the Admissions Office of Peking University."

The other party introduced themselves and immediately adopted a tone of obvious enthusiasm and congratulations: "First of all, congratulations! Although the college entrance examination results have not yet been officially released to the public, our admissions office has already obtained the relevant data in advance."

"Yang Ming, you achieved outstanding results in this year's college entrance examination! You are the top liberal arts student in Kyoto! And also the top liberal arts student nationwide!"

The top liberal arts student? Yang Guangming was slightly taken aback.

Although he was confident he had done well on the exam, becoming the top scorer was still somewhat unexpected. After all, this was the national college entrance examination, a highly competitive process with many variables. While he knew his grades were good, he wasn't entirely certain he would become the top scorer.

"Teacher Zhao, are you sure?" he asked calmly, seeking confirmation.

"Absolutely certain! The total score is 540, and you scored 534. This score is not only the highest in humanities in Kyoto, but also the highest in the national humanities exam!" Teacher Zhao's tone was full of praise. "Yang Guangming, you have brought honor to the students of Kyoto!"

"Thank you," Yang Guangming replied politely, but his mind was racing, trying to figure out the caller's purpose. The Peking University Admissions Office… calling at this time—their intentions were obvious.

Sure enough, what Teacher Zhao said next confirmed his guess.

"Here's the thing, Yang Guangming. When we were reviewing your application file, we found that you did not list Peking University when you filled out your application in May."

This is very regrettable, and we believe there may have been some errors in communication, or perhaps you had other considerations at the time.

Teacher Zhao spoke faster, her tone full of persuasion.

"We are now formally inviting you to Peking University! You can choose any of the humanities majors, whether it's the Guanghua School of Management, the School of Economics, the Department of Chinese Language and Literature, or the Department of History!"

Peking University boasts the nation's top faculty, the strongest learning atmosphere, and the broadest academic platform, which will greatly benefit your long-term development.

We hope you will seriously consider changing your application and choosing Peking University!

Yang Guangming listened attentively, but his heart remained unmoved.

After Professor Zhao finished speaking, he slowly opened his mouth, his voice clear and firm: "Professor Zhao, I am very grateful to Peking University for recognizing and inviting me."

However, applying to the Performance Department of the Beijing Film Academy was a decision I made after careful consideration. My interests and aspirations lie in film art, so I'm sorry to say I cannot accept Peking University's special admission offer.

There was a two- or three-second silence on the other end of the phone, as if they hadn't expected him to refuse so decisively. After all, in this era, Peking University and Tsinghua University are almost the ultimate destinations in the hearts of all students. The status of a top scorer plus special admission to Peking University is a double honor that very few people can resist.

"Yang Ming, don't rush into making a decision."

Teacher Zhao's voice became more urgent, "Choosing a university is a major life event, related to your future. Film art is certainly important, but with your academic performance and talent, you will have a wider path and more possibilities for development at a comprehensive university like Peking University."

"How about we schedule a time to talk it over in person? It would be best to also discuss it with your parents and get their opinions."

Yang Guang knew that the other party would not give up easily, but his mind was made up.

“Professor Zhao, I understand your good intentions. But my parents are currently in Hong Kong and won’t be back anytime soon. I’m also currently out of town, so it’s not convenient for us to meet. My application will not change, and I’m truly grateful for your kindness and support from Peking University.”

His tone was polite yet firm, leaving no room for negotiation.

Teacher Zhao tried to persuade him a few more times, but seeing that Yang Guangming's attitude did not soften at all, he could only sigh with great regret: "Well... alright. Yang Guangming, if you or your parents change your mind, you can call us at any time. The gates of Peking University are always open to you."

"Thank you, Teacher Zhao. Goodbye."

Hanging up the phone, Yang Guangming looked at the mobile phone in his hand and shook his head. He knew this was probably just the beginning.

Sure enough, his premonition soon came true.

Around noon, the mobile phone rang again; it was another unfamiliar local number.

This time, it was a teacher from the Tsinghua University Admissions Office. Their words were almost identical to those from Peking University. They first congratulated him on achieving the top score in liberal arts in Beijing and the country, then expressed their strong desire to admit him through a special admission program. They also listed the advantages of Tsinghua's many top liberal arts programs and earnestly hoped that he would reconsider.

Yang Guangming politely but firmly refused.

In the afternoon, similar calls came in one after another.

Admissions officers from Renmin University, Fudan University, Nanjing University, and other top universities in China seemed to have made a pact to call his mobile phone one after another.

Everyone's tone was full of admiration, eagerness, and incomprehension, and they all tried to persuade him with the advantages and sincerity of their respective schools, to change his decision that everyone considered "unconventional".

At first, Yang Guangming was able to explain patiently, but after receiving calls from five or six universities in a row, even he, with his composure, felt somewhat tired and annoyed.

These teachers all had a very good attitude and were eager to nurture talent, but he couldn't possibly explain his personal journey and future plans in detail.

When yet another unfamiliar number kept ringing, Yang Guangming glanced at the darkening sky outside the window and immediately pressed the power button.

The world is finally quiet.

He threw his mobile phone on the desk and went out into the yard.

The afterglow of the setting sun bathed the blue brick ground and lush flowers and trees in a warm golden hue, while the cool evening breeze dispelled the daytime heat.

He took a deep breath, feeling somewhat helpless. He never expected that being a top scorer in the college entrance examination would bring him such trouble.

However, he wasn't too worried. The application period had already ended, and the admissions process would proceed according to procedure. As long as he didn't budge, these universities' special admission requests wouldn't be fulfilled.

He just needs some time to deal with these well-intentioned "harassments".

However, he underestimated the determination of top universities to attract outstanding students, and he also underestimated that in Kyoto, finding the address of a local examinee would not be difficult for a well-intentioned organization.

The next morning, Yang Guangming was practicing calligraphy and calming his mind in the tea room.

There was a rhythmic knocking at the gate, and Duan Yunfeng went to answer it.

He quickly returned to report: "Guangming, a few people have come to the door, claiming to be teachers from the admissions offices of Tsinghua University and Peking University, and they want to see you."

Yang Guangming put down his brush and sighed softly. What was bound to happen had finally arrived, and it had come knocking right at his door. He knew that avoiding it wouldn't solve anything; it might only complicate matters further.

"Please invite them to the tea room," he said to Duan Yunfeng, straightening his loungewear.

A moment later, Duan Yunfeng led the four guests into the tea room.

Two men and two women, all around forty years old, dressed appropriately and with refined manners, but with a hint of urgency in their eyes.

As soon as they entered, their eyes immediately focused on Yang Guangming, filled with scrutiny, curiosity, and undisguised regret—they felt sorry that such a talented and academically outstanding young man had chosen an art school.

"Hello, teachers, please have a seat." Yang Guangming said calmly, gesturing for them to sit down, his attitude neither humble nor arrogant.

After they were seated, Wu Fang quickly served them fragrant tea.

The delegation from Peking University consisted of a male professor surnamed Zhao and a female professor surnamed Li, while those from Tsinghua University were a professor surnamed Sun and a professor surnamed Wang. After a brief exchange of pleasantries and self-introductions, the conversation quickly turned to the main topic.

“Yang Ming, we spoke on the phone yesterday.”

Professor Zhao from Peking University spoke first, his tone even more earnest than on the phone: "We know you are passionate about film art, but please reconsider."

Peking University also has arts disciplines, and you can choose a related major while enjoying the best general education at Peking University.

Even if you still want to work in the film industry in the future, your Peking University background and connections will only be a greater help to you, and will certainly not be a limitation or a waste.

Professor Sun from Tsinghua University immediately followed up: "Yang Ming, although Tsinghua University is known for its science and engineering, its humanities and social sciences have also developed very rapidly in recent years, and its internationalization is very high."

Your science foundation also seems extremely solid. Such a well-rounded talent, proficient in both arts and sciences, can receive more comprehensive training at Tsinghua University.

Film is a multidisciplinary art form that requires knowledge from multiple disciplines. At Tsinghua University, you can also pursue your film dreams, and you'll have a higher starting point and a better platform.

The two teachers spoke back and forth, covering everything from personal development to national sentiment, from practical interests to long-term ideals, stating almost every reason they could think of. Their words were sincere and their logic was clear, truly demonstrating the professional competence and eagerness to recruit talent of admissions officers from a top university.

Yang Guangming listened quietly without interrupting until the two teachers finished and looked at him expectantly.

He picked up his teacup, took a small sip, put it down, and then slowly spoke, his voice clear and steady: "I am very grateful to the teachers from Tsinghua and Peking Universities for their kindness and high regard for me, and for personally coming to my door to persuade me. I feel their sincerity and am very moved."

He first expressed his gratitude, then changed the subject: "However, my application to the Beijing Film Academy was not an impulsive decision, nor was it due to any prejudice against comprehensive universities."

On the contrary, I respect and appreciate all institutions of higher learning that are dedicated to knowledge and talent cultivation.

However, for me personally, film—especially directing—is my clearest and strongest aspiration right now.” He glanced at the four teachers and continued, “I know that the Beijing Film Academy is not offering an undergraduate directing program this year, so I chose the acting department as my path into this field.”

This is not a compromise. I can learn directing while studying acting, and I will transfer to the directing department if I have the opportunity in the future.

I also believe that in an environment like the Beijing Film Academy, I can get closer to the core of film creation and accumulate practical experience more quickly and directly.

As for what the teachers mentioned, laying a solid foundation at a comprehensive university and then switching to film in the future, there are certainly people who have succeeded in this path.

However, the timing and approach differ. I prefer to directly enter the professional field, learn through practice, and supplement my knowledge with necessary theoretical information.

I believe this is a more efficient option for someone like me who wants to become a director.

His reasons were clear and logical, demonstrating both a firm belief in his own aspirations and a clear understanding of the realistic path forward, completely unlike the naivety and wavering that a sixteen or seventeen-year-old might have.

Professor Li from Peking University couldn't help but ask, "But Yang Guangming, you got such a high score, you're the top scorer in the country!"
Going to the Beijing Film Academy to study acting... many people outside, including us, would think that this is... a waste of talent.

Have you considered society's opinions, or your parents' true expectations?

Yang Guangming smiled slightly: "Teacher Li, grades are just one way to measure learning outcomes at a certain stage. They should not become a shackle that binds a person's future choices."

I believe that combining personal interests, talents, and future careers is the best way to utilize talent.

My parents understand and respect my choices. They hope I can pursue my true passions happily and meaningfully, rather than just chasing after the empty title of "where should a top student go?"

He paused, then added, "Of course, I already have some ideas for my own better development."

For example, after entering the Beijing Film Academy, I will try to apply for a change of major, or try to study directing through other means.

I believe that as long as I demonstrate sufficient ability and sincerity, the school will provide corresponding support.

The information revealed in these words caused several admissions officers to exchange glances. However, changing majors, especially in art colleges, is notoriously difficult. They didn't consider it a reliable guarantee.

Before Professor Wang from Tsinghua University could say anything more, Yang Guangming offered a suggestion: "I know that you teachers may think I am too young and that the final decision still needs my parents' approval."

Okay, I can make international calls from here. I can contact my parents on Hong Kong Island right now, and all the teachers can communicate with them directly.

This suggestion invigorated the four teachers. In their view, while teenagers might be stubbornly attached to their dreams, parents are often more rational and realistic, and perhaps they could find a breakthrough by talking to the parents.

Yang Guangming got up, walked to the ivory-white landline in the corner of the tea room, and skillfully dialed a number.

The phone rang a few times before being picked up.

"Hello, Mom, it's me," Yang Guangming said in his usual tone.

"Mingming, why are you calling at this hour?" Chen Zhiyun's gentle voice came through the receiver.

"Mom, there's something I need to tell you. The admissions officers from Tsinghua University and Peking University are currently at the courtyard house in Xicheng District. They want to call you and Dad, mainly to discuss my college application choices."

Yang Guangming briefly explained the situation and then handed the microphone to Professor Zhao from Peking University.

Teacher Zhao answered the phone, and her tone immediately became exceptionally polite: "Hello, Guangming's mother, this is Teacher Zhao from the Admissions Office of Peking University... Yes, yes, it's about your son, Yang Guangming's, college application."

You may not know this, but Yang Guangming achieved the top score in the liberal arts exam in Beijing this year, and he is also the top scorer in the national liberal arts exam. His results are outstanding, and Peking University very much hopes that he can come to study at our university...

Yes, we understand his passion for film, but we believe that with his outstanding academic achievements, he can gain a more comprehensive and profound foundation for development at Peking University, which will give him a greater advantage no matter what industry he chooses to pursue in the future…

"Do you think you could try to persuade him to reconsider?"

Chen Zhiyun listened quietly on the other end of the phone. After Teacher Zhao finished speaking, she spoke gently but firmly: "Teacher Zhao, thank you very much for Peking University's appreciation of Mingming."

Regarding his volunteering, his father and I had already discussed it thoroughly with him, and we respect his interests and choices.

He loves movies and wants to study directing; we support him.

Children have their own opinions and plans. As parents, we should provide support and advice rather than make decisions for them.

So, we're sorry, but we respect Mingming's choice.

Teacher Zhao tried to persuade her a few more times, but Chen Zhiyun's attitude remained gentle yet clear.

Then, the call was transferred to Professor Sun at Tsinghua University, and Chen Zhiyun gave almost the same answer.

After the two teachers took turns communicating with Chen Zhiyun, the expectant light on their faces gradually dimmed.

They realized that Yang Guangming's choice was not out of teenage rebellion, but rather because he had received understanding and support from his family. The openness and inclusiveness of this family exceeded their expectations.

The phone eventually returned to Yang Guangming's hands. He exchanged a few words with his mother and then hung up.

Yang Guangming walked back to the tea room, looked at the four admissions officers with complicated expressions, and calmly said, "Teachers, you have all heard that my parents support my decision."

Professor Zhao from Peking University and Professor Sun from Tsinghua University exchanged a glance, both seeing the helplessness and deep regret in each other's eyes. Having said all that, further persuasion would be tactless.

“Alright, Yang Guangming.” Teacher Zhao sighed and stood up. “Since you and your family have considered everything so thoroughly, we won’t insist. It’s just… truly a pity. Peking University will always welcome you. If you feel the need to supplement your knowledge in other areas in your future pursuit of art, Peking University will open its doors to you.”

Teacher Sun also stood up, and said with a wry smile, "You are a promising young man. With your own opinions and the support of your family, you may really be able to succeed on the path of art. I wish you a bright future, Yang Guangming. Tsinghua University also welcomes you to come and exchange ideas and learn from us at any time."

After seeing off the four regretful admissions officers, Yang Guangming stood at the gate of the courtyard, watching their car disappear at the end of the alley, and let out a soft sigh of relief.

This matter can be considered temporarily resolved.

However, he soon discovered that his act of turning off his mobile phone only severed direct contact with universities, but could not stop the flow of information within specific circles, especially when the matter was linked to explosive news such as "the top scorer in the college entrance examination did not choose Peking University but chose Beijing Film Academy".

Almost on the same afternoon that the Tsinghua and Peking University professors visited, Yang Hongwen, Yang Ming's father, called from Hong Kong.

On the phone, Yang Hongwen's voice was filled with barely suppressed joy and pride: "Mingming! Your mother and I just received calls from several friends back home, all saying that you got the top score in the national liberal arts exam in both Beijing and China! Is it true? Why didn't you tell me sooner!"

Yang Guangming then realized that he had been so busy dealing with the admissions office staff that although he had spoken to his mother on the phone, he had forgotten to tell his father the good news.

He smiled apologetically and said, "Dad, it's true. I just found out myself. Then the admissions office teachers came one after another, calling and visiting me, which made me a little dizzy. I haven't had a chance to tell you yet."

"Hahaha! Great! That's fantastic!" Yang Hongwen laughed heartily on the other end of the phone. "534 points! I knew my son was the best! Much better than your dad was back then! Your mom is overjoyed too, she was just talking about it!"

After laughing, Yang Hongwen's tone became serious: "We've heard about the admissions office contacting you. Mingming, your application won't change, right?"

"Yes, it won't change," Yang Guangming replied confidently.

"it is good!"

Yang Hongwen expressed his support without hesitation, saying, "Since it's the path you chose, then stick to it firmly."

Where top scorers should go is other people's opinion. Our family has the means now to let you pursue what you truly love—that's a blessing. Dad supports you! Your mom supports you too!

As for what others say, don't worry about it too much.

By the way, any new information from the Beijing Film Academy? Is it possible to transfer you to the directing department?

A warm feeling welled up in Yang Guangming's heart. His plan was to wait patiently for the Beijing Film Academy's reaction. Perhaps he could use his status as the top scorer to have in-depth communication with the Beijing Film Academy. The specific outcome would depend on the effectiveness of the communication.

After listening, Yang Hongwen pondered for a moment and said, "The idea is correct. If you need your family to intervene or to use some connections and resources, just let me know."

The father and son chatted for a while longer about the situation in Hong Kong and their family before ending the call.

The unequivocal support from his parents dispelled any remaining concerns Yang Guangming might have had.

He turned his mobile phone back on, and sure enough, it was filled with missed call notifications. He glanced through them and found that apart from a few friends' numbers, most were unfamiliar landline numbers.

So many calls probably come from more than just university admissions offices; some must also be from the media.

The media finally caught wind of this highly topical news.

For the next two days, Yang Guangming's mobile phone became a hotline.

Reporters from various media outlets, including the Kyoto Youth Daily, the China Education Daily, the Literary Gazette, Kyoto Television, and the Central People's Broadcasting Station, tried every means to find his contact information and requested to conduct telephone interviews.

At first, Yang Guangming patiently answered calls from several influential media outlets.

The interviews all focused on the same questions: With such high scores, why choose the Beijing Film Academy's acting department? Do you feel this is a waste of talent? What are your specific future plans? How do you view the common societal perception that "top scorers should go to Peking University or Tsinghua University"?

Yang Guangming's answers were largely consistent: he emphasized that his personal interests and aspirations lay in film art, and that choosing Beijing Film Academy was a good fit for his major; he denied the "waste" argument, believing that using his talent for a career he loved was the best way to develop it; he revealed his intention to study directing on his own and seek to switch majors; he expressed respect for the choices of other top scorers, but also hoped that society could respect and be tolerant of diverse paths to success.

His answers were clear and logical, his attitude was candid, and his composure and demeanor surprised many of the veteran journalists who interviewed him.

But the media's enthusiasm was boundless; the phone kept ringing, and the same questions needed to be answered repeatedly. Yang Guangming quickly realized that this couldn't go on.

He chose to turn off the phone again.

However, the media coverage has already created ripples, like pebbles thrown into a lake.

Why did the top-scoring student in the country choose the Performance Department of Beijing Film Academy?

"The Unique Choice of the Top National Scorer: Is it Impulsiveness or Foresight?"

"Can a top-scoring student who gave up Peking and Tsinghua Universities realize his dream of making movies?"

"Focusing on Yang Guangming: The Artistic Journey of an 'Atypical' Top Scorer"

Similar headlines began appearing prominently in the education, culture, entertainment, and even front pages of major newspapers.

The reports were largely similar, mainly focusing on Yang Guangming's scores, choices, and his participation in Jiang Wen's films.

The reports varied in tone, with some expressing understanding and support, others raising questions and concerns, and still others taking a neutral observational stance.

However, one indisputable fact remains: Yang Guangming, along with his unique choice to "apply to the Beijing Film Academy as the top scorer," quickly became one of the hottest social topics during the college entrance examination season, sparking widespread discussion from the education sector to the general public.

On the streets and in alleys, at schools and in homes, people are talking about this "different" top scorer.

Supporters believe he is opinionated and dares to pursue his dreams; opponents believe he is wasting his talent and failing to live up to society's expectations; many more are curious and puzzled, wanting to see what kind of path this young man will take.

As public opinion continued to ferment, the pressure quietly shifted.

Unlike the admissions offices of Peking University and Tsinghua University, which actively reached out to applicants and contacted them immediately, the Beijing Film Academy, as an art-focused institution, lacked both experience and sensitivity in competing for high-scoring students in academic subjects.

The admissions officers at the academy only learned about this year's top liberal arts student in Kyoto from the newspapers, who had applied to the acting department of the Beijing Film Academy!

The news surprised and delighted them, but then they were caught off guard.

The good news is that this is undoubtedly an excellent opportunity to enhance the social reputation and influence of Beijing Film Academy; the bad news is that public opinion does not seem to be entirely on their side, with constant criticism of "wasting talent"; and the bad news is that they were completely unaware of this beforehand and were unprepared.

The pressure quickly reached the college's leadership. (End of Chapter)