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

Yang Guangming and his entourage drove out of Nice Airport and headed towards Cannes along the coastal road.

The French Riviera in May is breathtakingly beautiful. To the left lies the azure Mediterranean Sea, its surface shimmering gold in the setting sun. To the right, a town nestled against the hillside, its orange-red rooftops standing out vividly against the backdrop of green trees.

"So beautiful," Qin Yi said softly, looking out the window.

“Yes, no wonder people from all over the world flock here at this time of year.” Lan Tianye also looked out the window, his eyes full of appreciation.

Sitting in the front row, Yang Guangming turned to the two elderly people and smiled, "Teacher Lan, Teacher Qin, once you're settled, I'll take you for a walk on the beach. The beaches in Cannes are very famous."

"Okay, okay." Lan Tianye nodded. "Since we're already here, we should take a good look around."

After driving for about half an hour, the outline of Cannes gradually came into view. The famous Promenade de la Corniche, the Palais des Festivals, the numerous marinas…

Charles booked a historic five-star hotel near the old town of Cannes. Although not in the most bustling seaside area, it was in a tranquil setting, just a ten-minute walk from the Palais des Festivals.

The hotel manager personally greeted him at the door. Charles had arranged everything.

“Director Yang, welcome back to Cannes.” The manager’s English had a heavy French accent, but it was fluent. “Your team has booked seven rooms, and they are all ready.”

"Thank you," Yang Guangming nodded in thanks.

After putting away their luggage, everyone gathered in the bright and sunny living room of the suite.

"Everyone, please adjust to the time difference and rest today," Yang Guangming explained simply. "Tomorrow morning, we'll go to the film festival organizing committee to register and collect our credentials and materials. The afternoon is free time to familiarize ourselves with the environment. The opening ceremony is on the 9th, and we'll be walking the red carpet."

He paused, then looked at everyone: "I think everyone has prepared their red carpet attire, right?"

Everyone nodded. Before coming, Yang Guangming had already asked Duan Yunfeng to arrange a costume consultant to tailor-make red carpet dresses for each of the main cast members.

Lan Tianye wore a dark gray Zhongshan suit, dignified and elegant. Qin Yi chose a dark green cheongsam-style long dress, graceful and poised. Xi Meijuan wore a champagne-colored gown, gentle and intellectual. Gu Changwei wore a black suit, simple and capable.

Yang Guangming prepared two suits for himself: a dark blue one for the opening ceremony and a black one for the film premiere.

"That's good." Yang Guangming continued, "The film premiere is scheduled for the afternoon of the 12th. In the meantime, we may attend some official events and receptions, as well as some media interviews. Lao Duan will give everyone a detailed schedule."

Duan Yunfeng immediately took out the prepared folders and distributed them to everyone.

"Alright, everyone, go back to your rooms and rest. Dinner will be at the hotel restaurant at seven o'clock."

After everyone else left, Charles stayed behind.

Yang Guangming went out onto the balcony, and Charles followed. The two stood on the balcony, watching Cannes as night fell. The Palais des Festivals in the distance was already lit, and the Boulevard de la Cité was bustling with traffic.

“Yang, this time it feels different from last year, doesn’t it?” Charles asked with a smile.

Yang Guangming nodded: "It is indeed different. Last year was my first time here, and everything was new. This year, the novelty has worn off, but I feel more certain."

“That’s right.” Charles patted the railing. “You’re not a newcomer now, you’re the Palme d’Or director. The whole of Cannes will look at you differently.”

He paused, then lowered his voice: "I need to tell you about the public relations situation in detail."

Yang Guangming turned around and looked at Charles: "Speak."

Charles took a document from his suit pocket and handed it to Yang Guangming: "This is the complete list of this year's jury. The chairman is Francis Coppola, as you already know. The other eight judges, the ones I circled, are the ones we're focusing our public relations efforts on."

Yang Guangming took the list and examined it carefully by the light in the room. Charles circled four names, with handwritten notes next to them.

"Italian female director, she greatly admires 'A Separation'. I made a special trip to Rome at the end of last year to meet with her and we talked for two hours. She speaks highly of you, and importantly, the group has some dealings with her, so her support should be quite firm."

"He is a British screenwriter and a long-time contributor to Cahiers du Cinéma. He was deeply moved after watching Amour. My interactions with him are mostly personal, and our interests are not yet firmly established. I have arranged to meet with him alone tomorrow night, hoping to gain his greater support."

"A French producer who has been friends with Coppola for many years. Through Coppola's connections, he has already pledged his support to us."

"He's a Japanese director, a disciple of Takeshi Kitano, and has a natural affinity for Asian films. I asked Kitano to pass on a message, so there shouldn't be any problem."

After Charles finished speaking, he looked at Yang Guangming and said, "Yang, the biggest advantage now is Coppola. His evaluation of 'Amour' is even higher than I expected, and he should give it more support."

Yang Guangming's heart skipped a beat: "What did he say?"

Charles smiled and said, “Coppola’s exact words were: This film reminds me of my father. It captures the dignity of aging and the essence of love. If nothing unexpected happens, it should be the best film in this year’s main competition.”

He paused, then emphasized, "Yang, do you know what this means? Coppola isn't just the jury president; he's one of the greatest directors in film history. His words carry absolute weight on the jury. If he supports us, the Palme d'Or is practically ours."

Yang Guangming was silent for a few seconds, then asked, "What about the other awards?"

Charles took a deep breath: "Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, we all have a chance. But it depends on the other judges' attitude. Coppola can dominate the Palme d'Or, but the other awards require majority agreement. After all, he has to make some concessions; he can't have his say in every award."

He looked at Yang Guangming: "I've done everything I could. Starting tomorrow, I'll be meeting with several key judges. We'll have meals, tea, and chat to make sure their attitudes don't change."

Yang Guangming nodded: "I understand. Thank you for your hard work, Chuck."

“It’s not hard work.” Charles shook his head. “Yang, do you know? I’ve been in film distribution and promotion for twenty years and have handled hundreds of films. But directors like you, whom I’m willing to go all out to win over, are very few and far between.”

Looking at the distant night view, his voice became somewhat emotional: "Because you deserve it. Your film deserves it. It's an honor to be a part of it."

Yang Guangming patted him on the shoulder: "Don't say that, we're partners. We have a long road ahead."

The two stood on the balcony for a while, looking at Cannes in the night.

After a long silence, Charles asked, "Yang, do you have any expectations for the outcome this time?"

Yang Guangming thought for a moment and smiled: "Of course I have expectations. But I won't put too much pressure on myself. I've done all I can, and the rest is up to the judges and luck."

"You have such a great attitude," Charles remarked.

“It’s not that I have a good mindset, it’s that I’ve figured things out.” Yang Guangming was indeed very composed. “The film is finished, and it is what it is. All I can do is bring it to Cannes and let more people see it. As for awards, those are icing on the cake. Besides, with your help, I believe in your abilities.”

Dinner was served at the hotel restaurant. It was a French feast, with exquisite plating and attentive service.

Lan Tianye tasted the French-style baked snails and nodded: "It tastes good, but it's not as fragrant as the snails in China."

Qin Yi gracefully cut the steak and smiled, "Teacher Lan, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. It's good to try something new."

Xi Meijuan ate a small bite of salad from a plate. Gu Changwei and Han Sanping chatted about tomorrow's work arrangements.

Charles enthusiastically introduced each dish to everyone, saying "Delicious" and "Please enjoy" in his broken Chinese, which made everyone laugh.

After the meal, everyone went back to their rooms to rest.

Yang Guangming returned to his room, washed up, and lay in bed, but couldn't fall asleep for a while.

He got up and went to the balcony, looking at the night view of Cannes. Faint music could be heard in the distance; it was a cocktail party at a hotel.

Yang Guangming stood on the balcony, looking at the stars in the night sky.

The night in Cannes is quiet and gentle.

At nine o'clock the next morning, Yang Guangming and his group gathered in the hotel lobby and went to the film festival organizing committee to register.

Everyone seemed to have recovered well. Lan Tianye had changed into a light gray Tang suit and looked quite energetic. Qin Yi wore a well-fitting suit and remained as elegant as ever. Xi Meijuan and Gu Changwei were also neatly dressed.

Han Sanping wore a new suit today and looked exceptionally energetic.

"Let's go." Yang Guangming led everyone on foot to the Film Festival Palace.

In May, Cannes was sunny but not scorching. Film festival posters and various movie advertisements were already visible on the streets. Familiar faces could be seen among the pedestrians – actors, directors, and filmmakers from all over the world.

The square in front of the film festival palace was already bustling with activity. Staff were busy setting up, reporters were looking for interviewees, and film fans were looking around with autograph books in hand.

The organizing committee's offices are located in an annex building on the side of the Film Festival Palace. A queue has already formed at the entrance, with filmmakers from all over the world waiting to complete their paperwork.

When Yang Guangming and his group appeared, they immediately attracted a lot of attention.

"Are you Chinese?"

Which movie?

"It might be the crew of that film 'Amour.' The young director who won the Palme d'Or last year."

Whispers arose in various languages.

Yang Guangming appeared calm and composed, leading his team in a queue. Duan Yunfeng was responsible for communicating with the staff.

After completing the formalities, everyone received their film festival credentials. Yang Guangming's role was "director," Lan Tianye, Qin Yi, and Xi Meijuan were "actors," Gu Changwei was "director of photography," and Han Sanping and Duan Yunfeng were "producers."

With the badge hanging around your neck, you've officially entered the world of the film festival.

As Yang Guangming walked out of the organizing committee building and looked at the Film Festival Palace under the blue sky and white clouds, a complex emotion welled up in his heart.

Last year, he stood here for the first time, participating in the main competition with "A Farewell". That time, everything was unknown, everything was a challenge.

This year, he stands here again, aiming for even greater heights with "Love".

A lot has changed in just one year.

"Guangming, what are you thinking about?" Han Sanping walked over.

Yang Guangming snapped out of his thoughts and smiled, "It's nothing. Director Han, we have free time this afternoon. What are your plans?"

Han Sanping waved his hand: "I'm not going anywhere, I'll just rest at the hotel. I'll be busy these next few days, so I need to recharge."

"Alright," Yang Guangming nodded.

The crowd dispersed. Yang Guangming and Duan Yunfeng returned to the hotel; he still had some work to do.

In the afternoon, Yang Guangming was looking at documents in his room when Duan Yunfeng knocked on the door and came in.

"Guangming, I just received news that Director Chen Kaige's film crew has arrived."

Yang Guangming looked up and asked, "When did you arrive?"

"It's 2 PM, they should have checked into their hotel by now. They're staying at the Carlton."

Duan Yunfeng continued, "Director Han just told me that he wants to host a banquet tonight to invite the core members of both production crews to dinner. He has already asked Charles to help book a restaurant."

"Okay, I have no objection. You can ask Teacher Lan and the others to see who wants to go."

"Okay, I'll make the arrangements."

At 7 p.m., Yang Guangming led his team to the reserved restaurant.

Located in the old town of Cannes, this restaurant is an authentic French establishment with an elegant ambiance and private rooms offering excellent privacy.

When they arrived, Han Sanping was already waiting at the door.

"Guangming, they're here." Han Sanping greeted them. "Kaige and the others will be here soon. Let's go inside and wait."

The group entered the private room. A long table could seat more than a dozen people. Han Sanping arranged for everyone to take their seats, with Yang Guangming sitting next to him.

After waiting for about ten minutes, the door to the private room was pushed open.

Chen Kaige was the first to walk in.

He was wearing a dark gray casual suit and had a smile on his face. Seeing Yang Guangming, he quickly walked over and extended his hand.

"Guangming! It's been a long time!"

Yang Guangming stood up and grasped his hand: "Senior, I've finally been waiting for you."

The two shook hands, their smiles both genuine.

Behind Chen Kaige were Leslie Cheung, Gong Li, and several other main cast members.

Leslie Cheung was dressed in a light-colored casual outfit, exuding elegance. Upon seeing Yang Guangming, he greeted him with a smile, "Director Yang, we meet again."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Brother Guorong, welcome."

Gong Li wore a simple yet elegant black dress. She shook hands with Yang Guangming and said in a gentle voice, "Guangming, we're competitors again this time."

Yang Guangming laughed: "Sister Gong Li is joking. They are all Chinese films, so it doesn't matter who wins the award."

The group exchanged pleasantries and took their seats. Members of the two film crews sat down alternately, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

As the host, Han Sanping raised his glass first: "Come on, welcome Director Kaige and the crew of 'Temptress Moon' to Cannes! I wish you great success, and I also wish Chinese films a brilliant performance at Cannes!"

Everyone raised their glasses and drank them down in one gulp.

After several rounds of drinks, the atmosphere became even more lively.

Yang Guangming sat down next to Chen Kaige, and the two started chatting.

"Guangming, are you under a lot of pressure this time?" Chen Kaige asked.

Yang Guangming shook his head: "It's alright. The movie is finished, and the rest is up to the jury. I didn't put too much pressure on myself."

Chen Kaige looked at him with a complicated expression: "You have a really good attitude. I can't do that, I get nervous every time I come to a film festival."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "It's a good thing that you have high standards for your work, senior."

Chen Kaige shook his head, picked up his wine glass, and took a sip.

Yang Guangming could sense that Chen Kaige was acting differently today. Although he had a smile on his face, his eyes revealed a heavy heart.

He thought for a moment and then changed the subject: "Director Chen, how were Leslie Cheung and Gong Li's performances? I've been really looking forward to them."

Speaking of the film, Chen Kaige's eyes lit up: "Very good. Leslie Cheung is a genius actor, he has a deep understanding of the character. Gong Li is the same, her performance is very nuanced. This role was a challenge for her, but she did a great job."

"That's good. I'll definitely watch it carefully when it's screened."

Chen Kaige looked at him and suddenly asked, "Guangming, what are your movies about?"

Yang Guangming gave a brief introduction to the story of "Love".

After listening, Chen Kaige remained silent for a few seconds, then said, "This subject matter... is very heavy and could easily attract attention."

"Yes, it's definitely worth filming."

Chen Kaige nodded and said nothing more.

On the other side, Leslie Cheung and Lan Tianye had a very congenial conversation.

“Ms. Lan, I’ve seen your plays.” Leslie Cheung said humbly, “You played Qin Zhongyi in ‘Teahouse’ so well.”

Lan Tianye waved his hand, "That's ancient history from so many years ago. Leslie, I've seen your plays too. Cheng Dieyi in 'Farewell My Concubine,' that was a truly excellent performance."

Leslie Cheung smiled and said, "Mr. Lan, you flatter me."

"It's not an overstatement," Lan Tianye said earnestly. "I genuinely think it's good. You brought the character's inner struggles and his dedication to art to life." The two chatted about acting and found themselves getting along very well.

Gong Li and Qin Yi sat together and chatted.

"Ms. Qin, it's truly admirable that you've remained active on screen for so many years," Gong Li said sincerely.

Qin Yi smiled and said, "As an actor, as long as I can still act, I will keep acting. But now that I'm older, my energy isn't what it used to be, so it's really hard to work."

What role do you play in "Love"?

Qin Yi briefly introduced her role.

After listening, Gong Li remained silent. After a long while, she finally said, "This role... is very difficult to play."

"Yes, it's difficult." Qin Yi nodded. "But I took this role precisely because it was difficult. At my age, it's lucky to be able to encounter such a challenging role."

Gong Li looked at her with eyes full of respect.

Han Sanping sat in the main seat, watching the members of the two film crews exchange ideas, his face full of smiles.

He raised his glass. "Kaige, come, let me toast you."

Chen Kaige stood up and clinked glasses with him.

"Kaige, don't feel too much pressure coming to Cannes this time," Han Sanping said sincerely. "Your 'Farewell My Concubine' is already a classic. This new film, no matter the outcome, is a good work."

Chen Kaige smiled and said, "Thank you, Director Han. I understand."

Han Sanping patted him on the shoulder and went to clink glasses with others.

Yang Guangming watched from the side, feeling somewhat emotional.

He could sense the pressure Chen Kaige was under. This pressure came from media comparisons, industry expectations, and also from himself.

Last year, he won the Palme d'Or, and he won it all by himself. This achievement is remarkable at any time. As one of the top directors in China, Chen Kaige will naturally be compared to him.

At this year's Cannes Film Festival, the two films competed against each other, and the media hype only added fuel to the fire.

But Yang Ming doesn't have that kind of pressure.

He was very relaxed. Not because he didn't care, but because he knew he had done all he could, and the rest was up to fate.

He raised his glass and said to Chen Kaige, "Director Chen, let me toast you again."

Chen Kaige turned his head and clinked glasses with him.

"Guangming, to be honest, I envy you." Chen Kaige's tone was full of emotion.

Yang Guangming was taken aback for a moment: "Envious of me?"

"I envy your mindset." Chen Kaige put down his wine glass. "You're so young, yet you're so composed and calm."

Yang Guangming thought for a moment and said, "Director Chen, I don't think you need to put too much pressure on yourself. You are already one of the best directors in the country. No matter what the outcome is this time, it won't change that."

Chen Kaige looked at him, remained silent for a moment, and then smiled: "You're right. I was just overthinking things."

He paused, then said, "Guangming, thank you."

Yang Guangming shook his head: "No need to thank me. We're senior and junior, it's only right that we support each other."

Upon hearing this, Chen Kaige's smile deepened.

He really cared about this. Yang Guangming was a student at the Beijing Film Academy, and calling him "senior" made him feel respected in the industry.

Although Yang Guangming's achievements have surpassed his, the young man remains humble and respectful, which makes him feel comfortable.

"Okay, okay." Chen Kaige patted him on the shoulder. "If you ever need my help in the future, just let me know."

"That's great," Yang Guangming said with a smile.

Dinner lasted for more than two hours. It ended at 10 p.m.

As the group left the restaurant, Cannes was ablaze with lights in the night.

Chen Kaige shook hands with Yang Guangming to say goodbye: "Guangming, the premiere is on the 12th. I will definitely bring my team to support you."

"Thank you, senior. I also wish you a successful film premiere."

The two film crews parted ways at the restaurant entrance and returned to their respective hotels.

On the way back to the hotel, Lan Tianye said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, Director Chen seems to have something on his mind today."

Yang Guangming nodded: "There is some pressure."

“I understand.” Lan Tianye sighed. “He’s a top director in the country, and he’s the center of attention wherever he goes. This time, he’s competing against you, so the media will definitely make comparisons. Anyone would feel pressured.”

Yang Guangming thought for a moment and said, "I hope he can relax. Film is art, not a competition."

Lan Tianye looked at him and smiled: "You have such a good attitude, kid."

Back at the hotel, Yang Guangming washed up and lay in bed, but did not fall asleep immediately.

He thought about today's gathering, about Chen Kaige's eyes, and about the expression on his face when he said "envious".

To others, Chen Kaige may seem like a successful and accomplished man who needs no further proof. But deep down, the pressure remains. It's just that everyone copes with pressure differently.

Some people turn it into motivation, while others turn it into a burden.

Yang Guangming doesn't know which category he belongs to. But he knows he won't let pressure affect his judgment and choices.

The film is finished; the rest is up to the jury.

that's it.

The 49th Cannes Film Festival opened on May 9th.

From the morning onwards, the atmosphere in Cannes became extraordinary. The Promenade de la Cité was packed with journalists, film fans, and tourists from all over the world. On both sides of the red carpet in front of the Palais des Festivals, photographers had already secured the best spots, their long lenses and tripods ready and waiting.

At 3 p.m., Yang Guangming was preparing in his hotel room.

The navy blue suit was custom-made, perfectly tailored, and accentuated his tall and straight figure. A white shirt and a simple black bow tie, devoid of excessive embellishment, gave him a clean and sharp look. He stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his collar; the young man in the mirror had a calm and composed demeanor.

"Guangming, are you ready?" Duan Yunfeng's voice came from outside the door.

"Okay." Yang Guangming opened the door.

Duan Yunfeng had already changed into a formal suit. Today, as team members, they also needed to accompany him to the opening ceremony.

"What about the rest?"

"They're all waiting in the lobby downstairs."

Yang Guangming nodded and went downstairs with Duan Yunfeng.

The film crew had all arrived in the hotel lobby.

Lan Tianye, dressed in a dark gray Zhongshan suit, looked energetic and exuded the air of a seasoned artist. Qin Yi, in a dark green cheongsam-style long dress, was elegant and poised; time had left its mark on her face, but her temperament had only grown more refined. Xi Meijuan, in a champagne-colored gown, appeared gentle and intellectual, while Gu Changwei, in a black suit, looked simple and capable.

Han Sanping also changed into a dark suit, looking exceptionally energetic.

"Is everyone ready?" Yang Guangming looked around at everyone.

Everyone nodded, their eyes filled with anticipation and a hint of nervousness.

"Let's go then. The car is already at the door."

Three black Mercedes-Benz sedans stopped in front of the hotel, and everyone got into the cars one by one.

The car slowly drove towards the Palais des Festivals, and the closer it got, the denser the crowd became. Police were maintaining order and clearing a special lane for vehicles attending the opening ceremony.

Upon arriving at the red carpet entrance, many filmmakers were already waiting to enter. The flashes from the cameras were clearly visible even in daylight.

"The cast and crew of 'Love,' please come this way." After checking the list, the staff guided them to the starting point of the red carpet.

Yang Guangming remained calm and composed, reassuring his team members in a steady tone: "Relax, smile, and enjoy the process. We are here representing Chinese cinema and we want to show our best."

Everyone nodded, straightened their clothes, and stepped onto the red carpet.

Instantly, a flood of flashes came from the cameras.

"It's the crew of 'Love'!"

"Yang Ming! Last year's Palme d'Or winner!"

Reporters shouted in various languages, and cameras were pointed at them. Since both Yang Guangming and Chen Kaige's films were nominated for the main competition, there were quite a few domestic reporters present.

Yang Guangming walked at the front with a composed gait. He wore a faint smile and nodded to the reporters and audience on both sides. Lan Tianye and Qin Yi walked on either side of him, with Xi Meijuan, Gu Changwei, and Han Sanping following behind.

The red carpet wasn't long, but they walked very slowly. Reporters kept asking them to stop for photos and pose.

"Director Yang! Look this way!"

"Teacher Lan! Over here!"

"Teacher Qin! Look here!"

Cheers and shouts rose and fell. As last year's Palme d'Or winner, Yang Guangming's return to the main competition this year was a major talking point. The fact that veteran artists Lan Tianye and Qin Yi were making their Cannes debuts further amplified the attention.

In the center of the red carpet, Yang Guangming stopped and had his team members line up for reporters to take photos.

The flashes were so intense it was blinding, but everyone was at their best.

Just then, a commotion arose nearby.

The cast and crew of Chen Kaige's "Temptress Moon" also walked the red carpet.

Chen Kaige, dressed in a black suit and glasses, exuded a refined yet dignified air. Leslie Cheung, in a dark tuxedo, possessed an elegant demeanor. Gong Li, in a stunning red gown, captivated the audience.

When the two Chinese film crews met on the red carpet, the reporters went even crazier.

"Director Chen! Director Yang! Let's take a picture together!"

"Two Chinese film crews! Please stand together!"

Chen Kaige and Yang Guangming exchanged a smile and stood together cooperatively. Members of both film crews also stood in two rows for reporters to take photos.

This scene became one of the highlights of the opening ceremony's red carpet.

Two Chinese film directors, one older and one younger, appeared together on the Cannes red carpet, symbolizing the passing of the torch between generations in Chinese cinema.

After taking the photos, Chen Kaige whispered to Yang Guangming, "See you inside in a bit."

"Okay, Director Chen."

The two film crews entered the film festival palace one after the other.

The palace hall was resplendent with gold and dazzling crystal chandeliers. Filmmakers, stars, directors, and producers from all over the world gathered together, their languages ​​mingling and the air filled with the scent of perfume.

Yang Guangming and his group were led to their seating area. As a film nominated for the main competition, their seats were relatively close to the front.

The opening ceremony officially began at 5 p.m.

The festival president took the stage to deliver a welcoming address to filmmakers from around the world. Jury president Francis Ford Coppola led the jury members on stage to a thunderous applause.

The opening film was a French film, and before the screening, the director and lead actor gave brief speeches on stage.

Sunlight watched all this quietly. This is Cannes, the pinnacle of world cinema. To be seated here is an affirmation in itself.

The opening ceremony lasted two hours. A short reception followed the screening.

Yang Guangming and his team actively engaged with filmmakers from various countries. He was fluent in English and could also communicate in French, so there were no barriers to communication.

Many people are curious about this young Chinese director, asking about his films and his background. Yang Guangming answers politely, neither overly humble nor boastful.

Although Lan Tianye and Qin Yi didn't speak the same language, their charisma and demeanor attracted many people. With the help of a translator, they were also able to have simple conversations with their foreign counterparts.

Xi Meijuan chatted amiably with several European actors. Gu Changwei, on the other hand, exchanged technical insights with several internationally renowned photographers.

As a producer, Han Sanping was busy meeting with distributors from various countries.

Halfway through the party, Chen Kaige walked over with a wine glass in his hand.

"Guangming, how are you feeling?"

“Great. The atmosphere is fantastic,” Yang Guangming replied.

Chen Kaige nodded: "Starting tomorrow, there will be a lot more activities. Media interviews, forums, parties... it will be quite busy."

He looked at Yang Guangming with a complicated expression: "But judging from your condition, you should be fine."

When Chen Kaige met Guangming in Cannes, his feelings were somewhat complicated.

Yang Guangming just won the Palme d'Or last year, and he won it all by himself, which is already a higher achievement than his. What makes him even more envious and jealous is that Yang Guangming comes from a very good family. His father is a tycoon in Hong Kong, and even ATV in Hong Kong is a family business.

Whether he felt envy or jealousy towards Yang Guangming's status, he could only keep it hidden deep inside.

This time, both of their films were nominated for the main competition, and the media kept comparing the two, which put a lot of pressure on him.

Last year, Bright Dairy won the Palme d'Or at Cannes, and he won it all by himself, which greatly affected his industry status.

Now that the two have become competitors, if he is ultimately outmaneuvered by Guangming, as an industry veteran, he will definitely be ridiculed by the media, which puts even more pressure on him.

His background was too powerful, and he couldn't do much about it; he even had to carefully choose his words when responding to media interviews.

Yang Guangming, on the other hand, appeared very calm and composed. Chen Kaige could tell that this was his true inner state, not a pretense, which made him even more envious.

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Director Chen, relax a bit. Our films are all very good, that's enough. Winning a major award is certainly gratifying, but even if we go home empty-handed, it doesn't negate the quality of the films."

Unlike Chen Kaige, Yang Guangming didn't experience the immense pressure he felt. His feelings were completely different; he was surrounded by warmth and kindness. Moreover, his confidence in winning the award naturally gave him a more composed and calm demeanor.

Chen Kaige was silent for a few seconds, then nodded: "You're right."

He raised his glass and clinked it against Yang Guangming's. (End of Chapter)