Huayu: Starting from joining the mainstream entertainment industry in 96

Chapter 554, Part 552: Entering the Immortal Path, A New Series
"Chairman Wang, are you done talking? I have something I'd like to discuss with you."

Zhao Benshan was dressed in a well-fitting dark Zhongshan suit, looking energetic and neat.

Although he is now the head of "Benshan Media" and has substantial assets, he still maintains sufficient respect and a unique sense of courtesy in front of Wang Sheng, the "regular army" commander.

"Teacher Zhao, you're too kind. Please sit down and let's talk." Wang Sheng smiled and gestured for him to sit down, personally pouring him a cup of tea.

He had always had a good impression of Zhao Benshan, who went from sketch comedy to television drama and now firmly occupies the northern viewership market with series such as "Liu Laogen" and "Ma Dashuai". His "Liu Laogen Grand Stage" is also very popular, making him a veritable "King of Northeast China".

More importantly, Zhao Benshan knows the rules and knows when to advance and retreat, and his cooperation with Shengying Group has always been pleasant.

Zhao Benshan didn't exchange many pleasantries. He took a sip of tea and got straight to the point: "Chairman Wang, to be honest, I've always had a dream of making movies."

He sighed, a hint of reminiscence and resentment in his eyes. "In my early years, I also made a few movies. I collaborated with the Pei Si brothers on 'Filial Sons and Virtuous Grandsons,' as well as 'Male Women's Director,' 'Happy Times,' and so on."

"The film itself was alright, people in the industry said, and some ordinary people liked it too, but as for the box office... sigh, most of it ended up in nobody's pocket. The market was chaotic back then, with rampant fraud and underreporting; honest people like us couldn't get by."

Wang Sheng nodded silently.

What Zhao Benshan said is indeed true. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, piracy was rampant in the Chinese film market, and cinemas came up with all sorts of ways to steal box office revenue. Many films of good quality ended up with dismal box office returns, and the producers lost a lot of money, which severely dampened their enthusiasm for creation.

Chen Peisi's withdrawal from the film industry back then was also directly related to the unfavorable environment and the inability to protect her rights.

“But things are different now,” Zhao Benshan changed the subject, his face regaining its radiance. “Thanks to the country, policies and regulations are becoming more and more comprehensive. In particular, Chairman Wang and your Shengying Film Studio have set a trend by implementing the cinema chain system, establishing formal distribution channels, and having that nationwide online ticketing system, which makes things much more transparent! I think in this market now, a good film can really make a profit! The box office performance of Twilight makes me, Old Zhao, very envious!”

He leaned forward, his tone eager: "I was thinking that while I'm still healthy and have some spare money, I should make another movie."

I'm working on the script. It's going to be the kind of comedy typical of Northeast China—down-to-earth and relatable.

However, I'm unsure about the publicity and distribution, and film scheduling, without Chairman Wang and your Shengying Group. Therefore, I'd like to ask Chairman Wang to get involved as well. Just a small role, perhaps a nominal one, to help oversee things and provide some support in terms of distribution channels. I would be extremely grateful!

Zhao Benshan doesn't lack money; what he lacks is the support and protection from Shengying Group on the distribution side, ensuring that the film can obtain ideal screenings and promotional resources nationwide, especially in cinemas with strong control over Shengying Group, so as to avoid repeating the same mistakes.

Inviting Shengying Investment is more about seeking a deeper partnership and a guarantee of credibility.

"Teacher Zhao, what are you saying?" Wang Sheng laughed heartily. "Your plays are popular with the public and have a strong audience base. As long as the script is sound, doesn't cross any censorship lines, and the film quality is excellent, I, Wang Sheng, will definitely support it!"

Don't worry about distribution and scheduling; Shengying's channels are your channels! As for investment, you set the percentage, and Shengying will co-invest—no problem!

Upon receiving Wang Sheng's straightforward promise, Zhao Benshan beamed with joy and slapped his thigh hard: "Great! Chairman Wang, with your words, I can finally breathe a sigh of relief! I won't say anything more, it's all in the wine... oh, I mean in the tea. I'll toast you with tea instead of wine!"

The two raised their glasses, clinked them together, and smiled at each other.

At this moment, Ma Yun, who had been keeping an eye on things, came over again.

He had just been rejected by Wang Sheng for investing in Shengying's core project, but his mind was still active.

When he heard that Zhao Benshan was going to make a movie, he felt that this might be an opportunity.

"Teacher Zhao, Chairman Wang, you're talking about a new project again?" Ma Yun asked with a smile. "Teacher Zhao is going to make a movie? That's great news! I wonder if I have the honor of learning from you and getting a small stake? Also, if there's a suitable role, I'd like to play a bit part or something. I'd love to experience acting and fulfill my dream."

Zhao Benshan glanced at Ma Yun, then at Wang Sheng.

Ma Yun is a friend of Wang Sheng. Although her main business is the internet, Alibaba is gaining momentum and she is not to be underestimated.

He figured that having more friends meant having more options, and Ma Yun's willingness to invest money, plus the added buzz from his fame, seemed like a good deal.

"Mr. Ma's interest is a big deal for me, Zhao!" Zhao Benshan laughed heartily, displaying the typical straightforwardness of a Northeasterner. "Investment is no problem, as for the role... I think Mr. Ma has the right temperament. Playing a big boss from the South who comes to the Northeast to investigate investment opportunities would be a perfect fit, and you'd definitely shine! I'll write a few lines for you, and I guarantee the audience will remember you!"

Upon hearing this, Ma Yun was overjoyed and repeatedly clasped her hands in thanks, saying, "That's wonderful! Thank you for your guidance, Teacher Zhao! I will definitely perform well and not let the crew down!"

"..."

At this point in the wedding banquet, most of the major matters had been discussed.

Wang Sheng dealt with several more groups of guests who came to offer toasts, inquire about projects, or simply become acquainted with him. It wasn't until after 3 p.m. that the guests gradually dispersed.

Chen Liang and his bride Su Ping stood at the hotel entrance to see off the guests. Wang Sheng, as the backbone of the group, also helped to take care of them, and saw off important guests such as Han Sanping, Jackie Chan, Ma Yun, Zheng Taiyuan, and Ouyang Changlin to their cars one by one.

The wedding ceremony was simple and warm, without any of the usual wedding pranks or teasing.

After seeing off the last few elders and allowing Chen Liang to enjoy her wedding night, Wang Sheng also got into his car and left.

……

In the evening, several of Beijing's most astute urban evening newspapers and the entertainment sections of emerging online portals published reports about the wedding of Chen Liang, a senior executive of Shengying Group.

"Shengying's core executives get married, and half of the entertainment and business tycoons are in attendance to offer their congratulations!"

"Wang Sheng showed up at his brother's wedding, presenting a villa, luxury cars, and generous gifts, and announced that everyone would receive red envelopes!"

"The wedding venue became a stage for fame and fortune, with big names like Wang Sheng, Jackie Chan, Zhao Benshan, and Ma Yun chatting animatedly, sparking speculation about a new project!"

The accompanying photos mostly showed Wang Sheng presenting the key on stage and chatting with Jackie Chan, Zhao Benshan, and others. These reports quickly attracted attention, with netizens marveling at Sheng Ying's wealth and Wang Sheng's generosity towards his friends, extending the wedding's popularity from offline to online.

……

As dusk settles, Wang Sheng's luxurious top-floor apartment is brightly lit, offering a superb view overlooking most of Beijing's dazzling nightscape.

He had just finished showering, and wearing a comfortable bathrobe, he sat on the sofa sipping a glass of red wine, relaxing his mind and body after a busy day.

The doorbell rang softly. The assistant reported in a low voice through the intercom system: "Chairman Wang, Ms. Son Ye-jin is here to visit."

Wang Sheng put down his wine glass and said calmly, "Please invite her in."

The door opened, and Son Ye-jin walked in.

She changed out of her pale yellow dress and was now wearing a beige fitted trench coat over a silk slip dress. Her makeup was more refined than during the day, and her long hair was slightly curled and cascaded over her shoulders. Under the lights, she looked gentle and charming, yet with a hint of barely perceptible nervousness.

"Chairman Wang, good evening." Son Ye-jin bowed slightly and greeted him in slightly hesitant Chinese, her voice soft.

"Miss Sun, please have a seat." Wang Sheng gestured to the sofa opposite him, his tone calm.

Son Ye-jin sat down as instructed, placing her hands somewhat awkwardly on her knees.

She mustered her courage, raised her head, and looked at Wang Sheng: "I apologize for disturbing you, Chairman Wang. Today at the wedding... I didn't have a chance to say more to you."

Wang Sheng looked into her clear eyes, which were described as "fairy eyes," and saw that they were filled with anticipation and trepidation.

He naturally knew why she had come.

This South Korean actress, known as "Sun Xian," has amassed considerable popularity in South Korea and even Asia for her pure and refined temperament and increasingly superb acting skills, but clearly, she is not satisfied with this.

Zheng Taiyuan's intention in bringing her here was all too clear.

"Miss Sun's Chinese has improved," Wang Sheng said, avoiding the question directly but instead offering a compliment.

"I've been working hard to learn," Son Ye-jin said with a shy smile. "I hope to have more opportunities to participate in Chairman Wang's projects in the future."

"Opportunity always favors the prepared mind," Wang Sheng said meaningfully. He got up, walked to the wine cabinet, took out another wine glass, and poured her a small glass of red wine. "Try it? It's from a small winery in Bordeaux, not bad."

Son Ye-jin quickly stood up and accepted the gift with both hands, saying, "Thank you, Chairman Wang."

The two clinked glasses gently.

The rich, smooth liquor slid down my throat, bringing a touch of warmth and easing the slightly tense atmosphere.

What followed was perfectly logical. Alcohol, the night, a lone man and woman, and their unspoken motives.

……

The next morning, sunlight streamed into the bedroom through the huge floor-to-ceiling windows.

When Wang Sheng woke up, there was no one beside him, only a faint fragrance remained on his pillow.

He didn't care; it was just a tacit, fleeting affair.

At nine o'clock in the morning, Wang Sheng appeared on time in the chairman's office on the top floor of the Jingxin Building.

Soon after, Jackie Chan entered, led by his assistant. He was dressed in a casual suit and looked very energetic.

"Good morning, Mr. Wang!"

"Mr. Cheng, please have a seat."

After exchanging pleasantries, the two sat down on the sofa in the reception area.

After serving the coffee, Li Tingting quietly left and closed the door behind her.

"Mr. Wang, the new idea you mentioned yesterday..." Jackie Chan couldn't wait to get to the point.

Wang Sheng took a leisurely sip of coffee, put down the cup, and then said, "Mr. Cheng, I've been thinking about a story recently, and I feel it's quite suitable for you. Let's tentatively call it... 'The Ace Bodyguard'."

"The Hitman's Bodyguard?" Jackie Chan repeated, quite interested.

“That’s right, the core of the story is a pair of enemies: one is a meticulous, rule-abiding top private bodyguard…” Wang Sheng pointed to Jackie Chan, indicating that the role suited him.

"The other one is outspoken, eccentric, and world-class... well, you could call him a 'free agent.' These two are forced together because of an important international case: one is tasked with protecting a key witness, while the other, for some reason, must also ensure the safety of that witness."

Thus, a rigid, law-abiding bodyguard and a eccentric, free-spirited 'information agent' are forced to embark on a perilous journey together. The entire trip is a road movie, with the two initially disliking each other and constantly bickering, but gradually coming to understand each other through life-or-death trials, ultimately forming a tacit understanding and working together to confront the true mastermind.

Wang Sheng briefly outlined the characters and main storyline, and continued: "The action scenes here can be designed to be very outstanding. They are not entirely the hard-hitting style you used to use. More clever action designs that utilize the environment and have a comedic touch can be added."

Meanwhile, the chemistry between these two characters is the biggest highlight. The contrast between their personalities is endearing, and their dialogue is full of sparks, which can both amuse the audience and showcase the brotherhood between men at crucial moments.

The global market should love this buddy cop approach, but we've upgraded it, setting it up in Europe and expanding the scope.

Jackie Chan listened and pondered, thinking that the setting was indeed ingenious!

It not only showcases his strengths in action comedy but also introduces powerful character conflicts and interactions, creating a dramatic tension.

It's somewhat similar to "Rush Hour"...

However, the road movie format ensures a rich variety of scenes, and the dual-protagonist setup features both conflict and growth, which is very much in line with the rules of modern commercial films.

Moreover, Wang Sheng's mentions of "comedic action design" and "global market" precisely hit the nail on the head.

Jackie Chan's return to Asia, while his personal choice, was not without its own regrets. After all, like John Woo, his career ended in what appeared to be a failure. If he could produce films in Asia, make a comeback in Hollywood, and have his movies continue to be bestsellers, then the significance would be far greater.

(End of this chapter)