Hollywood, I became a legend with special effects.

Chapter 178 Variety Show Launch: Sino-US Co-production

On the afternoon of the first Friday of November, in the rest area of ​​a members-only yoga studio in Beijing's Guomao area, several A-list female celebrities had just finished their private lessons and were leisurely drinking fruit and vegetable juice.

Li Bingbing, wearing Lululemon yoga clothes, wiped the fine sweat from her forehead with a towel and casually remarked, "Did you see yesterday's box office figures? 'Black Swan' has surpassed 2.2 million yuan in China, overtaking 'The Message'."

"It's not just domestically," another actress said, gently stirring the green liquid in her glass. "Globally, it's already worth 3.5 million US dollars."

Liu Yifei, now you really need to hold on tight.

The air was quiet for a few seconds, with only soft background music playing.

Everyone's expression was natural, but the subtle emotions in their eyes couldn't be hidden; envy, like tiny bubbles, quietly rose from the seemingly calm bottom of the juice glass.

Fan Binbin put down his cup and gave a perfectly timed smile: "Last week I went to the Light Chaser to talk about the follow-up promotion of 'My Sunshine.' The staff told me that she's keeping a low profile now, and she basically doesn't go out except for necessary work. Oh, by the way, she moved to a villa in Xishan. The security there is really good."

"Really?" someone immediately chimed in, their tone carrying just the right amount of curiosity. "With Jiang Yu?"

"Of course." Fan Binbin nodded. "But Jiang Yu wasn't there when I went. He basically doesn't go to Guangying Film Industry unless it's something important."

This complex emotion quietly spread to every corner of Beijing, Shanghai, and Hengdian.

At the shooting location of a fashion magazine, several actresses were scrolling through their phones while waiting backstage. The screens displayed news about the record-breaking pre-sales of "Twilight 2".

All eyes turned to Wen Muye.

This young man, who was working as an executive director for a TV series last year, took a deep breath and said with a determined look in his eyes: "I will do my best."

"Third," Jiang Xuerou paused, looked at Jiang Yu, and continued after receiving a nod, "the TV series 'My Love from the Star.' Director—Shen Ao."

The meeting room fell silent instantly.

Shen Ao was stunned, pointing to himself: "Me? In a TV series?"

"Yes," Jiang Yu said. "Director Shen, I know you'd rather make a movie, but this project is very important. I need a director who can strike a balance between science fiction and romance, a director who can bring fantastic ideas to life, and you are the most suitable candidate."

Shen Ao opened his mouth as if to say something, but didn't say anything.

"Moreover," Jiang Xuerou continued, "the cast of this project—is worth a try."

She switched to the next page of the PowerPoint presentation.

Two names popped up on the screen: Liu Yifei and Jiang Yu.

The meeting room became even quieter.

A few seconds later, Wang Zhixian laughed out loud: "President Jiang, are you going to personally accompany your girlfriend on set?"

Zhang Jin also laughed: "The richest man playing an alien professor? This is going to be a huge hit."

Zhu Yilong whispered, "Sister Yifei really hasn't acted in a TV series for four years —"

Lu Yang patted Shen Ao on the shoulder: "Brother, the pressure is immense. The director and his wife—"

Shen Ao snapped out of his shock, looked at Jiang Yu, and finally understood why this project was so important.

The boss is going to act in it himself, and he'll be paired with Liu Yifei.

This is no ordinary TV drama project; it's a project featuring a couple, a project that could potentially create a ratings phenomenon.

"President Jiang," Shen Ao took a deep breath and became serious, "If it's a role starring you and Yi Fei, then I'll accept it. But I have three requirements."

"explain."

"First, the production quality must meet film standards, and the budget cannot be cut; second, the script must be polished to its best, and I need three months to work with the screenwriting team; third, during filming, there will only be the director and actors on set, no bosses or staff."

Jiang Yu smiled: "Sure, I agree to everything. There's no budget limit; you can have whatever you want. You'll be involved in the scriptwriting process from start to finish, and the writing team will follow your lead. As for the film set—"

He looked at Shen Ao and said, "Don't worry, since I've decided to act, I will respect the director. On set, you're the director, and I'm the actor. We'll scold you if necessary, and reshoot if needed."

Shen Ao breathed a sigh of relief: "Then I'm fine with it. When is the script meeting?"

"Next week," Jiang Xuerou said. "The screenwriting team has already written three drafts. You and Yifei will go through them together. Yifei is the producer of this TV series. In addition, the art, costume, and special effects teams are already being assembled, and they are all top-notch in China."

"it is good."

The meeting discussed several other projects and ended at 7 p.m.

As everyone left one by one, Jiang Yu was the last to get up.

"Oh, right," Jiang Yu said to Jiang Xuerou, remembering something, "Keep the 'My Love from the Star' project a secret for now. Especially my role as the lead actress, we'll announce it when the time is right."

"clear."

8:10 PM, Xishan Villa.

The aroma of sweet and sour pork ribs wafted from the kitchen.

Liu Yifei, wearing a floral apron, was stir-frying broccoli in a wok.

Three dishes were already laid out on the table: sweet and sour pork ribs, steamed sea bass, and tomato and egg soup.

They were all home-style dishes, but the presentation was exquisite, showing that care had been put into them.

The door lock clicked, and Jiang Yu returned.

"You're back?" Liu Yifei poked her head out from the kitchen with a smile on her face. "Wash your hands and eat. The last dish will be ready soon."

"So virtuous today?" Jiang Yu walked over with a smile, hugged her from behind, and rested his chin on her shoulder. "The richest man's wife."

I'm flattered that they cooked for me personally.

"Who's your wife?!" Liu Yifei blushed and nudged him gently with her elbow. "Go wash your hands! Also, light the candles on the table. I bought new scented candles today."

Five minutes later, in the restaurant.

The warm yellow candlelight flickered, and there was a faint scent of orange blossom in the air.

The two sat facing each other, like any ordinary couple, preparing to enjoy a simple dinner.

Jiang Yu tasted the ribs first and nodded: "Not bad, it's an improvement over last time."

"That's right, I specifically learned it from Auntie." Liu Yifei proudly raised her chin. "But Jiang Yu, why are you so late today? Something happened at the company?"

"We had a long meeting." Jiang Yu briefly talked about the cooperation with Dragon TV and the arrangements for new projects.

When Liu Yifei heard that "My Love from the Star" was going to be filmed and that Jiang Yu would be playing the male lead, she was stunned, and then smiled sweetly.

She put down her chopsticks, her eyes widening: "You agreed to play Liu Jun? That alien professor who's lived for four hundred years?"

"Yes." Jiang Yu looked at her. "You'll play An Xin, a national actress. How about it, interested?"

Liu Yifei picked up her water glass, took a sip, and thought for a moment: "I haven't acted in a TV series in four years—the last one was 'The Return of the Condor Heroes.' If it were to be filmed with you, I think I could give it a try. But Jiang Yu, do you really have the time? The company has so many things to do, so many projects to invest in—"

"There's always time if you squeeze it in," Jiang Yu said. "Besides, I've thought about it, and this film is meaningful to all of us."

"What does it mean?"

"The significance of commemoration." Jiang Yu looked at her earnestly, "Let's make a film that we both star in, so that everyone can see that we're not just lovers, but also business partners, partners who can help each other succeed. That way, there will be far fewer speculations and rumors about our relationship in the future; saying that you're after my money, saying that I'm after your fame; these voices will be much less."

Liu Yifei understood.

Ever since Jiang Yu appeared on the Hurun Rich List, rumors about their relationship have never stopped.

Although neither of them cared, hearing it too often was still annoying.

If they can prove their chemistry and professionalism through a single work, it can certainly shut up many people's criticisms.

"Moreover," Jiang Yu added, his tone softening, "didn't you always want me to act with you? The character An Xin, on the surface, is a big star, glamorous and successful, but inside she's vulnerable and lonely, with a longing and fear of true love. If you play her well, you can completely break through your previous image, not just being a 'fairy sister,' not just 'Black Swan,' you can also play fashionable, comedic, and deeply affectionate roles—much more diverse characters."

Liu Yifei was itching to see what was going on; she really needed a project to prove her versatility.

Black Swan proved her acting depth, but her acting style was limited.

"Okay, I'll take it." She nodded, but then raised her index finger. "But you have to agree to three conditions."

"you say."

"First, you can't act like a boss during filming; you have to listen to Director Shen. Second, you can't give me special treatment just because I'm your girlfriend; you have to be strict when necessary. Third—"

Her face flushed slightly. "Just because we have many scenes together doesn't mean I should take advantage of the situation."

Jiang Yu laughed, raising his hand as if to swear: "I promise. On set, you're my senior, I'll listen to you. And how could I dare to take advantage of you? Everyone's watching."

The two continued eating, discussing the script as they ate.

Liu Yifei had already read the synopsis of "My Love from the Star" and felt a strong connection to the character An Xin: "I think the most touching thing about An Xin isn't how famous or beautiful she is, but her loneliness under the spotlight. Everyone loves her, but no one truly understands her. Until she meets Liu Jun—"

"So Liu Jun is not only her lover, but also her salvation," Jiang Yu continued. "An alien who has lived for four hundred years and seen all the ups and downs of life, and a seemingly glamorous but inwardly lonely female celebrity—they are actually the same kind of people."

"Yes!" Liu Yifei's eyes lit up. "That's exactly the feeling! You understand perfectly!"

"Of course, otherwise how could I play your boyfriend?" Jiang Yu teased.

The meal took almost an hour.

After dinner, Liu Yifei washed the dishes, and Jiang Yu helped dry them. This was their unspoken understanding: they did housework together.

"Oh, right," Liu Yifei remembered something, "Sister Li called me today and said that several international brands have approached me for endorsements, and their asking prices are outrageously high."

What brand?

"A Swiss watch, a French jewelry piece, and another—" She paused, her expression odd, "a private jet brand."

Jiang Yu raised an eyebrow: "A private jet?"

"Hmm, they want me as their spokesperson, and they're asking for eight figures." Liu Yifei stuck out her tongue. "A private jet, huh? I don't even know how to respond. I told them I don't even have a pilot's license, and they said it's okay, I can learn—"

Jiang Yu thought for a moment: "Watches and jewelry are acceptable, but they should be high-end. Private jets—forget it, too flashy, and don't suit your image."

"I think so too." Liu Yifei nodded. "But Jiang Yu, Sister Li said that my endorsement fee is already the highest among domestic female stars, even higher than some of my seniors."

"Of course." Jiang Yu wiped the last plate dry, put down the towel, turned to look at her, "Venice Film Festival Best Actress, global box office of 2.5 billion RMB, your commercial value should naturally be the highest."

Liu Yifei felt a warmth in her heart, leaned over and kissed him on the cheek: "Thank you."

"What are you thanking me for?"

"Thank you for always believing in me and supporting me."

After cleaning up the kitchen, the two snuggled up on the sofa to watch a movie.

Liu Yifei suddenly said, "Jiang Yu, let's go on a trip after the annual meeting. Just like a normal couple, no reporters, no fans, just the two of us."

"Where do you want to go?"

"Europe? Find a small town, stay for a few days, sleep in until you naturally wake up, stroll through the market, cook some meals, and nobody knows us—"

"Okay." Jiang Yu hugged her tighter. "It's a deal. I'll take you to Tuscany. I have a friend there who owns a winery. We can stay there for a while."

"Really?" Liu Yifei's eyes lit up.

"Really. But right now—" Jiang Yu glanced at the time, "I have to take care of some work first. David said the first cut of 'Lucy' has arrived, let me take a look."

The two moved to the study.

Jiang Yu turned on his computer, entered the password (Liu Yifei's birthday), and downloaded the encrypted file.

While waiting for the download to complete, Liu Yifei nervously rubbed her hands together, asking, "Do you think it will look good?"

"With Luc Besson's level of skill and your performance, it's impossible for it not to be good." Jiang Yu held her hand. "Relax."

""

Once the file has been downloaded, open it.

After the opening credits, the first shot is a close-up of Liu Yifei.

She walked through the streets of Hong Kong, her eyes vacant, carrying a silver briefcase.

Suddenly, a group of thugs surrounded her, shoving her and trying to snatch the suitcase.

The next five minutes were filled with fluid action scenes: Liu Yifei's movements were clean and crisp, without any unnecessary frills, and every move went straight for the vital points.

Her eyes changed during the fight, from initial fear to calmness, and then to an almost ruthless determination.

"Is this really me?" Liu Yifei was stunned.

She recalled that when filming this scene, she practiced for a whole week with the help of the action director, and her whole body ached every day.

"Of course it's you." Jiang Yu squeezed her hand, his eyes fixed on the screen. "You acted so well."

The movie continues.

Lucy (played by Liu Yifei) is forced to become a drug mule. The drugs break down in her body, and her body begins to mutate.

In this segment, Luc Besson employs a great deal of surreal cinematic language: cells dividing under a microscope, brain neurons flashing, the world transforming into a stream of data in her eyes—

The background music is eerie electronic sounds, creating a sci-fi and thrilling atmosphere.

As her brain's potential was continuously developed—10%, 20%, 50%—Lucy gained various superpowers: mind reading,

Mind control, instant learning, time travel. Liu Yifei's performance reached its climax here: she was no longer that timid girl, but a being gradually approaching "godhood".

In her eyes, there was no joy of becoming a god, only a growing loneliness and confusion.

"I want to retain a little humanity," Lucy tells the scientist in the movie, "even if it's just 1%."

That look in her eyes, both fragile and resolute, sent a shiver down Liu Yifei's spine as she watched on screen.

In the last ten minutes, Lucy's potential was developed to 100%.

Her body began to particle-like, merging into the spacetime continuum of the universe.

That shot was breathtakingly beautiful. Liu Yifei stood in the center of the laboratory, her body gradually becoming transparent, turning into countless shimmering points of light, flowing and rising like a galaxy, and finally disappearing into endless space and time.

There was no pain or fear on her face, only one thing—understanding; as if she had finally found her home.

The end credits roll.

The study was quiet for a long time, with only the slight sound of the computer cooling fan.

Liu Yifei turned her head. "Jiang Yu—was my acting alright?"

"It's not just okay," Jiang Yu's voice was a little hoarse, "it's too good. It's better than I expected, so good that—I don't know how to describe it."

He turned off the computer and pulled Liu Yifei into his arms: "Teacher Liu, you're about to shock the world again."

"Jiang Yu," she said softly, "if it weren't for your insistence on me taking this role, if it weren't for your belief in me—"

Jiang Yu kissed her forehead. "You seized the opportunity yourself, and your performance won over the camera. At most, I was just the one in the audience who applauded you from the very beginning."

The two sat embracing, the night outside the window deep and dark.