This director is so innocent.

Chapter 116, "The Coffin in the Mountain," premieres.

March 27rd, 9 PM.

The premiere of "The Coffin in the Mountain" was held at the Beijing Exhibition Center.

After Han Sanping became a full-fledged director at China Film Group, his prestige greatly increased. With just one phone call, the heads of film companies and well-known directors would all give him face, and basically everyone who was available would come.

The premiere was free; it was sponsored by Sina Weibo and Guangxian, and broadcast on the movie channel, for which they paid a broadcasting fee.

Two years later, the movie channel stopped operating because the ratings were too poor.

"Mr. Wang, thank you for coming!"

"Since Third Master invited me, I dared not refuse!" Xiao Wang said self-deprecatingly, holding Su Jin's hand.

Don't talk nonsense in front of me. If you're so capable, go talk to Zuo Shandiao and see if he'll punish you.

After sending Xiao Wang inside, Su Jin saw Old Yang, followed by the twins.

Old Yang looked quite well, showing no signs of having lost 2000 million yuan investing in "The Sun Also Rises".

But he guessed it was an act, since Yinghuang is a listed company, and after the news was disclosed, the company's market value dropped by several hundred million.

"President Su, your premiere is quite a grand affair!" Old Yang remarked with some emotion, noting that he had seen many familiar faces at the entrance.

"It's nothing special. Everyone's here because of President Han," Su Jin explained with a smile.

Old Yang smiled slightly, and seeing that Su Jin was alone, said, "Should I leave Asa and Ajiao here to help you greet the guests?"

"Thank you, Mr. Yang, but it's not necessary. I can handle it by myself. You can go inside and greet the guests for me," Su Jin politely declined.

"Alright then." Old Yang didn't insist and turned to lead the twins into the inner area.

Then, the glamorous heads of mainland film and television companies, such as Wang Changtian, Yu Pangzi of Polybona, Ye Ning of Yida, Zhuang Liqi of Chengtian, and Qin Hui of Xingmei, all made their appearances.

You might not be familiar with the name Qin Hui, but you've probably heard of the "Heaven on Earth" nightclub in Beijing, right? That's his.

Star Media specializes in producing art films, including "Perhaps Love," "Shanghai Dreams," and the currently filming "Nanjing! Nanjing."

The couple from Xinbaoyuan and Liu Yanming from Hairun also came. As Jianmu Media's initial partners, it was only natural to invite them.

Many celebrities also came, such as Chen Daomin, Fan Bayi, Li Lianhua, Huang Xiaoming, Chen Kun, and so on.

The premiere began at 7:40.

The host is Xie Nan, and the company is sponsored by Guangxian. Of course, the host has to use their services.

Xie Nan first went on stage to introduce the synopsis of "The Coffin in the Mountain" and explained the process, and then the film screening began.

Premieres generally take two forms: one is to not play the film to prevent leaks, but only play a few clips; the other is to play the film to build word-of-mouth.

The Coffin in the Mountain uses the second method.

Human nature is the most complex, elusive, and difficult-to-discern thing in the world.

It's like a maze; once you have a secret you can't tell, your heart will be tormented, and only those who are deeply trapped in it can understand.

As Keigo Higashino said, "There are two things in the world that cannot be looked at directly: the sun and the human heart. In the face of human nature, people are always insignificant beings."

The story of "The Coffin in the Mountain" is actually very simple.

The story mainly revolves around a young man who wants to break free from patriarchal authority, but accidentally kills a local thug during an argument and is forced to flee.

Just as he was about to return to the village to turn himself in, he discovered that the case had already been closed.

However, this matter did not end there. Dramatic events occurred one after another, and everyone was sinking deeper and deeper into the vortex of fate.

A corpse became the trigger for all the events, revealing the complex web of selfishness within human nature.

Because of their own selfishness, they have distorted the truth into a maze.

Everyone has their own agenda, all for the sake of getting the result they want.

In this gamble where everyone loses, no one emerges unscathed.

The lights in the stadium went out, and the screen lit up.

After the dragon logo appeared, Iogo logos from three companies—Jianmu Media, China Film Group, and Dama Benteng—appeared one after another.

Snapped.

Black screen, a traditional film opening technique, with the sound of a lighter entering first, that is, sound first.

A woman is kneeling on the ground burning incense. The background of the image has been almost de-colored, while the figure retains its normal skin tone.

Background information: Mourning attire.

Film critics and several directors nodded slightly after watching the first shot. The handling was very clean and mature, unlike that of a novice.

Moreover, there are metaphors.

Look at the decolorization of the image and the background information about mourning clothes.

These two things probably refer to the tone of the film: death and despair.

Ordinary viewers didn't think too much about it; they just felt that Yu Nan had a unique beauty, which was probably the charm of a widow!

The movie continues, and a van speeds along the road. Liu Hua, who plays Da Zhuang, and Feng Yuanzheng, who makes a cameo appearance as Chen Zili, appear on screen.

Finally, Liu Hua held up a stone and aimed it at Feng Yuan, who was sleeping.

The scene shifts to a wide shot, and with a "bang," the words "The Maze of Hearts" appear in the center of the screen.

Many viewers, upon hearing the "bang" sound, habitually assumed that Liu Hua had smashed Feng Yuanzheng to death.

Then I realized, something's not right!

The film is advertised as a dark suspense thriller, with a plot that will surprise you. It shamelessly claims to be the best suspense film made in China in the last decade, and that you'll regret not watching it.

If it were that easy to guess, then that would be a bit of an exaggeration.

While I was pondering this, the movie had already progressed to the scene of the banquet, which was the eight-minute long take of the film.

As moviegoers know, every long take in a film has its special purpose, and the seven characters in this scene must be important figures.

After careful observation, they found these six people to be particularly interesting.

Dazhuang has a crush on Liqin, Liqin is having an affair with Wang Baoshan, Wang Baoshan and Huang Huan are enemies, Huang Huan and Xiao Zongyao are in a secret relationship, and Xiao Zongyao and Xiao Jianguo are father and son.

This screenwriter is amazing!

The long take in just a short shot explained all the relationships between the characters.

With its alternating narratives, flashbacks, and flashforwards, the film has been running for an hour. The average viewer is finding it a bit daunting, and many don't quite understand it, but they still patiently watch on.

Film critics also frowned, saying that for the first hour the film was of good quality, constantly setting up plot holes and leaving suspense.

If this problem cannot be solved in the next half hour, or if failing to do so is illogical, then I can only give it a passing grade of 0.

Directors such as Feng Xiaogang, Jia Zhangke, and Li Yang, in addition to focusing on the plot, also paid attention to the visuals, composition, and camera work.

Aside from the long shot of the banquet at the beginning, their favorite scene was undoubtedly the one where the camera was carried on their shoulders at night.

By using shaky camera work, close-ups, overhead shots, and a dimly lit atmosphere, the film creates a realistic and rough feel, giving the audience a thrilling sense of immersion.

This is the sense of realism brought about by the mockumentary filming technique.

Of course, this also aligns with the theme the film aims to convey—the darker side of human nature.

The last 25 minutes of the film are told from Xiao Jianguo's perspective, which unravels all the mysteries set up earlier.

Everyone suddenly realized what was going on.

The coffin was very light because the village chief stole the white tiger's body.

Why did the village chief and secretary take a walk in the early morning? Because he wanted to find a witness.

Why is the village chief constantly repairing the pigsty? Because the body of the white tiger is buried beneath the pigsty.

At the end of the film, a wide shot shows a gray sky with a coffin standing in the middle, father and son looking at each other in silence.

This shot shocked everyone and elevated the entire film.

If they had given "The Coffin in the Mountain" a 7 out of 10 before this, then adding the last shot would give it a 9.

Minute.

Just as the screen went dark and the audience thought the movie was about to end, Huang Huan and her best friend (played by Yang Mi in a cameo role) appeared on the phone, adding incense money and praying to Buddha.

Ordinary viewers were simply struck by the complexity of human nature; Baihu, a gambler, didn't steal money, but instead donated it.

Film critics and directors were greatly shocked, because this matched the very first scene of the movie!

Both shots are taken from above, and both depict scenes of burning incense and praying to Buddha.

this----

That's awesome!

The overhead shot implies treating the audience as God, placing you on a moral high ground to observe the complexities of human nature.

To describe it in four ways, one must understand how the Buddha views all sentient beings.

The thank-you list appears, the video ends, and the lights come on.

The entire audience stood up and applauded, paying high tribute to all the staff of "The Coffin in the Mountain".

They all felt that the day was worthwhile, having watched a very exciting film.

After the applause subsided a bit, host Xie Nan went on stage and said, "Let's give a warm round of applause to welcome 'The Coffin in the Mountain'!"

The entire creative team came to the stage.

"They are self-directed, self-written and self-acted, directed by Su Jin, winner of the Cannes Jury Prize, and Zhang Guoli, a national first-class actor."

""

"Art-house film queen Yu Nan, Golden Horse Award-winning actor Liu Ye, popular actor Guo Tao, Spring Festival Gala regular Fan Wei, and newcomer actress Liu Shishi."

Feng Yuanzheng didn't come; he was invited, but he was busy filming.

Su Jin and the other six introduced their respective roles to the audience. Afterwards, Su Jin flattered Zuo Shandiao, saying that without him there would be no movie, basically calling him the number one talent scout in mainland China, someone with a keen eye for talent.

After exchanging words of gratitude and sharing some amusing anecdotes from the film crew, the Q&A session with reporters began.

"Director Su, first of all, the movie is wonderful, I really like it, and I believe the audience will like it too. My question is, why did you choose Zhang Guoli to play the lead role?" a reporter from the Beijing News asked.

"Because he was a good fit, when I was writing this script, the first person I thought of was Mr. Zhang Guoli. He was a perfect fit for the role of the village chief in the film."

Let me tell you something: Zhang Guoli is incredibly dedicated. To prepare for this role, he specifically spent two months living in a village to experience life there and learn how to be a good village chief.

This is a bit of an exaggeration; in reality, Zhang Guoli only stayed for a month before returning.

However, that's how publicity works; how can you gain the audience's respect without exaggerating a little?

"What about Teacher Yu Nan?"

"Do I even need to explain why we chose Ms. Yu Nan? She's the queen of art-house films, a multiple film festival Best Actress winner, and no one is more suitable for the role of Liqin than her."

After asking a few more questions, it was Zhang Guoli and his group's turn.

Zhang Guoli said, "I am very grateful to Director Su for casting an old man like me in such an excellent film, which gave me the opportunity to go to Cannes. Although I did not win an award, which is a bit of a pity, I have learned a lot."

Yu Nan said, "I really don't dare to accept the title of 'Queen of Art Films' that Director Su mentioned. I am still a young actress, and I am on the path to becoming the Queen of Art Films."

However, I still want to thank Director Su for choosing me, giving me the opportunity to work with so many excellent actors.

Liu Ye said, "I have nothing to say, Director Su is awesome."

Guo Tao said, "This is my second collaboration with Director Su. The first time was in 'Stone,' where he played my younger brother. I never expected that a year later I would become an actor under Director Su."

Fan Wei said, "As a sketch actor, I was surprised, hesitant, and uncertain when I first received the invitation."

I felt even more lost when I learned that teachers like Zhang Guoli and Yu Nan were among them.

I asked myself, am I qualified? Can I act well?

Finally, I realized I wasn't good enough and needed to learn. I wanted to refuse, but Director Su said to me very assertively, "Just act however you want, and I'll take responsibility if anything goes wrong."

Dude, are you putting on a comedy sketch here?!

When did I become so domineering? You were the one who received the invitation and asked about the start time without even thinking.

After Su Jin finished complaining in her heart, it was Sister Xia's turn. She was a little nervous, as she still lacked experience.

"Thank you, Director Su, for choosing me as a newcomer actor, giving me the opportunity to work with such talented and chubby actors. They were very kind on set, teaching me things that are chubby and taking great care of me. Thank you."

Su Jin saw that everyone had finished answering, but none of them had any interesting topics to discuss. This wouldn't do!

Without sensational topics, the articles written by media reporters are just average, and people have no desire to read them.

It seems we need to activate the backup plan.

He gave Yihua San a look, signaling him to speak.

This was something the two of them had agreed upon before going on stage; if there were no sensational topics, he would step in.

Of course, he wouldn't let Hua work for nothing; they'll collaborate on a film in the future.

Don't think the benefits are too great, because later they need to find Hua to film "Ghost Blows Out the Light". This is equivalent to not paying anything and Hua doing the job.

Hua nodded slightly to indicate that she had received the message.

He picked up the microphone and said, "I'd like to add something. I've filmed quite a few explicit scenes, but the crew of 'The Coffin in the Mountain' is the cleanest crew I've ever worked on."

Grass----

After waiting for an hour or two, the main course was finally served.

The media reporters were very excited and picked up their microphones to ask why.

Hua smiled slightly, raised her hand and pressed down, signaling them to quiet down.

"I believe everyone has a common understanding of the entertainment industry, which is that unspoken rules are very prevalent."

I can tell you with certainty that it is exactly as you think.

There's only so much "sex appeal" in the industry, and if actors are too attractive, how do they stand out? Through unspoken rules, of course!

The crew of "The Coffin in the Mountain" was different. There was no scheming or underhanded dealings. Everyone focused on acting and left work on time. Occasionally, they would have a bonfire party and everyone had a great time.

Therefore, I sincerely hope everyone will give "The Coffin in the Mountain" a good recommendation. It's a really great movie, thank you!!

After he finished speaking, he bowed deeply.

This was also planned in advance.

He criticizes you from the front, then changes things from behind, claiming to be a simple person, and then bows and bends over, implying that he is honest, kind, and sincere.

What does "unspoken rules" mean?

It refers to an invisible, unwritten, customary, and unrestricted rule that is widely recognized, practically effective, and that people must "follow."

To put it simply, it means I communicate with you about art, and you provide me with resources.

Generally speaking, once I've discussed art with you, I'll give you resources. I rarely try to seduce you, because trust is important in these kinds of things!

If you break your promise this time, your credit score will drop, and no one will want to discuss art with you again next time.

Of course, there are also those who break their promises.

Two years ago, an actress brought the issue of unspoken rules to the forefront and directly sued thirty directors, causing a huge uproar in the Chinese entertainment industry.

Zhang Yu, an obscure actress, spoke to the media, claiming that director Huang Jianzhong did not provide her with resources according to the rules, and that she had sufficient evidence.

The evidence consists of two audio tapes and other video tapes.

Who exactly is Huang Jianfu?

He is a famous director from Malaysia. He directed "The Swordsman" starring Big Beard, and also a movie called "Little Flower".

This movie is so moving that it brings tears to everyone's eyes. Even someone as strong as Comrade Su Fu watched it in complete silence.

Although this incident caused quite a stir, and Huang Jianfu made headlines for a month, it was all bark and no bite.

The internet wasn't developed enough!

Even if they make a fuss, it won't get much worse.

The subsequent development of this incident was that Huang Jianfu, along with Big Beard and a group of big directors in the industry, collectively blacklisted Zhang Yu.

After that, Zhang Yu started hanging out with Song Zude, and eventually married someone outside the entertainment industry.

When Su Jin first saw this news, she felt contempt for Huang Jianfu.

If you can't provide resources to others, then don't discuss art!

After exchanging information, they don't share resources with others. Isn't that just a complete violation of the industry's unspoken rules?

If everyone did this, what would be the point of the Chinese entertainment industry? It would be bland and tasteless; they might as well go home and sell sweet potatoes.

Actually, the unspoken rules in the Chinese entertainment industry are relatively mild, emphasizing mutual consent and suggestive language.

Korean entertainment is truly formidable, giving you direct orders. American entertainment is no less impressive, with its iconic red sofas being a prime example.

After asking questions, the last question from a reporter was: "Director Su, what's your general prediction for the box office performance of 'The Coffin in the Mountain'?"

"Eighty million," Su Jin said, surprising everyone.

Predicting box office revenue!

If you don't exaggerate a bit, how will you generate buzz?

He was being modest. As the distributor of "The Sun Also Rises," Polybona directly predicted that the film would gross over 100 million yuan.

Looking at it now, let alone breaking 100 million, it hasn't even reached 20 million. It's a huge loss.

Media reporters and film critics were all stunned by Su Jin's offer of 80 million.

Su Jin really dares to speak her mind!

With a box office of 80 million, it could easily rank among the top five highest-grossing domestic films of the year.

However, they were very excited and had even come up with a headline for tomorrow.

The head of the Beggar's Shadow Company chuckled and thought that young people were just beggars. He said that having 50 million would be a blessing, let alone 80 million.

In their view, the subject matter of "The Coffin in the Mountain" determined its upper limit, which was a maximum of 60 to 70 million yuan at the box office, and it couldn't be any bigger.

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