This director is so innocent.

Chapter 118 When you're in the game, you need a background.

"Director, have the opening day box office results been released?"

Liu Hua saw Su Jin hang up the phone and immediately asked.

The other five also focused their attention on Su Jin, their eyes revealing the same longing and expectation.

They all know that the opening day box office is crucial for a film; it not only determines the film's commercial success but also their chances of rising to stardom.

Su Jin smiled and nodded, but did not answer the question immediately, instead keeping it a secret.

"What do you think the opening day box office will be?"

Upon hearing this question, the five people either rolled their eyes or remained speechless.

"Stop guessing, director, we're all getting impatient," Liu Hua said helplessly.

"That's right, that's right," the other five echoed.

Seeing how anxious they were, Su Jin couldn't help but burst into laughter. No wonder those who announced the winners liked to keep people in suspense; it was really funny.

"The opening day box office results were quite good, a bit more than you expected."

At this point, Su Jin paused deliberately, and when she saw the dissatisfied looks from everyone, she finally stopped teasing them.

1130.

As soon as he finished speaking, the room fell into a brief silence, followed by a burst of cheers.

"Hold----"

"Awesome."

"This is on track to break 100 million!"

"Director, I'm not saying anything more. Just watch how I unleash my attacks over the next few days!"

Once they quieted down, Su Jin said, "You're all veteran actors. The box office broke ten million on the first day, so I probably don't need to explain it to you."

If nothing unexpected happens, there's a high chance it will exceed 100 million.

So, I've arranged several film magazine interviews for you, two campus tours, and an online Q&A session on Tianya Forum.

After saying that, Su Jin looked at Liu Ye and continued, "Liu Ye, you can't go back next week. You have to continue participating in the upcoming roadshow."

"I'm fine with it, but what about Director Lu—"

"You don't need to worry about this, I'll talk to him about it."

"Then I'm all set."

Su Jin nodded, turned her gaze to the blind woman, and said softly, "Shishi, you—"

Before he could finish speaking, Liu Shishi immediately replied, "I have no problem either. I'm just a supporting character, it's fine if I go back a little later."

"OK, I'll call Cai Yinong later and explain the situation."

97

"it is good."

"Comrades, whether you can become actors in the 100 million yuan box office club depends on the upcoming roadshow."

If you succeed, your film salary will immediately double, and you'll have no shortage of endorsements and commercial performances.

Failure—failure is impossible; success is certain.

"come on."

"come on."

Meanwhile, at the Polybona headquarters building.

After listening to the report from Huang Wei, the head of the film department, Fatty Yu's mood plummeted.

Seeing the pre-release promotional campaign for "The Coffin in the Mountain," he knew that "Triangle" couldn't beat "The Coffin in the Mountain."

But little did they know that it wouldn't even reach half of the opening day box office; what a joke!

Tsui Hark is terrible. He can't even compare to a young person. He's making movies for nothing. He should just retire.

"Mr. Yu, do you think Plan B should still be implemented?" Huang Wei asked cautiously.

They had previously developed two plans.

Plan A involves exposing the other party's dirty secrets and creating scandals about one's own actors, but since the other party has no dirty secrets, the only thing that can be done is create scandals.

It's not that there isn't any!

The incident of Zhang Guoli's son assaulting someone caused quite a stir, but it happened three or four years ago, so it's completely useless now.

Plan B refers to the scene with subtitles in the final scene of "The Coffin in the Mountain." They discovered that "The Coffin in the Mountain" did not have subtitles at its Cannes premiere, but it did in China, and they planned to report this to higher authorities.

"Forget it, you can go out now! Let me have some peace and quiet." Fatty Yu waved his hand, looking utterly hopeless.

It wasn't that he didn't want to do it, but "The Coffin in the Mountain" had a chance of breaking 100 million views, and the higher-ups would never let him do it.

Domestic films have annual box office targets, and a film that breaks 100 million yuan is related to the performance of many people.

If he insists on doing it anyway, his superiors will definitely think he's being unreasonable and ungrateful.

So why bother?

He might as well just give up. Anyway, there are five investors in "Triangle" who share the risk, and he is the smallest investor, so he will only lose three or four million.

The news that "The Coffin in the Mountain" grossed over 10 million yuan on its opening day immediately sparked heated discussions on the internet.

"Su Jin defeated Xu Ke, Du Qifeng, and Lin Lingdong in a one-on-one match."

"The Coffin in the Mountain" grossed over 10 million yuan on its opening day and is expected to surpass 100 million yuan.

"The Coffin in the Mountain" grossed over 10 million yuan on its opening day, while Triangle only grossed 2 million yuan, marking a generational shift.

"Su Jin, a genius writer, proved to the world that he is also a genius in directing."

"Unveiling the Rise of Genius Su Jin".

Compared to the media's hype, the audience members who watched the film yesterday also expressed their own opinions.

"The best dark suspense masterpiece of the last decade."

"No wonder it won the Cannes Jury Prize, it was truly excellent. I was still in a daze after watching it."

.

"You will definitely be confused. You have to watch this movie carefully and not get distracted, otherwise you will be like when you are learning math, and the moment you bend down to pick up a pen, you can no longer understand the blackboard."

"You guys are just bragging! Is it really that good? I can't stand watching it."

"If you can't stand it, it just means you're only suited to this kind of movie. You can find another popcorn movie instead. Don't make it hard on yourself."

Most viewers will just think it's awesome but can't explain why, while film critics will give very professional explanations.

"I wonder how many screenwriting enthusiasts have been conceiving a Quentin Tarantino, Richie, or Coen-style crime story in their minds. Some stories may never be fully conceived, but at least this movie has put every piece of the puzzle together, and it's very Chinese."

In many Chinese films, the police are absent, but at crucial moments, they remind the audience of their vital presence through Chinese characters on screen.

"A small world holds a great truth. It's amazing that a directorial debut can be so calm and mature. The multiple storylines are arranged in an orderly manner with clear logic. The characters are vivid and lifelike, and everyone has a reason for their actions."

The understated, dark humor has a Coen Brothers feel, while the absurdity and ugliness of the major events have a Quentin Tarantino touch.

"Hometown China, Villager Self-Governance, Learning Circular Non-linear Narrative, Composing a Love Story in the Countryside of North China."

Multiple coincidences lead to absurdity, revealing the unpredictable nature of humanity, the joys and sorrows of marriage and funerals, the desires of life, and the rituals of death—a rural sociological report emerges.

"It's rare in China to see such masterful manipulation of structure. A vast net is laid out, yet it gives one a glimpse of the whole picture through a small part. There are fine, dense stitches that weave the entire case together seamlessly."

The inclusion of interlocking latches, such as a telephone on a cliff, a father repairing a pigsty, and a televised gorilla documentary, makes the viewing experience enjoyable.

"It's not just about narrative; it also captures the rare and authentic atmosphere of rural China, the clear relationships between characters, and even the hateful yet pitiful portrait of the masses."

Human nature is original sin, conscience is a burden, and the superiority of being human becomes the root of all suffering under the shadow of sin.

A series of unfortunate events led them to commit murder together, which ultimately seemed like an absurd arrangement of fate. Their reunion at the coffin's edge is thought-provoking; the saying "blood is thicker than water" proves to be nothing more than two stones piled on their hearts.

Many people have complaints about the end credits of the film.

"Remove that useless ending that was obviously added to pass censorship, and it becomes a powerful dark comedy in the pure Coen Brothers style."

"There's no way around it, China has its own national conditions, so adding it is alright, it's not too abrupt."

"Isn't this absurd? From a human nature perspective, the village chief did so much to prevent his son from going to jail. Now that he's succeeded, would he turn himself in because of psychological reasons?"

"What can we do then? If we don't add it, the film can't be released. You have to give up something to gain something."

"I heard it wasn't shown at the Cannes premiere."

"Is that so?"

"Otherwise, why do you think the foreigners gave 'The Coffin in the Mountain' the Grand Jury Prize? It's because they didn't add any bonuses."

"Damn, this is discrimination! I'm reporting them!"

"Big brother, please don't! We finally got a great suspense film, don't ruin it! Even if you want to report it, you have to wait until I finish watching it!"

If it were any other movie, you might actually get reported if you're not careful.

But not with "The Coffin in the Mountain". Su Jin pays great attention to online trends and has specially arranged a team to monitor the entire internet. If there is any bad sign, she will immediately take action.

Either send in an online army to muddy the waters.

Alternatively, you could address the issue at its source by offering money and contacting the administrator to have the post deleted.

After Huang Jiaqiang learned the news, he used the second method: "I don't care what you think, the post is gone, let's see how you respond."

Reporting it again will be useless.

Didn't I say that before?

China has its own unique national conditions; there are quotas for domestic film box office revenue, and these quotas are distributed among a few leading private enterprises.

In other words, how much box office revenue does your company need to achieve this year?

There's no penalty for not meeting the target, but there's also no reward!

The rewards are generous, including tax refunds, policy support, and increased screen time.

In Xingcheng, Su Jin had just come out of a movie theater when she received a call from Huang Jiaqiang, who informed her that the interview with the movie magazine, the online Q&A session on Tianya Forum, and the campus tour were all arranged.

However, Lu Chuan did not agree.

He offered to cover the losses incurred due to Liu Hua's absence, but Lu Chuan absolutely refused.

That's understandable; if it were him, he wouldn't agree either.

However, despite understanding, Zuo Shandiao still needed to be contacted.

Because this is related to whether he can become the fourth member of the 100 million yuan box office club in mainland China!

If this is achieved, inviting big-name celebrities will be much easier.

Once I join the Directors Guild, I won't need to worry about the old guys anymore. If they dare to make a fuss, I'll just throw the 100 million yuan box office club in their faces.

This is called making up for a lack of experience with box office numbers, and then attacking people head-on.

"Third Master, how have you been lately?"

"Su Jin, well done! The box office broke ten million on the first day, and it's on track to break one hundred million!"

From the tone of Zuo Shandiao's voice, one could tell that he was very happy.

After all, he had just been promoted to a full-fledged executive and then landed a movie that grossed over 100 million yuan at the box office. The director was someone he had helped promote. Who wouldn't be happy?

"The hope of breaking 100 million is also due to the current favorable film environment, which is inseparable from your guidance, Third Master."

"Hahaha—when did you learn to flatter people?"

"Third Master, you're wronging me. These are my heartfelt words."

"Hahaha----"

Everyone likes to hear nice things, and Zuo Shandiao is no exception.

However, he didn't intend to waste any more time chatting with Su Jin. He was very busy and asked directly, "Speak! What do you want?"

Having dealt with Su Jin for so long, I've come to understand him quite well. Aside from holidays and when I need something from him, I rarely call him.

"Nothing major, except that 'The Coffin in the Mountain' is expected to gross over 100 million, but Liu Hua has to go back to filming and won't be able to participate in the upcoming promotional tour."

"Liu Ye? Which production team is he filming in?"

"Lu Chuan's 'Nanjing! Nanjing!'"

Have you spoken to Lu Chuan about this?

"Yes, but Lu Chuan didn't agree. He insisted that Liu Hua go back. I offered to cover the losses due to Liu Hua's absence, but he still wanted Liu Ye to go back."

Is Liu Ye important for the roadshow?

That's really important.

Liu Ye is gone. Who will take his place and continue firing the cannons?

It's worth noting that every time Liu Hua visits a cinema, he fires two shots, which then makes the second entertainment section headline.

A third-rate media outlet, in pursuit of traffic, has turned this into a serialized column, placing it in the most prominent position.

Those who enjoy watching gossip also really like reading about the secrets of the entertainment industry, treating it like a side dish to watch while eating.

Believe it or not, since this series started, the sales of third-party media newspapers have increased dramatically, and I've even earned my New Year's bonus ahead of time.

"He's very important. He's one of the lead actors and a Best Actor winner, so many viewers are very interested in him."

"Then I'll talk to Lu Chuan!" Han Sanping wasn't worried at all about whether Lu Chuan would agree.

I disagree. Check out the movie "Kag".

He happened to hear that the ideology of "Nanjing! Nanjing!" was somewhat inappropriate, which he could use as a pretext.

"Do you want Liu Ye to stay a few more days?"

"Seven days."

"Seven days is too long, let's do five days!"

"That's fine then, thank you, Third Master. I'll treat you to a meal when we get back to the capital."

"I'll skip the meal; getting 'The Coffin in the Mountain' to gross over 100 million is the best reward you can give me."

"We'll break 100 million, and we won't even have to worry about eating!"

"Let's talk about dinner first! I'll hang up now, I have things to take care of."

"Okay, Third Master, you're busy."

After hanging up the phone, Su Jin noticed everyone staring at him and, a little confused, asked, "Why are you all looking at me like that?"

"Director, there are rumors in the industry that you and Third Master have a very good relationship. I used to be a little skeptical, but now I completely believe it," Liu Ye said with a hint of envy.

They all saw it just now; when Su Jin was on the phone with Han Sanping, she didn't seem at all restrained in front of the head of China Film Group.

The two chatted as naturally and casually as a younger person chatting with an elder in their family, creating a very harmonious atmosphere.

"It's more than just good. You guys didn't see how relaxed Su Jin was in Lao Han's office. She practically treated Lao Han's office as her own. She even knew where Lao Han stored his tea," Zhang Guoli teased.

Ok?

Everyone looked surprised when they heard Zhang Guoli's revelation.

They previously thought that Su Jin and Han Sanping had a pretty good relationship, but not a very good one.

But after hearing what Zhang Guoli said, it's clear that their relationship isn't just good; he genuinely treats Su Jin like a nephew!

If Han Sanping weren't so plain-looking that he couldn't have given birth to a son as stunning as Su Jin, who would outshine everyone else in the entertainment industry, they would all suspect that Su Jin was Han Sanping's illegitimate son.

"Brother Jin, are you Third Master's illegitimate son?" Liu Shishi, who was sitting next to Yu Nan, suddenly asked.

Her face showed curiosity, and she wasn't joking at all.

Holy crap!

Little sister Shishi, you are truly brave!

How could you even ask such a question?

Thank goodness it's you. If we had asked, Su Jin would have chopped us in half.

"Come here, let's see if I can beat you to death." Su Jin stared at Liu Shishi and said, word by word.

It's true what they say: if you don't discipline someone for three days, they'll be climbing on the roof and tearing off the tiles.

How could someone ask such a stupid question?

Don't they realize that someone with Zuo Shandiao's appearance could not possibly have been born with such a devastatingly ugly face?

Liu Shishi shook her head, shrank her little head, and pretended to be dead.

Luckily, this was in a car with other people around. If the two of them were alone, their butts would have been in serious trouble.

Tianjin.

The crew of "Nanjing! Nanjing!"

"Hold."

After Lu Chuan finished the call, he blurted out a national treasure and slammed the phone to the ground, shattering it into pieces.

After smashing his phone, he was still not satisfied, so he kicked the director's chair next to him away.

Hearing the commotion, the crew members all turned to look at the director who had suddenly lost his temper, and were momentarily confused about what was going on.

They exchanged a glance, trying to understand what had happened from each other's eyes, but all they saw was confusion.

"Sister Yuanyuan, what's wrong with the director?" Jiang Yiyan leaned close to Gao Yuanyuan and asked softly.

"I don't know." Gao Yuanyuan looked at Lu Chuan, who was in a rage, and shook her head slightly.

After watching for a while, Gao Yuanyuan got bored and turned to Jiang Yiyan, saying, "It's your turn to act soon, so be careful! You'd better be on your toes, or you'll get yelled at."

"Oh." Jiang Yiyan nodded miserably. Why was it so difficult for her?

Sure enough, the following day...

Everyone in the crew was under Lu Chuan's wrath; the slightest mistake would result in them being severely berated.

The four lead actresses in the film, Gao Yuanyuan, Jiang Yiyan, Qin Lan, and Fan Wei, were all criticized.

Fan Wei plays an intellectual, Mr. Rabe's translator, a humble and weak intellectual who betrays his compatriots.

He had a small role in "The Coffin in the Mountain" and only attended the premiere; he didn't participate in the promotional tour.

Jiang Yiyan plays a dancer who ultimately sacrifices herself to obtain food for others.

Gao Yuanyuan plays a female teacher who returns from abroad and wants to record the crimes of the Japanese army in her own way and bring them to light.

Qin Lan plays Mrs. Tang, Liu Hua's wife, who is well-educated and courteous.

Lu Chuan lost his temper on set, but Su Jin was unaware of it, and even if she had known, she wouldn't have cared.

It's just a minor boss, what's there to care about?

If he dares to bare his teeth at you, kill him first.

Zuo Shandiao has already called him and said that Lu Chuan has agreed.

He was explaining the upcoming itinerary to Zhang Guoli and the others.

"Starting tomorrow, we will be divided into two groups."

"Uncle Zhang, you'll be in a group with Sister Nan and Guo Tao. Tomorrow you'll head north to participate in roadshows in Fuzhou, Hangzhou, and Nanjing, and finally return to Beijing to participate in a campus tour at Beijing Normal University."

"I'm in a group with Liu Hua and Shi Shi. We'll first go to Hunan Normal University for a campus tour, then go to Chengdu, Chongqing, and Wuhan, and finally return to Beijing."

"Does anyone have any questions?"

"no."

"Okay, that's all for today. Everyone, go back and get some rest! I wish you all sweet dreams tonight."