Huayu: Serious director, who's eavesdropping on your thoughts?

The lights came on.

The opening ceremony has ended.

Han Sanping and other leaders were the first to leave the venue, guided by staff.

A row of foreign guests also stood up.

Pierre Lacey, with a long face, led the group of foreigners away.

On the contrary, the Chinese student director who was fishing in the bathtub stopped in his tracks as he passed the stage.

He looked half-asleep, gestured to Zhao Huaiyuan as if pressing a nail gun, and casually uttered:

"Vousêtes fou, mais je vous aime bien."

After saying that, he didn't wait for Zhao Huaiyuan's response and strolled away unsteadily.

Zhao Huaiyuan did not respond because he couldn't understand it at all.

However, he is quite an interesting foreigner!

"Director Zhao, I love you to death!"

Zhu Yawen shouted exaggeratedly, and he led the way, along with several tall boys, rushing onto the stage and grabbing Zhao Huaiyuan, who hadn't even reacted yet.

"One, two, three! Go!"

"oh!!"

Zhao Huaiyuan was tossed high into the air by the crowd, their bright, smiling faces and cheers nearly lifting the roof off the hall.

In the celebrity guest area, a few people watched this scene from a distance.

Xu Jinglei said to Huang Xiaoming beside him:

"Xiao Ming, this junior is something else. That arrogance of his is something I've never seen even when we were young."

Huang Xiaoming shook his head with a smile: "Yeah, but that was too blunt. Those words just now really offended all the foreigners."

"So what if we offend them? We've been putting up with the foreigners' attitude for so many years, it's time for someone to step up and challenge them. I have high hopes for him, he's sure to succeed in the future."

Not far away.

As Zhang Yimou was putting on his coat, preparing to leave, Chen Kaige, standing beside him, glanced at the cheering crowd on stage and asked:

"Old Zhang, what do you think?"

"He's a genius. As long as he doesn't go astray, he might become a star in ten years."

"The reviews are pretty high? Looks like there'll be one more chair in this circle from now on?"

"There is a chair, but whether he can sit on it in the future, whether he can sit steadily, and whether he can eat at the table depends on him. Right now, it's still a long way off."

The two exchanged a smile, said nothing more, and turned to leave.

In their eyes, he was just a promising junior, nothing more.

...

"Let's go, let's get something to eat and have a drink with me," Zhang Jian said listlessly to Jiang Yan beside him as he slumped in his chair.

"What's there to drink? Go get some yourself." Jiang Yan interrupted him, standing up impatiently while tidying her small bag.

Zhang Jian was stunned, then sat up abruptly: "What do you mean? Didn't we agree to go have some fun after the opening ceremony?"

"You big idiot! If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have offended them."

Jiang Yan got angry looking at his pathetic appearance and said disdainfully:

"I thought I'd be doing well following you, but what happened? You're a complete joke, you wasted my time!"

"You! That's not what you said when you took my ticket!" Zhang Jian trembled with anger.

"I took your ticket, what more do you want? I used the ticket, and you touched my hand, so we're even. Don't act like I owe you anything. I think there's absolutely no future with you."

After saying that, she didn't even glance at Zhang Jian. She put on her high heels, put on a sweet smile, and jogged towards Zhao Huaiyuan.

Even just going there to make an appearance and let bygones be bygones is better than sticking with this good-for-nothing.

Huaiyuan, here I come!

Although there's a small gap, it's no big deal!

Zhang Jian froze, his face turning a deep liver color.

At this moment, Guo Lili cautiously leaned over and said, "Um, I'll drink with you..."

"roll!"

Zhang Jian suddenly turned around and vented all his anger on Guo Lili.

"So you've come to laugh at me too, huh? Get lost! You country bumpkin, what are you?!"

Guo Lili's eyes reddened from the yelling, and she ran away with her head down.

"What's so great about it? It's just a short film. Winning an award doesn't mean you can make money. I'm graduating soon and joining a film crew. You're only a freshman. We'll see how things go in the future."

...

The following week, the ISFVF Film Festival entered a 7-day run of screenings.

All 100 short films selected from both domestic and international sources will be shown on a loop in the three exhibition halls (A, B, and C) of the Beijing Film Academy.

Many students who couldn't attend the opening ceremony heard about it, and after receiving the news, they flocked to the Beijing Film Academy.

The sound engineer was furious.

Although this screening was only held on campus and was not supposed to be ticketed, the explosive word-of-mouth spread of The Sound Engineer made people want to see what kind of film it was that had supposedly stunned foreigners. So, the principle could only exist in theory.

Most audiences in Beijing are not short of money, but they lack face and topics of conversation.

then.

The scalpers have reappeared.

"Bringing people in! Lending student IDs! 200 each! Front row seats, 500 each!"

A long queue forms at the entrance of the bidding hall every morning at five o'clock.

This popularity not only spread in reality, but also quickly spread to the Internet via the internet cable.

The World Forum, Entertainment and Gossip Section.

A post titled "Missing Person Notice: Brother who said he would livestream himself eating shit while doing a handstand if a domestic film won an award, I've even prepared a toilet for you, where are you?" quickly became a hot thread after it was posted.

1rd floor:

"Stop playing dead! The ISFVF results are coming out soon! We don't need Spielberg to come for further studies; our freshmen have already crushed USC!"

"The Tuner" has won the gold medal! It's a sure thing!

Hey, the OP who said Chinese films are dead and all garbage, come out here! And that guy who made a promise to do a handstand as proof—tens of thousands of people on the forum are watching! Stop dawdling, if you're a man, come out now!

2rd floor:

"What's going on? I'm in the front row watching the drama."

3rd floor:

"I was there and watched the whole thing. It's a real source of pride for Chinese people! I agree with the original poster!"

4rd floor:

"@SunnyDay, what a prophetic statement, bro!"

A few days ago you said you had a trump card and got roasted like a dog, now those people are just a joke.

"For a freshman to take photos like this is simply outrageous."

5rd floor:

"Whether it's hype or genuine skill, being able to beat foreigners is commendable!"

6rd floor:

"I initially thought it was just bragging, but I just went next door and saw the leaked footage... Sorry, I spoke a little too loudly just now."

This cinematography, this plot twist—you're saying this was filmed by a freshman? Are all kids these days this twisted?

...

23rd floor:

"Don't go off-topic, I just want to see him eat shit upside down. Did that guy delete his account? Hahahaha!"

...

45rd floor:

"That's enough, look how excited you all are."

I admit that "The Tuner" is good, but is there any need to overhype it?

Ultimately, this is just a student assignment; short films and feature films are completely different things.

How many directors who win countless awards for short films fail miserably when they direct feature films? Aren't there enough examples like this?

46rd floor:

"Upstairs +1."

To be fair, making a good short film only shows that he is a competent witty comedian; he is still a long way from being a real film director.

In today's market, who cares how amazing your short films are?

Theaters! Box office! Those are the only true standards for judging a director.

"If this freshman can actually make a feature film that can be released in theaters and break even, then I'll respect him as a genius. Otherwise, he shouldn't be so arrogant."

47rd floor:

"Hehe, finally someone who understands."

The way that group of people were bragging just now made me think they were going to punch Zhang Yimou and kick Nolan.

What do you mean by "I'm invincible"?

What's so great about winning a USC student assignment? Hollywood's industrial system is designed to cultivate top commercial film directors.

Our students get all high and mighty just because they win an award.

Let me put it this way: despite all the commotion we're having now, let's see if he ever gets to direct a feature film.

They'll lose everything, down to their last penny!

"The commercial film industry is a complex and murky field; can a freshman like him really handle it?"

48rd floor:

"I can smell the sourness from upstairs even through the screen."

"He's only a freshman! To create such a masterpiece in his freshman year, his future is limitless, you know?"

49rd floor:

"What's wrong with freshmen? Haven't you heard of the tragic story of Zhong Yong?"

Those who start too high often fall the hardest.

Because he might fall into the illusion that he's awesome, but when it comes to the theatrical release market, nobody will cater to him.

Short films are art, feature films are business.

Let him wait until he can actually pull real money out of the audience's pockets before he starts bragging about the glory of China!

Otherwise, it's just a fleeting meteor.

Comment #50: "I agree with the comment above. What's the use of a good short film? If you're so capable, why don't you get it released in theaters? If you're so capable, why don't you make it at the box office? Winning an award at school doesn't make me invincible! Arrogant! Young people these days are too cocky!"

51st floor: "Hehe, a bunch of sour grapes upstairs. The movie is indeed good. I watched it and it beats 99% of the movies on the market right now. But to be fair, short films and feature films are two different things. If you really want to prove yourself, you have to see it on the big screen."

The online controversy is getting more and more heated.

Some say he's a genius, while others are skeptical.

Although there were some more negative voices, this also brought Zhao Huaiyuan unprecedented attention.

In contrast to the difficulty in obtaining tickets for The Sound Engineer, there is Zhang Jian's film "He Just Sit There Eating Noodles".

On the third day of the screening, in Hall B, there were only a few people; everyone had flocked to see The Sound Engineer.

Zhang Jian secretly sat in the back row, eager to see how the audience would react to his film.

However, after only a few minutes of the film playing, the already small audience began to leave one after another.

The scene shows a man eating noodles in a long, uncut shot for several minutes.

"What kind of crap is this?"

"This is just pretentious and nonsensical. Is this what you call a long take? You're an idiot."

"Let's go, let's go! I heard they have tickets again for the sound engineer's booth. Let's hurry and grab a spot."

to the end.

Zhang Jian sat alone in the empty screening room, his face ashen.

He suddenly had a strange feeling that he was a joke.

...

The fourth day of the screening, early morning.

The intersection of Xitucheng Road.

Zhao Huaiyuan carried a large bag and saw his sister Zhao Xiaoyu and Peng Xiaohua off to the bus station.

Guo Lili had already left quietly by herself after the opening ceremony.

Zhao Xiaoyu can't take too long a leave of absence. Even missing a day at the factory will result in a significant deduction of her pay. It's already quite difficult for her to be able to visit her younger brother these past few days.

"Sis, take this."

Zhao Huaiyuan pulled a thick envelope from his pocket and shoved it into Zhao Xiaoyu's hand.

This included his savings for living expenses, as well as the commission that the scalpers had specially given him in the past few days to curry favor with him. Although Zhao Huaiyuan had not participated in ticket scalping, the scalpers were sensible enough to give him a sum of money as a thank you for the meal.

In total, it amounts to a full five thousand yuan.

"What's this for? You spend a lot of money at school, and you'll definitely need money when you start working. I'm perfectly capable; I don't need your money!"

"Take it!"

Zhao Huaiyuan spoke forcefully, shoving the money into the other woman's hand. "Sister, listen to me. The film was a hit at this screening, and the school will give me a bonus later. This amount of money is nothing to me. Don't work so hard when you go back. The factory is just a place to work. There's lead in your factory, so remember to wear a mask when you go to work. You should spend this money. Don't be stingy. Buy some good food and some new clothes for yourself."

Zhao Xiaoyu suddenly felt like crying.

All her efforts over the years have finally paid off!

Her younger brother has really grown up; he's no longer the little boy she had to worry about all the time.

"Okay, take it, I'll save it for you to get married." Zhao Xiaoyu wiped away her tears, but smiled happily.

Peng Xiaohua, standing nearby, also had tears in her eyes. She patted Zhao Huaiyuan's shoulder forcefully: "Huaiyuan, don't forget your sister! I'll miss you. I'll come visit you again when I have time!"

..

On the seventh day, the ISFVF closing ceremony and awards presentation took place.

The hall was packed.

"The winner of the Silver Award in the China category at this year's ISFVF is..."

The host's voice was loud and clear:

"Photography Department, Ning Hao, Wednesday, Thursday!"

The audience erupted in enthusiastic applause.

Ning Hao walked onto the stage to accept the award, smiling, but with a hint of regret in his heart.

His film is actually very good; it's almost a pinnacle of realism. If it had been released last year, it would definitely have been a strong contender for the Golden Horse Award.

Unfortunately, he ran into Zhao Huaiyuan, a cheat code.

"Since Zhou Yu was born, why was Zhuge Liang also born?"

As Ning Hao stepped down from the stage, he glanced at Zhao Huaiyuan, who was sitting in the first row, and this thought suddenly popped into his mind.

Then, the awards were announced one by one.

"The Best Cinematography Award goes to Cao Yu for 'The Tuner'!"

Cao Yu rushed onto the stage excitedly, his hands trembling as he held the trophy.

From today onwards, he is also a professional with the title of "Best Photographer," and he can finally show his face to Xiao Chen!

"The Special Jury Award for Performance goes to Liu Yifei for 'The Tuner'!"

Liu Yifei wore a beautiful red dress today, walking onto the stage like a fairy.

Although ISFVF does not usually have a performance award, the jury made an exception and created this award because the blind girl's performance was so outstanding.

As a freshman in the class of 02, and a student majoring in acting, winning an award right after entering the university is extremely rare in the history of Beijing Film Academy.

The performing arts teachers in the audience couldn't stop smiling. Chen Jinfei and Liu Xiaoli also came to the scene and sat in the guest seats, their faces beaming with pride.

The only one who didn't receive an award was the unfortunate Zhu Yawen. His role was so small that he was basically just an extra, since there were only two of them.

Finally, the main event arrived.

Pierre Reiss walked onto the stage, his expression still not good.

The whole place fell silent.

Pierre took a deep breath and had to face reality.

He can be arrogant, but he cannot be blind, and he certainly cannot go against the will of the entire judging panel and the market.

"Winner of the Gold Award in the International Student Work category of this year's ISFVF..."

"And, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Editing..."

"The Piano Tuner, Zhao Huaiyuan!"

boom!

The entire venue erupted in cheers and thunderous applause!

Grand Slam!

This is a true Grand Slam!

Not only did they win the highest gold award, representing professional standards, but they also won every other award they could get, sweeping it all!

Such a grand slam is extremely rare not only in the history of ISFVF, but also in all known film festivals in the world.

Zhao Huaiyuan straightened his collar and calmly walked onto the podium under the watchful eyes of the entire audience.

Pierre handed him the gold trophy, his eyes filled with complex emotions, and whispered in French, "You've won, but this is just the beginning."

Zhao Huaiyuan remained silent because he genuinely couldn't understand French, and who knew what he was babbling about?

He accepted the trophy, spoke into the microphone, and looked at the faces below the stage.

He didn't give any long speech; he simply raised the trophy high, his handsome face beaming with confidence in the golden light of the trophy.

"Thank you Beijing Film Academy, thank you to my team. Also, I'd like to respond to the online controversy. Some people say that short films are just toys, and feature films are the real battlefield. Well then, let's meet on the battlefield!"