Reborn in the Entertainment Industry: This Top Star Has Real Achievements

At this point, it was time for Li Xiang, this "kind young man," to offer a way out.

After all, Zhang Hui had just been talking non-stop for a long time, all of which was about seeking benefits for him, one of the artists under his management, and this intention should not be ignored.

So he immediately stood up, bowed to Zhang Hui, and surprised the other man.

Then, with a face full of apology, he said, "Mr. Zhang, may I be so bold as to call you Brother Zhang?"

I am truly grateful to you today for planning such a large project for me and for giving me such a great opportunity.

Actually, I know in my heart that if this play can be completed, it will definitely be a great opportunity for me to take a big step forward.

But my status as a current student is really holding me back—

After all, my identity as a member of the Beijing Film Academy is very important to me, and I really don't dare to lose it for anything else.

He paused, then his tone became more earnest: "If I weren't a student now, I would accept the opportunity you give me without hesitation, even if it's just for a minor role, let alone a supporting role."

After all, this was something you went to great lengths to get for me. But now... I really feel bad for not being able to live up to your kindness.

These words were frank, giving Zhang Hui face while clearly explaining his own difficulties.

Zhang Hui already felt he had acted impulsively earlier, but after Li Xiang's words, the last bit of unpleasantness in his heart dissipated.

He immediately stood up, strode around the table to Li Xiang, hugged him, and then said with a smile:

"Good lad, don't be so polite with me, just call me Brother Zhang from now on."

To be honest, I was blinded by the allure of Hollywood co-productions and didn't think things through properly.

"Brother Zhang, please don't say that," Li Xiang quickly replied.

"You're doing this all for my own good, and also for the company's benefit. It's precisely because of leaders like you that the company is able to thrive."

These words pleased Zhang Hui, and he smiled broadly, saying, "That's right, my original intention was indeed good... Okay, let's put this play aside for now."

As Director Li just said, the risks are indeed considerable, and it's not worth putting you on the sidelines. You're one of our company's key talents; we can't possibly arrange things like that.

In just a few words, the subtle tension dissipated, and the office became lively again.

Li Xiang secretly breathed a sigh of relief; at least he didn't have to film that so-called Sino-US underwater fantasy co-production.

Although the "Mermaid Empire" hurdle has been overcome, the matter is not over yet.

Or perhaps wanting to make up for something, Zhang Hui then began recommending the remaining two movies.

He also understood from the conversation that Li Xiang really didn't want to get involved in TV dramas.

At first, he might have thought this kid was a bit stubborn, but now, facing such a sensible and considerate little brother, that thought had long since vanished.

If they don't want to film, they don't have to. It's normal for a serious film actor to have reservations about television dramas.

Since TV dramas are out of the question, he, as the "older brother," naturally has to make proper arrangements for movies.

However, Li Xiang still managed to analyze the shortcomings of the remaining two dramas clearly in just a few words, thanks to his excellent eloquence.

Even Zhang Hui felt that it was "not quite there yet".

As a result, this meeting failed to finalize any substantial work, making it somewhat of a "meeting for nothing".

But as Li Xiang later said, "I signed a ten-year contract with the company, so it won't make a difference if I wait a little longer."

This is also a good opportunity to make my position clear, to let Director Zhang know that both I and the company will listen to his advice.

This also helps the company make a good impression on Director Zhang, which might lead to future opportunities for collaboration.

Upon hearing this, Zhang Hui's eyes immediately lit up.

He knew that the bigger the figure, the more they cared whether their words were taken seriously.

If Director Zhang had just said he didn't recommend making TV dramas, and then the next day he'd crammed a few into Li Xiang's projects...

Even if Director Zhang doesn't say it, he must be holding a grudge against him.

From now on, forget about cooperation; we probably won't even bother to greet each other when we meet.

Even big shots have pride. If you don't take their words seriously, they naturally won't bother with you either.

So even though no specific matter was settled during the meeting, the atmosphere at dinner that evening was still relaxed and pleasant.

After a few drinks, Zhang Hui patted Li Xiang on the shoulder and laughed:

"Alright, you've thought things through even more thoroughly than I have. Just for your composure, I'll be the first to get you a good script in the future."

"Then I'll be waiting for Brother Zhang's good news." Li Xiang smiled and raised his glass, then changed the subject, speaking sincerely.

"But to be honest, given my age, there are many roles that I really can't handle."

Just like Director Zhang said, I need to focus on my studies at school more, otherwise I'll ruin a good performance, which will not only embarrass myself but also tarnish the company's reputation.

After all, I'm now considered one of the more successful artists in the company; I can't afford to become a laughingstock.

After listening all afternoon, Director Li finally figured out Li Xiang's little scheme.

She and Zhang Hui had a close relationship even before the department was established, so she spoke without much restraint and immediately said:

"Mr. Zhang, you still don't understand? Our Li Xiang wants to be a down-to-earth actor, not one of those fleeting stars."

This kid probably has his own plans... But that's good, isn't that the same principle behind the dramas our company produces? Quality over quantity, right?

Then, she turned to Li Xiang and said, "Don't worry, kid. There's a ten-year contract, and the company isn't the kind of short-sighted enterprise that only cares about immediate profits."

If you really don't want to do TV dramas, then don't. But if you see a good project you like, just say so. As for movies...

Speaking of movies, she smiled and said, "The company is just preparing to expand its film business, and there really aren't any particularly suitable scripts for you right now."

But things will definitely be different after "Under the Hawthorn Tree" is released. When a good role comes along, we'll definitely help you get it.

These words made Li Xiang feel relieved, and he thought to himself, "Finally, I've met someone who understands."

So, emboldened by the alcohol, he thanked the two men repeatedly, his words filled with gratitude.

By the end of the meal, everyone was having a great time, and the warmth and friendliness made them seem like longtime friends.

In the following days, Li Xiang did not rush back to Beijing, but instead stayed in Hangzhou for a few more days.

He could tell that neither Zhang Hui nor Li Qing were heartless, and they were also willing to listen to advice.

Since that's the case, then naturally we should follow the principle of "having more friends means having more options" and get along well with these two people.

Just like what Director Li said last night, there are still ten years left. With such a long time, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that they could become family.

After ten years of working together, even if the contract expires and is not renewed in the future, this bond must remain.

When the time comes, whether it's for business or personal matters, if I really need their help, given our ten-year friendship, it will most likely be resolved smoothly.

Thinking about it this way, it's worthwhile to put more effort into cultivating relationships right now.

Don't say he's scheming; he never intended to harm anyone. He simply understands the principle of treating others as you would like to be treated, and he's willing to sincerely make some useful friends.

Moreover, for Zhang Hui and Li Qing, befriending an artist with such potential is entirely beneficial.

Ultimately, it's a win-win situation where everyone gets what they need and the other fulfills their needs.