I became a movie star at the age of three; Dilraba and I are childhood sweethearts.

In today's entertainment industry, this name represents quality, viewership ratings, and unparalleled glory.

Without exception, all the actresses who received the invitation accepted the film offer.

The preparation for the cast of "Empresses in the Palace" was astonishingly fast.

Of course, this is only the first step.

Xiao Chen called Wang Jinhua over again in his study and gave her detailed instructions.

"Aunt Hua, we're not concerned about the cost of this film."

Xiao Chen's expression was serious and earnest.

"I have only one requirement, and that is to be truthful."

"Don't be afraid to spend money on costumes, makeup, and props; hire the best designers."

"Refer to historical records from the Qing court, and make sure every stitch is done perfectly."

"The headdresses are made of kingfisher feathers, and the court robes are hand-embroidered. Every detail must withstand the scrutiny of the camera."

"If a location can be used, we will never use a studio."

"I need that sense of historical weight. Sister Hua, you go and negotiate with them. No matter what, we must get the filming permit."

"And there's one more crucial point..."

Xiao Chen's gaze sharpened.

"All lead actresses must undergo a month-long intensive etiquette training before filming begins."

"The way you walk, the etiquette for greeting, and the tone of your voice should all be taught by the most professional teachers."

"What I want is a group of real noble ladies from ancient times, not modern people dressed in ancient costumes."

As Wang Jinhua listened, she nodded, making sure she remembered every word Xiao Chen said.

Looking at the young man before her, who was only 19 years old but already possessed a strategic mind and a remarkable demeanor, she felt a surge of pride and admiration.

What he wanted to do was never just make a movie, but create an era.

Wang Jinhua's voice was steady and powerful, giving Xiao Chen the strongest support.

"Don't worry."

"I will take care of everything you've mentioned, one by one."

No sooner had Wang Jinhua left than Xiao Chen picked up his car keys, ready to go back to school.

"The Legend of Zhen Huan" was a massive undertaking.

From casting confirmation to costume and prop preparation, and then to etiquette training for all the actors, it takes at least one or two months.

As the producer and lead actor, he set the overall direction, and the remaining trivial matters were naturally handled by Wang Jinhua and the entire Shishiba Culture team.

He himself also needs to take some time to deal with personal matters.

For example, the final exams at Beijing Film Academy.

As a sophomore majoring in performing arts at the Taipei Film Academy, Xiao Chen returns to school very rarely.

But no one dared to say a bad word about him.

joke.

An Oscar-winning actor.

Who would dare to use attendance to control a prodigy who can be personally invited by the president of the Beijing Film Academy to be a "specially appointed professor" of acting classes?

The fact that he came back to take the final exams is already a huge favor to the school.

Of course, Xiao Chen officially asked the school for leave.

Otherwise, it wouldn't sound good if word got out.

A discreet black Phaeton drove into the Beijing Film Academy campus without causing the slightest ripple.

But when the car door opened and that stunningly beautiful face appeared in the sunlight, the entire campus seemed to be put on pause.

Students passing by, regardless of gender, all stopped in their tracks, their eyes fixed on that figure.

"Holy crap...it's Xiao Chen?"

"He went back to school! Holy crap! I hit the jackpot?!"

"He's a million times more handsome in person than on TV! His skin, his nose, they're amazing!"

"Why is he back? Wasn't he supposed to be preparing for a new movie?"

"Waaaaah, just seeing Xiao Chen makes my whole life worthwhile!"

Exclamations and whispers rose and fell, and countless cell phones were quietly raised and pointed in that direction.

Xiao Chen was already used to this.

He gave the students around him a clean and refreshing smile and nodded slightly as a greeting.

That smile instantly ignited the hearts of countless young girls.

"He smiled at me! He smiled at me!!!"

"I can't take it anymore, my legs are too weak, please help me..."

Xiao Chen didn't linger and went straight to the office of the head of the performing arts department.

The department head was an elderly professor over fifty years old. When he saw Xiao Chen, his cloudy eyes lit up instantly, as if he had seen some rare treasure.

"Teacher Xiao, you've finally decided to come back!"

His words were a playful scolding, but his tone was full of affection and pride.

Xiao Chen smiled and handed over a can of tea that had been prepared in advance.

"Director Wang, how have you been lately?"

"A friend gave it to me, please try it."

Director Wang accepted it with a smile, being polite in words but his actions betrayed his true intentions.

"You, just come, why bring anything else?"

He personally poured Xiao Chen a glass of water and asked.

"You're here because of the final exams, right?"

Xiao Chen nodded.

"Um,"

What will the situation be like this year?

Director Wang looked at him with anticipation in his eyes.

"The same old rules apply: either submit a decent performance or put on a play with your classmates."

What are your thoughts?

"How about the department assigns you some promising young talents and puts on a big show?"

Given Xiao Chen's current status, if he were to agree, not only the department's resources, but the entire school's resources would be tilted towards him.

This is practically a walking admissions brochure, the most dazzling golden signboard of Beijing Film Academy.

Xiao Chen pondered for a moment, then shook his head.

He didn't want to make a big fuss, nor did he want to take up other students' resources.

"I'll take a picture myself and submit it."

Director Wang was not surprised at all; Xiao Chen always had his own ideas.

"Alright!"

"Then you'd better take good pictures; your assignment is going to be used as a teaching model for the entire college!"

Leaving the director's office, Xiao Chen strolled around the campus, his mind racing.

What should I film?

Short film?

Short drama?

They all seemed a bit old-fashioned and didn't interest him.

Moreover, having just finalized a grand production like "Empresses in the Palace," he felt it was somewhat lacking to go back and film something more intimate and romantic.

He needs something that demonstrates professionalism, doesn't require too much effort, and can also bring something new.

In my mind, fragments of countless classic works flashed by like fleeting light.

Suddenly, an idea flashed into my mind.

That phenomenal documentary that ignited a nationwide passion for food in my past life.

A Bite of China

That's a fantastic idea!

Documentaries may seem simple, but they actually demand a great deal of skill from the director.

From cinematic language and narrative rhythm to humanistic concern, every aspect reveals true skill.

Moreover, its shooting schedule is flexible and the team requirements are small; two or three people and a few top-of-the-line cameras are enough.

It just so happens that the preparation period for "Empresses in the Palace" was more than a month.

The next episode of "Back to Field" will be filmed in a little over a week.

He has plenty of time to film two or three episodes, and then edit out one high-quality episode as his final assignment.

Just do it.

Xiao Chen took out his phone and dialed his assistant directly.

"Get me two Red Monstro 8K cameras, equipped with a full set of Zeiss cinema lenses."

"Also, find a reliable recording engineer."

"Meet at my courtyard house tomorrow morning."