Chapter 151: draw the bow, Father
Miss Liu didn't know what Li Chen and Director Tong talked about.
However, from Li Chen's remark: "Director Tong is an old fox!"
Miss Liu caught a hint of something. She pestered Li Chen, using all her tricks, leaving him helpless.
To avoid being crushed by Miss Liu's two strong, well-rounded thighs, Li Chen surrendered decisively.
"I'll tell you, I'll tell you, Yifei, can you get off me first? You're making me dizzy with all this swaying!"
Miss Liu smiled triumphantly, crossed her arms over her chest, and then got off Li Chen.
Then, supporting herself with her left hand, she smiled at Li Chen: "Hurry up and tell me!"
"This matter is actually very simple. Although Director Tong is the chairman of the review committee, he still has two deputy chairmen under him, and below the deputy chairmen are those old-fashioned people who are actually responsible for reviewing films."
"Although Director Tong is the top leader, he can't run a one-man show. What he lacks now is a legitimate and reasonable reason."
Miss Liu was very smart and immediately reacted: "So you mobilized your connections, created public opinion, and Director Tong could then go with the flow and let the re-review pass?"
Li Chen playfully flicked her cute nose: "How can you call it creating public opinion? This is called conforming to public will. Only then can Director Tong use public opinion as a breakthrough to directly approve the film."
"Actually, the leader is very open-minded, but some things can only be done by following the trend. Otherwise, Han Dong wouldn't have given me a hint."
Miss Liu nodded, remaining silent for a long time, her two fair arms wrapped around Li Chen's neck.
In the few years she had been with Li Chen, she had grown very quickly.
Li Chen was a schemer, she had always known that.
But what reassured her most was that Li Chen never hid anything from her.
The next day, Li Chen called Xiang Huaqiang again.
"General Manager Xiang, there's no need to change the content. Send it for re-review in two days."
Xiang Huaqiang understood. He, who was usually stern, even managed a rare smile: "I understand, Director Li."
After hanging up the phone, Xiang Tai quickly leaned close to her husband: "Did it pass?"
Xiang Huaqiang nodded and sighed: "At critical moments, connections are more important than money."
Xiang Tai also said: "I didn't realize Li Chen was so resourceful? How did he do it?"
Xiang Huaqiang slowly reined in his smile: "For such matters, it's enough to know the result. If he doesn't say, it's not convenient for us to ask."
The filming of the thieves was still ongoing.
August 8th marked the two-year countdown to the 2008 Olympics.
Many stars expressed their expectations and blessings for the 2008 Olympics on their blogs.
Chen Hao, Han Xue, Yan Danchen, Qin Hailu, Donnie Yen, Chen Songling, and others all sent messages via their blogs.
To avoid stealing the thunder from the Olympic Organizing Committee on this day, they waited one day.
Yang Siwei, representing Rongchen Film and Television, and Han Sanping, representing China Film Group Corporation, held a press conference.
They announced to the media the information about the special-themed film Li Chen had mentioned at the Premiere of those years.
"The film is tentatively titled draw the bow, Father. It will be based on the true stories of several archers and the script will be written by Director Li himself."
"At the same time, two girls aged between 11 and 16 will be selected nationwide in the second half of the year to play the young athletes."
At the press conference, hundreds of media outlets discussed animatedly.
"General Manager Han, this is the first sports-themed film in China. If it's not popular and loses money, will China Film Group Corporation still invest in this type of film in the future?"
The Southern Weekly reporter immediately raised a sharp question.
Han Sanping had anticipated this, his expression unchanged. He leaned into the microphone: "China Film Group Corporation has never lost money in its collaboration with Rongchen Film and Television."
"As for whether we will continue to invest in this type of film, I can tell you with certainty that the original intention of investing in this film was definitely not for profit."
Yang Siwei smiled and leaned into the microphone: "Dear media friends, I can represent Rongchen Film and Television to tell you all."
"Starting next year, Rongchen Film and Television will begin to try various new types of films. Everyone can pay attention to the film plan announced by our company at the end of this year."
"Losing money? It seems Rongchen Film and Television hasn't lost money yet. To quote Director Li: As long as we don't lose our reputation, we're making a profit."
The media present all burst into laughter.
The press conference lasted for an hour.
In the afternoon, the news of draw the bow, Father was online, spreading throughout the industry in less than an hour.
"Sports drama? Is Li Chen getting carried away? Heh heh, does he really think he's a heaven-sent genius? I really want to see what it's called...?"
"draw the bow, Father, General Manager Wang." Xu Li, the deputy general manager of Huayi Brothers, also had a slight smile.
Wang Zhonglei nodded, his smile gloating: "Right, right, draw the bow, Father, what kind of rubbish is that? I thought he'd also make a war-themed film."
"Perfect, we'll also announce the information for assembly. Xiaogang wants to start filming in October, so the timing is about right."
Xu Li nodded: "I'll go arrange it now, General Manager Wang."
The news that draw the bow, Father would hold a nationwide audition for young actors spread to art schools across the country within two days.
In an art school in the Northwest.
Several girls from the dance department gathered together.
"Have you heard? Rongchen Film and Television is holding a nationwide audition for girls aged 11 to 16 to play young athletes."
"How could I not have heard? It's a pity I'm 17. But you guys can go try."
"What's wrong with being 17? I heard that in private schools, there are even 10-year-olds. Whether it works or not, just send in your resume. What if it does? Even if it doesn't, it's no big deal."
"That's right, I heard my mom say that the little girl next door just turned 10, and her dad also signed her up."
The girls' conversation, every word, went into Dilraba Dilmurat's ears as she was stretching her legs nearby.
These past few days, the school had been discussing this topic, and even the teachers encouraged her to give it a try.
She was timid and wanted to try but was also afraid.
But what that girl just said was right: whether it works or not, just send in your resume. If it doesn't, it's no big deal.
Li Chen's the thieves finished all its filming in Macau.
Sina Entertainment News
"the thieves crew has moved to Los Angeles. Tony Leung Ka-fai and Carina Lau have finished their scenes and left the crew today."
"Tony Leung Ka-fai stated in an interview that the thieves' plot is compact and fascinating, definitely not to be missed. He also praised Li Chen as not only a good director but also a good actor."
In the painted skin 2 crew in the snowy region, Yang Mi and Zhou Xun gathered together and couldn't help but tease: "Sister Xun, do you think Senior Brother will steal Yifei's Hundred Flowers Awards this year?"
Zhou Xun's shoulders shook: "Difficult! The Hundred Flowers Awards judges popularity, not acting skills. Director Li's face isn't as likable as Yifei's."
"Don't change the subject. We're talking about your acting skills. Why are you bringing up Director Li?"
Yang Mi stuck out her tongue, unconcerned: "What's wrong with my acting skills? I don't think there's anything wrong!"
Zhou Xun scoffed: "How many times has Director Wu NG'd you? Director Wu said it was Director Li's idea, that Director Li specifically told him to take care of you!"
"Honestly, Mi Mi, putting everything else aside, just looking at your crying scenes, besides a few tears, you don't look like you're crying at all. Anyone who doesn't know might think it's eye drops!"
Yang Mi lowered her eyelids, not saying a word.
Her scene of parting with Hu Ge had been NG'd seven times. She even wanted to call her Senior Brother and ask why he was targeting her!
Zhou Xun only needed to see Yang Mi's expression to know that she was unconvinced.
"Mi Mi, your biggest problem in acting is your habitual, formulaic approach. You can't grasp the character's psychology, so you stay on the surface with 'hahaha' and 'woo woo woo.'"
"I know Director Li's thoughts. He doesn't want you few young girls to be labeled as 'vases.' If you get that label, it's very hard to shake off."
"Don't be unconvinced. When father's love is like a mountain 2 was being filmed, I was on set. Fan Bingbing was NG'd by Director Li for her crying scenes no less than you."
"She's no worse looking than you, and her status isn't lower than yours, but she didn't show any temper at all. Luckily, Director Wu is directing this painted skin 2. If Director Li were here, you'd probably have a much harder time."
"What's more, Director Li is the producer of painted skin 2. If he's not satisfied then, your scenes might have to be reshot, and you'd have to come back to this snowy region again. Don't blame me for not warning you."
Yang Mi finally listened: "No way? Sister Xun, don't scare me. I never want to come to this godforsaken place a second time."
Yang Mi thought of her Senior Brother's appearance in her mind and immediately shivered.
Li Chen, far away in Los Angeles, sneezed.
Having just finished filming today, Li Chen and Liu Yifei returned to Crystal Wu.
The Hu Ge manor was meticulously managed by the butler.
The grass was green, the sun was bright, and there were automatic sprinklers on the lawn.
Liu's Mother had flown over from China two days ago. Liu Yifei's birthday was approaching, and Liu's Mother naturally wouldn't miss it.
As Li Chen and Liu Yifei entered the door, Liu's Mother stood up with a joyful smile and walked forward: "You two are finally back."
Li Chen glanced at the smiling Liu's Mother: "What makes you so happy, Auntie?"
Liu Yifei also linked arms with Liu's Mother: "Yeah, Mom, did godfather propose to you?"
Li Chen was stunned; only Miss Liu would dare to say such a thing.
"You mischievous girl! What nonsense are you spouting without thinking!"
The three sat down, and a servant brought tea.
Liu's Mother and her daughter sat on the sofa, eager to say: "Red Star Wu just called. There's a role they want you to audition for!"
Liu Yifei looked at her mother in surprise: "But my scenes haven't finished yet. How would I have time to go back to China?"
Li Chen thought to himself: "Judging by Liu's Mother's demeanor, could it be kung fu king?"
Li Chen's guess was correct. Liu's Mother smiled at her daughter: "No need to go back to China, it's right here in Los Angeles."
"It's an invitation from the director who filmed The Lion King."
Liu Yifei was stunned: "Director Minkoff?"
Liu's Mother nodded and smiled: "Yes, it's him. Your agent said he specifically requested you to audition, and the male stars collaborating are all top-tier in Asia."
Liu Yifei glanced at Li Chen, who was sitting beside her, noticing he was somewhat lost in thought: "All top-tier in Asia? Who are they?"
"I don't know. Even for the audition, they told your agent to keep it a secret."
"No need to guess, it's Jackie Chan and Jet Li." Li Chen suddenly blurted out.
Liu Yifei and Liu's Mother were both stunned.
The two looked at each other. Liu Yifei walked over and sat next to Li Chen: "How did you know? Why have you never told me?"
Liu's Mother also stared intently at Li Chen.
Li Chen smiled: "Auntie, you don't need to be surprised. Before this film, they were looking for investors in the mainland, but they hit a wall with me."
"I don't know what the situation is now."
Liu Yifei's eyebrows furrowed slightly: "Why didn't you invest?"
Li Chen stroked Miss Liu's cheek: "Because mainland investors can only participate in the box office split for the Greater China region."
"And these two kung fu superstars, besides their high salaries, I'm not sure about Jet Li, but Jackie Chan definitely also participates in the box office split."
"Do you think I should be that sucker? Besides, Minkoff's famous work is an animated film, not an action film."
Liu Yifei was a little disappointed: "So you mean you don't want me to go?"
Liu's Mother said from the side: "Li Chen, Yifei is an actress. Being able to act with Jackie Chan and Jet Li will only be beneficial for her development."
Li Chen nodded, what Liu's Mother said was true.
"If you want to go, then go."
Liu Yifei and Liu's Mother exchanged smiles, and without caring that Liu's Mother was present, she happily kissed Li Chen on the cheek: "You're so good."
Liu's Mother let out a snort of laughter.
Liu Yifei immediately reacted, took two steps, and sat beside Liu's Mother, giggling: "Mommy is even better."
the thieves continued filming.
Tim, following Li Chen's orders, found Minkoff.
Relativity Media was now powerful and wealthy, and Minkoff was also full of confidence.
Minkoff was somewhat dismissive of Tim's request.
Minkoff's reaction was within Li Chen's expectations.
After all, Relativity Media, behind him, was backed by the New York hedge fund Elliott Management.
Relativity Media scattered 1 billion US dollars to Universal and Sony, jointly investing widely, truly living up to its reputation as a 'tycoon.'
Since this path was blocked, Li Chen changed direction.
He had already had Tim investigate Li Weida's situation, because of Li Weida's unfavorable start.
Relativity Media had already lost several million in high deposits to Jackie Chan and Jet Li.
Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong.
Jackie Chan saw the caller ID and was a little curious.
"Li Chen, what made you think of calling me?"
"Big Brother, what you're saying makes me feel ashamed. I never visit without a reason, and now I need Big Brother's help."
Jackie Chan was curious about what could make the currently prominent Li Chen ask him for help.
"Don't talk about asking for help. Tell me, what is it? I'll help if I can."
Li Chen nodded: "I haven't congratulated Big Brother yet. That film by Minkoff hasn't even started shooting, and the liquidated damages have already brought Big Brother several million into his account."
Jackie Chan was stunned, then burst out laughing after a moment: "How do you know about this?"
Li Chen also laughed: "Because Li Weida came to me, and I sent him back to Los Angeles with his tail between his legs."
Jackie Chan's smile faded: "What? You don't think highly of this film?"
"To be honest, Big Brother. If it were a solo performance by you, just for your sake, I would invest even if it meant losing money."
"But with you and that other person co-starring, I'd definitely buy a movie ticket, but investing is another matter entirely."
Jackie Chan laughed heartily: "Li Chen is Li Chen. His speaking style is still so unique."
"Enough of that, what exactly do you want from me?"
"Minkoff contacted Yifei's Red Star Wu, hoping Yifei would audition."
"I had Chiyou Films contact Minkoff, hoping that if Yifei passed the audition, there wouldn't be any kissing scenes, but Minkoff refused."
Jackie Chan understood and nodded: "You want me to talk to Minkoff."
"Exactly. When you speak, Big Brother, Minkoff will definitely consider it. After all, this film can do without anyone, but not without you."
Jackie Chan secretly praised. Who said this The Golden Palm director had no brains and couldn't be flexible?
Just the fact that Li Chen came to him today, and every word he said made him feel comfortable.
It proved that Li Chen was by no means as arrogant and overbearing as the outside world claimed.
Jackie Chan readily agreed: "Since you came to me, I have no reason to refuse."
"Thank you, Big Brother. This time, I owe Big Brother a favor."
"Hahaha, wait for my call!"