Huayu Entertainment 1995 started with hijacking.

Chapter 202: Skill No Less Than Feng Xiaogang

That evening, Wu Yuchen took a shower and came out of the bathroom, feeling refreshed. Seeing Da Meiyuan lying on her side watching TV, so beautiful and charming, he couldn't help but jump onto the bed, hug her, and kiss her: "So fragrant!"

Gao Yuanyuan giggled, then adjusted her posture, put her arm around Wu Yuchen's arm, leaned her head on Wu Yuchen's shoulder, and continued watching the TV, clearly captivated by its content.

Wu Yuchen also turned his head to see what was on TV. He saw Ning Jing on the screen, currently soaking in the river, being pulled across by a blond, blue-eyed foreigner. Wu Yuchen recognized her immediately: Ah, isn't this "Yellow River Love"?

The movie being shown at that moment was "Sixth Princess," and it was almost at the end, so Wu Yuchen didn't disturb Gao Yuanyuan's viewing.

The movie ended in just a few minutes. Gao Yuanyuan, watching the tragic ending, snuggled closer to Wu Yuchen, and heard his voice in her ear: "What did you think of the movie?"

“It’s really good, I think it’s quite touching!” Gao Yuanyuan replied without thinking.

Wu Yuchen smiled. To be honest, the movie was very well done in terms of the actors' performances, filming techniques, plot settings, soundtrack, and emotional appeal, but there was one thing he didn't like.

"Think about it carefully, don't you think it's a little strange?" Wu Yuchen said.

"Something's weird?" Gao Yuanyuan wondered, then tried to recall the movie she had just watched, but couldn't quite put her finger on it.

Wu Yuchen couldn't help but remind him, "Don't you think the male lead, the foreigner, is being placed on too high a pedestal? He was flirting with the most beautiful female lead in the movie the whole time, and so many people sacrificed themselves to protect him along the way."

Upon hearing this, Gao Yuanyuan understood what Wu Yuchen was talking about, and asked hesitantly, "But isn't this about rescuing international friends?"

Wu Yuchen sighed inwardly. This truly is a characteristic of our times. The internationalist educational philosophy and the blind worship of foreign cultures have led many to believe that this is normal. Yes, to protect a foreigner, a hundred lives are lost, and everyone thinks it's normal…

Wu Yuchen then said, "Okay, let me ask you a different question. If the male lead were a Black man, would you still feel moved?"

"Ah...no way!" Gao Yuanyuan was stunned and immediately shook her head, finding it hard to imagine a black man becoming the male lead and enjoying this kind of treatment.

Wu Yuchen gently stroked her cheek with his finger: "Look, are Black people not international friends? Why can't you accept that?"

"This, this..." Gao Yuanyuan was speechless.

"So, whether the director intended it or not, this movie puts white people on a very high status. In fact, it subconsciously conveys the idea that white people are superior, that they can date our prettiest girls, enjoy the service and sacrifice of everyone from soldiers to civilians, and finally return to their own country safely."

And what about us Chinese? We're expected to sacrifice for them, as if we're inferior, and then the audience is expected to be moved by this "selfless" spirit. Don't you think that's wrong? So, technically speaking, although the film is well-made, I really don't like it.

Gao Yuanyuan listened to Wu Yuchen's words and felt increasingly uneasy. After a long internal struggle, her face fell, and like a child who had made a mistake, she asked Wu Yuchen:
"Brother Chen, am I particularly stupid? I hadn't thought about any of the things you said, and I was even feeling smug about myself. I've realized that I'm just like you said, subconsciously thinking that foreigners are superior. Will you laugh at me?"

Seeing her adorable expression, Wu Yuchen couldn't help but kiss her affectionately: "Silly girl, how could I make fun of you? I like you so much!"

Then he put his arm around Da Meiyuan's shoulder:

"It's not your fault. On the one hand, our country is temporarily lagging behind, and people have a tendency to admire the strong, subconsciously linking national strength with race. On the other hand, there are too many brainwashing statements from a group of public intellectuals in our country, and you have been influenced without realizing it."

Wu Yuchen wasn't exaggerating; this is an era where public intellectuals hold sway, and it's a time when attracting investment is being vigorously encouraged. These people can shamelessly praise the Western world without anyone interfering—that's the context of the times...

Speaking of China's Oscar nominations this year, if it weren't for Wu Yuchen's "Love," guess which movie it would have been? That's right, it's "Lover's Grief over the Yellow River"!

Why wasn't it Zhang Yimou's *Not One Less* or *The Road Home*? Who knows why! Maybe these people genuinely thought that making the Americans the protagonists and fawning over them would greatly increase their chances of winning an award. In the end, it didn't even get a nomination…

"Just remember this: Americans, Europeans, and people from Hong Kong and Taiwan are just people from economically developed regions. It doesn't mean they are superior or better than us. Once our economic strength improves in ten or twenty years and we gain confidence, our national self-confidence will naturally follow."

Hearing Wu Yuchen's words, Gao Yuanyuan nodded, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him with admiration, and said, "Brother Chen, no matter if they're from Europe or America or Japan or Korea, they can't compare to you. You're the best!"

From the moment she met Wu Yuchen, Da Meiyuan was captivated by his talent. Not only had he won numerous awards, but he had also garnered the admiration of Americans. These past few days, accompanying him in Xiangshan, she had become a frequent guest of honor for various officials. He casually mentioned $1 million, all for the sake of building his own film and television city and contributing to the development of China's film and television industry.

Wu Yuchen is now the most powerful and magnificent man in Da Meiyuan's eyes. She is completely conquered by him, both physically and mentally, and believes everything he says!
To be honest, Wu Yuchen thinks Gao Yuanyuan is really perfect as a girlfriend. Not only is she beautiful, but she is also gentle and considerate. She often looks at you with such admiring and loving eyes, which greatly satisfies a man's vanity and makes you feel sweet and happy. She is simply amazing!

Even though he had experienced various occasions and received many kinds of praise, he still liked Da Meiyuan more and more as he looked at her, and couldn't help but kiss her.

……

At the School of Humanities, Zhejiang University, a burly man with a thick beard bowed and presented a one-yuan coin inlaid with exquisite plexiglass, marked with the auspicious number 25666666, and inscribed with the words "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer," to a short old man.

Jin Yong smiled and said, "Producer Zhang, you've really gone to great lengths!"

Jin Yong was recently invited by the School of Humanities at Zhejiang University to become its honorary dean, and he visits Zhejiang University several times a year.

Zhang Jizhong, with a large beard, said enthusiastically, "Mr. Jin Yong, what are you saying? We at CCTV will definitely remember your kindness in accepting only 1 yuan as copyright fee!"

Jin Yong placed the souvenir on the table, then boldly signed his name on the contract laid out on the table. After putting away his pen, he gave Zhang Jizhong another instruction:
"Producer Zhang, I don't expect you to make 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer' as good as 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' and 'Water Margin,' I'll be satisfied even if it's half as good. Also, please respect the original work!"

Jin Yong was willing to give the novel's copyright to the other party for 1 yuan, partly because of CCTV's influence, and partly because he valued Zhang Dahuzi's abilities. After all, Zhang Dahuzi's previous adaptations of "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" and "Water Margin" were truly excellent and can be considered classics.

"Don't worry, Mr. Jin, I will definitely adhere to the standards of Romance of the Three Kingdoms and Water Margin in writing 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer,' and I will not let you down!" Zhang Dahuzi thumped his chest loudly.

Walking on the campus of Zhejiang University, Zhang Da Hu Zi was in a good mood. In the past two years, Hong Kong and Taiwan's Jin Yong dramas have been flooding the mainland television screens. "The Return of the Condor Heroes" and "Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils" have successively hit the mainland television screens, which has also shown him how good the mass base of Jin Yong dramas is. This time, he was able to get the copyright of "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer". He was sure that he, Da Hu Zi, could make another hit!
Just then, Zhang Dahuzi's phone rang. He picked it up, glanced at it, and quickly answered, "Hello, Director Wu!"

A few hours later, in Xiangshan County.

Wu Yuchen shook hands with Zhang Dahuzi and greeted him warmly, "Brother Zhang, I didn't expect you to be in Hangzhou and come over so quickly!"

"Yes, I didn't expect you to be in Zhejiang Province too, Director Wu. What a coincidence! Even if I were in Beijing today, I would have flown here if you called me!" The bearded man was good at making polite remarks, as expected of someone who started out as a producer.

Beside Wu Yuchen, Gao Yuanyuan greeted Zhang Dahuzi with a smile: "Hello, Producer Zhang!"

"Hello, hello, Miss Gao, you're getting more and more beautiful!" Zhang Dahuzi naturally recognized that this was Gao Yuanyuan. Seeing her with Wu Yuchen, he knew without even thinking what their relationship was.

Actually, given his status as a big-bearded producer, he didn't need to be so polite to Gao Yuanyuan. These actresses should be currying favor with him. But, well, who told her to be with Wu Yuchen? He had to give her face. Wu Yuchen's current status in the industry is far beyond what he, the big-bearded producer, can match.

Although Zhang Dahuzi is a prominent figure in the television industry, even the best on the small screen can't compare to the big screen! Especially not someone like Wu Yuchen, a leading figure in Chinese cinema.

After the group sat down, Wu Yuchen asked with a smile, "Brother Zhang, I heard you've been busy with the 'Swordsman' project lately?"

"Hey, Director Wu, to be honest, I came to Hangzhou this time to sign a contract with Mr. Jin. Thanks to Mr. Jin's high regard for me, the copyright has been finalized, and we'll start preparations soon." Zhang Da Hu Zi didn't hide anything, after all, many people in the station knew.

Wu Yuchen smiled and praised, "You're the one who managed to get the copyright to 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer' from Jin Yong for just one yuan!"

Zhang Dahuzi quickly waved his hand: "Director Wu, you flatter me too much. This is definitely a small matter for you. If you are willing to make a movie, Mr. Jin will definitely give it to you for free!"

Wu Yuchen casually asked, "Brother Zhang, what do you think of our Jiayuan Garden? Could we play a role in your 'Swordsman'?"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Dahuzi thought to himself, "So he really is here." The moment they met today, Wu Yuchen addressed him affectionately as "Brother Zhang," clearly indicating he needed something. It seemed Wu Yuchen was trying to get a role for his girlfriend.
But the bearded man wasn't surprised; this kind of thing is perfectly normal in the industry. Besides, Gao Yuanyuan is indeed quite beautiful, no wonder Wu Yuchen is so interested in her.

Zhang Dahuzi hesitated for a moment. He had to give Wu Yuchen face, but he also needed to see what kind of role Wu Yuchen wanted. If it was Ren Yingying, he definitely couldn't just agree to it. "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer" was his first adaptation of Jin Yong's novels, so he definitely had to make it a success and build his reputation. He couldn't let someone with connections ruin it.

He turned to Gao Yuanyuan and smiled amicably, saying, "Miss Gao, which role do you like?"

Gao Yuanyuan said shyly, "Actually, I haven't read the novel 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer,' I've only watched the Hong Kong TV series..."

Wu Yuchen chimed in with a laugh, "Yuanyuan isn't really suited for the role of Ren Yingying. Actually, the little nun Yilin would be a good fit, but I reckon you're going to ask the actress to shave her head, which I'm a bit reluctant to do. How about Yue Lingshan, the junior sister?"

Zhang Dahuzi sized Gao Yuanyuan up and down a few times. She was indeed beautiful, but he felt that her temperament was somewhat different from Yue Lingshan's. Gao Yuanyuan seemed a bit more reserved, while Yue Lingshan had a proud, willful, and straightforward air about her.

Yue Lingshan is essentially the second female lead in the drama, and in fact, she was the female lead in the early stages. Her screen time is almost as much as Ren Yingying's, making her a very important character. He could have promised Wu Yuchen a supporting role, or even a minor one like Yilin, but he was naturally unwilling to give up such an important role as Yue Lingshan to Gao Yuanyuan just for the sake of saving face.

"Director Wu, Miss Gao is naturally beautiful, and her appearance is definitely beyond reproach. However, I need to see how she looks with makeup to see the specific effect. You know, sometimes actors look completely different after makeup."

Zhang Dahu praised Gao Yuanyuan, but all his words seemed to be compliments. However, he didn't agree to anything, demonstrating his skill in making light of the situation.

Wu Yuchen understood the meaning behind Zhang Dahuzi's words, smiled slightly, and gestured for Zhang Dahuzi to drink tea.

Zhang Dahu thought to himself, "This guy really lives up to his reputation as an internationally renowned director. He's got such a big ego. He went to all this trouble to get me a role for his girlfriend." But they were both in the same industry, and the director had a higher status, so he could only put up with it.

After putting down his teacup, Wu Yuchen's expression turned serious, and he said to Zhang Dahuzi, "Brother Zhang, the real reason I invited you here this time is to discuss an important matter!"

Zhang Dahuzi was full of questions. "You called me here because you wanted a role, so what kind of trick are you trying to fool me with now?"

However, he immediately cooperated, saying, "Director Wu, just say what you need me, Old Zhang, to do!"

Wu Yuchen ignored whether what he said was just polite talk and continued:
"I started out in the film industry and made some money from it. I wouldn't say I'm a great success now, but I've achieved some small success, so I thought I should do something to give back to the Chinese film industry."

Then Wu Yuchen pointed out the window and said, "I recently reached a cooperation agreement with Xiangshan County to develop and build a film and television city here, and I plan to make it the largest film and television shooting base in China."

Zhang Dahuzi immediately gave a thumbs up and praised, "When drinking water, remember its source; when climbing a tree, remember its roots! Director Wu, your level of understanding is truly high!"

Wu Yuchen thought to himself, "Damn, this bearded man's flattery and sucking skills are on par with Feng Xiaogang's. Add to that his film and television shooting skills, no wonder he's made it big!"

"Brother Zhang, I know your abilities. It just so happens that we need to prepare for 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer,' so how about we hold the production at our Xiangshan Film and Television City?"

That's right, Wu Yuchen is eyeing Zhang Da Hu's (Zhang the Bearded Man's) popularity. Don't underestimate Zhang Da Hu. His several adaptations of Jin Yong's novels have generated wave after wave of viewership, all of them being huge hits in their time. Moreover, Zhang Da Hu is also very skilled at building filming bases, creating a base wherever he goes. In his previous life, the Xiangshan Film and Television City was able to open because Zhang Da Hu wanted to film The Return of the Condor Heroes.

"Director Wu, our 'Swordsman' is scheduled to start filming next year, is there enough time?"

Zhang Dahuzi tactfully expressed his reluctance, saying, "You're planning to build it, but it hasn't been built yet. Why would I use yours when I already have the Wuxi Film and Television City?" The Wuxi Film and Television City was built by Zhang Dahuzi himself when he was filming "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" and "Water Margin".

Wu Yuchen chuckled, knowing that this guy wouldn't take the bait without offering some incentive.

"Brother Zhang, I will sign a contract with the county government the day after tomorrow. This investment amount is 1 million US dollars..."

The bearded man thought to himself, "So what if it's 100 million? It's not like I haven't spent 100 million before. I spent over 100 million when I was filming 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms,' although I didn't get a share of it; it was all from the central bank... Wait, US dollars?"

"One hundred million US dollars?!" Zhang Dahuzi asked, his eyes widening.

"Yes, $1 million."

Wu Yuchen nodded, then continued, "I was thinking, if Brother Zhang is willing to join us and work together on this important matter, I will give you 1% of the shares."

"Give me shares?"

“Yes, you can do whatever you want with these shares. You can even withdraw if you want; I'll exchange them for cash at the agreed price,” Wu Yuchen said calmly.

Zhang Dahuzi suddenly felt his mouth go dry. Don't underestimate 1%; 1% of 100 million US dollars is 1 million US dollars, which is eight or nine million yuan in Chinese currency!
Although Zhang Dahuzi is already a big producer, he's always been working for the TV station. Take this time with "Swordsman," for example. CCTV gave him tens of millions of yuan for the production, but as the producer, he only earned a salary. That's just how it is when you're in the system!
Now, all he has to do is nod, and the $100 million is his!
This… Zhang Da Hu Zi’s heart was pounding wildly, and he couldn’t control his restless heart at all.

Wu Yuchen picked up his teacup, took a sip, and said nothing more, letting Zhang Dahuzi think for himself. This was something he had planned to give him beforehand; you have to feed a horse if you want it to run, let alone the shrewd Zhang Dahuzi.
Even if he didn't do that, once Zhang Da Hu Zi's "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer" was a success, he would have left CCTV and started his Jin Yong drama film and television city construction model. Don't think he only earns money from his acting fees; in fact, he builds a film and television base for every drama he films, and he personally owns a small share in each base. The combination of Zhang Da Hu Zi's name and the reputation of Jin Yong dramas is very attractive to various places, who wouldn't mind sharing some with him.

Wu Yuchen is now taking advantage of the fact that Da Huzi hasn't made his fortune yet, so he's already tied him to the Xiangshan Film and Television City's chariot. Now that you've become a shareholder, you'd better work hard to build your own film and television city.
Zhang Dahu knew he couldn't accept cash right now; he was still with the central bank, and accepting cash would be against regulations. But he could quietly hold onto the shares for now!
The bearded man knew this was a chance to change his fate; such opportunities were rare in life. Mustering his courage, he boldly asked, "Director Wu, could you give me a little more?"

Wu Yuchen looked at the bearded man with a half-smile: "Brother, how many do you want?"

The bearded man held up two fingers:
"Director Wu, I don't just have this one 'Swordsman'! After I finish filming this one, I'll definitely have 'The Legend of the Condor Heroes,' 'The Return of the Condor Heroes,' and 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils' to follow. I promise to bring them all to Xiangshan to film! From now on, as long as it's a TV series by me, Lao Zhang, or any of my friends, I'll introduce them all to Xiangshan!"

Wu Yuchen rubbed his chin as if deep in thought, while Zhang Dahuzi watched him nervously, his palms already sweating.

There was no way around it; this one point was worth a million US dollars. Zhang Da Hu Zi was almost 50 years old now, and he hadn't even saved up a million yuan, let alone a million US dollars. You don't earn much working within the system! Da Hu Zi had made up his mind that once this "Swordsman" was finished filming, he would leave CCTV!

"Alright, I trust Brother Zhang's abilities! You can come with me to the signing ceremony the day after tomorrow. After all, you're a shareholder, so you should witness it firsthand!"

Zhang Dahuzi was overjoyed. He had just gotten $200 million and became a multimillionaire overnight!
The bearded man immediately stood up, picked up the teapot, and poured tea for Wu Yuchen: "Director Wu, please don't call me Brother Zhang anymore, I can't accept it. Just call me Old Zhang!"

Then he chuckled and said, "As the saying goes, 'Being near gold makes you like gold, being near jade makes you like jade.' By joining Xiangshan Film City and becoming a shareholder with Director Wu, I'm just hoping to benefit from your talent. Maybe one day this old blockhead of mine will finally see the light!"

Looking at Zhang Dahuzi's appearance, Wu Yuchen felt as if he were looking at a fat version of Feng Xiaogang. His ability to flatter people was no less than Xiaogang's!
Zhang Dahuzi not only poured tea for Wu Yuchen, but also for Gao Yuanyuan, and immediately said:

“Miss Gao has the looks, the temperament, and the popularity. She’s also a top student from Beijing Film Academy. She’s top in everything, and her age is just right. I think she should play Yue Lingshan. No one else is more suitable than her!”

What does it matter if there's a slight difference in temperament? Old Zhang will at least give her a suitable look and patiently teach her step by step. This is the woman of his God of Wealth!

Wu Yuchen gently patted Gao Yuanyuan's hand: "Aren't you going to thank Producer Zhang?"

Gao Yuanyuan immediately picked up her teacup and smiled brightly: "Thank you, Producer Zhang. I'll go back and prepare well. I'll read the novel several times first, and I'll definitely play Yue Lingshan well and live up to your expectations!"

(End of this chapter)