Huayu: From charlatan to great entertainer

Chapter 320 Homework
(I have read the previous chapter, so I may not be able to continue with this chapter if you haven’t read it yet. You can read it tomorrow)

Repulse Bay is located south of Deep Water Bay in the southern area of ​​Hong Kong Island. It is where the mansion of Mr. Li, the owner of Eagle King, is located.

On the evening of February 2, Boss Li invited a small gathering of the company's artists, Xiao Liu's team who were visiting Hong Kong for activities, Wenjie Jiahe General Manager Gao Jun, Mei Yanfang and others to his private residence.

Liu Yifei, Su Chang and Tang Yan got out of the car, and Huo Wenxi led them to visit this high-tech villa halfway up the mountain.

Taking the waves as the blueprint, the building outline is outlined with rhythmic and ever-changing lines, so that the building is integrated with the natural environment and is full of natural atmosphere and artistic sense.

The mansion faces Repulse Bay Beach and has a wide sea view.

Guests can fully enjoy the blue sea and sky, the long sandy beach, and the beautiful sunrise and sunset over the sea. The sea is also dotted with small islands in the distance, and the scenery is charming.

Su Chang was impressed by the lifestyle of Hong Kong's wealthy people: "Xixi, this place is really nice."

Tang Yan, who had been here several times, nodded continuously. She had not seen much of the extravagance in the entertainment industry.

Land resources in Repulse Bay are very scarce and the number of luxury homes is limited.

Being able to own a property here itself represents a very high status and position, and is a symbol of wealth and nobility.

Huo Wenxi's Mandarin has become more standard over the past two years: "Boss Li now lives a secluded life, rarely leaving the house. He spends his days here hiking, gardening, and mowing the lawn. He's quite content."

She pointed to several buildings in the bay area at the foot of the mountain and said to Liu Yifei: "There is a golf club and Deep Bay Yacht Club over there."

Then he whispered, "Crystal, I think you can suggest that Lu Sheng buy a property here. I can help him contact some properties that are interested in selling."

Xiao Liu looked at her innocently: "What does his buying a house have to do with me?"

Huo Wenxi clasped his hands together and said with a smile, "I made a mistake. Miss Liu, you can think about it yourself!"

Even though she said that, the girl still felt very happy to be defined by Huo Wenxi as someone very close to him.

Huo Wenxi, who has now become the vice president of Yinghuang Entertainment, is naturally a smart person.

Since she was transferred to the Peking Office three years ago, her core mission has been just one: to establish good relations between Eagle King and Boss Li, to grant their requests, and to serve as a bridge of communication.

After careful observation and flattery, couldn't she see that this little girl was special to Boss Lu?

Especially after the Fox live broadcast.

Huo Wenxi had no intention of prying into the privacy of the young couple, but just like Sun Wenwen who had gone astray, she knew that it was always a good idea to make friends with Xiao Liu.

The deliberate intrusion just now was also a disguised form of flattery.

Concubine Liu Yi asked doubtfully, "By the way, is the road wide enough?"

Huo Wenxi looked at his watch and said, "Lu Sheng is discussing work with the boss and the Disney staff. It should be almost over."

While a few people were talking, suddenly a charming and cheerful female voice came from afar.

"Has Teacher Lu arrived?"

Lu Zheng smiled and said, "Yes, you'll be able to see it when the dinner starts."

Liu Xiaoli and Mei Yanfang who were a little further away, Su Chang and Tang Yan, the two best friends who were standing by the flower bed, and of course Xiao Liu who was standing closest, all turned their heads to look.

Teacher Lu?

He has an apprentice?
In front of the villa, Jing Tian stepped onto the last step and suddenly saw a group of familiar faces staring at her.

The eyes of the beautiful woman flashed, a trace of shyness flashed across her face, and she stepped forward and politely extended her hand to Concubine Liu Yi: "Hello, Miss Liu, I am Jing Tian."

Xiao Liu recognized at a glance that this was the daughter who spent 1500 million to buy the painting. No matter what her purpose or level was, she would naturally not make any mistakes in the scene.

"Hello, Jingtian, it's our first time meeting."

Inside the courtyard, the architectural lines of the mansion appear softer and less harsh under the shadow of the sunset.

The glass curtain wall on the exterior of the villa reflected the sunset glow, shining on the two girls.

Eighteen-year-old Jing Tian's cheeks are rosy, the rosy clouds are reflected in the clear pond, and she is as beautiful as spring plum blossoms blooming in the snow.

The nineteen-year-old Liu Yifei had sparkling eyes, the moon shone on the cold river, and her spirit was like autumn orchid covered with frost.

Lu Zheng on the side was also leisurely looking at this top young star in the domestic entertainment industry. Director Lu was obviously fond of her, but refused to teach Jing Tian how to perform.

After the two women introduced themselves, they seemed to have nothing more to say, but Huo Wenxi on the side did not want to make the situation more awkward.

"Yi Fei, Miss Jing Tian passed the art exam and will be your junior at the Beijing Film Academy in September."

Xiao Liu smiled and said, "Really? Congratulations! The teachers at Beijing Film Academy are all very nice and friendly. I hope everything goes well for you."

Su Chang and Tang Yan on the side looked at each other, with gossip burning in their eyes.

They are naturally confident in the rank of their best friend Liu Yifei.

Yesterday, they even caught a big bitch like Wendi Deng. What kind of waves can this little girl, who seems not even a love rival for the time being, make?

But the VIP seat is really cool!
Why hasn’t Boss Lu come out yet? I really want to witness the famous scene.

The protagonist of the story was unaware that he was being secretly criticized and was having a private conversation with Egg in Li Shoucheng's study.

If Wendy Deng and Murdoch saw this, they would be more vigilant.

Is it necessary for your president Bob Iger to personally attend the signing ceremony for a Hong Kong Disney spokesperson or ambassador?
The answer is obvious: this is a conspiracy against News Corporation.

In other words, the scandal recently reprinted by BBC Wide Angle was born out of a patchwork agreement.

"Lu, your source of information really surprises me."

Iger looked at the young man with emotion. "You've even managed to uncover clues from such an old story. I'm sure this will be a significant blow to Murdoch."

Boss Lu smiled and said, "You're too kind."

"From the way Wendy Deng acted, it's clear this isn't the first time this couple has done something like this."

The young director, posing as his hacker source, said: "My friends tell me that if News Corp.'s past transgressions were truly exposed, it would be a global scandal."

"Iger, now it depends on whether Disney is interested in deepening our cooperation?"

The batch film and compilation agreement is a win-win situation. At the same time, Disney helps Liu Yifei eliminate the impact of public opinion after the live broadcast on Fox.

But this time, Iger certainly didn't think that he was just venting his anger for his girlfriend in the attack on News Corporation.

For such people, their attitude of risking their lives for the sake of their beloved may just be a cover-up for their real business purpose.

Even the "beauty" herself, Concubine Liu Yi, had to admit this.

She had guessed from the ruthless pursuit of Jang Nara last year that it was just a prelude to the overthrow of Zhou Jun.

Disney President Bob Iger smiled and said, "Please speak. Your contribution to this partnership is worth my commitment and promise."

Whether it was the resignation of his predecessor Eisner or the conclusion of the batch and package agreements, he could see the pattern and methods of this young oriental man's work.

The most crucial thing is that this time, taking advantage of the negative information exposed by News Corporation in the UK three years ago, the Disney Group began to seek local television media resources that originally belonged to News Corporation.

According to the BBC's "Wide Angle", the British Independent Television has begun collecting evidence and has filed a lawsuit against News Corporation for engaging in vicious commercial competition through the following means three years ago.

According to the statute of limitations and commercial law in UK law, if the evidence is conclusive, News Corporation will face huge compensation and an administrative order up to and including withdrawal.

This is a huge benefit for Disney, which has always coveted Fox's television resources but could not get them and had to accept the cooperation.

For Disney, whose works are mostly family-friendly, television station resources are the content channels they urgently need.

"Lu, tell me, what do you need?"

"Given your nationality and your stake in US and Commonwealth television resources, even if Fox were to retreat due to a business scandal, it's unlikely you would pocket the money."

Boss Lu shook his head: "That's a Disney gift for you, my friend."

"In exchange, I need you to use your personal connections to help me acquire shares in Netflix or Blockbuster."

"Blockbuster's major shareholder, Carl Icahn, holds a 16% stake. He, the Wolf of Wall Street, has a close relationship with you."

"Netflix's Hastings is quite stubborn, so it might take some effort."

Iger was stunned, but he wasn't surprised by his familiarity with his connections. He frowned and pondered for a moment, "Why are you interested in a DVD rental company?"

Blockbuster and Netflix currently focus on offline DVD rentals.

The former is the old industry leader, and the latter is an up-and-coming company that is almost about to surpass the big brother. They are currently in a life-and-death struggle.

Of course, Boss Lu wouldn't reveal his true purpose, so he made up a plausible excuse: "I own a film company in the United States, but it only has content production capabilities."

"In terms of content channels, cinemas are asset-heavy projects, and I don't have enough financial resources to get involved at the moment."

"Besides cinemas, there's the DVD rental business. Blockbuster and Netflix are fighting fiercely right now, so I think there's still some opportunity to get involved."

Egg glanced at him calmly, feeling that he was taking the words half-heartedly.

But that has nothing to do with Disney, that's not Disney's track.

After all, he is not an individual investor like Lu Kuan who has a wild imagination. All company strategies must be based on the decisions of the board of directors.

At present, the most worthwhile thing to achieve is to take advantage of News Corporation’s scandal and eat up as many of their TV station resources as possible.

The two powerful figures in the Chinese and American film industries conspired for a long time. Boss Lu walked contentedly into the garden to smoke a cigarette, lamenting how difficult it was to get this nail into the North American film industry, as he had to choose only such a tricky angle.

"Hey! What are you so proud of? Look at the smoke rings you're blowing."

The young director was caught off guard and was photographed from behind by Liu Yifei. The guests around him who wanted to come forward to talk to him all tactfully retreated and instead observed them silently.

Jing Tian also looked at the "master and disciple" couple in her eyes thoughtfully.

Boss Lu glanced at her and reluctantly crushed his half-smoked cigarette butt: "Stop asking about the richest man's affairs!"

Xiao Liu teased, "Lu Chuan and his son are finished. Are they thinking about how to harm Wendy Deng? Or are they going to take out News Corporation as well?"

She whispered mysteriously, "Hey, tell me about it. What's this article you're planning to write?"

"Nonsense! Wendy Deng dared to threaten you. I was just imitating Wu Sangui's past deeds. How could I talk about violence?"

The girl blushed slightly and rolled her eyes at him. "The BBC's reprint of News Corporation's business scandal was your idea, wasn't it?"

"Tell me about it, it will make writing the paper next semester easier!"

Seeing the little girl so curious, the young director looked at her with amusement.

From attending Booth School of Business, creating Twitter, to negotiating ruthlessly with myself, this skill set has become increasingly skewed.

Never mind, let it be her fault. It is obvious that she is no longer satisfied with just being beautiful.

"This time, using your case as a breakthrough point, we've reached a partnership with Disney. Besides collaborating on film compilations, Wenjie Holdings is also aiming to establish a foothold in North American film distribution channels."

Xiao Liu was stunned: "Nail?"

Just like the ownership of Blog.com and Mytube, since there was nothing to hide from her, Lu Kuan simply broke down the strategic intentions and fed them to her.

"Marx said that only when commodities enter the sphere of consumption can their value and use value be finally realized, and the production process of commodities be considered finally completed."

"In both China and the United States, Wenjie Holdings in China is gradually expanding its cinema chains and theaters, but overseas we lack a channel for content monetization, that is, a channel for our own film products to be consumed."

Boss Lu suddenly pulled out his phone and said, "If I tell you that people will most likely watch movies on their phones in the future, would you believe it?"

Liu Yifei pondered, "North America does have Flash video mobile phone subscription plans now, but I can't imagine if the movie would be too big."

"I believe the future of film content will be the integration of three screens."

"That is, traditional cinema screens, computers and mobile devices."

Lu Kuan analyzed it for her one by one: "Based on the development of Wenjie in the North American film industry, if it is not satisfied with being just a content provider and being controlled by others in other aspects of the industry chain such as publicity and distribution, it must have its own base."

"Among all these, the most important thing is of course the movie screen. Just like the Big Six, whoever controls more screens has greater say."

Xiao Liu laughed and said, "But you don't have that much money, do you?"

"Yes, there are ways to play for those with money and for those without money."

How to play with money?

Having money means being like Wanda, which has been cooperating with Warner since 2002 to develop asset-intensive cinema business in the mainland.

Later in 2012, it directly spent $31 billion to acquire AMC, the second largest cinema chain in the United States.

Lao Wang proposed that Wanda Group’s goal is to occupy 2020% of the global film market share in 20, which means that it can directly communicate with the Big Six with its hard power.

But for Boss Lu and Wenjie now, he cannot afford to spend this money for the time being, and there is no need to spend it.

It may seem like a business worth only a few billion, but the cinema's annual fixed expenses and debts are also borne by the acquirer.

"Without money, we have no choice but to target channels that no one cares about, just like Mytube did back then."

Liu Yifei nodded, not quite understanding: "Is this the computer and mobile version you mentioned?"

"Correct."

"Then why are you selling Mytube? Doesn't it also belong to the computer side?"

"Even if it has irreversible loss-making genes, if it is as you say, shouldn't this be your strategic product? Why sell it?"

Boss Lu nodded appreciatively, acknowledging her insight. "This is the difference and similarity between video sites like Mytube and the Blockbuster and Netflix they're targeting this time."

"Generally speaking, these video sites, known as streaming media, are another macro-channel for the film industry besides offline screens."

"Mytube is still mainly based on the UCG model, relying on users to upload content and provide a sharing space."

"While Blockbuster and Netflix currently focus on offline DVD rentals, the customer base they have accumulated will be a huge advantage in their future transition to online streaming."

Boss Lu held up two fingers and said, "With streaming media resources, when the three screens merge into one in the future, Wenjie will be able to occupy at least two screens."

On the computer side, there are streaming companies like Netflix or Blockbuster, and on the mobile side, there are the former's apps plus the shares of Android companies in which they have already invested.

"I would boldly predict that the future output of film and television content and the development of offline cinemas will have their own shackles."

"The DVD rental business will also gradually die out, replaced by online rentals and subscriptions that Blockbuster and Netflix are just beginning to develop."

"Whether we acquire Netflix or Blockbuster, leveraging their vast library of films and high-quality paying customers accumulated over more than a decade of development to build a giant online streaming media company is our most practical strategy in the short term."

Of course, he couldn't elaborate on some strategic issues.

For example, the expansion of heavy-asset cinema chains is also essential, but it must be achieved through cost-effective mergers and acquisitions, and cannot be achieved through a carpet-style approach like in China.

There is also the future development scale and prospects of streaming media.

For someone like Xiao Liu who is not reborn, even if Boss Lu gives him some ideas and he works at full speed to make predictions, it is impossible for him to get a glimpse of the full picture of the huge scale of the industry.

But the fact is that Netflix, the leader in streaming media, surpassed Disney in May 2018 with a market value of US$5 billion, becoming the world's largest media company.

Of course, Netflix's development has also experienced twists and turns.

From being on the verge of collapse during the dot-com bubble in 2000 to defeating the old king Blockbuster in 2006;

In 2009, it officially abandoned offline DVD rentals and fully entered the streaming media business, causing its stock price to plummet 70% and nearly leading to its delisting due to a broken capital chain.
It was not until 2012 that it began to produce its own dramas, and with the hit "House of Cards", it began to challenge the traditional North American film and television giants on its own.

But just like the operation on Mytube, if the boss had intervened in advance, many detours could have been avoided.

But the problem now is that even with Iger's assistance, it will not be easy for him to achieve this business goal.

This is not like trying to preemptively acquire an Internet product that has not yet been launched. It is a real investment and hostile takeover, which is fraught with difficulties.

Lu Kuan looked at the little girl who was lost in thought: "Do you understand?"

“I understand it, but it sounds so difficult.”

"Let me assign you an assignment." Boss Lu chuckled.

"If you were me and I gave you a maximum of $25 billion, would you pursue Blockbuster or Netflix?"

“No matter which company you gain control of, how do you swallow up the other one?”

"Don't you have courses at the Booth School of Business? Consider what you've learned and keep it confidential."

25 billion is the total cash flow he can squeeze out through the pledge of Focus Media and Google shares, plus other channels.

Blockbuster and Netflix are both listed companies with public financial information, so this is a suitable homework assignment.

Of course, if there is a real need, irrational financing can still be continued through certain channels. Here I just give her a rough number.

The little girl nodded excitedly, looking forward to participating in his career, not to mention that this was also one of her goals in studying in North America.

Isn’t this more vivid than any open class?
You can think about it first and then see how he does it.

The two of them were chatting as if no one was around, which made the spectators who were watching the fun and those who wanted to join in the fun very anxious.

Li Shoucheng took Egg around to socialize and then came over to greet them.

"Although it's presumptuous, Miss Liu, could you please give up your male companion first?"

"Perhaps there are many other guests waiting to greet and chat with fellow travelers?"

Liu Yifei looked at the Eagle King boss's mischievous smile and said shyly, "Please go ahead, Mr. Li. I was just asking him about his performance."

Iger had naturally met Xiao Liu in North America, and he gave him enough face by personally participating in the signing ceremony.

"Crystal, I didn't expect you to be so popular in Southeast Asia. It seems choosing you as the spokesperson for Hong Kong Disneyland was the right decision."

Li Shoucheng said: "Ms. Liu's "Alien Land" and "Bad Genius" performed very well in Southeast Asia. They still have an audience base."

He envied Boss Lu's cash cow, so he recruited Tang Yan to create a small flower template in 2004. However, the effect was mediocre, and there was no representative role that broke out of the circle.

Concubine Liu Yi responded dignifiedly, "Thank you, Mr. Egger, and thank you, Mr. Li. I'll stay with you for a while so I don't interfere with your conversation."

The girl winked at the boss and playfully whispered to him, "Washing machine, your 1500 million just arrived."

The young director looked at her pretty figure walking away speechlessly.

This matter can't be resolved, right?

The little girl who was the focus of today's event left, and Li Shoucheng took Boss Lu to greet the guests present today.

It was obvious who everyone was coming for, and Liu Dehua was the first to come up.

"Lu Sheng, it's been a long time since we last met in Cannes."

Boss Lu smiled and shook his hand. "I have to thank Director Li for this. Otherwise, how could I have such a good opportunity?"

Andy Lau's social skills are of course impeccable, and few people in the Hong Kong circle say bad things about him. He immediately raised his glass to toast Li Shoucheng.

Li Shoucheng approached the young director and said, "Can we come together, Lu Sheng? Why are you being so polite to me?"

The three of them toasted, and Liu Dehua calmly introduced himself: "Director Lu, I heard they're casting for their next movie?"

"Yes, it's a historical film about the Nanjing Massacre. Brother Hua, are you interested?"

Liu Dehua waved his hands repeatedly: "Director Lu, please stop calling me Brother Hua. Isn't that embarrassing?"

"I heard that when you were friends with Zhou Xingchi, you always called him Xingzai. So why not call me Huazai too?"

The fancy sedan was carried by many people, and King Liu was low-key and polite. There was nothing big about calling him Brother Hua, it was just because of age.

Boss Lu responded with a flattering remark: "There are many excellent actors of the older generation in Hong Kong. I have worked with Liang Jiahui, but Brother Fang Long missed the opportunity. If Brother Hua is interested, I will see if there is any suitable role for you to play."

"This film is a biographical film centered around the heroine, Iris Chang, and doesn't have many male characters with significant screen time."

Li Shoucheng calmly winked at Liu Dehua, who understood what he meant. In fact, he didn't need his reminder at all, as he knew it was a good thing!
"No problem! The Chinese people will support things like this. Mr. Lu, I'll be making a cameo appearance for free. Just let me know in advance."

Boss Lu smiled and said, "We should follow the rules and handle official business impartially. Your presence here to support the occasion is a gesture of kindness enough."

Andy smiled with wrinkles on his face: "Okay, then it's settled for now. I'll have my agent contact the industry later."

"no problem."

After one person finishes his performance, I take the stage. The 1500 million that Xiao Liu mentioned finally has the chance to exchange greetings.

Lu Kuan was not surprised by their arrival. It was just the information he had learned from Li Shoucheng.

Furthermore, Jing Tian has appeared in many Hong Kong film and television resources in her later life.

"Special Identity", "Police Story 2013" and "From Vegas to Macau" are one after another.

Among them, "Special Identity" partners Zhen Zidan and Zhang Hanyu;

"From Vegas to Macau" co-stars Chow Yun-fat and Nicholas Tse;

In "Police Story 2013", Jing Tian partnered with Fang Long and Liu Ye, playing Fang Long's daughter. The Hong Kong big brother even said in an interview that the whole play was just about accompanying his daughter to study.

Li Shoucheng tactfully left them some space to talk while he continued to receive the guests.

"Teacher Lu!"

Boss Lu held his forehead with his hand and said, "Jing Tian, ​​you can call me Lu Kuan, but don't call me Teacher Lu."

Lu Zheng flattered, "Boss Lu, Tiantian really admires and respects you, especially after what happened in the United States."

"You don't know, she was so worried at the time that she asked her family to contact many of her connections in North America..."

Jing Tian interrupted the starry-eyed boss a little embarrassedly: "Uncle Lu, stop talking."

She really had no intention of repaying a favor or seeking credit, but she just felt that it was a bit embarrassing for Lu Zheng to express his feelings so openly.

However, Boss Lu had already heard the news from another loudmouthed international student in North America. He smiled at Jing Tian and said, "Thank you. I appreciate your kindness."

He glanced at Lu Zheng, who was hesitant to speak, and said, "Jingtian, go get us two glasses of wine."

"Ah? Oh, okay!" The little girl left excitedly, as if getting instructions was a very happy thing.

The young director confronted Lu Zheng directly, "We've met so many times, Mr. Lu, you can tell me the truth. What is Jing Tian's background?"

Lu Zheng laughed. "Director Lu, they come from an ordinary merchant family. She's just an ordinary 18-year-old girl who's just interested in being an actress."

Lu Kuan pretended to leave: "Okay, let's talk later."

"Hey! Hey! Mr. Lu, wait a moment!" Lu Zheng hurriedly stopped him: "I..."

"Boss Lu, Tiantian is the child of a relative of an old leader."

"When this leader was at the top of his career, he was warm and righteous, and he helped many people. Although he has retired now, everyone still remembers his kindness."

"Including me, everyone is here to repay the old leader's kindness. We also feel that Tiantian is a truly kind-hearted child and not a spoiled brat."

"Since she herself is determined to pursue this career, our boss assigned me to handle this matter specifically."

Before Boss Lu could ask more questions, Lu Zheng quickly responded, "It's really inconvenient for me to mention this old leader's name. I hope you can forgive me."

The young director hesitated for two seconds. Seeing that he was really tight-lipped, he didn't ask any more questions for the time being. "You just want her to be famous, right? Popularity is enough."

"Yes! Our boss has instructed us to make Tiantian as popular as Liu Yifei, not only in China but also famous in North America and throughout East Asia."

Boss Lu smiled and said, "I see you're already doing that. Haven't you contacted the Washington State Cherry Association?"

"How...how did Mr. Lu know this?"

"Oh, I overheard it in America. It's nothing worth mentioning."

Boss Lu, who is unique in the domestic entertainment industry in promoting others, sighed: "To be honest, it's not easy for Jing Tian to become famous."

Before Lu Zheng could answer, the girl who had just returned from getting the wine timidly said, "Teacher Lu! I don't just want to be famous!"

Jing Tian said aggrievedly, "When you asked me why I wanted to be an actor, I just thought it was fun."

"But after attending the premiere of 'Aftershock' and watching Sister Zhou Xun's performance, I realized that being an actor is far from being that simple. I was too superficial before and didn't respect this profession."

"Teacher Lu, I really want to learn acting from you, so please accept me!"

Boss Lu had a constipated expression on his face. This girl was too careless.

But it's no wonder she does that. Since she was a child, she has always seen the sky as the vast and boundless Milky Way. She feels that the world revolves around her and it's normal for her to have any dream that cannot be realized.

Lu Zheng thought he was hesitating from his expression, and without caring about Jing Tian's presence, he took the opportunity to put forward his own conditions:

"Mr. Lu, I saw that Golden Harvest started construction of cinema chains and theaters in mainland China last year, but it seems that the progress has been slow..."

"I can't speak for other places, but in Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces, if there's a need, whether it's funding, connections, or land acquisition, we can help."

Hearing this, Lu Kuan looked at Lu Zheng curiously: "What does your boss do?"

"real estate."

"Oh! No wonder."

Those who are successful in real estate these days have great conveniences in acquiring land and raising funds, and dealing with the government is commonplace.

Boss Lu got straight to the point: "I want to acquire Xi'an Cinema Line. Can you help me?"

Around 2006, Xi'an Cinema Chain had more than 10 cinemas, making it the largest cinema chain in the area.

In addition, the cinema chains under the Shaanxi Provincial Film Company, Henan Oscar, and Wanda are all entering Xi'an.

Xi'an plays an important role in the film industry.

Because there is the Xi'an Film Studio here.

Lu Kuan can extend his reach here through his previous acquaintance with Wu Tianmin and the distribution company jointly established with Xi'an Film Studio.

However, when it comes to heavy asset projects such as cinema investment and construction, this relationship has little direct impact.

If the connections behind Jing Tian can really be put to good use, directly acquiring the largest cinema chain in Xi'an and then radiating to Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces would be a good move.

Lu Zheng looked at his thoughtful expression and asked tentatively, "Mr. Lu, you..."

"When will Jing Tian start school?"

"next year."

"So you don't have any acting skills at all?"

Jing Tian said embarrassedly: "Yes...but I..."

Boss Lu interrupted her: "Don't worry, I'd like to recommend Mr. Feng Yuanzheng from the People's Art Theatre to you. Let's see if he's willing to mentor Jing Tian first."

"After I start school next year, I will study acting diligently for two years to build a solid foundation."

"If you can do all of this and have the patience to hone yourself, maybe in two years I can help you realize your wish."

Lu Zheng said in embarrassment: "Director Lu, this... didn't we agree that you would give it to her..."

Boss Lu said in an attitude of equal exchange: "I haven't finished yet."

"Help me get the Xi'an cinema line as soon as possible. If Jing Tian is free during this period, you can come to the crew after my movie starts shooting."

The wealthy flower in the world was surprised and said, "Teacher Lu, can I have a role?!"

"Well, there is a role, but you have to make sure you can accept it first."

Lu Zheng hurriedly said, "Accept it! Accept it! Tiantian, it's OK!"

The young director had a deadpan expression on his face: "Can a light stand-in be used?"

"Light...light replacement?" Lu Zheng's excited expression came to an abrupt end, and his face turned red instantly!
"No! Absolutely not! Director Lu, you are kidding, right?"

Jing Tian's pretty face turned pale, but when she saw the elegant Boss Lu smiling at her, her face instantly flushed with shyness.

Light stand-in? Nude stand-in?
This teacher Lu... is really... as shameless and lewd as people say on the Internet...

Washing Machine frowned at the two amateurs, realizing they had misunderstood. "A light stand-in is a lighting stand-in, not a naked stand-in."

"During the early stages of filming, there are rehearsals, and that's when a light double is needed to help adjust the lighting on set on behalf of the lead actor."

"Xiao Liu is the leading lady in the next movie. Jing Tian's figure is not much different from hers, just shorter... maybe three centimeters? She's a good replacement for a light double."

"This..." Lu Zheng scratched his head awkwardly, and after a while he said depressedly, "Director Lu, how can you be someone's stand-in right after your debut..."

"Hmm? That's not right, is it?"

Boss Lu said seriously, "Did you just say you wanted Jing Tian to be as famous as Liu Yifei?"

Lu Zheng glanced at Jing Tian, ​​who looked a little depressed, and reluctantly admitted: "Yes, but..."

"Wait a minute." Boss Lu waved to the little girl pretending to chat with Su Chang in the distance: "Xiao Liu, come here!"

Liu Yifei had her back to him, and Su Chang winked at her best friend. The young actress in the domestic entertainment industry then pretended to have just heard something and walked over leisurely.

"What's wrong, guide? Any instructions?"

The two beautiful girls who had just met and shook hands stood together again.

The guests' fiery gossip was rekindled.

Boss Lu said confidently: "You just expressed your idea, and I also gave you a solution."

"Liu Yifei is famous, right? Why don't you ask her what her first role was when she was filming 'Foreign Land'?"

Xiao Liu frowned, not knowing why he brought this up. His expression remained calm, "To begin with... I'm Zhang Ziyi's stunt double."

Jing Tian opened her mouth in surprise. She really didn't know about this old story, and no one promoted this kind of news material. It was meaningless.

Zhang Ziyi has the most motivation to promote herself, but does she dare?
The most beautiful woman in the world looked at Liu Yifei in disbelief. She reached the peak of her career as soon as she debuted, but she actually became a stand-in?
Boss Lu said with a look of ridicule: "Liu Yifei asked Feng Yuanzheng to teach her acting when she was over 14 years old, and she was Zhang Ziyi's stand-in in "Foreign Land"."

"It's just that due to some accidents, she was replaced as the heroine Lan Yue."

"Mr. Lu, you asked me to do something, and I've come up with a plan. It's up to you and Jing Tian to choose."

Lu Zheng was speechless. He was really in a dilemma.

You put forward conditions and ask someone to do something, and they agree.

He came up with his own method, which was proven to be effective by the precedent of Concubine Liu Yi.

But this training program doesn't really sound right, does it? What if the boss is unhappy and asks for accountability?

"I can."

Jing Tian pursed her lips tightly. The beautiful woman who had never wasted her life gritted her teeth and agreed, looking solemnly at the young director she admired.

"Teacher Lu, as long as you are willing to teach me, I am not afraid of hardship or fatigue!"

A hint of bitterness appeared on her beautiful and elegant face, mist gradually appeared in her bright eyes, and the two small fists behind her back were clenched tightly.

After several rejections, Jing Tian knew that he looked down on her.

Even as a condition of exchange, she was still asked to be a light substitute. The girl naturally thought that this was a humiliation and a blow.

However, she has a tough nature. Even if she is not convinced, she has to accept it with gritted teeth.

Xiao Liu became very alert and looked at the washing machine beside him with a cold brow, wondering about his real purpose.

Addicted again?
Boss Lu doesn't care whether Jing Tian is crying or laughing, he just needs to fulfill his responsibilities and make the deal.

"Okay, you guys chat."

"Mr. Lu, please contact Gao Jun later and discuss the Xi'an Cinema Line matter with him in detail."

Lu Zheng waved his hands awkwardly, seeming to hesitate to speak.

Liu Yifei looked at the washing machine angrily as it dumped the mess on her. Then she turned around and looked at Jing Tian, ​​who was about to cry, and felt inexplicably pitiful for her. She thought she was a bit like her former self.

Xiao Liu felt inexplicably soft-hearted.

"That... is sweet."

"Ok?"

"That's just the way he is."

Concubine Liu Yi comforted her in a relaxed tone: "You will understand later. If you are afraid of being scolded, you'd better give up as soon as possible."

Lu Zheng smiled kindly at Xiao Liu, thinking she meant well, and joined in: "Yes, Tiantian, Miss Liu is right."

"A strict teacher produces excellent students. He is not like those tutors you hired before who coaxed you into learning."

Concubine Liu Yi sighed deeply in her heart. Seeing Jing Tian's tears falling, she felt a little sorry for her. She said to Lu Zheng, "I'll take her to the garden to relax."

"Okay, okay, thank you for your hard work, Miss Liu."

Of course Lu Zheng was relieved. He was about to become someone's substitute, so it would be best if he could have a good relationship with her.

But considering the relationship between this young actress in the domestic entertainment industry and Lu Kuan...

The two girls sat down on the stone bench in the garden. The moonlight poured in, leaving them a quiet space for whispering.

Jing Tian wiped her tears with the back of her hand, feeling a little embarrassed. "Thank you, Sister Yifei."

"I..."

The beautiful woman looked at Xiao Liu, whose skin was crystal clear and as soft as jade, and thought of how Xiao Liu had just gently comforted her, and she inexplicably felt a sense of security.

"I just couldn't accept it all at once. I felt like Teacher Lu looked down on me."

"Huh? That's normal! He only smiles on the set with actors of Mr. Li Xuejian's level."

Xiao Liu looked at her with a smile, speaking with the tone of someone who had experienced many things: "I'm used to it. You only cried once."

"I cried five or six times a day at most. My mom recorded it and kept count."

"You don't know, the wind was so cold that it blew my tears away as soon as they came out. My face was sore!"

Liu Yifei recalled her early career which was full of tears and setbacks, and taught Jing Tian the catchphrase of young directors to hit people.

"Liu Yifei, you really don't have this talent. Stop acting and go eat. We have your favorite dishes today. It won't be a loss if you eat two more bowls."

"Liu Yifei? Who taught you to look at the camera like that? It makes your eyes look bigger, right? Huh?"

"Liu Yifei! Come here and look at the expression on your face just now. If I see that face of yours in the middle of the night, I will have to give you the wallet without saying a word."

Jing Tian couldn't help but burst into laughter as she looked at her lifelike expressions and humorous and vivid performance, which portrayed a sharp-tongued director to perfection.

The moonlight was pouring down, and Concubine Liu Yi looked at Jing Tian, ​​whose face was covered with blood, and wondered if she should be in a position to comfort her.

In the past, if he actually wanted to bring this girl to the crew, I would definitely be wary of this 1500 million white, rich and beautiful girl.

Now that I look at it more closely, it's just like when I was at the Chinese party at the University of Chicago, decisively holding his arm and pressing close to him, not wanting him to misunderstand anything;
Lu Kuan asked her to come to the crew to be his stand-in. In addition to the usual cruel frustration education, he should also be secretly expressing a certain attitude, right?
Concubine Liu Yi, who had gradually seen through a corner of his heart and soul, thought so.

(End of this chapter)