China Entertainment's Standout

Chapter 589 Zhou Xingxing plus Zhou Yutang, the two Zhous join forces?
"I will just briefly talk about the purpose of holding this seminar today."

"Director Zhou Yutang's "Red Ling" has achieved great success and deserves praise. At the same time, we should also explore and summarize the successful experience of this phenomenal work."

Tong Juren was on the stage, speaking passionately: "Works like this, which are ideological, artistic, and well-received, have created a nationwide viewing craze, sparked heated discussions among the audience, and formed a social topic. This has a profound inspirational significance for today's literary and artistic creation."

"It also provides a good reference for improving the quality of domestic films and promoting the great development and prosperity of Chinese films."

First, the achievements were affirmed, and after the commendation, the implementation of the above spirit was mentioned and the future was looked forward to.

It took half an hour to finish the whole set of punches.

Director Tong has finished speaking.

There was thunderous applause from the audience.

The scale of this "Chi Ling" seminar is different from the past.

It was led by Long Xuan and the Film Bureau of the Guangdong General Chamber of Commerce, and the heads of China Film Group Corporation and Shanghai Film Group Corporation were all present.

There are also dozens of experts, scholars, and many senior film and television practitioners.

The event included CEOs of several film and television companies including Guangguang, Huayi, Bona, and Xiaoma Pentium, as well as big directors such as Feng Xiaogang, Zhou Xingxing, Xu Zheng, and Gu Changwei.

Originally Zhang Yimou was also going to come, but he took the "Zhou Chu" crew to Taiwan Province to make final preparations before filming began, and encountered some temporary situations that needed to be dealt with.

All present are respected seniors in the film and television industry, including many old men and women with gray hair.

Zhou Yutang, sitting among them, was undoubtedly the most handsome guy in the audience.

After the seniors finished speaking, it was his turn.

It would be much easier if you had a prepared speech right away.

"The film market has entered the era of capital, and more and more film and television companies are competing in marketing instead of focusing on content."

"Director Tong said it very well. How to continuously improve the quality of movies is undoubtedly an urgent need and internal requirement we have to face."

When glory comes, it is the best time to express humility.

When the seminar was over, several people couldn't bear the pressure on their bladders and went straight to the toilet.

"Boss Zhou's speech just now was very profound."

Wearing a suit and black-framed glasses, Collins smiled and said, "I am greatly inspired."

"Mr. Ke, you're welcome."

Zhou Yutang glanced at him and found him familiar. They even had some work interactions. "Congratulations in advance. Is the acquisition almost done?"

He came from an investment bank and worked as a hedge fund analyst in Hong Kong. He then switched to the film and television industry and invested in "Tiny Times", reaping lucrative returns.

The low-budget movie "Old Boy How the Dragon Comes" which is about to be released has grossed over 2 million yuan, and this person is the driving force behind it.

What caught Zhou Yutang's attention was his marketing ideas.

Against all odds, they spent millions to invite the recently very popular Crown girl group in China to collaborate with Chopstick Brothers to shoot a separate MV for "Little Apple" as a pilot.

"You are mine, my little apple. I can never love you enough. Your rosy little face warms my heart and lights up the fire of my life. Fire, fire, fire~~~~"

The MV of this brainwashing hit song was first released on Bilibili and swept the charts of major music websites such as QQ, NetEase, Kugou, and 360.

Square dancing has become popular this summer, and even old men and women can hum a few lines.

"Still talking."

Ke Liming said modestly: "Compared to Mr. Zhou, I am just a small-time player."

Entering the crazy era of capital, vegetable sellers, restaurant owners, and pig farmers have all crowded into the film and television market.

Zhou Yutang has received the inside information.

China Technology Holdings is about to acquire 100% of the shares of Ruyi Xinxin Pictures from Ke Liming and his brother Ke Jiuming at a sky-high price.

Once the acquisition is completed, this person's net worth will undoubtedly reach tens of billions.

"There will be opportunities to cooperate in the future."

Zhou Yutang was very optimistic about this highly capable professional manager and chatted with him for a while longer.

After the seminar.

Mr. Wang originally wanted to chat with Zhou Yutang and invite him to the Eagle Party.

Although Zhou Yutang never participates in this kind of program, if he wants to indulge himself, then everyone will be good friends.

However, just as Zhou Yutang finished talking with Ke Liming, he was pulled away by La Peikang and Ren Zhonglun, and another famous director Zhou Xingxing was also with them.

Mr. Wang muttered, "Is this guy going to do something big?"

It’s still the ancient teahouse run by Zeng Li.

“The environment is very nice.”

Zhou Xingxing looked around and said with a smile.

There are rockery and flowing water in the yard. The tables, chairs, calligraphy and paintings in the house all have ancient charm, and the environment is quiet and peaceful.

There was a faint melodious sound of the zither ringing in my ears. The waitress, wearing a cheongsam, had a graceful figure, was intellectual and elegant, and she skillfully poured tea for the guests.

“The Pu’er tea is very good.”

Raising the teacup and taking a sip, Zhou Xingxing nodded and praised: "When I came to Beijing before, I didn't know there was such a good place. It seems that I will come here often in the future."

La Peikang was also very satisfied.

He has a bit of a literary temperament and likes this tune.

Now many people in the circle know this place, and many film and television company owners and producers are happy to come here to discuss business.

If I could meet Zhou Yutang by chance and get closer to him, it would naturally be beneficial.

Later, Zhou Yutang simply stopped doing external business and only used the place to entertain friends, seeking peace and quiet.

"Director Zhou likes it. You can come often in the future."

"Definitely if I have the chance."

After a few pleasantries, the distance between them was shortened. It was Pei Kang who spoke first: "Yu Tang, I asked you to come here this time because Director Zhou wants to discuss a project with you."

coming.

Zhou Yutang knew what was going on, and said calmly, "Boss La, what do you mean?"

"It's like this, Director Zhou Xingxing's new movie is about to be launched, are you interested in participating?"

Ren Zhonglun waved his hand, and his assistant respectfully handed him the tablet.

Zhou Yutang took it and took a look.

In the project plan, the three big words "Mermaid" are particularly eye-catching.

The plot of the script is very simple: a ship is robbed at sea, and a mermaid bravely rescues the ship. A handsome young rich man on the ship falls in love with the mermaid at first sight, and a mermaid love song begins.

The plot doesn't have too many surprises, and the main highlight is probably Stephen Chow's signature nonsensical comedy interspersed throughout.

Zhou Xingxing, La Peikang, and Ren Zhonglun were talking, but they were all paying attention to Zhou Yutang's expression.

"Director La, Director Ren, is there something wrong with the cost accounting of this project?"

Zhou Yutang was more concerned about the follow-up project information, and his brows suddenly jumped.

Master Xing has a really big appetite.

The total project cost budget was over 4 million!

You know, the cost budget of "Now You See Me 2" is only 2 million yuan. This project is even more than 1 million yuan higher than "Ghost Blows Out the Light", the largest investment he has ever managed.

"Yes."

La Peikang and Ren Zhonglun smiled at each other.

They were both surprised when they saw the cost of the project.

A movie with a production cost of 4 million, not counting the investment in publicity and promotion, must have a box office of at least 12 billion to break even.

With such high costs, even China Film Group and Shanghai Film Group have to consider it carefully, because no one knows what the return on investment will be.

La Peikang asked eagerly: "Yu Tang, what do you think?"

Ren Zhonglun also looked over. Zhou Yutang looked calm and took a sip of tea: "I want to hear what Director Zhou thinks."

"This cost budget actually leaves room for Mr. Zhou."

Zhou Xingxing gestured and explained seriously: "I have been thinking about this project for a long time. I am very confident. Environmental protection is in line with the general trend of national policies. Moreover, by integrating science fiction into the whole comedy story, the market prospects are definitely worth looking forward to."

At first his expression was relatively calm, but when he talked about his own movie, he became visibly excited.

Zhou Yutang could feel a strong desire to express himself and self-confidence.

He had experienced this from Lao Mouzi before. When Zhou Yutang explained the project to others, he also had this kind of "I am the best" demeanor. The conditions offered by Zhou Xingxing were very tempting.

Leading actor + art director, basically enjoying the highest treatment in the industry.

But Zhou Yutang still refused, "Investment is fine, but not the male lead."

"It will take some time to prepare, and the filming will not start until at least October."

Zhou Xingxing still refused to give up and continued: "If we work together, it will definitely be a box office hit."

"Director Zhou, I'm about to join the crew, and I have at least two more dramas in the second half of the year."

Zhou Yutang shook his head and laughed: "Next year's schedule is fully booked, I definitely won't have time."

When he accepts a role, he only considers whether the script appeals to him.

In Zhou Yutang's opinion, the male lead of this play has little room to perform.

"That's a shame."

Mr. Xing opened his mouth, but finally shook his head helplessly: "Mr. La, Mr. Ren, what do you think?"

"Yu Tang has no objection, China Film will follow suit."

La Peikang had just tasted the sweetness of "Wolf Warrior" and looked at Zhou Yutang with a smile.

Master Xing couldn't help but look at Zhou Yutang again and was a little surprised.

"What about Director Ren?"

“The cost is a little bit high.”

Ren Zhonglun also nodded: "Me too."

When Stephen Chow looked at Zhou Yutang again, his expression was a little different.

He didn't expect that Zhou Yutang meant so much to these two big guys.

"No problem, let's talk about the share."

Zhou Yutang thought about it and nodded.

Although the cost of this project is very high, the four companies together can definitely support the funding.

Finally, we chatted in the tea room until dark and basically determined the investment shares.

Zhou Xingxing's Star Overseas holds 30%, Zhou Yutang's Soochow Pictures holds 30%, and Shanghai Film Group and China Film Group each hold 20%.

It can be seen that after being cheated by Huayi in "Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons", Zhou Xingxing is now very vigilant.

The purpose of bringing in China Film Group Corporation, Shanghai Film Group Corporation and Zhou Yutang is to guard against Huayi's move.

When the topic came to money, he still calculated the accounts very clearly.

He has to earn not a single cent less.

The contract stipulates that the investment is calculated separately from the top director's salary, and the film also enjoys box office dividends in addition to the additional guarantee.

"Director Zhou, are you interested in coming back to work in front of the camera?"

After the matter was settled, the atmosphere suddenly became a lot more relaxed. Zhou Yutang leaned back in the carved chair, picked up the teacup and took a sip, then asked with interest.

After a lot of tugging, La Peikang and Ren Zhonglun, who seemed a little tired, instantly became energetic.

"Forget it! We are already in our forties, old enough!"

Zhou Xingxing shook his head repeatedly: "I can't compare to you young people who are full of energy and fighting spirit. Why don't you come over and make a cameo appearance when the time comes? It will also be convenient for future publicity. Director La, Director Ren, what do you think?"

"What Director Zhou said makes sense."

La Peikang nodded and said, "Yu Tang, the investment in this project is a bit large, so I have to ask you to work hard to ensure a bottom line."

"I think so too." Ren Zhonglun agreed.

"Well, Director La and Director Ren have both told us."

Zhou Xingxing said that he wanted to finalize the matter while the iron was hot: "Let's finalize the matter first, and take our time with the casting."

Damn, I got cheated by Stephen Chow.

Zhou Yutang didn't want to offend the two CEOs, but he thought for a moment and said slowly, "It's okay for me to guest star. Do you have a suitable candidate for the heroine of this play?"

"Mr. Zhou."

Zhou Xingxing frowned: "We'll have to wait and see. I'm going to hold a nationwide audition right away to stir up the heat and then select the most suitable heroine to play the mermaid."

"You have the final say on how your project will be run, and I will just make a suggestion."

"What do you think."

Zhou Xingxing was also a little curious about what Zhou Yutang wanted to say.

No matter how conceited he was, he was well aware of the abilities of the young man in front of him.

He is the recognized top director in the domestic entertainment industry, with two films about to reach a box office of over 20 billion yuan.

When it comes to grasping the market, no one can match him.

"I suggest."

Zhou Yutang said calmly, "We can let Girls' Generation's Lin Yuner play this role. Then, in line with the Sino-Korean film co-production agreement, it can be released simultaneously in the South Korean film market. If it goes well, it may bring in a few hundred million more in box office revenue."

"It's in response to the policy and earning foreign exchange."

Ren Zhonglun and La Peikang's eyes lit up.

Speaking of money, Zhou Xingxing immediately became interested: "If I hire her, will the salary be too high?"

"It won't be too high. You can let her try it first. If it's not suitable, we can talk about it later."

"Okay." Zhou Xingxing thought about it and agreed.

"Then it's settled."

La Peikang stood up and said with a smile: "I will host you tonight, let's have dinner together."

In the original time and space, Stephen Chow tried again and again, and finally chose a little girl as the heroine of "The Mermaid", and even jokingly gave her a stage name "Touching Lin Yoona".

It would be better to just find the genuine Yoona.

By then, we can also reap some profits from South Korea. Wouldn’t that be great?

At the dinner party in the evening, Zhou Xingxing stood up, raised his glass, and said with a smile: "I wish us a happy cooperation."

"Pleasant to work with."

"Boss, aren't you afraid of losing money?"

The investment for this project was quite large, and Ni Ni couldn't help but ask.

"If this bureau can be formed, it is destined to make money."

Zhou Yutang put down the biography of Chen Guilin in his hand and chuckled.

What does it mean when he adds Zhou Xingxing to the mix?
The previous generation of true God added the contemporary version of the answer, and the entire entertainment industry would be shaken.

There is even no need to wait until the movie is released to release some of the shares in hand, as some people pay a premium to enter the market.

"The total box office revenue of 'Red Star' reached 18.27 billion, firmly sitting on the throne of the summer box office champion!"

"Zhou Yutang's Return of the Dragon King VS Wu Jing's Wolf Warrior Leng Feng, the military-themed "Wolf Warrior" has emerged as a dark horse, with a box office of 3.28 million in five days!"

"'See You Tomorrow' has been released for seven days and the box office has exceeded 4 million. Han Han has surpassed Guo Xiaosi, and the battle between Guo and Han has been decided!"

"Red Dead Redemption" has withstood the pressure from "Transformers 4". With the summer season halfway through, the domestic film market is flourishing and unprecedentedly lively.

The box office of these movies at the end of July are very close.

Han Han's "See You Tomorrow" has surpassed "Tiny Times 3", which had a strong box office performance at the beginning, but after consuming fans, its reputation and daily box office growth showed a cliff-like decline, and the screening schedule was further compressed.

The industry never expected that a niche military-themed movie like "Wolf Warrior" would become a dark horse in the summer season.

"Zhou Yutang played a huge role in making this a dark horse in the summer season. His personal box office appeal is too strong."

An industry expert listed detailed data for analysis and concluded: "Of course, Wolf Warriors itself is also a high-quality film, and the marketing work is quite good. Many viewers have not forgotten Zhou Yutang in The Man from Lone Ranger a few years ago, so they went to the cinema."

"The success of this film has opened up a whole new track. I believe there will be many military-themed TV series and movies in the future. Let's wait and see."

In the movie "The Man from Nowhere" a few years ago, the scene where Zhou Yutang combed his hair in front of the mirror broke the hearts of countless girls and became a classic film and television scene.

At that time, Leng Feng, played by Wu Jing, appeared in the easter egg at the end of the film. Now he is working together again in "Wolf Warriors", achieving unexpected results.

The box office of "Wolf Warrior" was so good that Wu Jing was so motivated that he left his pregnant bride Xie Nan at home and went out to promote the movie...

(End of this chapter)