Chapter 257: The Fear of a Female Celebrity: The Golden Globe Waterloo

North America, Beverly Hills.

Inside the warm room, Wei Jin carefully placed his daughter Dudu, who was not yet two months old, into the crook of his arm; the confinement nanny said this would make the baby feel comfortable.

After not seeing her for over a month, Dudu had grown from 6 jin 8 liang at birth to 9 jin 1 liang now, which showed the little one had a very good appetite.

Although she smelled a stranger, the little one appeared very calm, just staring blankly at Wei Jin; perhaps she also wanted to know who this "giant" before her eyes really was. Feeling the warm time with his daughter, Wei Jin's heart was tranquil as never before, and his arms holding the child became increasingly relaxed, which in turn made Dudu in his embrace more comfortable, and her little hands began to touch Wei Jin's face.

"Alright, Xiao Jin, it's time for Dudu to sleep."

Ceng Li walked over wearing a shawl. North American winters were very cold, and during this period she hardly dared to go out, only occasionally sunning herself in their own garden on sunny days. However, there was a fireplace in the room, so she could dress a bit more lightly, which was also convenient for breastfeeding.

"Didn't she just wake up not long ago? She's still playing with me, right, Dudu?"

As he spoke, Wei Jin made a funny face at the baby and reached out to poke her delicate little face, causing Dudu to grin and giggle. In her exposed little mouth, there wasn't a single tooth. Leaning in closer, Wei Jin even caught a whiff of a milky scent, which was a bit intoxicating.

"Children are just like that; they fall asleep after eating for a while. Give her to me quickly."

Wei Jin didn't argue; he didn't understand a child's sleep schedule anyway, so it was better to leave it to her mother.

Watching Wei Jin carefully hand the child over, Ceng Li let out a "pfft" and laughed.

"I thought nothing could stump you. Look at how clumsy you are; you can't even hold a baby properly."

Nimbly taking Dudu, Ceng Li leaned against the headboard and pulled up her top to start breastfeeding. Li Jie was very attentive to her daughter and insisted on breastfeeding; according to her, she wouldn't consider formula until at least after the hundredth day.

Looking at Ceng Li's noticeably enlarged bust, Wei Jin swallowed his saliva; the temptation of a Post-natal Treasure was not small.

"Are you stupid? Are you planning to fight your daughter for food?"

Noticing Wei Jin's movements, Ceng Li rolled her eyes at him in annoyance. They were already an old married couple, so why were his eyes still so hooked?

"Li Jie, I'm just curious what milk tastes like, hehe."

Li Jie was still breastfeeding at the moment, so even if Wei Jin had any ideas, he couldn't carry them out, and he immediately remembered something else.

"By the way, Li Jie, are you coming with me to the awards ceremony in two days?"

"Forget it, I won't go. I haven't slimmed down yet."

Since the beginning of her pregnancy, Ceng Li had gained about thirty-some jin. Although she had been doing postpartum recovery for over a month, the results were coming very slowly. She didn't dare appear in public, let alone on live television.

For one, a woman's vanity was at play; Ceng Li didn't want to leave behind any ugly photos. For another, she was afraid of arousing suspicion, as she hadn't appeared in public for almost a year.

"Li Jie, I didn't expect you to have an idol burden too, haha."

Rolling her eyes at Wei Jin in annoyance, what female celebrity wasn't afraid of ugly photos? "Alright, stop being glib. Go take a shower quickly; you haven't even adjusted to the jet lag yet."

Wei Jin shook his head upon hearing this. After Li Jie gave birth, there really was an added sense of an old married couple between them. —— North American local time, January 17th, the 67th Golden Globe Awards ceremony officially began, held at the Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills.

From the morning on, all kinds of media were reporting information about the Golden Globe Awards.

The content covered major film crews, actors and celebrities, the awards venue, the Golden Globe red carpet, numerous crossover elites, and predictions for the winners of various major awards.

Wei Jin and The Hunt film crew were naturally on the list, but their ranking wasn't very high; there was no helping it, as the competition this year was truly too fierce.

The main opponents competing on the same stage this time were Avatar and The Hurt Locker; the former was still rampaging through the film market, and the latter's awards campaign last year had also been very smooth.

It is worth mentioning that The Hurt Locker's director, Katherine Bigelow, was none other than James Cameron's ex-wife; the two of them could be considered to be in a relationship of love and hate.

Therefore, even though The Hunt had raked in 139 million USD at the North American box office and had good word-of-mouth, with an IMDb rating maintained at 8.3, and had hired a famous PR team—Weinstein—and even provided over ten million USD in awards campaign fees, Wei Jin still didn't have much confidence.

However, Wei Jin planned to earn back this ten million USD fee in the North American film market.

"Hunter, Source Code can be started."

This script had been registered a long time ago, but it couldn't be developed as a franchise, and it didn't add much to Summit Entertainment, so it had been shelved.

The cost of this film would not exceed twenty million USD, and Wei Jin was confident that he could definitely earn back thirty or fifty million, which would count as reimbursement for the awards campaign.

"Alright, Boss, wishing us four nominations and four wins."

"Hehe, I'll take your word for it. We should be heading out."

Wei Jin smiled and accepted the blessing. Four nominations and four wins—of course, that could only be Hunter's beautiful wish; in Hollywood awards, the probability of that happening was far lower than back home. —— At four in the afternoon, Wei Jin and Hunter met up with Matt Damon. As soon as they met, Matt gave Wei Jin a big bear hug.

"Wei, you really are my lucky star. I feel like there's a lot of hope this time, haha."

After winning the Berlin Film Festival Best Actor, Matt Damon was brimming with confidence. Seeing Wei Jin made him very happy; this was his benefactor.

"Matt, before the suspense is revealed, anything is possible. You shouldn't learn from Leonardo; the more high-profile you are before the awards, the harder the slap in the face after the awards."

Thinking of Leonardo's excitement at the last Golden Globe Awards, Wei Jin found it somewhat funny and gave Matt Damon a preemptive warning.

"Hehe, I understand, Wei. I'm already very happy to be nominated. If I can win an award, haha..."

Matt Damon was under no pressure. He already had the Berlin Film Festival Best Actor; if he could win the Golden Globe, he would certainly be happy, but if he didn't, he wouldn't be disappointed. Compared to his good friend Leonardo, he was already very lucky.

"Mm, it's good to have that mindset. Let's just wait for the results."

As the two spoke, the vehicle began to move slowly toward the venue. At this time, it was People Mountain People Sea outside the hotel.

Media, filmmakers, and fans from all over the world had packed the area around the red carpet solid.

Vehicles carrying filmmakers, actors, celebrities, and public figures moved slowly, and the closer they got to the destination, the slower the speed.

Through the car window, Wei Jin looked at the scene outside and couldn't help but sigh: "Just for this last stretch of road, it'll probably take an hour, right?"

The first time he came to participate, he was busy being intimate with Ceng Li in the car, so he didn't feel much about the traffic jam. Now, being with two grown men, Wei Jin felt the time was very long.

"It's very normal, Wei. The Hollywood awards season is just like this. Plus, most actresses and female celebrities are wearing gowns, so it's more troublesome to get out of the car. It'll probably take even longer."

Matt was already used to this; this stretch of road was just right for him to calm his nerves. —— Matt's prediction came true. Along the way, the motorcade just kept stopping and starting, moving a few meters and stopping for two minutes.

More than an hour after the Golden Globe Awards red carpet began, The Hunt film crew finally arrived at the red carpet, which was only a few dozen meters long, outside the hotel.

At this time, the sky had completely darkened, but the lights of Hollywood turned the whole sky into daylight.

Coupled with the countless media and fans as far as the eye could see, the scale of the Golden Globe Awards instantly became grand.

The red carpet host was introducing the arriving guests in fluent English.

"Next, walking onto the red carpet under the lights and cameras is: The Hunt film crew! Our old friends: Berlin Silver Bear Best Actor winner—Matt Damon; Oscar Director, Palme d'Or winner, Golden Bear Director—Wei Jin; new President of Summit Entertainment, Producer—Hunter Johnson!"

Matt Damon was truly a popular Hollywood star. The moment he got out of the car, overwhelming cheers surged forward.

At the same time, Wei Jin and Hunter also got out of the car. After all, the two were behind-the-scenes figures and didn't have much status in North America; apart from the media, almost no fans were applauding for them.

As the only Huaxia director at this year's Golden Globe Awards, the host naturally wouldn't miss the opportunity to interview him.

"Wei, this is your second time competing for the Golden Globe Awards, and you have even more nominations than last time. How much expectation do you have for this awards ceremony?"

"If we're talking about expectations, then winning all four would certainly be best. After all, Golden Globe Awards trophies are the ones I have the fewest of, haha."

Wei Jin made a humorous joke, paused, and continued:

"But whether I can win, or how many I can win, that depends on the Pingshutuan's intentions. Regarding this, I express my anticipation." When it was Matt Damon's turn, he was much more reserved, only expressing his desire to win an award. After all, Wei Jin had just reminded him, and he didn't want to get slapped in the face like his good friend Leonardo.

It was his first time walking the red carpet without a female companion, and Wei Jin was a bit unaccustomed to it, but the unexpected experience was excellent. The three grown men walked very quickly, and the media's lenses could barely keep up.

Soon, staff members came over and led the three toward their assigned seats.

As soon as the three were seated, many actors around them came over to greet them, mainly aiming for Wei Jin.

After all, a director capable of chasing awards is a top-tier scarce resource no matter where they are. Didn't you see that Matt Damon had already won Berlin Film Festival Best Actor? Whether he knew them or not, Wei Jin turned no one away; it was nothing more than smiling and nodding.

Helen Mirren also came over to greet him. She was an old acquaintance; at the last Golden Globe Awards, she had won Best Actress for "The Queen."

Wei Jin stood up to politely perform the cheek-kissing greeting with her. She was already...

Wei Jin's old friend, Iron Man Robert Downey Jr., also came over to say hello. He was nominated for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for "Sherlock Holmes." Although its gold content couldn't compare to Matt's Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama, it was still an affirmation of his acting career.

In fact, at last year's Oscar, he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, but unfortunately lost. Wei Jin also hoped he could have some gains today; after all, it didn't conflict with "The Hunt."

Before long, Cameron also came over to greet him. It had been over a year since they last met. When he previously went to Huaxia to promote "Avatar," the two didn't get to meet because the schedule was too rushed.

"Wei, long time no see. I didn't expect us to become opponents this time, haha."

It was evident that Cameron, this truck driver, had been in a very good mood lately. This was no wonder; "Avatar"'s current global box office had already exceeded 1.7 billion USD, and the harvesting momentum was still continuing. Breaking 2 billion would be effortless. This was destined to be a glorious achievement recorded in global film history; anyone would inevitably be riding high.

"James, long time no see. This time you have brought a surprise to the whole world."

Wei Jin's words carried respect. Cameron was indeed a filmmaker who constantly broke through himself and pushed for innovation. Every one of his works attempted to innovate and break technical limits; he was worthy of respect.

"Hahaha, 'Inception' is also not bad. Your screenplay is truly excellent. Besides, I also like 'The Hunt' very much. Counting it up, I've contributed two movie tickets to you, haha."

"Oh? Putting it that way, I still owe you a movie ticket. I haven't had the chance to watch 'Avatar' yet, haha."

Wei Jin laughed and joked with Cameron. This film had long been in his mind; wouldn't the immersive feeling be more shocking than watching it in a movie theater?

The two chatted for a while, and Cameron returned to his seat; he was the core of his film crew.

"Boss, look at the position near the aisle on the front left. It seems to be the Huaxia media."

Over these years, in order to please his boss, Hunter had studied Chinese vigorously. His eyes were very sharp; he saw the names on the reporters' work badges.

Wei Jin looked in that direction and waved with a smile at his compatriots. This shot was instantly transmitted back to the live broadcast in the country.

After a segment of a talk show, the awards ceremony officially began.

After several consecutive guest performers, the television awards were the first to be revealed.

As the actors went on stage one by one to receive their awards and deliver their acceptance speeches, Wei Jin clearly sensed that Matt was a bit nervous. The film category awards were about to start.

Wei Jin's mindset at this moment was unusually peaceful. He didn't place particular importance on the results this time; he just wanted to see how far a purely English-language film, shot by a Huaxia director, could go on the road to chasing awards.

"Best Foreign Language Film, 'The White Ribbon'!"

As this film from Germany won the foreign language award, the film category awards began.

"Best Animated Feature Film, 'Up'!"

"Best Original Score, 'Up'!"

This animated film could be said to have a bountiful harvest, but Hunter had already started to get nervous; the nominations for "The Hunt" were getting closer.

"Best Original Song, 'Crazy Heart'!"

The people on stage were either happy or excited to deliver their acceptance speeches, but many people off-stage were holding their breath.

"Wei, it's almost time for the screenplay award."

Matt Damon on his left side appeared even more nervous than Wei Jin, and Hunter also turned his head to look at his boss.

"Mm, just keep watching."

Just as Wei Jin finished speaking, the award presenter on stage spoke up.

"Golden Globe Award for Best Screenplay, 'The Hunt', congratulations!"

The three of them looked at each other; the first nomination was a hit, which could be called a great start! After tidying up his clothes and hugging Matt, Wei Jin strode toward the podium.

"Thanks to the Golden Globe Awards. This is the first time I've won the Best Screenplay award since I debuted. I have to say, the Pingshutuan's taste is excellent, haha."

The humorous opening won good-natured laughter from the scene. The director on stage, who had won countless awards, really was receiving a screenplay award for the first time; this had set a precedent.

What followed was the dull and tedious thank-you segment. Wei Jin didn't do any shocking speeches and completed the process in a standard manner.

Holding the trophy and returning to his seat, Wei Jin clearly felt that Matt Damon was even more nervous. The acting awards had begun.

Best Supporting Actress was awarded to Mo'Nique for "Precious."

Best Supporting Actor was awarded to Christoph Waltz for "Inglourious Basterds."

Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy was awarded to Meryl Streep for "Julie & Julia."

Robert Downey Jr. was very lucky and won Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

Wei Jin, off-stage, also enthusiastically applauded for his old friend. This actor, who became a hit in middle age, was increasingly favored by Hollywood.

Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama was awarded to Sandra Bullock for "The Blind Side."

"Wei, I feel so nervous. Share some of your good luck with me."

Although he had already done the psychological preparation, when it came down to it, Matt still couldn't help but feel nervous.

Before Wei Jin could speak, the award presenter on stage had already begun to announce the answer.

"Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama, Jeff Bridges, 'Crazy Heart', congratulations!"

As soon as the words fell, a look of frustration appeared on Matt's face, but soon, he adjusted himself. After all, he was originally an optimistic, cheerful, sunny, and kind person.

"Matt, not getting what you wanted, perhaps there will be something better."

Although Wei Jin was comforting Matt, he always had a bad premonition—sure enough, the subsequent results confirmed Wei Jin's premonition.

Best Director was awarded to James Cameron, who swept the globe.

Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy was awarded to "The Hangover."

The Best Motion Picture – Drama award was also presented to Avatar; with one commercial blockbuster, Cameron swept the two biggest awards of the Golden Globe Awards, becoming the biggest winner of this year's Golden Globe Awards.

With this, the current Golden Globe Awards came to a close; The Hunt had been nominated for four awards but only took home the Oscar Best Screenplay, which could be described as a crushing defeat.

But Wei Jin was not the unluckiest one; Cameron's ex-wife Katherine Bigelow and The Hurt Locker came away empty-handed, and she left in a hurry as soon as the awards ceremony ended, clearly quite furious.

However, everything that happened at the Golden Globe Awards soon spread across the world, sparking dissatisfaction among a large number of film critics, with some professional critics even bluntly attacking the Golden Globe Awards:

"We finally know: the Golden Globe Awards, which increasingly go against the grain of the Oscar, have reached an invincible realm where they only look at box office and ignore acting."

Second update today (End of this chapter)