Chapter 281: Investment Allocation and the August Turmoil

Perhaps because *Aftershock* had overdrawn too much box office potential, even after entering the weekend, the box office for *Cold War* did not see much growth; after the first three days of the weekend, the box office was only 68 million.

It could be considered the lowest opening weekend record for a film produced by Golden Harvest.

However, Wei Jin was not worried; since breaking even was not a problem, he would let the rest take its course.

After washing up, Wei Jin arrived at China Film Group; today was the day for the various investors to meet and discuss the *Pacific Rim* project.

Walking straight to the agreed-upon spot, he saw that Han Sanping and Ye Ning had already arrived in the spacious reception room.

"Chairman Han, where are they?"

"They probably just left the hotel; after all, they have jet lag, so let's be understanding."

Wei Jin nodded upon hearing this; Hunter and the representative from Warner arrived last night and were being hosted by China Film Group, so waiting a little was no big deal.

Just as he sat down, Ye Ning from Wanda handed him a cigarette; Wei Jin did not refuse, and after lighting it, he began to chat with him.

"President Ye, thank you for Wanda's generous support this time, haha."

"Hey, President Wei, you are too polite; strictly speaking, it is Wanda Pictures that should thank you."

Ye Ning's tone was very sincere; for such a large co-production project, Wei Jin had truly sent over a great gift.

As for why he didn't thank Han Sanping? Who in the industry didn't know that Zuoshandiao liked to eat alone, yet this old man hated others eating alone the most—it was truly contradictory.

"President Ye is too polite; among private enterprises, only Wanda is suitable. Besides, our two companies have always cooperated happily, haha."

Wei Jin's words were not false; despite his connection with Jing Tian, if Wanda lacked the strength itself, he would not have considered them.

"President Wei is right; I hope our two companies can continue to cooperate happily."

Ye Ning also knew that Wei Jin was not just being polite; all things considered, Wanda's advantages were far stronger than those of Emperor, Enlight Media, or Bona.

"But come to think of it, the people from Warner are quite easy to talk to; they actually set the negotiation location domestically."

"This represents that they are very optimistic about the project, aren't they? This will be very helpful for the upcoming negotiations; whatever conditions you have, feel free to bring them up."

"Hmm, that makes sense." — "It's easier to get things done with acquaintances"; this saying truly holds true all over the world.

The person sent by Warner was still Wei Jin's old acquaintance, Paul, who had participated in *Inception* previously.

"Long time no see, Wei."

"Long time no see, Paul."

After some pleasantries, the group took their seats one by one, though the atmosphere today was slightly different from that of *Inception* back then.

This was still a co-production, but in Wei Jin's plan, the Chinese side would no longer just be a bystander as before.

"Wei, we have evaluated the script; it is a good project, suitable for global distribution."

Paul spoke first; the hundreds of millions in profit brought by *Inception* made Warner very satisfied, and the box office potential shown by the Huaxia market, in particular, made them excited.

And the project provided by Wei Jin, after evaluation, also quite met Warner's expectations; despite being somewhat dissatisfied about coming to Huaxia for negotiations, well, making money is nothing to be ashamed of.

As long as it could bring actual benefits, Westerners were quite open-minded about matters of face.

"It's just that we believe the Chinese side is participating too much, which will very likely delay the project's progress; so, wouldn't it be better to cooperate like we did on *Inception*?"

Paul's meaning was very clear; they wanted control, distribution, post-production, and special effects.

"No, Paul, Huaxia's technology is also improving now; we can fully handle the post-production and special effects. It is impossible to hand everything over to Warner. If this is Warner's final answer, I don't think there is any need for us to continue talking."

Wei Jin showed a very strong stance right from the start; inviting Warner was just to provide insurance for a global release, not because they were indispensable.

Ye Ning was somewhat surprised on the side; this was one of the Hollywood Six Majors, was Wei Jin being too arrogant? But Han Sanping's eyes lit up; if China Film Group could participate in this work, it would all be political achievements.

After all, strictly speaking, the purpose of the authorities opening up co-productions was to be able to send people into projects to participate in preparation, filming, post-production, special effects, and other links to learn advanced technology and management experience.

It was just that for a long time, there had been too few co-productions where the Chinese side held the dominant position; most so-called co-productions were nothing more than imported films wearing the coat of a co-production.

*The Forbidden Kingdom* was like this, and *Inception* was too.

"Hey, my old friend, relax, it's just a suggestion. If you insist, Warner respects your thoughts."

Paul shrugged, spreading his hands in a gesture of helplessness.

Facing Wei Jin's strength, he could only choose to concede; as long as Warner's controlling position could be guaranteed, these things were actually negotiable.

"Then, let's talk about the investment shares." — As the weather vane of the entertainment industry, China Film Group always had reporters lurking at the entrance; after all, whether it was new projects from directors or relevant new policies, they were all good news material.

The people from Warner and Summit Entertainment did not hide their tracks; they were seen by reporters the moment they appeared.

Some reporters recognized Paul and Hunter, the two representatives of the foreign investors from the *Inception* press conference.

The media would not let such news go; while the negotiations between the parties were still ongoing, relevant reports had already come out.

"Hollywood film company visits China Film Group, suspected new film collaboration."

"*Inception* investors arrive in China secretly, may cooperate with the Chinese side again."

Looking at the news leaked online, Ren Zhonglun felt somewhat helpless.

Although they were all state-owned enterprises, Shanghai Film Group had always been suppressed by China Film Group over the years; Ren Zhonglun had the heart to catch up, but unfortunately, the other side held the power over imported films, so there was truly no comparison, and he could only stare in frustration.

Although no definite news had been revealed yet, Ren Zhonglun had a premonition that there was likely a project, and it wouldn't be a small one.

"At the year-end meeting, the old man Han will probably be showing off again." — In the reception room, the five-party negotiations were still proceeding intensely.

Warner had a clear bottom line on investment shares, which caused this negotiation to be exceptionally deadlocked.

From past ten in the morning until three in the afternoon, the final plan was finally settled.

"Warner, 30%, responsible for filming, post-production special effects, and distribution."

"Summit Entertainment, 15%, participating in filming and distribution."

"Shanhe Media, 30%, participating in filming and post-production, as well as distribution in the Asian region."

"China Film Group, 15%, participating in filming and production."

"Wanda Pictures, 10%, participating in production."

After signing the agreement, Paul and Hunter left first with their respective teams.

Han Sanping, Ye Ning, and Wei Jin remained in the reception room to discuss subsequent details.

"I didn't expect Warner and Summit Entertainment to be so easy to talk to; for a 150 million USD project, they actually let us participate in the global revenue share this time."

Ye Ning said with some emotion, but this way, the subsequent benefits would be too great; Wei Jin had truly sent out a huge favor.

"No, this isn't them being generous. The performance of *Inception* in Asia is far more eye-catching than they imagined. Besides, I intend to develop *Pacific Rim* into a franchise, so they naturally have to show their sincerity."

Wei Jin certainly understood the temperament of these Hollywood companies well; as long as he could help them make money, they would have no psychological burden kneeling down to call him 'daddy', not to mention they weren't losing out either.

As for the franchise, Wei Jin really did have this intention. This series was quite good, had many fans globally, the film's plot itself was decent, and the visual effects were very strong; that sense of oppression from giant objects was quite explosive.

However, to make a franchise, one must restructure the world-building of the script and even revise the chronicles; this was not a simple project.

One must know that the production time for *Avatar* was so long, and a lot of that time was spent on revising the chronicles and building the world.

But precisely because of this, Cameron created a complete ecological world out of thin air that audiences believed in, and combined with a top-tier visual feast, it was able to achieve such box office results.

After a pause, Wei Jin continued to say to Ye Ning and Han Sanping:

"This opportunity is very rare. We must try our best to send technical personnel and engineers into the crew, especially from China Film."

Although the team at Shanhe Media was already very mature, Wei Jin had to admit that there was still a gap compared to the Hollywood Six Majors; this was also the significance of him making the project a co-production.

There was no other way; with the strength of Shanhe Media alone, it was impossible to drive the progress of the entire industry; China Film had to be involved.

"Mm, I know."

Han Sanping naturally understood Wei Jin's meaning. Participating in such a project, the relevant technical talent would gain a massive accumulation of experience, which would be of great help to the domestic film industry.

Ye Ning was also lost in thought on the side, pondering how to poach some relevant talent to cultivate as soon as possible; after all, Wanda's foundation was too thin, and if they missed this opportunity, it would be a great pity. "Mm, let's split up and act next. There are many things regarding the co-production, everyone needs to prepare as soon as possible. Also, regarding the formalities, Han Dong, I'll leave that to you."

Participation from several parties meant doubled efficiency; perhaps the project could be launched very soon.

"Rest assured, I have it in mind, it won't be delayed."

With the matter of *Pacific Rim* settled, a heavy stone in Han Sanping's heart landed, and he began to chat idly with the two.

After chatting for a while, Han Sanping suddenly remembered something.

"Wei Jin, has the matter of *Passengers* been decided?"

After these years of cooperation, the other investors in Wei Jin's projects rarely asked questions. Whether it was selling out copyrights or overseas distribution, he made the decisions, and the other investors were all able to accept it.

But seeing that it was going to be released in a month or two, and Wei Jin hadn't given a definite answer, Han Sanping couldn't help but be anxious; after all, it was an investment of tens of millions.

Ye Ning on the side also perked up; Wanda had an investment in it too.

"Hi, I almost forgot about this. I've already talked to Summit Entertainment; it's still going the route of a global release. However, the release window this time is relatively not that good, so don't have too high expectations for overseas box office."

Ning Hao was right before; this film couldn't compare to *The Martian* in terms of scope and storytelling. Wei Jin had also decided on a global release only after much deliberation.

"In Japan and South Korea, Toho and CJ will still be responsible for distribution. For the rest of Asia, Golden Harvest will be responsible."

One of the conditions CJ had agreed to previously was that the distribution fee for *Passengers* would follow the standard of South Korean domestic films, which saved at least five points in costs.

"That's good. China Film is counting on this profit for the year, haha."

Although two years had passed, the profit created by *The Martian* was still the largest single gain China Film had had in these years, and Han Sanping was very much looking forward to it. — Wei Jin and Ye Ning had just come out of the China Film Building when they saw the outside surrounded by reporters.

Before the two could react, the reporters' long guns and short cannons (cameras and microphones) were already thrust forward.

Looking at that posture, if not for the Assistant and bodyguards blocking them, they would have truly wanted to stuff them into their mouths.

"Director Wei, are you discussing new cooperation with Warner and Summit Entertainment?"

"Choosing to meet here, does it mean that Wanda and China Film are both investors?"

"President Ye..."

"..."

The reporters scrambled to throw out a series of questions.

Wei Jin gave Zhu Wei a look, and the latter stepped forward, clearing a little space.

"I can tell everyone that there is indeed new cooperation. The specific situation will be officially announced in a few days."

Without saying more, Wei Jin and Ye Ning left under the cover of their entourage.

The two had a tacit understanding; these things that hog the limelight should be left to China Film to do.

That evening, the news that the Chinese and American sides would start a new cooperation spread throughout the circle.

"China Film admits that this meeting was for film cooperation."

"Shanhe Media, China Film Group, and Wanda Pictures confirm a new film cooperation with Hollywood..."

"Specific situation has not yet been announced." — Wei Jin ignored the hustle and bustle of the outside world. He was currently embracing two beautiful sisters, listening to Gao Yuanyuan tell gossip.

The villa belonging to Xiao Hei Pang Zi occupied public green space and was complained about by neighbors. Reporters went to interview him and were actually beaten out by his apprentice.

Next, they began to accuse each other and trade insults.

One side claimed the reporters were trespassing on private property and it was self-defense; the reporters accused the fat man of occupying public property and hitting people as a public figure, saying he not only had poor private morals but was also suspected of breaking the law.

The black fat man had a glib tongue; he turned this matter into a comedy routine, performing it on the spot, and satirized it fiercely.

Perhaps thinking there was no evidence, in short, he acted very aggressively at first and didn't feel weak at all.

Thanks to his management over the years, the black fat man had many supporters and actually won quite a bit of sympathy.

But soon, the complete video recording was exposed, and public opinion began to reverse.

After holding on for a few days and truly being unable to hold on anymore, under pressure, the black fat man could only come out to hold a press conference, lower his head to apologize, and admit his mistakes.

"So that's it, it's still under seal now. No wonder you holed up here with me today."

Ceng Li teased Gao Yuanyuan; the latter liked listening to crosstalk, and this hobby was truly something else.

"Yeah, I don't know when it will be able to resume business. Now he is deserted by his followers, and even his own apprentices are starting to run away."

Gao Yuanyuan adjusted her posture to let the man's hand touch her more comfortably.

"Xiao Jin, when do you think this matter will pass?"

Gao Yuanyuan was not a brainless fan; she only cared about when she could listen to crosstalk.

"Hard to say. Occupying land and hitting people aren't actually big deals. The key is that he shouldn't have aimed his spearhead at..."

Regarding the rights and wrongs of this matter, Wei Jin found it hard to judge, but in terms of public relations operations alone, it was truly a mess.

The power of Beijing TV was something outsiders really couldn't imagine.

Let's put it this way: quite a few big shots in the publicity department came out of here, so calling it a "home base" is no exaggeration at all.

Is such an organization something that a third-rate actor like Xiao Hei Pang Zi can provoke?

Plus, this guy had already offended the Musicians Association because of what happened back then, and at least half of the mainstream industry is itching to finish him off.

Now, with everyone pushing a falling wall, almost no one is standing up to speak for him.

Even though he has already apologized, the anger hasn't been fully vented yet; his theater is closed for rectification, his videos and books have been pulled from shelves, and all parties in the industry are drawing a clear line between themselves and him, looking like they want to finish him off for good.

Of course, as someone from a later generation, Wei Jin naturally knows he won't be finished, but he will have to shed a layer of skin this time, otherwise, wouldn't the act of killing the chicken to scare the monkey be in vain? It's only because it's the present that this guy still has a chance to make a comeback; if it were ten years later, he would definitely be branded a "disgraced artist" and never be able to turn things around.

"Then what should I do during this time? It's so boring every day."

"Hmm, there's a female character in Pacific Rim; if you're interested, you could give it a try."

Among the four women, Gao Yuanyuan indeed has the least international recognition, and this film would be of some help to her.

"Forget it, I'm not really used to working with foreigners."

Gao Yuanyuan makes no secret of the fact that she is a fan of good looks; she really can't appreciate foreign male actors, and besides, Passengers is about to be released, and she believes she can enter the international spotlight this time.

Wei Jin didn't expect that these women are all more of a slacker than the last; none of them are interested in a Hollywood production. It seems he will have to reconsider the roles.

"If you're really bored, then come over to Li Jie's side and learn how to take care of a child, so you won't be flustered later on."

Wei Jin pinched Yuan Yuanjie's chin and kissed her; if they could have a threesome every night, that would be too happy.

Gao Yuanyuan understood the man's intentions and spat at him.

"Who wants to have children with you? If I give birth to a brat who is just like you, flirting everywhere, I'd be so angry I'd die. And if I give birth to a daughter and she meets a scoundrel like you, I'd be even angrier."

Gao Yuanyuan seemed to get angrier the more she thought about it and couldn't help but bite Wei Jin on the shoulder.

"Yuan Yuanjie, what are you saying?"

Wei Jin gave a reminder; his own Dudu is a daughter, wouldn't this make Li Jie worry? Gao Yuanyuan quickly realized this and said to Ceng Li with some embarrassment: "Li Jie, I was just joking."

"Xiao Jin, hurry up and get Yuanyuan pregnant. I want to see if she'll still be so outspoken once she's a mother."

Ceng Li rolled her eyes at Gao Yuanyuan, but she wasn't actually angry; Dudu is still young, why worry about things so far in the future?

"As you command, my lady."

As he spoke, Wei Jin began to move his hands all over, and Gao Yuanyuan's thin silk pajamas began to slip off.

That night, with Ceng Li's cooperation, Wei Jin made a major capital injection into Gao Yuanyuan, filling her up completely. There are things going on at home these few days, so it will likely be one update.

(End of this chapter)