Chapter 311: Dividing the Investment; I Am Pan Jinlian

After Wei Jin explained the project's details, he looked at the three investors; there were some things that still needed to be emphasized again.

"I have already communicated with everyone before; this project will still follow the path of global distribution, but you all can only participate in the box office revenue share for the Huaxia region, so there is no need for an investment premium."

Although Ye Ning and Wang Gong were somewhat helpless, they were mentally prepared and nodded, indicating they had no objections.

"However, rest assured, the domestic product placement and embedded advertising are already in the process of being solicited. I can guarantee that it will at least not be less than *The Martian*."

Upon hearing this, the three investors breathed a sigh of relief. With over 100 million in advertising revenue returning, the cost would be controlled at just over 300 million; even looking at the performance of *Passengers*, it was definitely profitable.

"Additionally, this isn't the first time we've all cooperated. You should be clear about the production of sci-fi films; the post-production time for this film will be longer than the previous two. It won't be released until early 2013 at the earliest, so please be mentally prepared."

The purpose of Wei Jin's preemptive warning was that the film market was growing larger and larger; whether it was worth it for the investors to tie up their capital in this project for two years was something they needed to consider clearly.

"President Wei, the longer the time, the more favorable it is for us, isn't it?"

Ye Ning spoke up. He was quite optimistic about the domestic film market. Since last year, the revenue of Wanda Cinema Line had surged significantly. In another two years, he believed the domestic box office ceiling would be broken again.

"Right, Wei Jin, there's no need to say these things. Coming here today is because we trust you. Let's talk about the shares."

"Alright."

After a morning of negotiations, the four parties finally settled on the investment distribution plan.

Shanhe Media contributed 270 million, accounting for 60%; China Film Group contributed 90 million, accounting for 20%; the remaining two companies contributed 45 million each, accounting for 10%.

"By the way, when does the project start filming?"

Although the profit margin for this project was incomparable to the previous ones for China Film Group, Han Sanping, as the head of a state-owned enterprise, valued profit but did not value it to that extent.

"It depends on the preparation progress. Currently, props and other aspects are still being produced. It is expected that actor training will begin in late March, and filming will start in early April."

Having said this, Wei Jin paused and said to Wang Gong from Aerospace Science and Industry:

"This time, we need the assistance of the China National Space Administration to assign astronauts with space-walking experience to provide special training for the actors. I hope Wang Gong can go back and help communicate this."

"That's no problem. Director Chen has already given the word; this project has the green light all the way."

"Good."

Once the official business was finished, Wei Jin intended to leave, but unexpectedly, Han Sanping held him back.

"Ye Ning was here just now, so it wasn't convenient for me to ask too much. I just want to know, how are you considering the overseas market for *Thieves*?"

Wei Jin understood the meaning behind Han Sanping's words, pondered for a moment, and replied.

"The subject matter of *Thieves* is not very suitable for global release. This time, I plan to release it simultaneously in Asia; for other markets, I'll sell the copyrights."

As soon as Wei Jin said this, a smile appeared on Han Sanping's face. Although China Film Group could not enjoy the overseas box office share, as a producer, they still enjoyed rights and interests regarding the copyrights.

"Good. For the copyright transaction, will you invite film distributors or go to a film festival?"

"A film festival, I suppose. Just in time to take advantage of the opportunity in Venice."

Han Sanping nodded upon hearing this. It was no secret in the industry that Wei Jin intended to compete for the Golden Lion in Venice, so he asked with some concern.

"Are you confident this time?"

Han Sanping was not worried at all about the selection. After all, Wei Jin was a winner of the Golden Bear Award and the Palme d'Or; if Wei Jin couldn't get selected, that would be the biggest joke in the world.

"It's hard to say. Venice has unique tastes. I can only say it depends on luck."

"Hmm, that's the logic. I look forward to you bringing back an award!"

Han Sanping also knew that winning an award was very metaphysical and could not be forced. He then slapped his forehead, as if he had remembered something else.

"By the way, since *Pacific Rim* has already wrapped up, should we hold a media press conference to stir up some heat?"

"That works too. You arrange it." — Since the investment for the new project had been settled, to avoid harassment, Wei Jin announced the project situation on the Shanhe Media official website the next day, and the other producers followed suit.

*Dixing Yinxing*, a 3D sci-fi disaster film, total investment 450 million; Director: Wei Jin; Screenwriter: Wei Jin; Male Lead: Cheng Long; Female Lead: Ceng Li;

Producers: Shanhe Media, China Film Group, Wanda Pictures, Aerospace Science and Industry.

Once the news broke, the circle was immediately unsettled.

Many actors were still waiting for casting, but it turned out the male and female leads were already internally decided. Wei Jin wasn't even giving them a chance.

However, the fans began to cheer. The number one Chinese action superstar Cheng Long, partnering with the first Oscar Best Actress of Asian descent, Ceng Li, plus Wei Jin writing and directing—this lineup was simply too luxurious, and the anticipation was maxed out.

Many netizens stated that *Dixing Yinxing* had already entered their must-watch list.

Looking at the news online, Wang Changtian sighed helplessly.

The previous *The Martian* and *Passengers* both had five major producers, but now *Dixing Yinxing* only had four.

The companies were the same, it was just missing Enlight Media.

"Brother Wei, the relationship has faded, but I can't send Xie Nan to you again, right?"

Hearing his chairman's muttering, the secretary added a remark.

"Chairman Wang, I heard that Sister Nan seems to be in a relationship. I'm afraid that wouldn't be appropriate."

Wang Changtian glared at the secretary irritably, "Is that what I meant? I'm worrying about how to build a good relationship with Wei Jin."

After a pause, Wang Changtian reacted.

"You said Xie Nan is in a relationship? How come I don't know? Is it a man? No, I mean, who is the man?"

The secretary suppressed a laugh and revealed everything she knew.

"It's that Hong Kong star Wu Jing. Last year, he was on our show, and on the recording set, he asked Sister Nan if she had a boyfriend."

Seeming to recall the scene described by colleagues, the secretary couldn't help but cover her mouth and giggle, then continued.

"Later, Wu Jing launched a fierce pursuit. It is said that when Wu Jing was injured before, Sister Nan went to the hospital to visit him, but whether they actually started dating, I'm not quite sure."

After hearing the gossip, Wang Changtian was suddenly disappointed. He had no interest in a second-tier actor like Wu Jing. He then began to worry again; Enlight was seeking to go public, and ensuring profitability was key, but when it came to profitability, who could compare to Wei Jin?

Seeing his chairman looking worried, the secretary came up with an idea.

"Chairman Wang, look, how about this..."

Following the secretary's narration, Wang Changtian's eyes grew brighter—in the office, enjoying the service of his assistant Zixuan, Wei Jin was looking for some fun online.

The "Golden Broom Award," which had only been founded two years ago, announced the list of winners for the second edition a few days ago.

Feng Dapao, by virtue of *If You Are The One 2* and *Aftershock*, single-handedly swept three major awards, including Most Disappointing Director, Film, and Product Placement.

For a time, this sparked heated discussion among many netizens, who felt the awards lacked fairness and overwhelmingly supported Feng Dapao.

Having been slapped in the face, Feng Dapao naturally wouldn't let the organizers off easily; one must know this guy is the type who dares to blast even his own partners. He directly mocked them publicly on Weibo: "These people are just chasing clout and hype, trying to step on my reputation to climb higher."

Wei Jin deeply agreed with this; the award was hosted and initiated by *Youth Film Handbook* and judged by netizens and independent film critics, with the slogan "Spurring on Huaxia Film."

But any newly established award needs promotion and publicity, and since this group had no sponsors, didn't they have to find a big director in the industry to chase some clout and grab some eyeballs? After all, all awards, in the final analysis, are businesses.

Coincidentally, there was also a mess over at the Hong Kong Film Awards.

*Let the Bullets Fly*, produced by Emperor, didn't even receive a nomination. The organizers' explanation was that the film's release date did not meet the entry standards and had to be based on the local release date in Hong Kong; they really weren't even pretending anymore.

Wei Jin reckoned that Boss Yang might not be in a very good mood during this period; after all, he had previously helped the organizers by inviting familiar Mainland China directors to Hong Kong to compete, and this slap in the face was truly painful.

Suddenly feeling a bite, Wei Jin looked down to see that the eyes of his Assistant, Zixuan, were almost dripping with water; it was clear she could no longer hold back.

"Sorry, Zixuan, kept you waiting. Now, let your boss feed you."

Reaching out to pull Zixuan up and pressing her onto the office desk, Wei Jin began to applaud.

"Clap, clap, clap"—China Film Group held a media meet-and-greet for *Pacific Rim*, and the scene was set up on a grand scale.

In Han Sanping's words, it was, after all, a 150 million USD co-production blockbuster; not putting on a big show wouldn't fit its stature.

Fan Bingbing, Zhang Yi, and many featured actors from film studios and the Art Troupe were all there. Guo Fan was still over in Hollywood; in his words, since he had gone, he had to understand everything thoroughly.

Fan Bingbing and Zhang Yi took turns explaining the filming process, talking about motion capture equipment, auxiliary robots, green screen special effects shots, and so on. Once the speaking session ended, reporters asked questions one after another, and naturally, the topic of box office could not be avoided.

"Since you all participated in the film production from start to finish, what are your expectations for the box office?"

The group looked at each other, and finally handed the microphone to Fan Bingbing; after all, she was the only lady present.

"When we were filming in Hollywood, we would discuss this issue during breaks. We unanimously believe that while we might not be able to guarantee the global box office, domestically, we believe 1 billion is no problem."

Fan Bingbing's words made the media on-site excited; this was definitely high-traffic material.

After the press conference came the dinner banquet, attended by everyone from the Chinese crew of *Pacific Rim*, and naturally, the three producers, Wei Jin, Han Sanping, and Ye Ning, were also present.

"Wei Jin, you have a sharp judgment. In your opinion, how much can this film gross?"

Looking at Han Sanping's demeanor, he didn't seem very satisfied with the 1 billion slogan Fan Bingbing had shouted, which fit his personality of wanting to make things bigger and stronger.

"Han Dong, I'm not a deity. I haven't even seen the finished film; am I supposed to just guess blindly?"

Wei Jin retorted to Han Sanping with a huff, but seeing the expectant eyes of the others, he added.

"The domestic film market is currently growing continuously. As long as the film quality keeps up, 1 billion is not a big problem. As for anything higher, that would require a suitable release window and promotion."

This statement roughly indicated Wei Jin's box office judgment for this film. The cast and crew all showed joy; after all, the best record set by a co-production was only the 800 million box office of *Inception*, and they were already very satisfied with 1 billion.

The dinner was unremarkable, but toward the end, a piece of news from Han Sanping caught Wei Jin by surprise, forcing him to confirm it again.

"Han Dong, are you saying *Guan Yunchang* is set for release on April 29th?"

"Yes, it was just decided a few days ago."

Receiving Han Sanping's affirmative answer, Wei Jin was speechless. This producer really had a clever scheme, clearly trying to ride the coattails of *Ip Man 3*.

The key was that Wei Jin had nowhere to argue this point; the other party had the freedom to set their release date, and they had already spaced it out by a week. In every respect, they had given enough face, and targeting them further would seem a bit excessive.

"Forget it, let it be. We'll see the real results at the box office then."

After the banquet ended, Fan Bingbing signaled for an artistic exchange again; it seemed this woman had indeed been stifled for too long.

Wei Jin did not refuse. The two went to the Golden House and played a new trick—Pan Jinlian seducing Wu Erlang.

"Uncle, sister-in-law is feeling so uncomfortable right now, can you help me?"

"Sister-in-law, please have some self-respect."

"Uncle, do you think I want to debase myself?"

As expected of a Tokyo Film Festival Best Actress, her acting skills were ready on command. Fan Bingbing looked tearful and pitiful, truly a sight to stir one's heart.

"It's your older brother, he... he is incapable. For the sake of continuing your family's lineage, sister-in-law has no choice but to resort to this. If you don't comply with me, sister-in-law will have no face to see anyone and will just go..."

Wei Jin hadn't expected Fan Bingbing to have such a deep understanding of this scene. If the original Pan Jinlian had used this rhetoric, perhaps the tiger-slaying hero Wu Song would have given in long ago? "Sister-in-law, then just this once, you must never let big brother know."

"Sister-in-law, at most just one more time, you must never..."

"Sister-in-law, the night is beautiful, let's continue."

"Uncle, I think I'm pregnant..."

"Sister-in-law, I don't care what you think, I only care what I think."

"Uncle, I really am, it's all full."

"Sister-in-law, there's still room in other places, don't worry, I am a tiger-slaying hero, my stamina is excellent."

"Uncle, you might as well just kill me..." The next day, until the sun was high, Fan Bingbing walked out of the Golden House with a staggering gait, one hand supporting the wall.

"Boss."

Seeing this, the personal Assistant hurriedly helped her boss into the nanny van. She naturally knew about last night's events, but looking at the mark on Fan Bingbing's collarbone, she couldn't help but ask: "Boss, is President Wei that amazing? You two were too crazy!"

"Cough, don't ask about things you shouldn't."

Fan Bingbing buttoned her collar as if nothing had happened to cover it slightly. Recalling the crazy battle from last night in her mind, she couldn't help but sigh; this man's body was becoming increasingly terrifying.

Thinking back to when they first slept together, she could barely hold her own against Wei Jin, but last night she had used all her strength, and even now her backside was still burning, yet she had barely managed to satisfy him. He really was a human weapon.

"How is the schedule for these next few days arranged?"

Fan Bingbing changed the subject, took out her makeup kit to touch up, and looking at her radiant self in the mirror, she felt everything from last night was so wonderful.

"There are two variety show interviews today, a brand event tomorrow, the day after we set off for Paris Fashion Week, and then we return on the 5th for a half-month roadshow..."

Speaking of this, the Assistant couldn't help but ask: "But Boss, is half a month for a roadshow too long? Is it necessary?"

Fan Bingbing applied her makeup and answered without looking up: "Of course it's necessary. Don't underestimate the roadshow; if you want good box office, you can't skip the roadshow."

Fan Bingbing knew very well that she didn't have much drawing power; if she wanted the box office to look good, she couldn't be afraid of hard work.

Although she had received guarantees on screen allocation, the cinema chains ultimately had to make money. If the box office looked too ugly, Wei Jin wouldn't show any mercy either.

"Understood, Boss."

The Assistant looked at her radiant boss and sighed in her heart; a woman who has been nourished is just different. She wondered just how amazing President Wei really was... Second update of the day (End of chapter)