Chapter 245: Wrapping Up the Storm

【Rebirth Begins in 2002 Chinese Entertainment】【】

During the half-month period Cheng Chen was in seclusion, aside from recording the variety show "Let's Fall in Love" and visiting the set of "Lost in Thailand."

He mostly stayed home studying the script for "All City Wears Golden Armor."

That said, although later generations of film fans have been quick to criticize this movie, that criticism is aimed at Old Man Mou.

Most people believe this film falls short of Old Man Mou's usual standard, so it's an expression of "the deeper the love, the harsher the criticism."

If you compare it with directors of the same type, it's still in a league of its own, steamrolling the competition.

Setting everything else aside, just in terms of costume, props, set design, and the use of composition and color in the cinematography, Old Man Mou—being a cinematographer by training—leaves the other directors far behind.

Of course, all of this could only be foreseen after the film was actually released.

At present, all we can say is that it's still at the script stage, backed by the original work "Thunderstorm."

Although it's been transplanted to an ancient setting, at the very least it retains its watchability and dramatic tension.

"Ding ling ling."

The phone rang.

Seeing the caller ID, Cheng Chen suddenly stumbled—how could he have forgotten this!

"I'm already on the way—tell Director Kong to wait a moment, I'll be there right away!"

It was Yan Danchen's call; two days ago Kong Sheng had called him to say "Nirvana in Fire" was wrapping up.

The date was set for today.

Yan Danchen's call was to urge Cheng Chen to rush to the set for the wrap party.

"You're still at home, aren't you?"

Yan Danchen whispered on the other end.

"Uh… no one knows me better than my wife, hehe, I'm on my way now—I got too absorbed in studying the script."

Hearing Yan Danchen's words, Cheng Chen gave an awkward laugh.

"Alright, I'll tell Director Kong. Hurry over—everyone's waiting."

"I'm on my way!"

Cheng Chen put on his clothes and tidied himself up.

"Nirvana in Fire" had already entered its final phase half a month ago; as the lead actor, Cheng Chen's scenes had long wrapped.

What remained were just supporting roles and other main characters' scenes.

As Starfire's first major TV production, this wrap ceremony held great significance for him.

So even if he was late, he had to attend.

…

Rushing all the way, Cheng Chen finally arrived at the set.

Fortunately, the remaining scenes had been moved to Jingcheng; if they'd still been shooting in Hengdian, he'd be done for.

"Sorry, Director Kong, I'm late."

Crew members were packing up equipment and dismantling the temporary sets.

Other actors gathered in small groups chatting.

Kong Sheng nodded but said nothing.

Yet when others saw Cheng Chen arrive, they instinctively drifted toward him.

"I know you've been studying Zhang Yimou's script lately, so I didn't disturb you—but if you didn't show up today for this wrap party, you'd be coming to me later for an explanation."

Kong Sheng smiled.

Everyone understood what Kong Sheng meant by "studying the script."

The male lead in Zhang Yimou's new film!

Everyone's faces were filled with envy—it was Zhang Yimou's movie, after all.

Zhang Yimou's ability to launch stars was obvious to all; starring in his films meant you were undeniably a serious actor.

Or an exceptionally gifted amateur.

Who wasn't envious?

Especially Huang Xiaoming—upon hearing "Zhang Yimou," he nearly wore his envy on his face.

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【Rebirth Begins in 2002 Chinese Entertainment】【】

The outside world had long proclaimed Cheng Chen, Huang Xiaoming, and Deng Chao as representatives of the new generation of male actors.

At first, the two had looked down on being grouped with him, thinking Cheng Chen was merely a musician with a bit of talent,

and far inferior in acting.

And yet…

He quietly starred in Xing Ye's film, then took on a role in Lao Mou Zi's drama, and rumors now said he'd also appear in Feng Xiaogang's new movie.

What's going on—are you trying to sweep up all the top directors from Gang Sheng and Mainland?

In the end, Huang Xiaoming helplessly realized that Cheng Chen had already become a movie star.

He still acted in TV dramas only because this was his own investment!

Can't compare, can't compare at all.

Huang Xiaoming's mood sank instantly, though no one noticed—even if someone did, they'd assume it was just because he was sad about the wrap.

The cast all joked about how they'd travel and relax after wrapping,

yet also felt reluctant to part from friends made on set—though these were likely just the leads' sentimental musings.

Extras only cared when lunch boxes would arrive; crew members just thought, finally over—time to head to the next set…

Regardless of the emotions with which everyone bid farewell, the banner for the wrap ceremony of "Langya Bang" had already been hung.

Some media were also present on site, taking photos nearby.

Cheng Chen was pushed forward by Kong Sheng, and, as producer and lead actor, addressed everyone:

"First, thank you all for your hard work over the past five and a half months, especially our crew members.

This large-scale production was shot in three teams, and you rotated shifts—your efforts were immense."

As he spoke, Cheng Chen bowed deeply to the crew members.

Instantly, applause erupted across the set.

The crew truly had it tough—rising early and working late, mostly doing backbreaking labor.

Heavy equipment like lights, props, and cameras demanded tremendous effort.

Actors could take turns on set, but the crew were always the same group…

"Second, to the actors—whether leads, supporting roles, or extras—without you, 'Langya Bang' could not have wrapped successfully.

Thank you for your dedication; above all, we must thank our director, Kong, who is a bit shy, so I'll speak for him."

"Also, thank you to the media journalists here today—for your presence, and for your attention and support of 'Langya Bang'."

After speaking, Cheng Chen officially entered the wrap ceremony.

Though called a ceremony, the proceedings were simple: unfurl the banner, take a group photo, and accommodate those who came seeking collaboration.

As producer and lead actor—and the most popular person present—Cheng Chen naturally became the focal point for group photos with crew and actors.

Some media present also lined up behind, waiting for interviews.

"Brother Cheng Chen, can I take a photo with you?"

Guo Zhenni walked over with a bright smile.

Her scenes had already wrapped, but as soon as the director called, she rushed back.

She could be called Cheng Chen's die-hard fan; he held her in high regard and personally invited her to join Xinghuo, making her one of only two female artists besides Yan Danchen.

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【Rebirth Starting from Huayu 2002】【】

"Good. The company will release another drama soon—get ready."

Taking a break between photos, Cheng Chen whispered.

Wu Jinyuan had already joined Xinghuo; they couldn't let this new director sit idle.

Besides, Guo Zhenni had now become part of Xinghuo; with new talent, there must be roles—otherwise why would they follow you?

Cheng Chen had already planned this drama in his mind—it would be Xinghuo's third official release.

"Really? What drama? When will shooting start?"

Hearing Cheng Chen's words, Guo Zhenni asked excitedly.

Cheng Chen smiled and said:

"It's still in script development—I've been too busy to work on it, but once things calm down, I will. Hmm, it's perfect for you—a costume drama."

Cheng Chen had always thought Guo Zhenni looked stunning in costume roles; modern dramas suited her less.

Of course, Republican-era dramas would work too.

"Great! So I knew following Boss Cheng meant good meals."

Guo Zhenni teased playfully.

Cheng Chen smiled; after finishing photos, he'd planned to slip away, but every move of his was watched by the media—they immediately cornered him.

"Cheng Chen, it's rumored you'll be starring in Zhang Yimou's new film—what are your thoughts?"

"Is it stressful to join Zhang Yimou's film for the first time?"

"Some say you got into Zhang's film because someone pressured him—what do you have to say about this rumor?"

…

Cheng Chen was surrounded by reporters, microphones thrust toward him.

Among many questions, one or two always aimed to grab attention.

For example…

Cheng Chen squinted, pointing at a reporter wearing black-rimmed glasses, expressionless:

"Sir, I think you're mistaken—no one can pressure Director Zhang.

Your so-called rumor—was it made up on the spot to attract attention, or written by some unscrupulous tabloids?

If this really happened, please find the person who pressured Director Zhang—I'd like to meet him face to face and thank him by taking him to dinner!"

The reporter was left speechless by Cheng Chen's retort; nearby colleagues couldn't help smirking in amusement.

Naturally, the interview atmosphere froze.

"Sorry for the outburst today—please feel free to go about your business. I'll go rest now."

Cheng Chen left without expression.

Inside, he was secretly delighted—this incident finally gave him an excuse to escape.

Hearing Cheng Chen's words, the reporters all silently scolded the reporter who had spoken recklessly.

"Cheng Chen, Director Feng Xiaogang has also invited you—is that true?"

"How do you weigh Zhang's films against Feng's? Will you have to choose one?"

"Can you reveal the title of Director Feng's new film this year?"

Cheng Chen had already walked far away; seeing this, the reporters could only glare angrily at the reporter who had asked wildly as they left.

…

"Cheng Chen, what have you decided about the theme song I mentioned last time?"

Behind the scenes, Director Kong Sheng asked.

Since Cheng Chen was both a singer and the male lead of this film, Kong Sheng entrusted him with the theme song.

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【Rebirth Starting from Huayu 2002】【】

Hearing Kong Sheng's words, Cheng Chen's heart skipped a beat.

These past few days, he had been focused solely on Zhang Yimou's script and had completely forgotten about this matter.

But it didn't matter—after all, it was free content; the theme song from the original timeline's Nirvana in Fire was already excellent.

Cheng Chen had no need to overdo it or make any changes.

He immediately had staff bring paper and pen, and wrote out the lyrics:

《When the Wind Rises》

Changes, winds and clouds roll, chaos stirs up turbulent waves.

Blood still red, who remembers? A fiery wish for peace.

Wisdom's sword, borrowed from a fair face, no intent to extend the remaining years.

Imperial halls stand tall, heroic spirit still alive, icy heart vows to shatter the endless night…

《The Old Beauty》

West wind crosses cold mountains at night with rain, homeland and nation faint in broken dreams.

Missing you, I miss you even more; parting is hard, yet enduring parting is harder.

When will the smoke of war and beacon fires cease? Kings rise, losers fall—all flows eastward.

The candle is spent, tears won't dry; mountains and rivers age not, but the old beauty fades…

《Cocoon to Butterfly》

……

In no time, Cheng Chen wrote several songs from the original timeline's Nirvana in Fire.

These songs might not have high popularity, but each one fit the TV series perfectly.

In fact, these songs were specifically composed for Nirvana in Fire…

To let Kong Sheng hear the melodies, Cheng Chen sang each lyric aloud after writing them.

Of course, a cappella lacked the richness of instrumentation, but that didn't hinder Kong Sheng's appreciation.

"In the drama, Mei Zhangsu is the Kirin Talent—in real life, you're a music genius!"

After listening, Kong Sheng sighed.

He had heard Cheng Chen's songs before, but since he'd heard them one after another, he hadn't paid much attention.

Now, seeing Cheng Chen produce so many songs at once, each one perfectly suited to the drama,

Such immense creative power left him awestruck, as if facing a celestial being.

"Director Kong, let's skip the formalities—do you think these songs can be used? If not, I'll write a few more."

Cheng Chen said with a smile.

"And! Uh… enough, more than enough. Once you finish the sheet music, I'll arrange recording—will you sing them yourself?"

Kong Sheng asked.

"Yes, I'll sing most of them; others can be assigned to singers—I might be busy soon.

And for 《The Old Beauty》, let Yan Danchen sing it; it was written from a woman's perspective.

Having her, as the female lead, sing it might yield unexpected results."

Cheng Chen suggested.

Kong Sheng pondered briefly, then said:

"That arrangement works, but Yan Danchen isn't a professional singer."

"No problem—this song isn't very difficult. We can record it last and get her a music teacher first."

Cheng Chen said.

In fact, Yan Danchen had musical training.

She had practiced during university and sang quite well.

Later, she even collaborated with the renowned musician Tan Dun, and the unrelated Feng Xiaogang and Wang Han, to stage a musical called Tian Nu San Hua.

Of course, all that was later.

After finalizing the theme songs, Cheng Chen discussed post-production editing with Kong Sheng.

The finished film should be ready in about two or three months…

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【Rebirth Starting from Huayu 2002】【】

Before they knew it, night had fallen; some actors in Beijing received notice from the crew and arrived.

They came for the traditional post-production celebration—the wrap party.

At the wrap party, Cheng Chen was unquestionably the main guest, with people coming one after another to toast him.

Having attended many wrap parties before, Cheng Chen knew the routine well.

It was just: you don't get me drunk, I'll get you drunk, and meanwhile watch the actresses burst into tears at the banquet.

Although Nirvana in Fire was a male-led drama, there were plenty of female actresses.

Moreover, Kong Sheng's taste was always sharp—he had chosen actresses who were all very beautiful.

Normally on set they wore ancient costumes; now dressed in modern clothes, they were barely recognizable at first glance.

Everyone laughed and played, filling the entire banquet with joyous noise.

Of course, this was merely an illusion.

Indeed, after three rounds of wine, some had drunk too much…

……

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