[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-that-year-in-huayu":3,"chapter-that-year-in-huayu-that-year-in-huayu-chapter-16":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","That Year in Huayu",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2286852,4473,"Chapter 16: Preparation","that-year-in-huayu-chapter-16",16,"\u003Cp>\"Director Lin is responsible for the Erlang Shen storyline, the Chenxiang storyline is left to Director Yu, and I’ll handle the rest of the trivial matters...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the 9th, *The Lotus Lantern* began filming. The production company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CCTV; if nothing else, they have connections and resources.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the day filming started, many official media outlets showed up to promote traditional culture and the story of splitting the mountain to save one's mother...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The cast is much larger than *Chinese Paladin* from two days ago. This is a CCTV drama, which guarantees a high-end premiere platform.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The action sequences designed by the martial arts director were performed with grand, sweeping movements by Jiao Enjun; this is what action scenes should look like.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The silver armor designed by the props department also looks good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What *The Lotus Lantern*? This should be *The Legend of Erlang*!\" Lin Nan laughed while sitting behind the camera.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone laughed happily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Senior Sister Dan Chen, why don't you like it?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I do like it, but the screenwriter won't allow it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike others who have talent agencies, Jiao Enjun is completely independent. The fact that he can knock on CCTV's door on his own speaks volumes about his strength and temperament.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When the storylines converged, Lin Nan decisively laid flat and handed things over to the other two, leading to jokes about him being absent from work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>During these times, Lin Nan would often slip over to the neighboring set. That artificial peach blossom forest is beautiful, and Miss Linger is even more stunning than the peach blossoms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wandering around Hengdian in this life, the sense of inferiority from before is gone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This year, a film and television industry experimental zone is to be established here. As a director, Lin Nan will likely have to run over here often in the future.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Filming has entered the second half. The nephew fought his uncle for the first time and was taught what \"close enough\" means.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan also received notification from above that the film registration was successful and the script review had passed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Let's wait a bit longer. He is still working right now and doesn't want to be disturbed by film matters; he must have professional ethics.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shanghai Film Group has a keen sense of smell. Lin Nan handled the registration himself, and less than twelve hours after he knew the result, their call came through.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not just Shanghai Film Group, but also China Film Group, and his teachers at school.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I haven't done the budget yet.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let's talk after *The Lotus Lantern* wraps up.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The actors haven't been decided yet. No rush, it was just registered.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Teacher, why are you causing trouble...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Enlight Media?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since the first call from Shanghai Film Group, Lin Nan hasn't had a moment of peace. He doesn't know who leaked his number, but everyone, acquaintances and strangers alike, has been reaching out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Among them is the current Huayi Brothers and Wang Jinghua.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You are also a hot, box-office-drawing director; this result is to be expected.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When Director Zhao said this, there was still some envy in his tone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Television dramas are naturally inferior to films.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan turned off his phone and didn't even carry it with him, so he could focus on work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the other side, Huayi's *A World Without Thieves* has started filming. Wang Baoqiang, without *Blind Shaft*, has still become \"Sha Gen,\" which makes Lin Nan sigh endlessly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Teacher Liu Xiao's acting is really good. She truly deserves to have the screenwriter add scenes for her,\" Lin Nan remarked to some of the crew.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s just that the Jade Emperor's face makes people lose immersion; the boss of the underworld money factory won't let you off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the evening, the crew finally got a break. Lin Nan went back to take a shower and then went out. Shu Chang was already waiting, and they had an appointment to go out with Liu Qianqian.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhu Yawen is too lazy and didn't go. He filmed action scenes all day today, holding the custom-made nine-toothed rake, and was exhausted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hengdian at night is also very lively. \"Director Zhang has a new film, and my mother and godfather are helping me lobby for it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Qianqian took a slice of orange handed to her by Lin Nan and said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It's *The Return of the Condor Heroes*,\" Shu Chang said. She also wants to audition; she is also an acquaintance of Director Zhang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Does your film have a role suitable for me?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Qianqian tugged on Lin Nan's sleeve and asked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shu Chang didn't expect her best friend to ask so directly. She also wanted to ask this question, but clearly, their relationship hadn't reached that point; those two are classmates.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The Little Dragon Maiden in *The Return of the Condor Heroes* is a role destined to be a huge hit. If you are certain you can play the Little Dragon Maiden, then don't give up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike other roles, the Little Dragon Maiden will make the audience remember you forever; it's not something an ordinary film can compare to.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan was telling the truth. After this drama, Liu Qianqian truly established her foundation for the next decade, as stable as Mount Tai.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing her expression look a bit off, she asked, \"You don't want me to act in your film?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don't get red eyes, and don't glare at me; I'm doing this for your own good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan panicked a little, \"I will have many films, but there is only one Little Dragon Maiden, and I believe it must be you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He barely managed to muddle through. The young lady still said that Lin Nan should save a spot for her, just in case she doesn't get selected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don't worry, it will definitely be you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhu Yawen is listening to new songs again. *A Snow Two Years Ago*—if nothing goes wrong, this guy is about to explode in popularity this year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this year's Berlin Film Festival, there is nothing from the domestic side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On QQ chat, Lin Nan heard that Zhang Mo had been expelled; the water is too deep.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Director Lin, your work is almost finished, right?\" Yan Danchen asked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan looked up at Chang'e and nodded, \"Yes, I will leave the crew first. If I have time during the wrap-up banquet, I will come.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Two days ago, the media found out about Lin Nan's new film from official sources, so more people know now. Recently, people in the crew have also started fishing for information.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"When are you planning to hold public auditions?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This question was asked with skill, blocking one of Lin Nan's escape routes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I will prepare immediately after my work is finished. I will consider sending invitations then, if you also have the schedule, Senior Sister.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yan Danchen thought for a moment, \"Then give me a spot.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Alright, no problem.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan started filming in early February. Among the three directors, his workload is the smallest. According to the plan, he can finish and leave by the end of March.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan also has a lot to consider. In terms of seniority, he cannot compare to people like Zhang Yimou, and of course, he cannot pull in film investments to that level either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhang Yimou's status is now at an international level, especially with *Hero* preparing for release in North America. I heard he is currently filming *House of Flying Daggers* abroad, and the investment is terrifying.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If I remember correctly, three blockbuster films will be bunched together in the second half of the year: *House of Flying Daggers*, *A World Without Thieves*, and Zhou Xingchi's *Kung Fu*.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan warned himself that he still needs to wait. He needs to accumulate two more films to thoroughly establish his name and influence before he can touch big-budget films.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Or copy something ruthless and go win an award.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Putting his mind back to work, the \"blackened\" Xiao Yu has a beautiful look, and she has collaborated with Erlang Shen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Generally speaking, television dramas are indeed more worry-free than films. The small screen does not have strict requirements for an actor's micro-expressions, unlike films.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Plus, Jiao Enjun and Shu Chang are both veteran actors. Lin Nan is almost a tool man; the word he says most is \"pass,\" not \"cut.\" Even when he calls \"cut,\" it's because the props department or extras had a problem.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Filming is surprisingly smooth. Before the 10th of March, Lin Nan's storyline is just about to end, but the other two storylines will have to be left to Director Zhao and Director Yu to continue until the final wrap.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Old Zhu, don't blame your brother; I can't wait for you this time.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking at the shooting schedule in Director Zhao's hand, the crew won't wrap up until early May.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Goodbye, Director Lin.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Goodbye, everyone.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Returning to the hotel in the evening, many people said goodbye to Lin Nan in advance, as they might not be able to catch him the next day; the crew starts at dawn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I'm going back to school.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan invited Liu Qianqian out for a late-night snack. Jiang Xin came along. This person has a great appetite and is even more ruthless when eating for free.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>*Chinese Paladin* won't wrap up until June. Recently, Zhang Jizhong has already started releasing news about *The Return of the Condor Heroes* to hype it up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Qianqian ate a banana and didn't touch the barbecue. Jiang Xin ate to her heart's content; she was pulled out by Liu Qianqian to provide cover.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Are you going to start this film as soon as you go back?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan nodded. He still intends to be a \"fast shooter.\" At the latest, it will be released for National Day. In July, there is *House of Flying Daggers*, and in December, there are *A World Without Thieves* and *Kung Fu*.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only the October release *Kekexili* is easy to bully. It's an award-chasing film, which means the box office won't be good. Since you want awards, give the box office to me.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It's clear that Liu Qianqian really wants to make a film with Lin Nan, \"Time-wise, I can't wait for you. I want to release it by October at the latest.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Qianqian understood after hearing this; she really couldn't participate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Then I wish you all the best.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you. One day, I will invite you to be the lead actress.\" This is Lin Nan's honest truth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Alright, don't lie to me, otherwise I won't let you off,\" she said, baring her little canine teeth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The next day, Lin Nan left Hengdian.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the way, he sent a few texts and made a few calls; it's time to meet with the financiers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The teachers at school hinted to Lin Nan that China Film Group cannot be bypassed. Lin Nan didn't intend to go it alone with Shanghai Film Group this time either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The production cost of *Returning to Youth* is not high; it was originally a low-budget fantasy film.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan roughly estimated that the production cost would only be 20 million ten years later. Putting it in 2004, 10 million is plenty, but he still wants 20 million; he has to have a director's fee, after all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For *Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind*, he didn't take a director's fee at the time, only counting investment dividends and lead actor fees. Influenced by Li Yang, he prioritized the film and didn't think much about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On March 12th, Lin Nan met with Shanghai Film Group, China Film Group, and Enlight Media, who had taken the initiative to join in, at his small company.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The person who came from Shanghai Film Group was the same one from last time. Since they came first, Lin Nan invited them into his office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The dividends from *Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind* had come down, and Lin Nan had also filled the necessary positions. At the very least, he hired two girls for the front desk with decent salaries.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The person from China Film Group gave Lin Nan a shock: the next boss, the current vice president Han Sanping. Enlight also sent a vice president.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So, this is a circle. There are many people Lin Nan doesn't know, but there is always a middleman who can bring messages to him, and his social circle will expand because of this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the office, the four of them began to divide the pie.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan reported a budget of twenty million; just as that big brother from Shanghai Film was about to speak, Han Dong cut him off, \"Director Lin is a student of the Film Academy with both experience and achievements. I assume he has a plan for how to allocate a twenty-million budget?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lin Nan looked at the frustrated expressions over at Shanghai Film and understood; after all, the people here held higher status and were on their home turf.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I will invest three million, plus my director's fee, and I want thirty percent.\" Lin Nan set his own director's fee at five million; this wasn't considered high, but it was a bit inflated, so he only asked for thirty percent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He remembered that Director Feng Xiaogang had made over ten million in profit from \"A World Without Thieves\" by doing exactly this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Several people looked at Lin Nan, somewhat skeptical of his tone in demanding thirty percent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Considering that the project was under Lin Nan's primary control and the crew was organized by him, setting a slightly high director's fee for himself seemed understandable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Is Director Lin very confident in this film?\" someone from Enlight asked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\" Lin Nan took a sip of water.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Shanghai Film will invest five million for thirty percent; we are old friends with Director Lin, after all.\" That big brother spoke up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Han Dong was there with a mission, Enlight had established a connection, and Shanghai Film asking for thirty percent for five million was very reasonable; others had better relationships with Lin Nan than they did.\u003C\u002Fp>",2342,"2026-06-20T03:22:09.099Z",1,"Gemini 3.1 Flash Lite","dc411dbfbd319eeefa8229f33682fe15270aaebee3846ef70e1ac7341cce4fee","that-year-in-huayu-chapter-17","that-year-in-huayu-chapter-15",1000,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthat-year-in-huayu-cover.jpg"]