Chapter 340: Three Factions in Chaos Become Two Against One

China Film, conference room

Uncle Han personally presided over the mobilization meeting for "The Founding of a Nation."

In addition to China Film personnel, the heads of joint production companies including Yi'an, Seeing Yan Li, Bonar, Yingshuang, Media Asia, Hualu, Xinbaoyuan, and others were all present.

"The plan is this: Huang Jianxin and I serve as co-chief directors; he handles filming, I oversee the entire project."

"Additionally, because locations differ and schedules are scattered, when Guoli, Xiao Gang, Bao Gang, and Kai Ge participate in filming, they will also shoot certain scenes and segments—after all, it's a tribute film; everyone pools their efforts."

"…"

Uncle Han was in high spirits; after "The Founding of a Nation" was approved, it progressed even more smoothly than he imagined, with stars flocking to join without pay.

As the project's primary responsible person, Uncle Han became the center of attention; rumors spread that he had gathered half the entertainment industry with nothing but text messages, his fame towering.

Seeing Yan Li listened while flipping through materials on "The Founding of a Nation."

Perhaps due to time and budget constraints, "The Founding of a Nation" did not feature any war scenes; instead, the plot focused on the two sides' leaders and preparations for founding the nation.

To be honest, the plot had few highlights.

But this was understandable—the subject matter was sensitive, and as a tribute film, creative constraints were inevitable.

Moreover, the three years of the Liberation War involved too many events and figures; even a fifty-episode TV series couldn't cover everything adequately, so the film could only offer a cursory, whirlwind overview.

As for whether certain democratic figures had too much screen time, that tied into the current political climate—those who understand, understand.

But…

Seeing Yan Li glanced at several names on the actor invitation list and couldn't help marking them with a check; after the meeting, he informed Uncle Han.

"Since this is a tribute film, won't these foreign actors provoke public controversy?"

Over the past two years, Gong Li emigrated, and now rumors swirl that Jet Li plans to change his nationality—public debate has been fierce.

Seeing Yan Li didn't mean to blacklist these foreign artists; he merely felt that "The Founding of a Nation," as a tribute film, needed caution in every detail.

They could be used, but cautiously—lest they become a target for criticism and cause disproportionate damage.

After hearing this, Uncle Han's Serious Expression returned; Seeing Yan Li had already taught him a lesson with "The Assembly," and he was now far more attentive to such matters.

"The Founding of a Nation" was politically sensitive—it didn't need to shine, but it absolutely could not fail.

Uncle Han paced a few steps: "What's your suggestion?"

Seeing Yan Li paused, then said: "We shouldn't cast anyone as the Party's or history books' positive characters; for villains and neutral figures, I think it's fine."

"Then let's arrange it that way—I'll adjust the roles."

Uncle Han considered it and thought the plan good; if criticism arose later, they could use it to clarify.

"By the way, Uncle Han, pick a role for me like that too."

Uncle Han frowned: "What do you mean?"

Seeing Yan Li chuckled: "My reputation? I'd rather not sully our ancestors. Besides, I'm no big star—just a cameo will do."

"Nonsense."

Uncle Han clapped Seeing Yan Li on the shoulder and laughed: "Others may not know, but I know you—your playboy ways are merely personal flaws; as long as your core principles hold, you're still exemplary. Among the younger generation, few are as upright as you."

They chatted and laughed; for "The Founding of a Nation," China Film was undoubtedly the producer, while Yi'an ranked first among the joint producers.

Previously, for China Film's major films, Yi'an had only acted as a co-distributor, not an investor or producer.

This time, Yi'an broke precedent—and was the most active and contributive among all companies; Uncle Han was pleased.

Yi'an was excellent in every way, but previously it had been too cautious.

Now, with consecutive major projects like "Painted Skin," "The Wind That Shakes the Barley," "The Founding of a Nation," and "October 1," it had finally begun to show the aura of an industry giant—and this benefited the entire industry.

"Xiao Yan, Changhong in Taiwan also wants to make a big film—any thoughts?"

"I heard."

Seeing Yan Li nodded; he hadn't just heard—he'd already dealt with them.

Changhong was a Taiwan-based film company, owned by the well-known underworld boss Wu Dun.

Last year's successful New Year film "Kung Fu Dunk" was produced by this company.

Encouraged by "Kung Fu Dunk"'s success, Wu Dun secured Zhou Jie's contract and, with Zhi Ling's rising fame after "Red Cliff," planned a big project: the new film "The Lost Tomb," with an estimated budget of 100 million RMB.

As mentioned earlier, Yi'an was the mainland distributor for "Kung Fu Dunk," and their cooperation had been smooth.

This time for "The Lost Tomb," Changhong approached China Film first, then Yi'an.

But after reviewing the project, Seeing Yan Li had little confidence in it.

The script was problematic, and he felt Changhong had grossly overestimated Zhou Jie's box-office draw.

"House of Flying Daggers" succeeded because of Zhang Yimou, then Jackie Chan and Gong Li—Zhou's role ranked below them.

"Kung Fu Dunk" and "Initial D" were both successful commercial films, but it must be said: their themes were highly appealing.

Racing and basketball were both popular with youth, maximizing Zhou's popularity.

Moreover, Zhou Jie's character was almost tailor-made: a quiet, ordinary prodigy mixed with a hot-blooded underdog-comeback trope, bordering on self-portrayal—he performed well, and audiences accepted it.

"Initial D" itself had high production quality and a strong cast; its box-office success was entirely reasonable.

As distributor of "Kung Fu Dunk," Yi'an understood its success factors even better.

Zhou Jie was undoubtedly the key contributor, but other factors couldn't be ignored.

First, Yao Ming was actively playing in the NBA, making basketball extremely hot—naturally drawing an audience.

Second, it blended kung fu and comedy, essentially a basketball version of "Shaolin Soccer," and brought in numerous comedians like Zeng Zhiwei, Wang Gang, Huang Bo, and Wu Mengda—truly a constellation of stars lifting the moon.

At least among casual viewers, many went to the cinema for these actors—or preferred their characters and plots.

Third, director Zhu Yanping was a skilled tailor; "Kung Fu Dunk" borrowed heavily from countless sources, almost a potpourri—but stitched together decently.

Under these conditions, Seeing Yan Li believed Zhou Jie lacked the strength to carry a major film alone; "Kung Fu Dunk" had significant luck involved.

"The Lost Tomb"'s plot and cast were riddled with flaws—playing a bad hand recklessly; without any system, Seeing Yan Li wouldn't touch such a project based on experience alone.

He even suspected whether "The Lost Tomb" was truly meant to make money—or if it was a scheme to launder Wu Dun's funds.

Over the past two years, the domestic film box office has continued to grow, and many operations have become more convenient.

According to Seeing Yan Li, many gray-area heavyweights have entered this field, so Seeing Yan Li now places greater emphasis on the background of potential partners; Wu Maowen isn't ruled out, but he'll be treated with far more caution than an ordinary company.

Given the current relationship between Seeing Yan Li and Uncle Han, there's no need for empty formalities—he can speak plainly and say he doesn't believe in this project.

Uncle Han said nothing more; film projects always depend on personal taste, and Seeing Yan Li is famously high-standard—he's been cautious and picky for so long that Uncle Han is used to it.

"Not investing is fine—just help me out more on 'The Founding of a Republic' later. By the way, Jiang Wen might be there too—he recently asked me to find you."

"Find me? Why go through you?"

Seeing Yan Li won't claim to be close with Jiang Wen, but their relationship is decent—they've had meals and met up before; there's no need for Uncle Han to personally arrange it.

"He's preparing a new film."

Uncle Han spoke briefly, and Seeing Yan Li understood: "So Jiang Wen actually has moments of embarrassment? That's not his style."

Last time, 'The Sun Also Rises' lost a lot of money, so Jiang Wen is now trying to approach Yi'an for his new film—probably feeling a bit embarrassed, hence asking Uncle Han to make the introduction.

"Don't say he's embarrassed—I'm a little embarrassed too."

Uncle Han waved his hand; actually, Seeing Yan Li didn't lose much money on 'The Sun Also Rises,' but he sacrificed his 'reputation' and 'favor.'

Originally, Seeing Yan Li helped organize it—he brought in Huayi, Bonar, and Yinghuang—and shattered the myth that investing in film always guarantees profit.

Seeing Yan Li knew exactly what was going on; as the parties involved, Uncle Han and Jiang Wen couldn't take it for granted.

"I've read the script this time—it's truly excellent. Personally, I think it's profitable; Jiang Wen himself is very confident. This time, I'm just passing along the message—don't invest because of me. If you want to, invest; if not, no one can say you're wrong."

Uncle Han made a special point to distance himself—he personally believes in Jiang Wen, and China Film Group is also investing in this new film.

Finally!

Didn't Seeing Yan Li go through so much trouble helping with 'The Sun Also Rises' just for 'Let's Shoot the Bullet'?

Now Yi'an has Ning Hao and doesn't lack top directors, but mega-blockbusters are rare and unpredictable.

'Let's Shoot the Bullet' has excellent box office and critical reception; aside from Jiang Wen stealing some spotlight, everything else is top-tier—perfectly aligned with Yi'an's listing strategy.

Because 'The Sun Also Rises' badly damaged Bonar and Huayi, Seeing Yan Li suspects the other studios will likely dare not invest this time.

At this moment, if Seeing Yan Li invests in 'Let's Shoot the Bullet' and it succeeds, combined with his past experience, it will become a legendary story in the film industry.

It's excellent promotional material for Seeing Yan Li, for the company, and for the project itself.

…

After chatting for a while, Uncle Han walked Seeing Yan Li to the parking lot: "Tomorrow is New Year's Eve—I won't keep you longer. Go home quickly."

"Happy New Year, Uncle Han. Leave a door open for me on the third day—I'll come to pay my respects."

"Haha, I've already prepared the wine for you. Go on."

Seeing Yan Li called out, then drove to Yangjiao Deng Hutong; when he arrived, his younger cousin Yan Xin was pasting Spring Festival couplets under the direction of Old Yan.

"You're pasting them already? Tomorrow's New Year's Eve."

"Xin's returning to his hometown tonight—let's get them up while he's here, so you won't have to work tomorrow."

Seeing Yan Li is off on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day; this period has been too hectic, and his family wants him to rest—trying to keep him from doing any chores.

Seeing Yan Li nodded, reading the couplet aloud: "Harmony in the home brings a hundred blessings; peace and safety are worth a thousand gold. Good words, and fine calligraphy."

Old Yan patted his belly and pointed to a nearby courtyard.

"That family has a retired professor from Beijing Normal University—he writes excellent calligraphy. Your mother went over to ask him."

Hearing this, Seeing Yan Li told Wu Maowen, who was carrying items, to put down a box of tonic, then called to Yan Xin.

"Take this over later and express your thanks."

"Brother, Second Aunt sent over some gifts."

"That's not enough."

Seeing Yan Li knew his mother Zhang Hong too well; although the Yan family is now wealthy, his parents still cling to old habits.

In their view, calligraphy is a skill but not valuable—getting a couplet probably means giving a little sunflower seeds, candy, or fried snacks.

The family doesn't lack a box of tonic; cultural people care about face—fulfilling the proper etiquette ensures good relations with neighbors.

Yan Xin finished pasting the couplets and dashed off to deliver the gift; Seeing Yan Li had Wu Maowen help unload the trunk, and when only a few items remained, he called out to stop him.

"That's enough—take the rest. Don't show up at your future in-laws' house empty-handed. I don't need you worrying about me—Tiger and the guards take shifts; go take care of your own business."

Old Yan chuckled and patted Wu Maowen, who had grown up under his watch.

"Make your mark—win it all."

Wu Maowen is Seeing Yan Li's childhood friend; they're nearly the same age, now approaching thirty, at the age to marry.

Dong Xuan personally arranged the match; the girl is a former Beijing Film Academy graduate who teaches physical posture there—also a native of Jingcheng, though from the suburbs.

The girl's qualifications are excellent, but Wu Maowen isn't lacking either.

He is now one of Seeing Yan Li's personal drivers and head of security, earning well and holding considerable status.