sovbooks Chapter 134 Banning the Start-up
Chapter 134 Banning the Start-up
Chapter 134 Banning the Start-up
On April 26, the high-rise buildings across Victoria Harbour appeared and disappeared like a mirage.
Jiang Yugang had just returned from his morning run, taken a shower, and was sitting on a wicker chair on the terrace, wrapped in a bathrobe, in his penthouse suite at the Peninsula Hotel.
Today's newspapers, freshly delivered, were spread out on the round table in front of me.
He first opened the Oriental Daily News. The front page featured a photo of him embracing Liu Yifei at the airport yesterday, but the headline had been changed.
Zeng Ziwei returned to Taiwan overnight for medical treatment; the swift and decisive actions of a rising mainland elite shocked Hong Kong's entertainment circle.
The article details the conflict at last night's banquet, even quoting an "eyewitness": "When Jiang Yu's eyes were as cold as ice, and he said 'Cripple his hand,' everyone in the room was stunned."
"It's written quite vividly." Jiang Yu smiled and continued reading.
The latter part of the article begins to dig into Zeng Ziwei's dark history: assaulting someone in a Lan Kwai Fong bar in 1997, suspected drunk driving and fleeing the scene in 2001, being accused of sexual harassment by a female model in 2005 but later settling privately, and accumulating huge gambling debts in a Macau casino in 2007. "These reporters, they've dug really deep," Jiang Yu muttered to himself.
Then, turning to the Pingguo Daily, the headline was even more sensational: "Jiang Yu cuts off a female assistant's hand, Zeng Zi's acting career may end."
The accompanying photo shows Zeng Ziwei being lifted into an ambulance, his face bearing a pained expression.
Besides reporting the incident itself, the article also analyzed Jiang Yu's background and power, concluding that "this young tycoon from the mainland declared in the most direct way that on my turf, you have to abide by my rules."
Ming Pao was relatively more objective: "The Peninsula Hotel controversy reflects the bad habits of Hong Kong's entertainment circle."
The article analyzes the situation from an industry perspective, arguing that while Jiang Yu's actions were extreme, they may prompt the Hong Kong entertainment industry to address long-standing problems.
The financial section of the Star Daily focuses more on the commercial impact: "Zeng Zi wipes out mainland resources overnight, Jiang Yu demonstrates the power of capital."
The article lists all the endorsements and programs Zeng Ziwei lost in mainland China and calculates the economic losses in detail. "The preliminary estimate is that the loss is at least HK$1500 million, not including future opportunity costs."
Jiang Yu was engrossed in his reading when Liu Yifei's voice came from behind him: "What are you looking at so intently?"
He turned his head. Liu Yifei had just gotten up, wearing a light pink silk robe, her face still sleepy, like a lazy cat.
"Good morning." Jiang Yu pulled her to sit down. "Let's see how the Hong Kong media writes about us. These people are really efficient; they dug up all of Zeng Ziwei's secrets in just one night."
Liu Yifei picked up a newspaper and glanced at it, then frowned. "These reporters are exaggerating too much. But are those things about Zeng Ziwei true?"
"It's pretty much true," Jiang Yu said. "The entertainment industry is only so big; everyone knows who did what. It's just that no one dared to speak up before, but now that the wall has fallen, naturally someone will push it down."
Just then, Wang Wei knocked and came in, holding a laptop. "Boss, the latest news from the mainland! Zeng Ziwei has terminated all three of his endorsement contracts!"
She handed the computer to Jiang Yu.
The screen displayed three messages: one from the official accounts of a beverage brand, a men's clothing brand, and a shampoo brand. All were posted at 8:00 AM today, and the content was largely the same: "Given that Mr. Zeng Ziwei's personal conduct is inconsistent with our company's brand values, we are terminating all cooperation with Mr. Zeng Ziwei effective immediately. We consistently uphold the values of respecting women and advocating positive energy —"
"That was fast." Jiang Yu nodded. "Any other news?"
"Yes!" Wang Wei swiped the screen. "Two variety shows have also issued announcements saying that due to personal reasons, the artists will no longer participate in subsequent recordings. There are also three movies that are currently in talks, and the production companies have made it clear that they will not consider artists with controversial backgrounds."
in addition....
""
She paused, her eyes shining, "We've received news from General Manager Chen Jingming that three television stations have indicated they will no longer invite Zeng Ziwei to any of their programs."
Liu Yifei was stunned: "It's only been one night—"
"The power of capital," Jiang Yu said calmly. "I had Chen Jingming and Jiang Xuerou make a few phone calls to several companies with which we have cooperative relationships. Zeng Ziwei didn't have many resources in mainland China to begin with, so it's normal for everyone to kick him while he's down."
He smiled and said, "Moreover, mainland production teams and Hong Kong film circles are constantly vying for the right to speak. I just gave everyone a chance. After this incident, those companies also need to make a statement and prove that they have distanced themselves from Zeng Ziwei, otherwise it may affect their future cooperation with us."
Wang Wei continued her report: "In addition, starting from midnight, major portal websites and social media platforms have been pushing negative news about Zeng Ziwei."
"The public opinion is developing quite well." Jiang Yu nodded in satisfaction. "What's the reaction from the Hong Kong entertainment circle?"
"The reaction has been huge," Wang Wei said. "I received seven calls this morning, all inquiring about news. Some people are worried, some are afraid, and some want to take this opportunity to defect to us. Mr. Yang Shoucheng just called, saying that the Music Emperor will fully cooperate and will also blacklist Zeng Ziwei in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. He also asked if you have time to have lunch together."
"Tell him that the crew has plans for lunch today, and we'll do it another day."
Jiang Yu said, "Furthermore, have Jiang Xuerou prepare a statement, in the name of Chasing Light Pictures, supporting the stance of The Emperor of Sound, emphasizing zero tolerance for sexual harassment. Also, announce the establishment of the Chasing Light Women's Rights Protection Fund," specifically to help women who have been harmed in the entertainment industry. The initial investment will be 1000 million RMB."
"Understood!" Wang Wei immediately wrote it down. "There's one more thing. Zeng Ziwei's agent just contacted me to apologize and hopes you can be lenient."
"Apologize?" Jiang Yu laughed. "He should apologize, but not to me, but to Jiang Jing. Tell him that if he wants to apologize, he should apologize publicly, admit his mistake, and compensate Jiang Jing for her emotional distress."
Wang Wei was stunned for a moment: "This—"
"That's the condition," Jiang Yu said firmly. "No discussion."
"Okay, I understand."
After Wang Wei left, Liu Yifei asked in a low voice, "Wasn't that a bit too much—"
"Too ruthless?" Jiang Yu chimed in. "Yifei, you think I'm ruthless to Zeng Zi, but do you know how ruthless he is to those girls? If someone like that went to the mainland, he would only harm more people."
Liu Yifei was silent for a moment, then nodded: "You're right. Some people can't be given a chance."
"Alright, let's not talk about this anymore." Jiang Yu stood up. "Get ready, the opening ceremony is at ten o'clock, don't be late. Today is your first time attending the opening ceremony of a Hollywood blockbuster as the female lead, so you need to be in your best form."
"Yes!" Liu Yifei nodded vigorously.
At 9:30 a.m., the group departed from the hotel.
Today, Jiang Yu wore a dark blue casual suit, while Liu Yifei wore a white knit sweater with light blue jeans and a beige trench coat. Her hair was tied in a ponytail, making her look fresh and energetic.
When the car arrived at the filming location in Causeway Bay, quite a few people had already arrived.
Outside a photo studio near Times Square, a red carpet had been laid out and a backdrop with the movie poster for "Lucy" had been erected.
The altar and offering table were also set up, with roast suckling pig, fruit, pastries and other offerings on them.
Jackie Chan and Andy Lau arrived first and were chatting on the side.
Upon seeing Jiang Yu get out of the car, the two of them came to greet him.
"Good morning, Mr. Jiang!" Cheng Long was dressed casually today, in a dark jacket and jeans. "You handled things well last night! I've disliked Zeng Ziwei for a long time. Back in '97, he got into a fight at a bar, and I was the one who settled things for him. But he's gotten more and more arrogant over the years."
Andy Lau also said, "President Jiang, you've set a good example for the entertainment industry. Some trends should have been changed long ago. We old guys sometimes want to intervene, but we're hesitant to speak up because of personal relationships. With your intervention, everyone has to reconsider."
"You're too kind, brothers," Jiang Yu said modestly. "I just did what I was supposed to do. Let's have a good start to filming today and not dwell on those unpleasant things."
"Yes, yes, yes, best wishes for a successful start to filming!" Jackie Chan laughed. "Andy Lau and I came here today to show our support and cheer for Yifei. She's the absolute leading lady among Chinese actresses, we have to support her!"
Liu Yifei walked over and greeted them: "Hello Brother Long, hello Brother Hua, thank you for coming."
"Of course, of course." Jackie Chan patted her shoulder. "Act well. If you need any help, just ask. I've been making movies in Hong Kong for decades, I know everyone and everything."
"Thank you, Brother Long."
At 10:00 AM sharp, the opening ceremony officially began.
Over a hundred people were present, including the entire film crew, representatives of the investors and partners, media reporters, and many onlookers.
Huo Wenxi, as the host, wore a red suit, which looked very festive.
"Distinguished guests, friends from the media, good afternoon!" Her voice resonated throughout the venue through the microphone. "Today is the opening ceremony for the film 'Lucy,' thank you all for coming! First, please welcome the representatives of the investors: Mr. Jiang Yu, Chairman of Light Chaser Pictures; Mr. Brian Jack, Producer of Fox Film Corporation; and Director Luc Besson, Founder of EuropaCorp!"
The three people went on stage.
Jiang Yu stood in the middle, with Brian on his left and Luc Besson on his right.
Flashes went off everywhere, and camera shutters clicked incessantly.
Jiang Yu spoke first, saying in Chinese: "Thank you all for coming. 'Lucy' is one of Light Chaser Pictures' most important projects this year. We are honored to work with director Luc Besson and to have Ms. Liu Yifei play the lead role. This film blends Eastern and Western cultures, possessing both Hollywood production standards and unique Eastern aesthetics. I believe it will become a work that amazes the world."
He paused, then continued, "Also, I'd like to take this opportunity to announce something. Light Chaser Pictures will be establishing a Women's Rights Protection Fund: with an initial investment of 1000 million RMB. We hope that through this fund, we can contribute to the healthy development of the industry."
These words were met with enthusiastic applause, and many female staff members in the audience clapped vigorously.
Next, Brian spoke: "Fox Films is very optimistic about this project. Mr. Jiang is a very visionary partner, Director Luc Besson is an international master, and Ms. Liu Yifei is a rising star. This combination is destined to create miracles. We also support Mr. Jiang's decision; protecting women's rights is something everyone should do."
Finally, Luc Besson spoke in English with a French accent: "Lucy is a story about human potential, and also a story about female power. Ms. Liu Yifei possesses a unique quality, combining Eastern gentleness with inner resilience. This is exactly what the role of Lucy needs. I am very much looking forward to this collaboration."
Next, the main actors will appear.
When Liu Yifei went on stage, she received a particularly enthusiastic round of applause.
She was wearing no makeup today, but she looked great, with bright, sparkling eyes.
"Thank you for your trust, Mr. Jiang, Director Besson, and Mr. Brian." She spoke fluently in English. "This is my first time working with director Luc Besson. I will do my best to portray the character of Lucy well. At the same time, I also support Light Chaser Animation's decision to establish a women's rights protection fund. As a female actor, I am well aware of the difficulties in this industry. I hope that in the future, every woman can work in a safe and respectful environment."
Then there are the three supporting male actors: Morgan Freeman, Tony Leung Ka-fai, and Amor Wakod.
As soon as Morgan Freeman took the stage, he said in his signature deep voice, "I really love this story. When Luc showed me the script, I was immediately captivated. It's an honor to work with such a wonderful team. I also support the protection of women's rights; this should be a consensus among all humanity."
Tony Leung Ka-fai spoke in both Cantonese and Mandarin: "As a Hong Kong actor, I am very proud to participate in such an international production. I will do my best to play my role well. At the same time, I also call on my colleagues in the industry to respect every worker, regardless of gender."
Amour Wacodée is a French actor who doesn't speak much English. He spoke a few words in French, which were then relayed by a translator.
"I'm very excited to be involved in this project. Luc Besson is one of the directors I respect most, and it's a dream come true to work with him. I also believe that respecting women is a fundamental moral principle."
After all the main creators took the stage, the opening ceremony entered its most important part: the worship of the gods.
This is a tradition in the Hong Kong film industry, a prayer for smooth filming and box office success.
The staff brought over a long table, covered it with a red cloth, and placed offerings such as roast suckling pig, fruit, and pastries, as well as an incense burner and candles.
Although Luc Besson is French, he adapted to local customs and participated in the ceremony in a cooperative manner.
Jiang Yu, as the representative of the investors, was the first to offer incense.
He took the three incense sticks, bowed three times before the incense burner, and silently prayed, "May the filming go smoothly, may the movie be a success, and may this industry get better and better." Then he placed the incense sticks in the burner.
Next was Luc Besson, who, imitating Jiang Yu, bowed three times while muttering French under his breath.
Then came Brian, Liu Yifei, Morgan Freeman—everyone was very devout.
After the worship ceremony, the unveiling ceremony took place.
The staff pushed in a movie camera covered with a red cloth. Jiang Yu and Luc Besson pulled back the red cloth together, revealing the brand-new camera.
Finally, there was the media interview session.
The reporters were already impatient, and their questions were all focused on the film itself: "Ms. Liu Yifei, are you nervous working with Morgan Freeman for the first time?"
Why did director Luc Besson choose Liu Yifei as the female lead?
"Mr. Morgan Freeman, what are your impressions of Hong Kong?"
"Mr. Jiang, what types of films will Light Chaser Animation invest in next?"
No one mentioned what happened last night, which clearly meant that the Emperor of Sound had already given instructions.
Although Hong Kong media like to sensationalize, they also know how to assess the situation.
The interview lasted for half an hour.
After that, the crew began filming the first scene, a solo performance by Liu Yifei, featuring Lucy in the laboratory.
Jiang Yu, Brian, Jiang Xuerou, and Yang Shoucheng stood behind the monitor, watching from a distance.
Wen Muye, as the Chinese assistant director, stayed close to Luc Besson, taking notes with his notebook at all times.
"Action!" Luc Besson shouted.
In front of the camera, Liu Yifei, with short hair and wearing a suit, sat in a transparent glass cabin.
Her expression shifted from confusion to fear, and then to awakening; the changes in her eyes were very subtle.
"Cut!" Luc Besson called out. "Very good! Liu, your eyesight is excellent. You can relax your body a bit more. Remember, Lucy doesn't know what's happening yet; she just feels something's wrong. Let's try again."
"Okay, director." Liu Yifei nodded.
During the second shoot, Liu Yifei adjusted her state and performed more naturally.
Luc Besson was satisfied: "Good! That was a good take! Get ready for the next one."
The first day of filming went smoothly.
During the lunch break, the film crew ate boxed lunches in the studio.
Although it was a boxed meal, it was of a very high standard, with four dishes and a soup, including fish, meat, fruit, and drinks.
Jiang Yu and Liu Yifei were eating in a corner. Liu Yifei looked a little tired, but in good spirits.
"How are you feeling?" Jiang Yu asked.
"It's pretty good." Liu Yifei ate her food in small bites. "Director Luc Besson is very professional and explains the scenes very clearly. It's just that the all-English environment is a bit tiring. I was acting with Morgan Freeman just now, and he spoke so softly that I almost couldn't hear him."
"You'll get used to it." Jiang Yu put a piece of pork rib on her plate. "Eat more, you have filming this afternoon."
While they were eating, Yang Shoucheng came over: "President Jiang, Miss Liu, sorry to bother you."
2
"Please have a seat, Mr. Yang," Jiang Yu gestured.
Yang Shoucheng sat down and lowered his voice: "President Jiang, there's news from Zeng Ziwei's side. He took the earliest flight back to Taiwan this morning. His wrist is fractured and in a cast. His agent contacted me, wanting to apologize and hoping you could be lenient. As you instructed, I conveyed his conditions: a public apology and compensation to Jiang Jing."
"What did he say?"
"He agreed," Yang Shoucheng said. "He wanted to give himself some time to prepare. Also, he asked if—he could not be prosecuted. Sexual harassment, if pursued through legal channels, could lead to jail time."
"Okay." Jiang Yu nodded. "As long as he does the three things I said, I can drop the charges. But he needs to remember, this is his last chance. If he does it again, it won't be as simple as just leaving the entertainment industry."
"I understand," Yang Shoucheng said immediately. "I will pass on the message to him. Also, the Emperor of Sound's statement has already been issued."
"Very good." Jiang Yu smiled. "President Yang, it's a pleasure doing business with you."
"It's been a pleasure working with you." Yang Shoucheng breathed a sigh of relief. "President Jiang, there's something I'd like to discuss with you. Yinhuang has several young actresses, all girls, who have great potential."
Jiang Yu quickly understood Yang Shoucheng's meaning: this was an attempt to curry favor and also to secure resources for Yinhuang's artists.
"Okay." Jiang Yu nodded. "I'll contact President Jiang and President Huo."
"I understand, I understand." Yang Shoucheng nodded repeatedly.
After Yang Shoucheng left, Liu Yifei whispered, "President Yang's attitude has changed so much."
"Smart people are like that," Jiang Yu laughed. "He knows how to choose sides; look, he's already starting to fight for resources for the company's young artists."
Filming continued in the afternoon.
Liu Yifei is getting better and better, and her scenes with Morgan Freeman went very smoothly.
Although Morgan Freeman is a big star, he is very approachable and will take the initiative to communicate with Liu Yifei and help her get into the right mood.
"Liu, you could have slowed down that turn a little more," Morgan Freeman said to Liu Yifei during the break. "Lucy..."
At this point, she already knew she possessed superpowers, but she was still adapting. Her actions should have a sense of "exploration" rather than "control."
"I understand, thank you, Mr. Morgan." Liu Yifei was very grateful.
"Just call me Morgan," the old man smiled kindly. "You're wonderful, very talented. Luc made the right choice in selecting you."
He glanced at Jiang Yu in the distance. "Moreover, you have a very good supporter. In this industry, having someone like that protecting you is your good fortune."
"I know," Liu Yifei nodded, "and I cherish it very much."
At 6 p.m., the first day of filming ended.
Although only three scenes were filmed, they were all very important and laid the foundation for the entire film.
At the end of the day, Luc Besson said to the entire crew, "Everyone did a great job today, especially Liu, you've improved a lot. Tomorrow we'll be shooting action scenes, so everyone be prepared. Get a good rest tonight."
"Thank you, director!" everyone said in unison.
On the way back to the hotel, Liu Yifei fell asleep in the car.
She was indeed exhausted today, not only physically but also mentally. The investment of over 40 million yuan was basically on her shoulders, which put a lot of pressure on her.
Jiang Yu gently pulled her into his arms and let her lean against him to sleep.
Liu Yifei woke up after arriving at the hotel.
The two went upstairs and met Jiang Xuerou at the door of the suite.
"Mr. Jiang, is something the matter?" Jiang Yu asked.
"Zeng Ziwei's apology video has been released." Jiang Xuerou handed the tablet to Jiang Yu. "Take a look."
The video was filmed at a hospital in Taiwan.
Zeng Ziwei sat on the hospital bed, his right hand in a cast, his face pale, and his eyes somewhat evasive.
He bowed deeply to the camera: "I apologize to Ms. Jiang Jing and Mr. Jiang Yu for my inappropriate behavior at the banquet."
I offer my sincerest apologies to everyone affected. I was drunk, lost my senses, and did things I shouldn't have done.
I admit my mistake and am willing to bear all the consequences. I will spend the rest of my life reflecting on my errors. I'm sorry.
The video was very short, only one minute long, but the attitude was very sincere.
Clearly, someone had taught him how to say it.
"What about compensation?" Jiang Yu asked.
"I've already given Jiang Jing one million Hong Kong dollars," Jiang Xuerou said. "Jiang Jing accepted the apology and said she wouldn't sue."
"Okay." Jiang Yu nodded. "Let's leave it at that. Notify Chen Jingming to have the legal department keep an eye on things. If Zeng Ziwei does anything inappropriate again, file a lawsuit immediately."
"Understood." Jiang Xuerou put away her tablet. "There's one more thing. Mr. Xiang Huaqiang has invited you to lunch tomorrow."
"I agree," Jiang Yu said. "Tomorrow at noon, Fulimen."
Back in her room, Liu Yifei took a shower first.
Jiang Yu turned on his computer and began processing emails.
As expected, Chen Jingming sent a detailed report.
Zeng Ziwei's resources in mainland China have been completely wiped out.
Three endorsement deals were terminated, resulting in millions in breach of contract penalties; two variety shows replaced him, and the producers are now pursuing legal action for breach of contract; three film projects were cancelled, and the producers are considering seeking compensation.
In total, Zeng Ziwei will lose at least tens of millions this time.
"Not enough," Jiang Yu muttered to himself. "I need to make him feel real pain."
At nine o'clock in the evening, Liu Yifei came out after taking a shower, wearing a bathrobe and with her hair still wet.
"Are you done with your work?" she asked.
"Mmm." Jiang Yu closed his laptop. "Are you tired? Get some rest."
"It's alright." Liu Yifei sat down next to him. "It's just that it feels a bit unreal. I was still angry about Zeng Ziwei yesterday, and today I'm filming on set. And the speed at which you handle things is frighteningly fast. Zeng Ziwei has been in the industry for decades, and he's gone in one night."
"A swift and decisive approach is best," Jiang Yu laughed. "Some things become more troublesome the longer they're left unresolved. It's better to settle them once and for all."
He paused, then added, "Moreover, I want everyone to see how high the price is for crossing the line. That way, no one will dare to do it again."
"But—" Liu Yifei hesitated for a moment, "Won't you make too many enemies like this? The Hong Kong entertainment industry is very complicated, deeply entrenched, and many people have powerful connections. Although Zeng Ziwei has temporarily fallen from grace, his friends—"
Jiang Yu remained calm. "I have my principles and my bottom line. Whoever crosses my bottom line will lose their job. As for making enemies—how can someone who does great things not have enemies? What matters is how many friends you have and how many people support you."
Liu Yifei nodded as if she understood, but she still didn't quite understand these business games, even though she had been in the entertainment industry for so many years.
"Alright, stop thinking about it." Jiang Yu ruffled her hair. "You just need to focus on filming. Leave the rest to me."
""
"Mmm." Liu Yifei leaned on his shoulder.
The next day, April 27, the headlines in Hong Kong media changed again.
Oriental Daily News: Zeng Ziwei's public apology sends shockwaves through Hong Kong entertainment circles, prompting reflection on industry trends.
Pingguo Daily: "From Peak to Bottom Overnight, Zengzi's Incident Warns the Entertainment Industry"
Ming Pao: Light Chaser Pictures establishes women's rights fund, receiving widespread support from the industry.
Hong Kong Star Daily: "Mainland capital reshapes rules, industry may face reshuffling"
In addition to focusing on the event itself, these reports have begun to delve into the influence of Jiang Yu and Light Chaser Pictures.
One article pointed out: "Jiang Yu declared in the most direct way that capital not only has a profit-seeking side, but also the ability to shape rules."
.
At 9:00 AM, the crew of "Lucy" continued filming.
Today we're filming an action scene. Liu Yifei has a street chase scene that requires her to be suspended by wires.
Jiang Yu was worried, so he went to the site to keep an eye on things.
The action choreographer was Yuen Woo-ping, a famous action director in Hong Kong. He designed some very exciting action sequences, such as Liu Yifei jumping off a car, weaving through a crowd, and then vaulting over a railing.
"Ms. Liu, let's try it once. We don't need to actually run; the main thing is to familiarize ourselves with the route and movements." Yuen Woo-ping was very patient. "Follow me, and go slowly."
"Okay, Coach Dong." Liu Yifei replied earnestly.
After several attempts, we started filming.
Liu Yifei's performance surprised everyone. Although she was not a martial arts actress, she had excellent physical coordination and learned movements very quickly.
She was very dedicated. One scene where she jumped out of the car took six takes to get right, and her knees were bruised, but she didn't utter a sound.
"Good! That's a good take!" Luc Besson was very satisfied. "Liu, take a rest and treat your wound."
Liu Yifei's assistant, Xiao Chen, immediately ran over and sprayed medicine on her.
Jiang Yu walked over and asked, "Does it hurt?"
"A little," Liu Yifei said honestly. "It's okay, it's unavoidable when filming action scenes."
"Be careful," Jiang Yu said with concern. "Don't push yourself too hard."
"We have no choice but to give it our all," Liu Yifei laughed. "This is a Hollywood blockbuster; we can't let the Chinese people down."
She lowered her voice, "So many eyes are on me now. After what happened with Zeng Ziwei, there will definitely be people who want to see me make a fool of myself. I have to play my part well and not embarrass you."
Jiang Yu felt a warmth in his heart and patted her head: "You never embarrass me. But—it's always good to be careful."
The morning's filming went smoothly.
Filming continued in the afternoon.
Liu Yifei is getting better and better, and she nailed her scenes with Tony Leung Ka-fai in one take.
Tony Leung Ka-fai is a veteran actor who is very good at leading the cast, which elevated Liu Yifei's performance to a whole new level.
At the end of the day, Luc Besson specifically praised Liu Yifei: "Liu, you did a fantastic job today. Especially the scene with Liang, your emotions were spot on. Keep up the good work."
"Thank you, director." Liu Yifei was very happy.
On the way back to the hotel, Liu Yifei excitedly said, "Teacher Tony Leung taught me so much today. He said that the most important thing in acting isn't technique, but authenticity. You have to become the character, not just act out the character. He also said that he saw my performance in 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils' and that when I played Wang Yuyan, there was that genuine feeling in my eyes."
"He's right." Jiang Yu nodded. "That's how good actors are. You're very talented, and with the guidance of these great directors and veteran actors, you'll only get better and better."
"Yes!" Liu Yifei nodded vigorously. "I will try my best!"
After Jiang Yu finished washing up and returned to his room, Liu Yifei was already asleep.
She was really tired today and slept very soundly.
Jiang Yu tiptoed onto the bed and lay down beside her.
In the darkness, he could hear her even breathing and smell her faint fragrance.
This moment is quiet and warm.
Meanwhile, in another corner of Hong Kong, several directors and producers are having a gathering at a tea restaurant.
"You all saw that, right? Zeng Ziwei just fell from grace in mainland China like that," a director said. "Overnight, he lost everything."
"Jiang Yu is ruthless," another producer shook his head. "But Zeng Ziwei deserved it. Everyone in the industry knows what he's done. It's just that no one dared to touch him before."
"Now someone dares to do it," the third director said. "And they're doing it very thoroughly. I heard that even Taiwan and Southeast Asia have started to blacklist Zeng Ziwei."
"So what do we do?" the first director asked. "Jiang Yu is riding high right now. If 'Lucy' is a success, his position in Hollywood will be even more secure. In the future, anyone wanting to work with Hollywood will have to consider his opinion."
"What else can we do?" The second producer smiled wryly. "We have to follow the rules. Didn't Jiang Yu say that those who follow the rules can cooperate? Those who don't, like Zeng Ziwei, will end up like that. Which of us doesn't have some dirty secrets? We'll have to be careful from now on."
"Actually, it's not a bad thing," the third director said. "The industry's atmosphere needs to be rectified. Look at Hollywood; although it has its problems, at least on the surface everyone follows the rules. Here, it's too chaotic. Jiang Yu's outburst might force reform."
"Reform?" the first director scoffed. "Reform comes at a price. Who's next?"
Silence fell over the tea restaurant.
The group exchanged glances, all knowing the situation was serious; they really needed to be careful from now on.