lovenovelstory Chapter 51: The Hunt
Chapter 51: The Hunt
As Jiang Yu himself continues to remain almost completely out of the public eye, apart from Han Sanye, Dean Huang of Communication University of China, and a few core executives within the Light Chaser organization, almost no one can directly contact him.
All the probing and yearning, like a flood searching for a outlet, surged toward the two people who seemed closest to the core of power: Yang Siwei, president of Light Chaser Animation (BJ), and Lu Yang, a rising director who had just made a name for himself with "The Witch".
Yang Siwei's office phone and personal mobile phone were completely paralyzed within 72 hours of the news being released.
After the initial congratulations and pleasantries, came a barrage of messages from all directions, at different levels, but with a remarkably consistent goal.
"Mr. Yang, I am the head of Zhang Ziyi's studio. Ziyi is very interested in the 'Black Swan' project. I believe you and Mr. Jiang are aware of her international fame, acting skills, and the effort she is willing to put into the role. We hope to arrange a face-to-face meeting, either in Beijing or Los Angeles, and the timing is entirely flexible."
"Mr. Yang, excuse me, I'm Li Binbin's agent. Bingbing just finished filming 'The Message' and is in great shape. To broaden her acting range, she's been undergoing intensive English and physical training. We're willing to provide audition materials in any form and are fully open to any assessment from the director."
"Mr. Yang, this is Zhou Xun." The voice on the other end of the phone was slightly hoarse. "I may not be as good as a professional dancer, but everyone knows I'm a great actor. Could you talk to Mr. Jiang and ask him to give me an audition opportunity? I'll accept whatever comes my way, whether I get the part or not."
These are just a few at the very top of the pyramid.
She then tried almost every communication method she could think of, including those of top-tier, near-top-tier, and female artists with backgrounds or dance skills.
The notification sounds of QQ adding friends were constant, her inbox was overflowing with text messages, and there were even messages from people who somehow got her assistant's private number.
This only applies to individual actors. Companies with strong brokerage businesses and artist resources take a more systematic and authoritative approach.
Wang Zhonglei of Huayi Brothers personally called Yang Siwei, speaking politely: "President Yang, 'Black Swan' is a source of pride for Chinese filmmakers. As a member of the industry, Huayi Brothers should give it our full support. We have compiled a detailed list of recommendations for several actresses under our company or with whom we have good working relationships, and we hope to submit it to the casting team. In addition, Huayi Brothers also has some resources in North America, and we are ready to assist if needed."
Even Yinhuang Entertainment, whose main business is in Hong Kong and which has always longed to expand northward and internationally, contacted them through various connections, strongly recommending their artists with good image and temperament, and expressing their willingness to fully cooperate with training and prioritize the requirements of the project.
Among the many calls that put her under immense pressure, there was one that Yang Siwei couldn't, and seemed unwilling to, directly refuse.
"Siwei, it's me, Sister Hua." The voice on the other end of the phone was efficient, with a hint of intimacy. "I saw the news, well done. Are you free tonight? Let's have dinner together, just the two of us, and have a good chat. I'll book the place, I'll send it to your phone."
Wang Jinhua.
This person, who has mentored countless stars and is considered a godmother in the talent agency industry, was also a senior who gave Yang Siwei guidance when she first entered the industry.
Although Yang Siwei later chose a different career path, this familial bond, as well as Wang Jinhua's deep-rooted influence in the industry, meant that Yang Siwei had to treat it with caution.
She rubbed her throbbing temples and replied with a "Okay, Sister Hua".
.......
At 7 p.m., at a highly secluded private club on the North Fourth Ring Road.
When Yang Siwei arrived, Wang Jinhua was already there, and sitting next to her was someone else—Fan Binbin.
Fan Binbin wasn't dressed extravagantly today, wearing a pink lace dress, with exquisite makeup and a proper smile. Upon seeing Yang Siwei enter, she immediately stood up to greet her warmly yet tactfully: "President Yang, it's been a long time. Sorry to bother you."
Yang Siwei instantly understood: Wang Jinhua personally came forward, and even brought Fan Binbin, who was currently riding high and had always had a strong international ambition. The purpose of this meal was all too obvious.
Since winning the award for "Cellphone", Fan Binbin has reached the peak in the TV series field and established himself in the film field with films such as "The Ghost Inside". He has walked many international red carpets, but what he lacks is a heavyweight work that can truly break into the mainstream international film scene.
For the Asian female lead in "Black Swan," the allure was fatal.
"Sister Hua, Sister Bingbing, you're too kind." Yang Si smiled impeccably as he sat down opposite Wang Jinhua.
She noticed that Fan Binbin didn't bring his usual agent today, but only Wang Jinhua, and he adopted a very humble attitude, clearly putting all his eggs in one basket with Sister Hua's favor.
After exchanging pleasantries, several exquisite dishes were served.
Instead of getting straight to the point, Wang Jinhua chatted about old industry stories and asked about Yang Siwei's recent situation with concern, as if she were truly an elder caring for a younger generation.
Fan Binbin chimed in at just the right moment, sharing anecdotes about learning dialects while filming "Apple," her demeanor gentle and completely different from her queenly image on screen.
After a few rounds of drinks, Wang Jinhua casually stirred the soup in front of her with a silver spoon, then looked up at Yang Siwei: "Siwei, in our industry, it's common to flatter the powerful and step on the weak, but when a real opportunity comes, it's a real battle, and everyone has to rely on their own abilities. Just hearing about the play 'Black Swan' makes my heart skip a beat. An Asian female lead, Darren's film, Searchlight Pictures distribution... This isn't just a role; it's practically a ladder to heaven for ambitious and talented actresses."
She paused, then spoke with even greater sincerity: "I watched Bingbing rise to fame. You know her drive and her ambition. To prepare for a role, she could lock herself in her room for three months to practice her dialect; for a red carpet look, she could try on clothes until dawn. She wants to climb higher, to step out of this world, and see what the mountaintops outside are like. This time, when she heard the news, her eyes lit up, and she told me, 'Sister Hua, this is an opportunity I'll fight for, even if it kills me.'"
Fan Binbin chimed in at the opportune moment, looking earnestly at Yang Siwei: "President Yang, I know there's a line of people vying for this role that could stretch all the way to France. Zhang Ziyi, Zhou Xun, Li Binbin… they're all more experienced and have more international experience than me. I have nothing to say, I just implore you, to give me a fair chance. Documents, videos, live auditions—I'll take whatever test you ask. I'm working on my English like crazy, and I'll start training with the best dance teacher tomorrow. I won't complain. I think I understand the kind of repression and explosive power the role requires."
Yang Siwei sighed inwardly. Wang Jinhua's sincere yet pressured prelude, combined with Fan Binbin's almost "vow" statement, was a brilliant combination.
If it were another project, she might actually be moved and do her best to mediate.
The secret training that Liu Yifei had already started for "Black Swan," as well as the project's almost mystical and demanding requirements for actors' qualities, made it impossible for her to make any promises.
"Sister Hua, Sister Bingbing," Yang Siwei put down her chopsticks, her tone sincere yet unwaveringly professional, "First of all, I am truly grateful for your trust, and I especially understand Bingbing's desire for good projects. Everyone has witnessed Bingbing's hard work and progress. The casting for 'Black Swan' is currently being directly led by the North American team and director Darren Aronofsky, with an extremely rigorous and confidential process. As the main investor, Light Chaser Pictures will respect the director's absolute artistic choice."
She noticed Wang Jinhua's eyes darken slightly, and Fan Binbin's smile stiffen somewhat. He continued calmly, "What I can do is ensure that all the information on artists who meet the basic requirements is delivered to the casting director completely through official channels, without being overlooked for any non-artistic reasons. I will definitely make sure Bingbing's information and intentions are submitted. As for whether her information will advance to the next round, whether she will get an audition, and the final decision, I have no right to interfere. This is the rule under Hollywood's mature industrial system, and it is also our respect for the director and the project."
Her words were reasonable and fair, giving Wang Jinhua a great deal of face while clearly drawing a line between them.
It neither closed the door completely nor offered any unrealistic fantasies.
Wang Jinhua was a seasoned veteran of the underworld and immediately understood Yang Siwei's subtext: helping to pass on some documents is fine, but that's only because of our past relationship. Don't expect more, and don't even think about taking shortcuts.
A smile returned to her face, but her eyes became even more profound: "I understand, I know the rules. You helped submit the documents, giving Bingbing a chance to be seen on a level playing field, and I'll remember that favor. Come on, Bingbing, toast Siwei, thank you, President Yang."
Fan Binbin immediately raised his glass, his smile brightening again, but Yang Siwei caught a glimpse of the resentment and even more fervent determination deep in his eyes.
"Thank you, Mr. Yang! I will definitely be 200% prepared!"
On the other end, Lu Yang encountered harassment that, while not as intense as Yang Siwei's, was more frequent and down-to-earth.
He and the China Film Group team were working hard to promote "The Witch," but he felt like a signboard hanging in the market, with everyone wanting to touch it.
"Director Lu, I'm a producer from XX Company. We have a project that would be perfect for you—a sci-fi romance with a significant investment. Would you be interested in discussing it? By the way, do you have any inside information about 'Black Swan'?"
"Junior Brother Lu Yang, I'm a senior from the XX class of Beijing Film Academy, now working at XX Culture. I heard you're on very good terms with President Jiang of Zhuiguang? I have a particularly promising talent here, a graduate of the Dance Department of Beijing Dance Academy, with an absolutely stunning appearance. Could you help me introduce her? I'll definitely reward you handsomely if it works out!"
Overwhelmed by the constant complaints, Lu Yang sent Jiang Yu a long text message after working late one night, venting his frustration. He concluded by writing, "Mr. Jiang, I feel like a walking information hub. Everyone wants to glean bits and pieces about you and 'Black Swan' from me. The pressure is immense!"
He quickly received a concise reply: "Bear with it. This is the price. Focus on 'The Witch.' If you get disturbed again, I'll change my number."
Lu Yang looked at his phone, sighed, but inexplicably felt a little more confident.
At least, the boss knew, and that's why he was told to bear it.
This may be the troubles of growing up, and also a symbol of status.
Jiang Yu, in the calmest eye of the storm, listened to Yang Siwei's concise evening report from his penthouse apartment in the China World Trade Center, his face expressionless.
He simply said something when he heard Yang Siwei say, "I'm under a lot of pressure, and it's hard to refuse many favors."
"Personal favors can be made, but rules cannot be broken. Follow the procedures for processing the documents, and tell them that Light Chaser Pictures only values professionalism and suitability."