Chapter 378: Big talk
March 4
Zhang Chen didn't ask about the box office performance of "Kowloon Walled City" on the first day, and Chen Xi didn't sue him because they were busy.
Today is the day for the launch press conference of "Painted Skin".
So far, in two years, Star Entertainment has produced a total of 10 movies, "Dark Invasion 1 and 2", "Shark Beach", "Manslaughter", "Crazy Stone", "Eden Lake", "Hurricane Rescue" and "Kowloon Walled City". Including "A Quiet Place" and "Searching" which have not been released yet...
10 movies is a lot, but there hasn't been a press conference yet.
Zhang Chen really didn't think it was necessary.
According to his past thinking, the promotion of a movie only starts before it is released, or at least after the schedule is confirmed.
But that's not the case with other companies.
"Hero", "House of Flying Daggers" and "Seven Swords", including this year's "The Banquet", have been promoting since the beginning of filming, maintaining a certain degree of popularity.
The hype for "Red Cliff" started right from the moment of casting.
According to Dong Jianqiang, this is the normal promotion model for a movie.
From the moment the film project was first established, the publicity and distribution had already begun.
The project for "Painted Skin" was extremely strict this time. The script took a lot of effort and even had to find Jing Tian's connections before it was approved.
Before filming started, something like "The Promise" came out, which completely ruined the reputation of Chinese costume blockbusters.
If it hadn't been in preparation for a long time, and the linkage with game companies, toy companies, etc. had already been negotiated, this project might have been scrapped.
"You will mainly deal with the media in a while. These are some of the questions I have listed that the media may ask. Please prepare in advance~"
As Chen Xi said this, he handed Zhang Chen a piece of paper. There were indeed a dozen questions listed on it, many of which were about him and Director Chen.
"Manager Dong asked me to remind you not to speak blindly, and think more before answering questions..."
Dong Jianqiang has been tricked by Zhang Chen. He knows Zhang Chen's virtues very well.
If you are stimulated by the media, you may say something nonsense, and you may offend someone again.
Dong Jianqiang was always troubled by him.
This time he will stay in the capital to preside over the affairs of "Kowloon Walled City", leaving "Painted Skin" to Chen Xi.
But he was also specifically told to keep an eye on Zhang Chen and not let him cause trouble again.
"I know, I'm not a child."
Zhang Chen felt offended and treated me like a child.
"It's good that you know, but don't worry too much. I have also arranged for the media who are close to us to come to the rescue~"
After saying that, the car drove to the place and the two got out of the car.
The launch conference was held in a five-star hotel in Yinchuan. The two people walked into the venue. Zhang Chen thought it was just an ordinary press conference, but when they arrived, they found that the scene seemed quite big.
The launch conference is actually a notice, telling everyone that the filming of my new movie is about to start, and who are the actors~
It is an advance publicity.
He thought that for today's launch conference, twenty or thirty media would be invited, and everyone would just talk and chat.
But looking at today's posture, I'm afraid there's more to it than that.
The very large hall is divided into three areas. The front is the podium, the middle is the area for reporters to ask questions, and the back is where the cameraman is.
Why does it feel like a large scale? Because in the middle area where reporters ask questions, there are more than fifty chairs. If they are all full, it is conservatively estimated that there will be more than forty media.
Passing by the hall, Zhang Chen actually saw someone greeting him. They were the two paparazzi brothers who had secretly photographed him and Fan Xiaopang before.
Later he changed careers and became a journalist.
"It's you~"
Zhang Chen also smiled and greeted them. The reporter next to him looked surprised, "Oh, you actually know Zhang Chen?"
“Let’s talk later~”
Zhang Chen waved and followed Chen Xi to the backstage, leaving the two brothers bragging among the reporters, "Of course we know each other. We were paparazzi at the beginning. When we were filming with Director Zhang, he even handed me a cigarette~"
"Those two are my people. If you encounter any difficult problems, you can choose them to ask questions~"
Zhang Chen was stunned by Chen Xi's sudden words. Have these two brothers been ordered to peace?
The paparazzi who was ordered to be safe?
……
At the door, reporters arrived one after another, signed at the door, received red envelopes, and then found a place to set up equipment in the venue.
Press conferences are actually about spending money to earn buzz.
This thing is part of the company's publicity, but for many media reporters, it is an opportunity to receive red envelopes and make extra money.
All press conferences follow a fixed process, and there are no big news points. They are nothing more than confirming the main creative lineup, the launch time, introducing the story background and investment status, and blowing the box office by the way...
For projects like "Painted Skin", many media outlets did not come at all when they went so far away to Ningxia for a press conference.
It's not interesting to come all the way here to get your transportation fee.
Veteran reporters usually give this opportunity to newcomers, euphemistically calling it exercise, but actually they are just lazy.
But today is different. After all, Xingchen Entertainment is the number one private film and television company in the country. Zhang Chen is also known as a loudmouth and likes to break news at press conferences.
Many reporters come here for this purpose.
As long as Zhang Chen opens his mouth, they will get bonuses. If it can become a continuous event, such as a scolding war, the KPI will rise steadily.
At half past nine, the press conference started on time.
The entire hall was packed to capacity.
The words "Painted Skin" launch conference are written on the background wall of the podium. The reporter's question area below is almost full, and the area at the back is filled with various long guns and short cannons.
Many reporters are still whispering:
“It seems like this is the first time Star Entertainment has held a launch conference~”
"They finally figured it out~"
"I hope there will be some good stuff today, so it will be worthwhile for me to make a special trip~"
While the reporters were muttering quietly, the host came on stage.
"Thank you all for coming to the launch conference of "Painted Skin". We will first invite the main creative team of the film~"
With the sound of music, the main creators came to the podium one after another and appeared one by one, with Fan Xiaopang being the first one.
Fan Binbin~
Huang Xiaoming~
Weekly news~
The little girl whose name I can’t name~
Zhang Jin~
Ho~
The audience was shocked as soon as everyone appeared, mainly because everyone who appeared was wearing costumes.
Each one is beautiful and eye-catching.
Even Yang Xiaomi, whose name cannot be named, has received a lot of attention. The look of the little bird spirit is really cute, which is a lot of bonus.
The reporters felt that their eyes were not enough, and the flashlights in the hands of the photographers behind them never stopped.
Fan Binbin has picturesque features and dressed in white, he looks like a banished immortal.
After "Shark Beach", she was officially promoted to a sexy goddess, and various announcements continued.
But no one could have imagined that she had this side besides being sexy.
Recently, I even heard that I have a new movie with Zhang Chen, but it has not been released yet.
Huang Xiaoming is dressed in leather armor and looks handsome in martial arts. I don't know who will win compared with Yang Guo in Zhang Jizhong's version of "The Legend of the Condor Heroes".
Moreover, these two are both very popular figures.
Then came Brother Xun, whose style changed drastically.
Whether it's the young Taiping in "Ci of the Ming Dynasty" or Huang Rong in "The Condor Shooting", they all take a quirky route. But looking at the outfit this time, are you planning to change your acting career?
Photographers took pictures of Zhou Xun. Mr. Zhou can be regarded as the female celebrity that the media praised the most. She is like a daughter-in-law. If the voice is unpleasant, it is said that the voice is unique, and if there are many love stories, it is the pursuit of individuality.
Zhang Jin looks like a hero, and the giant sword on his shoulder attracts more attention than himself.
He was the second male lead in last year's most popular film "Taken". Although he is not the protagonist, his popularity is not low at all.
Anyone can see that he is a rising star tomorrow.
Then there is Yang Xiaomi. Although only a few people know her, it does not prevent them from paying attention to her.
The shape of the wings is so eye-catching, and the two darting eyes really embody the word "cute" to the fullest.
Hua Hua Hua~
The flashlights below kept flashing, almost blinding Yang Xiaomi. Looking at the people next to them, they all looked at the audience with springy faces and smiles without blinking.
Everyone is experienced.
The reporters were eager to give it a try. Just looking at this lineup, they had many questions to ask.
"Now I invite the director of this play - Director Zhang Chen to come on stage."
As the words fell, Zhang Chen stepped onto the podium and once again murdered a large number of films.
Zhang Chen waved while walking on stage.
With a smile on his face, his heart is full of enthusiasm.
The eyes of labor and management were almost dazzled.
After all the main creators have appeared, it’s time for reporters to ask questions.
There is no need for the host to remind you that a forest of meat has already been raised below.
The host chose a female reporter, who took the microphone and looked directly at Zhang Chen.
"Director Zhang, what the media and audience want to know most is what theme "Painted Skin" belongs to. We all know that the story of "Painted Skin" originated from Liaozhai, but looking at the appearance of the leading actors today, it should not be a horror movie... …”
The first question, no need to guess, is definitely left to Tuo.
Otherwise, someone who is short-sighted will ask blind questions, which will be divorced from the movie itself, and the rhythm will be messed up.
Zhang Chen replied with a smile: "Indeed, although "Painted Skin" itself is a horror story, we made appropriate modifications and changed the original ghosts into fox demons.
Strictly speaking, our version of "Painted Skin" should be classified as an oriental fantasy action film. "Zhang Chen did not deliberately refer to love. Although "Painted Skin" is about love, some of the audiences are men, and men prefer action elements.
If you say it's an action movie, female viewers will still watch it, but if you say it's a romance movie, many male viewers won't watch it.
Immediately afterwards, a reporter wearing glasses asked: "According to online surveys, the audience is most looking forward to "Hurricane 2". Why did Director Zhang not continue to direct "Hurricane 2" but chose "Painted Skin"?"
This question was asked by a real reporter, and luckily it was within scope.
Zhang Chen organized the language: "It is not a good thing for a series of movies to be too close. Generally, it is more appropriate for the sequel to be two to three years away from the previous one, leaving the audience enough time to think.
As for "Painted Skin", we have actually been preparing for it for a long time, even before "Hurricane". The reason why we haven't done it yet is because we have been preparing for linkage matters with games, animations, etc..."
I'm worried about why I brought this up. If I feel sleepy, someone will hand me a pillow.
"Now that we have mentioned this, let me announce by the way that the "Painted Skin" movie has cooperated with Perfect Game Company. When the movie is released, the game of the same name will also be launched simultaneously. Everyone is welcome to participate..."
"Director Zhang, can you tell me what story "Painted Skin" is about?"
Immediately, a new reporter asked a question, and Zhang Chen turned around with a smile: "I think it is more appropriate to leave this question to our creative members to answer..."
During the launch press conference, he could not occupy the microphone all the time, and he had to give other people a chance to appear. This was also to promote the movie.
The microphone was handed to Fan Xiaopang. Sister Jiuyi smiled and looked at the media: "Hello everyone, I am Fan Binbin. I play the fox demon Xiao Wei in "Painted Skin". In my opinion, the story of "Painted Skin" is a The story of a fox demon who wants to find love in human society..."
After finishing speaking, she glanced at Huang Xiaoming.
Huang Xiaoming: "I am Huang Xiaoming, playing the role of Wang Sheng. From my perspective, "Painted Skin" tells the story of a general choosing between love and his mistress..."
Zhou Xun: "I am Zhou Xun. I think "Painted Skin" is a story about a woman dedicating herself to love..."
Zhang Jin: "Hello everyone, I am Zhang Jin. "Painted Skin" is a story about subduing demons and slaying demons..."
Yang Xiaomi: "Hello everyone, I am Yang Xiaomi, a newcomer. My understanding of "Painted Skin" is that it is a story about friendship..."
Five people, five versions, directly silenced the media.
But everyone also understood that this story has love, friendship, emotional entanglements, and a battle between humans and monsters...
What the hell is this story?
Why do I feel like I am even more confused after saying this.
The host interrupted at the right time: "After listening to their answers, I am afraid that like me, you will still be confused.
But the main creators are standing here. If you have anything to ask, you can speak freely. ”
This allows you to ask your own questions.
Immediately someone asked: "I would like to ask Zhou Xun, what made you decide to join this project?"
Mr. Zhou didn't expect that the first question was asked to himself, so he answered with a smile: "As Director Zhang said just now, the "Painted Skin" project was prepared very early. I received the script and agreed without much hesitation. I want to collaborate with director Zhang Chen, and the other one is the theme of "Painted Skin" itself, Eastern magic, which is rare in China..."
Immediately another person asked: "What about Huang Xiaoming? Why did you join "Painted Skin"?"
Huang Xiaoming: "Brother Xun and I are actually in the same situation. We received the script very early, but there were some problems in the middle of "Painted Skin" and it almost died. To compensate me, Director Zhang also let me make a cameo in "The Rescue". role, but the final result is finally satisfactory..."
Listening to others asking questions, Yang Xiaomi felt anxious and expectant. She really wanted someone to ask her questions, but the reporters seemed to be walking around her.
The third question: "I would like to ask Director Zhang. I heard that this is another movie with a heroine. What prompted you to leave the position of the heroine to Fan Binbin..."
Zhang Chen raised the microphone and thought for a moment: "This is not actually a movie with a big heroine, but the heroine's role is indeed very important."
After a pause, he continued: "As for why it is Fan Binbin, because she is suitable.
A coquettish and beautiful vixen, I can’t think of anyone in the entertainment industry who can be more suitable than her. Look at her look, any man can’t feel his heart pounding after seeing her. If the vixen doesn’t find her to play, how can he? Who plays? ”
Zhang Chen's words can be said to have touched the hearts of all the men present.
When looking for a wife, they must look for someone like Mr. Zhou, who is dignified and steady, and makes people feel at ease at first glance.
But when it comes to finding three, no one else but Fan Binbin will think about it.
Zhang Chen continued: "Look, the men all showed smiles like 'Finally someone understands me'..."
After Zhang Chen said this, even those who had not laughed before laughed.
“I remember when I was watching “Shark Beach”, the media asked me what I thought about Fan Binbin’s thigh exposure in the movie.
My answer at the time was to watch it intently.
I said at that time that Fan Binbin's beauty is unique in the entertainment industry, and I still say that now. And what I want to tell you is that I not only discovered her sexy side, but also discovered her charming side. In this regard, I just want to say one thing to all my male compatriots - You're welcome..."
After Zhang Chen finished speaking, the whole audience burst into laughter.
Many reporters were dumbfounded. They had never participated in such a down-to-earth press conference and were so happy~
On the stage, Fan Xiaopang's beautiful eyes were shining.
Zhang Chen praised her so much that she felt a little embarrassed.
Suddenly a voice sounded from the crowd: "The investment in "Painted Skin" is over 100 million. With such a large investment, isn't Director Zhang afraid that Fan Binbin will not be able to support the box office?"
The scene suddenly became quiet, and everyone could tell that the question was a bit rude, and it was clearly directed at Fan Binbin.
Fan Binbin also frowned, but he immediately thought of something and resumed expression management.
Zhang Chen, however, acted as if nothing was wrong. He turned to Fan Xiaopang and said, "It seems you have quite a lot of negative fans~"
The words were not evaded by the media, everyone heard them.
Fan Xiaopang rolled his eyes speechlessly. He happened to be photographed by the media, but he only thought it looked good.
Zhang Chen then replied: "To be precise, the investment in "Painted Skin" is 90 million, and an investment of over 100 million is barely enough.
This is indeed the largest investment that Star Entertainment has ever made. Due to various reasons, it did not go well and the company was under tremendous pressure.
Friends in the media who follow me should know that I have never been interested in the box office appeal of any actor.
Wouldn't it be okay to replace Fan Binbin with Xiao Wei's role and replace it with someone else?
Of course.
But someone else would definitely be better than Fan Binbin, but not necessarily.
Again, I chose her because she is suitable and we are used to working together. She has many qualities that I admire. I think she has what it takes to break out of Asia.
Why I looked for her for "Lake Eden" and why I looked for her for "A Quiet Place" are all for this reason.
If the world needs a Chinese actress face, then I hope it is Fan Binbin, it's that simple. ”
Wow~
The reporters were excited.
Zhang Chen really spared no effort in protecting Fan Binbin.
Others on the stage knew that Zhang Chen and Fan Binbin had a special relationship, but they did not expect that Zhang Chen would defend her to this extent.
All I have to do is tell the whole world openly that I just want to praise you.
After all these years of playing in the human world, Mr. Zhou actually felt envious for the first time.
Yang Xiaomi was even more fascinated, it would be great if the person being protected was me.
On the podium, Fan Xiaopang held back tears and turned his head away. He didn't want his appearance to be seen by others, but deep down he felt that with his words, my mother was worth it.
All the hard work and hard work has finally paid off.
I won’t care about the embarrassing things I did two days ago with you.
In fact, there is nothing to care about. In order to accurately grasp what "Charming" is, I have learned from Zhang Chen a lot in the past two days. I don't know how many times I have been beaten by the "Mighty Tianlong".
Chen Xi, who was in the audience, saw that the scene was getting out of control and immediately signaled the host to change the topic.
The host understood and forcibly inserted: "Let's see if other media friends have anything to ask?"
Then he ignored the people around him who raised their hands and directly clicked on the two brothers who didn't raise their hands.
The younger brother was still in a daze, but the elder brother was somewhat better and understood that it was time for him to commit infernal affairs, so he immediately asked the questions he had prepared in advance.
"I would like to ask, what is the expected box office of "Painted Skin"?"
Zhang Chen replied seriously: "Breaking 300 million~"
How many?
The reporter who asked the question was confused.
Other reporters were also confused, and everyone thought they heard wrongly.
The guy on stage just said that the box office of "Painted Skin" is expected to exceed 300 million?
Was it a mistake?
What is the concept of breaking 300 million?
In the past, there was only one ancient person, and in the future, there was no one who came~
Chinese-language films that can now exceed 100 million can be called a "hero".
If you break 200 million, you will be a ‘Liangshan hero’.
Breaking 300 million, what, you want to be an ‘emperor’?
Zhang Chen was still minding his own business and said: "I know this number sounds a bit unbelievable, but it is actually not impossible.
We have prepared the best cast and the best behind-the-scenes team for "Painted Skin". The art director is Zhang Shuping, the martial arts director is Yuan Heping, and even the theme song is the popular "Painted Heart" from "Super Girl".
The special effects are produced by Hong Kong's Centro Digital and China Film Digital Center, which are already the top special effects production companies in the country.
In order to ensure that the special effects are outstanding enough, more than half of the cost of 90 million was used for special effects production. In addition, there are multi-platform linkages, plus a good schedule, I think there is still a chance for 300 million..."
Zhang Chen was about to continue, but a voice below suddenly interrupted him: "Do you know the final box office of the same type of "The Promise" last year?
180 million.
This is also your first time filming an Eastern fantasy. Why do you think "Painted Skin" can surpass "The Promise"? ”
Zhang Chen searched for a long time but couldn't find anyone to talk to, but he still replied: "Just because I am Zhang Chen.
Before "Shark Beach", people just thought I was a horror film maker.
Before "Hurricane", no one thought that I would make action movies.
"Painted Skin", I just want to teach you what oriental magic is. I will reopen the door that Brother Chen Kai closed with his own hands~"
(End of chapter)