novellhall Chapter 239 Finally Surpasses 12 Billion [5000]
Chapter 239 Finally Surpasses 12 Billion [5000]
Chapter 239 Finally Surpasses 12 Billion [5000]
On the way back to the hotel from the movie theater, Vin Diesel kept his eyes on the fans who hadn't yet dispersed outside the car window.
"List!"
He turned back, his tone somewhat wistful: "I remember when 'Fast & Furious 5' toured China last year, the difference in popularity between us wasn't this significant!"
Paul leaned back in his chair, fiddling with his lighter. "Now?"
"I just counted, and at least 70% of the people holding up signs with your name on them were holding up signs."
"The girls' eyes light up when they see you! But when they see me, they just give me a polite look of surprise."
He mouthed an exaggerated "wow" and then laughed: "To be honest, I'm a little frustrated."
Michelle Rodriguez leaned over from the back seat: "Come on, Paul, you have a bunch of female fans in Japan too, don't you?"
"That's different!"
Paul put away his lighter: "In Japan, I'm a handsome foreign guy, but here—"
He pointed to a female fan waving goodbye outside the window: "Look at her, she's holding a poster of Chen Xun, has a Chen Xun keychain on her bag, and her phone case is covered in Chen Xun's photos—"
"Fuck, this is insane!"
Vin Diesel nodded: "I've never seen anything like this in any other country. Even in Los Angeles, my fans aren't this crazy."
Chen Xun was a little embarrassed: "It's probably because I haven't been back to China for too long."
"No, Chen."
Fan looked at him seriously: "This is the treatment of a true local superstar!"
"This means that your appeal in the Chinese market has surpassed that of Hollywood itself. Those fans don't like you because of Hollywood actors, but because of Chen Xun."
There was a few seconds of silence inside the car.
Rob, sitting in the passenger seat, chimed in at the opportune moment: "Actually, Chen Xun's reputation in China has been built up gradually, from the early controversy surrounding 'Green Lantern' to his later charity projects, and then to winning an Oscar—each step has solidified his popularity among the Chinese people."
Paul raised an eyebrow: "Are we now on your turf?"
"You could say that."
Chen Xun smiled and said, "Since this is my territory, I should do my best to be a good host. Tonight, I'll treat you to the most authentic Chinese food."
Chen Xun thought for a moment, then took out his phone and sent Shen Man a WeChat message: "Are you in Shanghai?"
How did you know I was in Shanghai?
Shen Man replied to the message very quickly.
Chen Xun chuckled to himself.
He saw Shen Man at the scene; she was wearing a baseball cap.
I thought he wouldn't recognize me!
With a gleaming 98 points of goodwill above his head, how could he not see it?
"Let's have a meal together, and I'll introduce you to some friends."
A few seconds later, Shen Man replied: "???"
Are you kidding me?
"Really! Are you coming?"
Send me the address! I'll be right there!
Chen Xun booked a private Shanghainese restaurant on the Bund, with a view of the river and the light show of Lujiazui across the water.
When Fan and Paul entered the private room, Shen Man was already waiting there.
Today she wore a simple black suit jacket over a white shirt, and her hair was tied in a neat ponytail. She looked much more mature than when she appeared on "Happy Camp".
"Hello, Mr. Fan and Mr. Paul."
Shen Man greeted him in fluent English: "I am Shen Man, a friend of Chen Xun, and also the producer of a variety show in China."
Fan shook hands with her, somewhat surprised: "We've met before!"
Paul blinked. "So you two really are old acquaintances? Last time on the show, the host said you were hidden connections, and I thought it was just for the sake of the show."
"It's true!"
Chen Xun pulled out a chair: "Sit down and let's talk."
The dishes were served quickly.
Stir-fried shrimp, sweet and sour pork ribs, braised pork belly, braised pork with bamboo shoots and pork, crab roe tofu —
These are all classic Shanghai dishes.
Fan looked at the table full of dishes, his expression a little bewildered.
Last time we only ate snacks, Chen Xun didn't order any proper dishes.
Shen Man smiled and took the initiative to pick up the serving chopsticks and put a piece of braised pork on Fan's plate: "Try this. It's fatty but not greasy, and the sweet and salty flavors are just right. It's a representative dish of Shanghai cuisine."
Fan took a bite with some skepticism, then his eyes lit up: "Wow! This is delicious!"
Paul was even more direct, picking up a piece of sweet and sour pork ribs himself. After finishing, he gave a thumbs up: "Much more authentic than the Chinese food we've had in Los Angeles!"
The atmosphere quickly became lively.
Shen Man is a good conversationalist and knows how to interact with these Hollywood stars.
He is neither arrogant nor humble, neither a fan of celebrities nor indifferent, treating everyone the same as ordinary industry peers.
She was mainly invited by Chen Xun, and she couldn't let Chen Xun down.
"What kind of program is Ms. Shen currently hosting?"
Vin Diesel was somewhat curious.
Last time they were just staff members at a variety show, and now they've started making their own programs!
"There's an outdoor competitive variety show called 'Running Man,' and another one in preparation called 'Go Fighting!'"
Shen Man began her introduction: "Actually, many of the ideas came from Chen Xun's suggestions. He said that Chinese audiences like to see celebrities put aside their airs and play games, and that there should be real interaction and a sense of competition."
Paul asked curiously, "You're a woman doing this kind of physical challenge reality show?"
"The producer doesn't need to go there personally."
Shen Man laughed: "I'll be in charge of planning, filming, and post-production. Besides, who says girls can't do competitive shows?"
"Our show is currently ranked number one in the nation!"
Fan nodded: "Impressive! In the US, most variety show producers are men."
"So I want to break this stereotype."
Shen Man said calmly, "Moreover, I plan to let 'Running Man' and 'Go Fighting!' compete against each other, airing in the same time slot, and see which one the audience prefers."
Chen Xun added, "She's very ambitious!"
When the conversation turned to work, the topic naturally became more in-depth.
Fan inquired about the Chinese film market.
Shen Man's analysis is very professional: "China's annual box office has now exceeded 60 billion RMB, making it the world's second largest market, but the types of films are still very limited, mainly consisting of comedies, romance films, and patriotic films."
"For a hardcore action film like 'Fast & Furious' to achieve this success, besides the accumulated success of the series, the most important factor is—"
She looked at Chen Xun: "There is a core actor who can resonate with Chinese audiences."
Paul took a sip of rice wine: "So Chen is that bridge?"
"right!"
Shen Man nodded: "In the past, Hollywood blockbusters were popular in China because of special effects and grand scenes, but now audiences are more discerning. They want to see their own people shine on the world stage, and Chen Xun has done just that, which is why he has such a strong box office appeal."
Fan said thoughtfully, "No wonder China's box office this time is higher than Japan and South Korea's combined."
"more than!"
Shen Man took out her phone and pulled up the data: "Fast & Furious 6 had a 65% screening rate and a 91% occupancy rate on its opening day in China."
"These two figures mean that almost all cinemas gave you their best screenings, and almost every screening was sold out, which is a first in the history of imported films."
Paul whistled: "So Chen, you really are a money tree."
Chen Xun waved his hand: "It's because the movie itself is good!"
"A good movie is the foundation, but whether you can get the audience into the theater is another matter."
Fan said seriously, "Chen, you need to realize your own value. In Hollywood, there are no more than ten actors who can carry the box office on their own, and you are one of them now."
The private room was silent for a few seconds.
Shen Man broke the silence: "Actually, this is also what I wanted to talk to Chen Xun about. Many production companies in China want to cast him in their films, and the conditions they're offering are outrageous!"
"A salary of hundreds of millions plus box office revenue sharing, plus the right to choose any script and director."
Paul's eyes widened: "US dollars?"
"RMB!"
"But when converted to US dollars, it starts at tens of millions of dollars, and if they really come back to film, the actual amount they receive may be even higher, with a lot of hidden income."
Chen Xun didn't say anything, but picked up a piece of shrimp.
Vin Diesel looked at him: "What do you think?"
"No plans at the moment!"
Chen Xun spoke frankly: "My Hollywood film schedule is already booked until next year. I need to promote 'Guardians of the Galaxy,' and the director of 'Furious 7' has also sent me the script. I also need to train and film, and I don't want to come back so soon."
Why?
Shen Man's eyes seemed to show some disappointment.
"Because if I come back now, people will say that I can't make it in Hollywood, so I'm coming back to China to make money."
Chen Xun smiled: "I need to establish myself firmly over there, firmly enough, and then come back. That will be a true triumphant return home."
Shen Man nodded: "That makes sense."
"but----"
Chen Xun looked at her: "If you have any good scripts, you can send them to me to take a look. I can consider suitable cameo or special appearances."
"Really?" Shen Man's eyes lit up.
"real!"
The meal took more than two hours to finish.
By the end, Van and Paul were able to pick up peanuts with chopsticks, although their success rate was only fifty percent.
Stepping out of the restaurant, the river breeze on the Bund was slightly cool.
Shen Man called a designated driver and said to Chen Xun before leaving, "Thank you for organizing this gathering today. It has been a great help to me."
"
"Don't mention it."
"If 'Go Fighting!' needs international guests, you can contact them. Van and Paul are nice people, and their prices are negotiable."
"I will!"
Before getting into the car, Shen Man suddenly turned around and said, "Chen, you're really amazing now."
Chen Xun smiled.
Watching Shen Man's car drive away, Vin Diesel walked over and said, "You have a good friend. Smart, professional, and unpretentious."
"She's always been very insightful."
"Back in Los Angeles, she was the most talented director in our class, what a pity—"
"What's a pity?"
"It's a pity she's Chinese, and a woman."
Chen Xun looked at the river: "In Hollywood, those two labels mean taking more detours, so she chose to return to China, and she's doing very well now."
Paul patted him on the shoulder: "You'll be fine too."
The three of them strolled slowly along the Bund.
The Bund was less crowded late at night, but the lights were still dazzling.
Fan suddenly said, "Chen, do you know what I admire most about you?"
"Which point?"
"You're not arrogant."
"Anyone else with your box office success and popularity would be riding high by now, but you're still the same as before, training and studying your roles. That's rare in Hollywood!"
Chen Xun smiled: "Maybe it's because I've experienced days when no one wanted me, and I know that all of this is hard-won, so I dare not waste it."
"Keep it up."
Vin Diesel said earnestly, "This is a long road, and how far you can go depends on this kind of mentality."
It was already 1 a.m. when I got back to the hotel.
After taking a shower, Chen Xun lay on the bed scrolling through his phone.
On Weibo, #ChenXunShanghaiPremiere# is still trending at number one.
Clicking on it reveals various live videos taken by fans.
The way he signed autographs until his hand was sore, his interaction with Van Paul, and the way he turned back and waved goodbye as he left.
"Brother Xun is so good to his fans! He's so tired but still signed so many people!"
"Vin Diesel and Paul Walker look like bodyguards next to him, hahaha."
"Am I the only one who noticed that Brother Xun's jacket is all wrinkled? Fans, be gentle!"
Chen Xun smiled and stepped back.
Then I clicked on the box office data for "Fast & Furious 6".
Global first week: $985,000,000.
Almost broke one billion!
However, analysts predict that with the surge in the Chinese market in the second week, breaking one billion is a certainty.
My phone vibrated. It was a message from Rob: "The interview with Time magazine is scheduled for next Wednesday in Los Angeles. Marvel asked if you could start promoting Guardians of the Galaxy earlier. They want to capitalize on your popularity."
Universal Pictures booked the entire top floor of the Beverly Hills Hotel.
The champagne tower was taller than a person, and waiters carried silver trays filled with caviar and other champagne.
Oysters and those expensive-looking snacks whose names I don't know.
Outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, the Los Angeles cityscape sparkles like a galaxy.
Vin Diesel stood on a makeshift stage, microphone in hand, his voice booming through the speakers throughout the banquet hall: "Ladies and gentlemen, please be quiet!"
The noise gradually subsided.
Vin Diesel held up his tablet, on which displayed a huge number:
$60,217,843,912.67.
"It's at four o'clock this afternoon."
Fan's voice was brimming with barely suppressed excitement: "Fast & Furious 6 has officially surpassed $1.2 billion in global box office revenue!"
Applause, whistles, and cheers erupted instantly.
Chen Xun stood in the crowd, with Paul and Michelle each putting their arms around his shoulders.
Paul shouted in his ear, "1.2 billion! Chen! We did it!"
Flashbulbs went off like crazy as reporters crowded at the front, their cameras aimed at the number and at Chen Xun's face.
The CEO of Universal Pictures walked onto the stage, embraced Fan, and then took the microphone: "This film has made history. It's not only the highest-grossing film in our series, but also the highest-grossing film worldwide so far this year. And all of this is inseparable from one key person—"
He looked at Chen Xun.
All eyes immediately turned to them.
"Chen Xun".
The CEO said, "You joined this family and took it to unprecedented heights. On behalf of Universal Pictures, thank you."
Chen Xun was pushed onto the stage.
He took the microphone and looked at the dark mass of people below the stage, those familiar faces.
Van Gogh, Paul Wong, Michelle Obama, director Justin Lin, and executives from Universal Pictures —
"Thanks!"
He put it simply: "It's an honor to be a member of this family; these 1.2 billion are the result of everyone's hard work!"
"Director, screenwriter, every actor, every staff member, and all the audience members who went to the theater, thank you!"
Applause erupted again.
Chen Xun opened the panel:
[Fast & Furious 6 Project Progress Update]
Progress: 99%
[Performance Rating: A]
Director's satisfaction rating: A+
Teamwork: A
[Audience Expectations: S]
Overall Rating: A+
[Reward: Physical Coordination +17% (will be added upon project completion)]
[Trendsetting Overall Progress Update: +5%]
[Trendsetting Progress: 29%]
Chen Xun's heart skipped a beat.
29%!
We're one step closer to the next milestone!
"List!"
Rob squeezed in, his face beaming with barely suppressed laughter: "Analysts predict the final box office could reach 1.5 billion!"
"That's an exaggeration."
"Not an exaggeration at all."
Rob lowered his voice: "There was some movement from Warner just now."
"What's that noise?"
"Their stock fell 6% today."
Rob handed over the phone: "While the overall market is rising, Warner Bros. Discovery is the only stock that's falling."
"Analysts say it's because the box office numbers for Fast & Furious 6 were so explosive that the market lacks confidence in Warner Bros.' Interstellar at the end of the year."
Chen Xun looked at the stock price chart on his phone, where the green line representing WBD stood out starkly among the red lines.
Rob continued, "I received inside information that Warner Bros. held an emergency high-level meeting today, and the topic was 'Interstellar.' They're scared!"
Meanwhile, Warner Bros. Studios.
The interior screening room was dimly lit, and the finished film "Interstellar" was playing on the screen.
The last frame fades out, and the end credits begin to roll.
The lights came on.
A dozen or so people were seated around the long table: Warner Bros. CEO Kevin Tesuhara, Chief Content Officer, Distribution Director, Marketing Director — and Christopher Nolan, who was sitting in the very center.
No one speaks.
A subtle silence filled the air.
Tesuhara cleared his throat: "Chris, the movie is great. The visual effects, the acting, the concept—it's all fantastic."
Nolan nodded but didn't reply.
He knows Hollywood all too well!
First praise, then "but".
Sure enough, the distribution director spoke up: "But Chris, I have to be honest, this movie is too hardcore—wormholes, black holes, five-dimensional space, time dilation—can the average viewer keep up?"
The marketing director added, "Moreover, the film is 169 minutes long, almost three hours, which will be a pain for theaters to schedule. They can only schedule a maximum of four screenings a day, while Fast & Furious 6 can be scheduled for six screenings."
Nolan finally spoke, his voice calm: "I don't make movies for the sake of easy scheduling."
"We know."
Tesuhara quickly tried to smooth things over: "Your films have always been works of art. But the problem is—"
He paused, then added, "The market environment is different now!"
He turned on the projector and pulled up a report.
"This is the latest market analysis."
"Chinese audiences are losing their mystique towards Hollywood blockbusters; that's their exact words."
"Formulaic superhero movies are no longer selling well. Last year, 'Superman' only grossed 64 million yuan in China, and 'Fantastic Four' barely surpassed 40 million!"
Nolan frowned: "Interstellar is not a superhero movie."
"But it's hard science fiction, and a mind-bending kind of hard science fiction."
The distribution director said, "What do audiences want now? Movies that can touch their hearts."
Why did Fast & Furious 6 become such a hit?
"Because it's simple, direct, and exhilarating! Family, brothers, car chases, fights—viewers can get two hours of fun without even having to think."
He pulled up another chart: "And our opponent, Chen Xun, is now a box office guarantee. Audiences have high expectations for the movies he stars in. They believe that a movie with him won't be bad."
Nolan remained silent for a long time.
Then he said, "So you're worried that we kicked Chen Xun out, and now we have to face the shadow of his box office miracle?"
Tesuhara didn't answer directly, but instead pulled up a stock price chart: "The current stock price is $61, down another 6% today. If Interstellar's box office performance isn't as good as expected—"
'
He didn't finish speaking, but his meaning was clear.
Warner's embarrassment is a minor matter; the stock price crash is the real issue!
>