CDJMM – Volume 4 – Chapter 9 Filming in the Interstellar Era (9)

Director An Yun had arranged to meet Le Jing at his company.

The company, Yunfan Entertainment, was located in Province A, right next to Le Jing’s Province Y, at most an hour’s drive away.

Yunfan Entertainment wasn’t a huge company, but it was well-known in the industry. The films and TV projects produced under its banner were all high-quality, earning the trust and admiration of audiences. Ever since Director An signed with Yunfan three years ago, this small company had quietly become an influential force in the field.

Le Jing arrived at Yunfan Entertainment at 9:30 a.m.

Unfortunately, the timing wasn’t ideal—Director An had a visitor and couldn’t be free immediately, so Le Jing had to wait a little.

As Le Jing followed the receptionist toward the waiting room, the front door opened and someone walked in.

Le Jing glanced over instinctively, then froze slightly, a smile spreading across his lips.

What a coincidence—it was even someone familiar.

To be precise, a person familiar to the original host, Shi Jing.

Shi Jing had only seen this person in his memory, and back then, this person looked sinister and sly, almost nauseating.

But now, seeing him in person, Le Jing realized he wasn’t bad-looking at all—thick eyebrows, big eyes, well-defined features, an imposing aura, and walking with a confident swagger, clearly full of self-satisfaction.

And why wouldn’t he be smug?

After all, he had stolen a script from Shi Jing and, with it, gained both fame and fortune, quickly rising as a promising new director in the film industry.

At the same time Le Jing spotted Tian Hui, Tian Hui also saw him.

A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes, but he was skilled at masking it. He quickly averted his gaze and pretended not to recognize Le Jing, chatting with the person beside him with a smile.

Le Jing turned his head and acted as if he didn’t know him either.

He followed the receptionist onto the elevator and then entered the meeting room on the third floor.

Just as Le Jing took a seat in the meeting room, the door opened again, revealing a familiar face.

It was Tian Hui.

He was accompanied by an unfamiliar middle-aged man, portly, wearing a gold watch worth hundreds of thousands—looking every bit the wealthy businessman.

Caught off guard by seeing Le Jing there, Tian Hui’s face immediately darkened.

Facing Tian Hui’s sudden change in expression, Le Jing smiled first and greeted cheerfully, “Old classmate, long time no see.”

With outsiders present, Tian Hui forced a smile. “Haha, long time no see.”

The businessman glanced at Le Jing and asked Tian Hui, “Who is this?”

Tian Hui replied vaguely, “A college classmate of mine.”

Le Jing smiled warmly. “Hello, my name is Shi Jing.”

The businessman laughed. “It’s really fate for classmates to meet here.” He asked Le Jing, “Mr. Shi, what brings you here?”

Le Jing: “Business.”

Curious, the businessman asked, “Are you a businessman too?”

Le Jing shook his head. “No, I’m not.”

The businessman thought for a moment, then suddenly understood: “Ah, right, you’re Director Tian’s college classmate. So, you’re a director too?”

Seeing Le Jing nod, he curiously asked, “What works have you produced?”

“Ah, Mr. Liu, don’t ask,” Tian Hui said, putting on a fake sympathetic expression. “Back in school, this classmate of mine was always praised by professors, won scholarships every year, and his short films all won awards at the university microfilm festival. Compared to him, I was just a nobody. But… unfortunately…”

“Unfortunately?” Mr. Liu asked.

Tian Hui let out a heavy sigh, glancing at Le Jing with malicious mockery. “Unfortunately… he’s too straightforward, too stubborn. He couldn’t last long in any crew, so…”

“Oh, I see,” Mr. Liu’s expression turned completely cold.

Le Jing smiled and suddenly said, “I once wrote an excellent film script, which was later produced and well-received, even winning awards.”

Before Mr. Liu could express his curiosity, Tian Hui interjected, “Alright, I know you’re not doing well now. No need to make up stories—I’m not here to laugh at you.” He crossed his arms and looked down on Le Jing. “What have you been busy with recently? If you need any help, just ask. Out of consideration for old classmates, I might lend a hand.”

Le Jing replied truthfully, “Making some small videos online.”

Tian Hui sneered, eyes full of contempt, arrogantly lecturing Le Jing: “Can’t you get a proper job? You graduated from a professional university; how can you sink to this level?”

“Well, don’t worry. Out of respect for old classmates, we’ll take care of you. After we finalize cooperation with Director An Yun, maybe we can assign you to our crew as a production assistant, so you can learn and observe properly.”

“Cooperation? With Director An Yun?”

Tian Hui, clearly waiting for this moment, immediately began boasting with glee: “You know, Director An Yun, internationally renowned, is my father’s friend. We’re here to discuss a film collaboration. Mr. Liu has a project worth hundreds of millions, starring top actors. I’m still young, can’t lead the project, so Mr. Liu suggested Director An guide me in filming and help me win awards.”

Le Jing: …Too many problems.

Mr. Liu pretended to be polite: “That’s not certain yet. It depends on Director An.”

Tian Hui confidently said, “Don’t worry. Director An will definitely agree—he’s a good friend of my father. I’ve known him since childhood. He’ll definitely do this small favor.”

Then he flattered Mr. Liu with more compliments: “When I win awards in the future, the first person I’ll thank on stage will be you. Without your support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Mr. Liu patted his large belly, obviously pleased, smiling warmly: “This is because you, Xiao Tian, are talented and diligent. Opportunities favor those who work hard. I merely provide the platform; ultimate success depends on your own efforts.”

Watching these two shower each other with commercial flattery, affectionate like father and son, completely ignoring Le Jing, it seemed as if Director An guiding Tian Hui’s filming was already a done deal.

A knock interrupted their mutual praise. Mr. Liu cleared his throat, “Please come in.”

A thin elderly man with a pale face entered. He wore a vintage Zhongshan suit, kind-eyed, looking like an old man taking a stroll in the square.

Mr. Liu exclaimed, “Director An!” He rushed forward excitedly: “You’ve finished your work? I’m here to discuss a major project. Come, Xiao Tian, join us.”

Tian Hui hurried over in small steps, flattering as if meeting his own father: “Uncle An, long time no see. How have you been?”

“All good, all good,” An Yun replied.

Mr. Liu added, “Xiao Tian’s recent film, The East is Red, has been released. Director An, have you seen it?”

An Yun smiled. “Yes, yes. It’s a good film.”

Seizing the opportunity, Mr. Liu said, “Xiao Tian will participate in this project as well. Are you available now? Shall we discuss it in your office?”

An Yun waved his hand. “No rush, no rush.” His gaze drifted past the two eager people by his side, landing on Le Jing standing calmly by the window, smiling serenely. “You must be the old Shi Jing?”

Le Jing smiled and slightly nodded. “Yes, that’s me.”

An Yun immediately moved past the noisy two and stepped toward Le Jing, extending his hand with a firm shake: “It’s an honor to meet you.”

Le Jing chuckled. “I should be the one saying that. I’ve always been a fan of your films.”

An Yun let go, slightly embarrassed. “An old friend came by unexpectedly, so I spoke a bit more. Sorry to keep you waiting.”

“No problem. I haven’t been here long anyway.”

“I just got some excellent tea. I’ll brew some for you later, as an apology.”

“Hahaha, then I won’t refuse. Looking forward to it.”

Tian Hui’s eyes widened, almost popping out in disbelief. Watching this cheerful interaction, his face burned like he had been slapped.

What a joke!

That Shi Jing, how could he possibly have a connection with such a big-name director like An Yun? An Yun treated Le Jing far more warmly than him! What tricks did this guy use?

He couldn’t help raising his voice: “Uncle An, we want to discuss a major project with you!”

President Liu quickly added, “Yes, yes, it’s a multi-billion project! Both the male and female leads are award-winning actors! The whole point is to compete for next year’s awards!”

An Yun spread his hands, a slightly apologetic smile on his face. “Sorry, I already have an appointment. You can discuss the project with my agent.”

Le Jing smiled and added, “Really sorry, I already made an appointment with Director An in advance.”

At this moment, in Tian Hui’s eyes, Le Jing’s smile was a glaring mockery and provocation. Just now, Tian Hui was mocking Shi Jing, and now the tide had turned—Shi Jing was mocking him!

Tian Hui stubbornly raised his voice: “We also made an appointment in advance!”

An Yun replied, “I already told you before, I don’t have time.”

“Then you have time to meet with this kid? How much business could he possibly bring you?” President Liu emphasized again, “This is a multi-billion project!”

Even An Yun’s patience started to fray, his expression cold as he said, “Even if it were a ten-billion project, I simply don’t have the time! And…” He said icily, “This young man is a very talented director. I hope you can show him some respect.”

“Oh, not at all.” Le Jing smiled at Tian Hui, whose face was now a deep purple, and said meaningfully, “I am no match for Director Tian in talent. Director Tian has sharp eyes, quick hands, and is the best at spotting good scripts, right?”

Tian Hui, feeling guilty as if caught red-handed, shrieked like a cat with its tail stepped on: “What do you mean?!”

Le Jing chuckled: “I just said it casually, no special meaning. But Director Tian’s reaction is so strong, it seems like it might mean something else.”

An Yun seemed to catch a hint and asked cautiously, “Do you two know each other?”

Le Jing smiled: “College classmates. Tian has always appreciated my scripts.”

Tian Hui couldn’t help swearing: “Bullshit! When did I ever appreciate your scripts?!”

“Oh, it’s been so many years. I don’t hold any grudges, and Director Tian, you don’t need to be so angry.” Le Jing smiled, “After all, we were classmates, and I hope you’ll create even better works independently in the future.”

Tian Hui trembled with anger. “Are you saying I plagiarized your script? What proof do you have?! You could be legally liable for spreading lies!”

“I never said that. If Director Tian wants to interpret it that way, there’s nothing I can do.” Le Jing shrugged innocently, then said to An Yun, “Director An, it’s not convenient to talk here. Let’s go to your office to discuss the matter.”

Tian Hui, furious, shouted, “Shi, you better explain yourself!”

An Yun frowned, speaking firmly: “Director Tian, whatever personal disputes you have, please resolve them privately. This is work time, so I won’t be entertaining you two.”

With that, he walked straight out, Le Jing following. Before closing the door, he casually glanced at Tian Hui and silently mouthed: “Thief.”

Once the door closed, Tian Hui felt waves of heat and cold rush through him, both shocked and furious.

Was Shi Jing really like this?

The Shi Jing in his memory was aloof, proud, and inarticulate. But just now, every word from Shi Jing was sharp, a knife behind the smile, deeply scheming—completely different from before.

Why would Uncle An protect Shi Jing?

Had Shi Jing told Uncle An? Even if he did, it wouldn’t matter—without evidence, Uncle An wouldn’t believe him!

He tried to calm himself, but panic still surged, and it felt like a heavy stone had dropped into his stomach.

“You said Director An is your dad’s friend!” President Liu shouted with red eyes.

Tian Hui couldn’t argue: “He really is my father’s friend…”

“Not even meeting once? What kind of friend is that?” President Liu shouted angrily. “And what’s going on with your classmate? You look down on him, yet Director An treats him much better than you!”

“I really made a mistake choosing you! You’re a con artist!”

…

Le Jing was completely unaware of the chaos in the reception hall. He and An Yun happily discussed the adaptation fee in the office and signed the contract without hesitation.

Whether it was An Yun’s generosity or the quality of his work, An Yun directly gave him two million yuan for the adaptation, immediately solving Le Jing’s urgent financial needs.

He now had enough to start his own studio.

If the crew of Republican Era Literary Figures needed funding, he could invest a little and participate in the behind-the-scenes script work.

Afterwards, Le Jing openly asked: “Director An, what’s your relationship with Tian Hui?”

An Yun frowned, his dislike evident: “The son of a friend—spoiled by his family.” He looked at Le Jing. “Do you have some grudge?”

Le Jing nodded, then smiled and asked, “Aren’t you interested in those multi-billion projects?”

An Yun sneered: “Multi-billion projects? That’s all nonsense to fool idiots. I don’t want to get involved in that mess.” He glanced at Le Jing. “If you don’t believe me, just wait. That kid Tian Hui will eventually fall hard. You’ll get to see the joke.”

Le Jing raised an eyebrow. “Just telling me this is okay? You trust my word?”

An Yun rolled his eyes. “I’m not blind! Anyone in the industry can tell how capable Tian Hui is. Many people know the Red East movie script isn’t his, but they thought he bought it. No one expected he stole it from you.”

“You really have patience, tolerating this.”

Le Jing gave a wry smile: “What choice do I have? I had no proof. I wrote it secretly on my Light Brain, and somehow he hacked in, copied the script, destroyed my original, and registered the IP first.”

An Yun had seen countless storms in this industry. He said gently: “He may steal your script, but he can’t steal your talent. Though you’ve faced a temporary setback, you’ll go farther than him.”

Le Jing had never doubted that.

Watching the boy’s poised confidence, An Yun, rare in showing his love of talent, asked: “My film starts shooting at the end of the year. Do you want to come be an assistant director under me?”

Le Jing knew how valuable this opportunity was and agreed without hesitation.

…

When Le Jing exited Yunfan Entertainment, he was surprised to see Tian Hui waiting at the gate.

Leaning against the wall with his head down, he exuded a defeated aura, nowhere near his earlier arrogance.

“Why are you still here?”

Tian Hui rushed over, grabbing Le Jing’s collar, eyes bloodshot as he asked fiercely: “What did you say to Uncle An?”

Le Jing tilted his head: “Guess?”

“Nothing you say matters! Uncle An won’t believe you!”

“Then let me tell you something.” Le Jing lightly pried open Tian Hui’s fingers, raised his chin, and coldly glared at him, a haughty smile on his face: “I won’t stop. Next, I’ll produce even better works than Red East. My future is limitless.”

“And you…” He shook off Tian Hui’s trembling hand, straightened his collar, and looked at him with disdain. “You’ll never produce a work better than my Red East. You’ll live your whole life in my shadow.”

Le Jing no longer looked at Tian Hui’s twisted face and walked away.

He looked at the boundless blue sky ahead, and the resentment once belonging to the original owner seemed to dissipate.

He would use Shi Jing’s name to make even better works, comforting the soul of that talented young man who died unfulfilled and resentful.

…

With An Yun’s two million adaptation fee, Le Jing now had 2.5 million yuan, enough to set up a small studio.

He planned to hire three to four people: one for post-production editing for the Huo Qubing movie, one for graphic design, and one for audio processing.

He could handle the lines, story, and shots himself.

He originally planned to ask Zhou Junsen to help find people, but Sister Zhang knew and immediately recommended a few.

Two grandmothers, two grandfathers.

The grandmothers had white hair, the grandfathers were shaky with age.

Le Jing: …

Sister Zhang continued: “Though they’re older, they were top professionals back in the day. Other crews couldn’t hire them even for tens of thousands. If it weren’t for me, they wouldn’t have come!”

Le Jing: “…Your face is worth that much?” She must’ve offended some incredible talent to retire so early.

Sister Zhang glared, then told the truth: “No, they retired and were bored at home. Other crews don’t dare hire old folks. Your new studio has light work, near home, and doesn’t interfere with their grandkids or shopping trips. So… you got lucky.”

“So… do I need to buy them health insurance?”

Sister Zhang waved her hands: “No, they already have several. They’re just here to pass time and chat with others.”

“Salary? You just pay whatever. Old folks usually have more money than you anyway.”

Le Jing: “…Fine.”

As it turned out, though slow, the veterans’ decades of experience made their work stable and worry-free.

One old man was skilled in both Eastern and Western art styles. His Huo Qubing design blended classical Eastern charm with Western heroic spirit. Those piercing phoenix eyes alone were breathtaking on paper.

One grandmother specialized in vocal skills, capable of mimicking dozens of voices, far livelier than AI simulations.

Thanks to these retired experts, Le Jing’s Huo Qubing movie was finally uploaded on the last day before the deadline.

At the same time, “Sunset Red Studio” appeared in the credits.