Chapter 68: A Bright Future Awaits!

The next day.

The opening ceremony for "Celebrating the Years" was held smoothly at the Hengdian film set.

A large crowd attended; besides the actors, members of the production team were present as well.

This drama was financed entirely by Huayi Studios.

Initially, with Zhang Huaimou guaranteeing the project, the script evaluation was bypassed, allowing them to purchase it directly.

Though Huayi had absolute trust in Zhang Huaimou's abilities, they would certainly come by to observe the filming as a formality—which was only reasonable.

"Is that Su Mu? Oh my, he's even more handsome in person than on TV!"

"When do you think Huayi might be able to sign him? That way, we could admire him up close."

"Don't even think about it. Su Mu's popularity is soaring this year; he’s destined to be a money-maker. Even if Giant Elephant Media were foolish, they'd realize it by now. Unless his contract expires, they won't let him go."

"What a pity. With such great potential, he's stuck at Giant Elephant Media, where they focus mainly on packaging for popularity. If he could come to Huayi, his future in film would be boundless—even international exposure wouldn’t be out of reach."

"Exactly. After all, Huayi collaborates with Hollywood... Oh, it's rare to come here as company delegates; I must get a photo and an autograph with Su Mu!"

At that moment, the young women from Huayi’s investment production team whispered excitedly among themselves.

Elsewhere.

Incense was burned for blessings, the red cloth lifted.

The crew officially began shooting.

This time, unlike with "Nirvana in Fire," Su Mu wasn’t required to carry the show from the start.

Because "Celebrating the Years" begins with the male lead, Fan Xian, as a child, the opening scenes required a child actor, not Su Mu.

Yet, as the scriptwriter for the series, he was certainly required to be present.

Unexpected events often arise during filming, necessitating script changes; his assistance was essential.

After briefly observing a few scenes, Su Mu was summoned by Zhuang Yan, Wang Ouyi, and other veteran actors.

Zhuang Yan said, "Su Mu, I watched your collaborations with Huaimou—‘Rush’ and ‘Nirvana in Fire.’ Among your peers, your acting is the most outstanding I’ve seen."

Su Mu replied, "Professor Zhuang, you flatter me. I still have much to learn."

Zhuang Yan nodded, "A thirst for knowledge is good. If you have the chance, you’re welcome to audit classes at the Beijing Film Academy."

Wang Ouyi nodded, "I heard from Huaimou you’re not formally trained, but acting isn’t about background. With talent, even unconventional actors can shine on the big screen."

Zhuang Yan agreed, "Absolutely, and your talent for scriptwriting is remarkable. Your prospects in the film industry are bright."

What?

A bright financial future?

Su Mu, who had been drowsy listening to the earlier conversation, perked up instantly at those words.

"Ah, please don’t overpraise me, seniors. I’m just feeling my way through. I don’t dare hope for much; as long as I can keep acting, that’s good enough for me."

Zhuang Yan was surprised, "You're so popular now, and you worry about running out of roles?"

Su Mu smiled, "Right now, I have plenty, but who can say about the future? The market changes so fast; if I’m not careful, I could fall behind."

[Emotion proficiency +1]
[Expression proficiency +1]
[Skill points +0.01...]

Zhuang Yan and Wang Ouyi glanced at each other and then nodded, neither affirming nor denying.

Zhuang Yan said, "That’s well put. The times have changed. Back then, we racked our brains to figure out lighting, set design, and how to make performances authentic.

But now? Those things are unnecessary; everything is handled by machines and post-production effects. Sometimes, the actor isn’t even present—you just paste their head on and nobody notices. The old methods are obsolete."

Wang Ouyi nodded, "Yes, the film industry is at a high level now. What we produce today is a world apart from what we did back then.

But one thing remains: film is an art, it has a soul. No matter how advanced the technology, if the work isn’t vibrant, if the characters lack spirit, it can’t be called a good film."

As he spoke, Wang Ouyi patted Su Mu's shoulder.

"Su Mu, with your talent, you must hone your craft. Don’t waste it on projects that are too commercially driven. If you get the chance, try some truly profound artistic works."

Zhuang Yan added, "Agreed. How about this: let’s add each other on WeChat. If opportunities arise, Lao Wang and I can recommend you. What do you think?"

Su Mu’s eyes lit up, "Wonderful! Thank you, professors!"

Goal achieved. Connections +2.

Su Mu took out his phone to scan their codes.

Whether or not it was artistic, with these relationships, his financial prospects could well broaden again.

…

The morning’s filming passed quickly.

At lunch break.

Su Mu found himself surrounded by the young women of Huayi’s production team.

And the circle of young women was inadvertently revealed to Su Mu.

Ah, it was tough.

Asked by several adorable girls for autographs and photos, even his breath was filled with the scent of soft, snow-white sweetness.

"Su Mu, you worked so hard! Can we get a photo together?"

"Su Mu, you’re so handsome! It’s hot at noon—drink more water and take care of yourself."

"Su Mu, I’ve watched your behind-the-scenes footage from ‘The Orchid Pact’—so handsome!"

"Su Mu, don’t rush into romance! You can go so much further! We’re a professional team at Huayi, trust our judgment!"

Facing the blessings from the production team’s young women, Su Mu smiled like a spring breeze.

He was always gentle with fans, all the more so with the production side.

"No problem! Let’s do it one by one. Give me your posters, I’ll sign dozens for you and hand them over this afternoon."

"Wow!"

"Su Mu, you’re so kind~."

"Even pampering fans, Su Mu puts in so much effort!"

After taking photos with the fans from the production team, Su Mu, along with Little Orange, took the crew lunchboxes and a stack of posters to the makeup room for lunch.

Today Qian Jida had matters to attend to, so the driver dropped him off and didn’t stay.

Su Mu and Little Orange grabbed their lunchboxes and chose a random makeup room.

It was already May, and the day was turning hot.

Fortunately, it was cool inside, and there were few people.

Su Mu turned to sit in front of a small fan, eating his lunchbox and signing posters at the same time.

Suddenly, he felt a prickling sense of unease.

He quickly turned around, and saw Ning Yuyan standing behind him, staring at him curiously.

Su Mu said, "Oh, hello. Have you eaten?"

Ning Yuyan’s face was full of question marks.

"Su Mu, this is the makeup room. You’re sitting in my spot."

Su Mu realized and quickly stood up, brushing his pants and smiling awkwardly, "Sorry, I didn’t notice when I came in. Don’t worry, I’ll tidy up and get out of here."

Little Orange: "!!!"

Ning Yuyan: "..."

The atmosphere suddenly shifted.

Su Mu was puzzled, "Hm? What’s wrong?"

Little Orange said, "Boss... I don’t mind you getting up and leaving, but could you please pat your own butt?"

(•́へ•́╬)

Su Mu replied, "Ah, sorry, slipped."

Ning Yuyan: "..."