After being evaluated by the "Light of Entertainnt," a mysterious analytical tool known for its uncanny accuracy, the script received an SSS rating—a designation reserved only for projects guaranteed to beco blockbusters.
Even without having seen the movie in his previous life, Zhou Yi trusted the system's judgnt enough to invest wholeheartedly.
Upon hearing Zhou Yi's decision, both Robert and Edward were montarily stunned before breaking into wide grins.
Edward was so overwheld with emotion that his voice nearly cracked.
"Mr. Zhou, thank you so much. I... I don't even know what to say."
Robert gave him a reassuring pat on the back before turning to Zhou Yi.
"Mr. Zhou, may I ask how much you're planning to contribute? The budget we're aiming for is... substantial."
As he spoke, Robert's confidence faltered again. So far, they had only managed to secure just over a million dollars in funding, with so coming from their own families. But to execute the film properly, they needed at least fifty million—and that was after cutting costs by avoiding big-na stars.
"How much do you need?" Zhou Yi asked calmly.
"Fifty million," Robert replied, though the figure made him uneasy.
Zhou Yi frowned. He vaguely rembered that in his previous life, the film's marketing materials boasted a budget closer to two hundred million. Why had it dropped to fifty now?
"Mr. Zhou, we're in a tight spot," Robert continued earnestly. "We promise every penny will go directly toward production. You can send soone to oversee us if you'd like. And we won't waste the money hiring A-list actors—the story cos first; casting is secondary."
That's when it clicked for Zhou Yi. In his past life, actor salaries had eaten up the majority of the budget. No wonder they were asking for fifty million this ti around.
While he could easily cover the full amount himself, Zhou Yi saw an opportunity to bring influential figures into the project—like Kong Xiaohe's father. If he collaborated with these power players now, future ventures would naturally include him as well. For the next blockbuster script, he could involve them again, building trust and expanding his network. Over ti, more people would seek him out for partnerships.
He aid to beco a legend in the world of film investnt. Integrating into Huaihai's elite circles was essential; going solo was simply too risky.
Still, he wasn't sure about Kong Xiaohe's father's influence. Best to test the waters first—even securing a few million would be helpful. He believed this script would resonate deeply with Kong Xiaohe's father. After all, with Kong Xiaohe as living proof of the family's potential, surely his father would be moved.
Noticing Zhou Yi's silence, Robert ventured cautiously, "Mr. Zhou, what are your thoughts? Perhaps you could invest part of the amount initially. Once filming progresses halfway, I can show you the results—it might give you more confidence in us."
Zhou Yi smiled faintly. "I can commit thirty million upfront. But what happens if you can't raise the remaining funds?"
"No matter what, I will make this film," Robert insisted, his voice steady despite the pressure. "There's always a way. Always."
Zhou Yi studied him thoughtfully before asking, "Could you give another copy of the script?"
Robert hesitated. "Do you need to review it again, or...?" Scripts weren't sothing to hand out lightly—not in an industry rife with plagiarism.
"I can help you secure additional funding," Zhou Yi explained.
The mont the words left his lips, Robert and Edward froze in disbelief. Mr. Zhou offering thirty million was already beyond their wildest dreams—but assisting with further fundraising? It was almost too generous to comprehend. They struggled to find the right words to express their gratitude.
Seeing their reaction, Zhou Yi waved dismissively. "No need for thanks yet. Success isn't guaranteed, but I'll do my best."
With renewed hope, Robert and Edward handed over their copies of the script.
"Mr. Zhou, when are you free? Let treat you to dinner," Robert offered.
"Let's wait until I've secured the funding. I'll assign soone from my team to coordinate with you on the details. Keep pushing forward," Zhou Yi said, giving Robert a firm pat on the shoulder.
"Mr. Zhou, I never expected you to believe in us so strongly," Robert admitted, his voice filled with awe.
"This film holds extraordinary significance," Zhou Yi replied. "Perhaps one day, it will change the world."
At least in his past life, the film had sparked a cultural revolution. He had no doubt it would do the sa here.
His words ignited a fire within them. As they stepped out of Huanyu Studios, their faces radiated optimism and excitent for the future.
"I told you, Mr. Zhou is different from everyone else. His vision stretches far beyond ours," Edward remarked.
"Not only that, but investing in us carries significant risk. I still feel like I'm dreaming," Robert added.
"Who wouldn't?" Edward agreed.
Bathed in sunlight, the two young n walked away, unaware that they were destined to beco the hottest new directors in the film industry.
After seeing Robert off, Zhou Yi sent a ssage to Kong Xiaohe:
[Zhou Yi: Xiaohe, would it be convenient for to visit your ho soon?]
His ssage subtly reminded Kong Xiaohe of their earlier agreent to introduce him to potential business partners.
[Kong Xiaohe: This Saturday works, brother Yi. I didn't want to ntion it right after you returned, figuring you'd need ti to settle in.]
Kong Xiaohe had already discussed the matter with his family, and his father was prepared. He had planned to bring it up in a few days, but Zhou Yi beat him to it.
[Zhou Yi: To be honest, I have an exceptional film script. Would your family be interested in investing? I'm committing thirty million myself. Trust , this film will explode.]
[Kong Xiaohe: How much more do you need, brother Yi?]
[Zhou Yi: Another twenty million. Your father could bring friends along—it's a guaranteed win.]
[Kong Xiaohe: Twenty million is no problem. See you Saturday.]
Zhou Yi stared at the screen, stunned.
Twenty million? No problem?
Just how powerful was Kong Xiaohe's family?
Originally, Zhou Yi had considered reaching out to Su Ning if Kong Xiaohe couldn't cover the amount, hoping to involve her brother instead. The Su family was a formidable presence in Huaihai.
A strange suspicion began to form in Zhou Yi's mind. Could Kong Xiaohe have ties to soone incredibly influential? He decided to investigate further. Pulling out his phone, he ssaged Su Ning:
[Zhou Yi: Are you available, Ningning? I have a question.]
When he needed sothing, she beca "Ningning." When he didn't, she remained "Su Ning."
This was a reliable source of information. In Huaihai's elite circles, wealthy families often knew one another. Even if Su Ning didn't personally know Kong Xiaohe, she could likely inquire on his behalf.
[Su Ning: What is it?]
[Zhou Yi: Do you know anyone nad Kong Xiaohe? Or any prominent businessn surnad Kong in Huaihai?]
[Su Ning: I know of him, though not personally. He's the son of Huaihai's richest man. Didn't you know?]
Zhou Yi: ?!?
Of course he hadn't known! Had he been aware, he wouldn't have treated Kong Xiaohe so casually!
Zhou Yi was utterly floored. The person he'd casually befriended was none other than the son of Huaihai's wealthiest man?!
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