Chapter 21: Zhang Min's Request

An Feng had long since become immune to being called "Ugly Girl." She would ignore it whenever someone used that nickname, as if she hadn't heard a word.

However, when her godfather called, she heard it loud and clear. Her own father was far too strict, so she held great affection for her kind-hearted godfather. Every time he came to visit, he brought snacks, toys, and beautiful new clothes.

With a joyful cheer, she stopped watching her father edit his contract and snatched the phone from Liu Jing’s hand. "Uncle Chen, what gifts did you bring this time?"

Auntie Liu quickly stood up, flustered by such behavior. She couldn't let the child take over the call and promptly retrieved it. "Old Chen, you’ve arrived in Jiangcheng? Yes, we’re home, we’re home..."

Mr. An, who was busy editing the contract, paused his fountain pen, leaving a slight blemish on his otherwise elegant calligraphy.

"Fatty, what roles have you lined up for Mu Tou this year?" the aunt asked, stealing a glance at the scene and finding it amusing, quickly searching for something to say.

"There are three for now," Wang Fatty replied, ticking them off. "'Heaven Sword and Dragon Sabre,' playing the young Zhang Wuji. It's not a huge part, just the opening scenes. The adult Zhang Wuji is played by Jet Li, and Sharla Cheung is playing Yin Susu and Zhao Min. Then there’s 'Fist of Legend,' where he plays Hong Wending. He’ll be acting as Jet Li’s son, essentially the second male lead. There’s a lot of martial arts choreography, so Mu Tou will need to join the cast early for training. By the way, the action director for 'Fist of Legend' is Corey Yuen; he’s very strict. Once the New Year passes, the schedule will get much busier."

"Wait, that’s only two," the aunt said, surprised. She waited ten seconds, but the fat man had nothing else to add.

"There’s one more, but it’s not up to me. Jet Li just founded his own film company, and they are co-investing with China Film Group in 'Tai Chi Master.' I recommended Mu Tou; Jet Li has heard of his reputation—after all, he’s undefeated among the junior classes at the martial arts school. As for whether he gets the part, I’ll take him to meet Jet Li in a few days." Wang Jing wore a mischievous smirk and started teasing Liu Jing. "Mu Tou, isn't it a shame that there are no girls at your martial arts school?"

"I promised Sister Li I wouldn't hit women, including little girls," Liu Jing said, making sure to glance at Xixi as he spoke.

The little girl raised an eyebrow and glared, threatening him with her eyes. *What is that supposed to mean? I'm your sister, you wouldn't dare hit me, would you?*

"Fatty, any other plans?" The aunt was quite serious about her nephew’s career path, automatically stepping into the role of a manager.

"He has no fame and no credentials right now, so what kind of plans could there be? I'm currently revising several scripts to add child roles. He won’t have much screen time early on. Once he’s acted in a few films, our company will have the media promote him. If he becomes a hit, we won't focus on quantity, but quality. Once he’s famous, we can demand high prices for endorsements and commercial appearances. Right now, the most important thing is for him to take acting classes. He doesn't need to be a master, just learn the basics; after all, he’s still a child. For children, technique is only a small part—the most important things are their natural charisma and talent..." Wang Fatty chattered away, patiently explaining, as he was a professional in this field.

"Director Wang, what does it take to become a hit?" Auntie Liu asked, having returned to her seat after finishing her call.

"That’s a real mystery. I think fame is a metaphysical science—profound and elusive. Some people have the same resources and treatment, yet no matter how much you push them, they just don't catch fire. Others play a side role, or even a bit part, and become stars overnight. It’s common for a show to be a hit while the actor isn't, or for the supporting actor to outshine the lead," Wang Fatty said, rubbing his brow. He glanced at Sharla Cheung beside him and continued, "Whether you make it isn't just about whether you're the lead or if there's a movie tailored for you. Your looks, audience appeal, luck, and whether you’ve 'opened your mind' to the craft—all of these are very important. Compared to these mystical factors, acting skills are secondary. Small hits rely on promotion; big fame relies on destiny. Heaven's timing, geographical advantage, and human harmony—you need all three."

"I’ve become a hit, but it was all built on quantity," Sharla Cheung said with a bitter smile. "I shot 11 films in '91, 12 in '92, and we're halfway through '93, with over ten planned for this year alone. In three years, I’ve done over thirty films, and they’ve tailored scripts for me. Even so, people still see me as nothing more than a pretty face."

"Haha, a pretty face is easy to promote, but also fragile—it’s only for a moment. If you can't stand firm and don't have a signature role, you'll fall quickly. Every generation produces new talent; no one can stay on top forever," Wang Jing laughed.

"Sigh! I’m already worrying about what will happen later. There will always be a time when my looks fade," Sharla Cheung lamented.

"What are you worrying about? You’ve only been in the industry for a few years," Wang Fatty said bluntly. "Look at Maggie Cheung. She was the runner-up in the 1983 Miss Hong Kong pageant and signed with TVB. I promoted her in 'Prince Charming,' but she didn't hit it big. In '85, she signed with Golden Harvest, and Willie Chan recommended her to Jackie Chan. After three major hits—'Police Story,' its sequel, and 'Project A Part II'—she finally became a star. But after she became famous, she didn't get complacent; instead, she seriously studied her craft. Later, she starred in films like 'Full Moon in New York,' 'A Fishy Story,' 'Center Stage,' and 'New Dragon Gate Inn,' winning so many awards she couldn't keep track. That’s why she won Best Actress at this year's Hong Kong Film Awards. She dares to take on these low-paying art films because she’s already a star and has the foundation to do so. If she didn't take those roles, she would still be seen as just a pretty face. Aging and fading into obscurity—that’s the fate of many."

Sharla Cheung listened intently. She rarely had the chance to hear Wang Fatty share such genuine insights, and she found this conversation deeply rewarding.

The aunt was very satisfied and had learned a lot, but she remained concerned. "Fatty, I’ve heard that the film industry in Hong Kong is very chaotic. Is it dangerous?" The chaos of the Hong Kong film scene was no longer just a rumor, especially after the incident with Jet Li's manager last year.

"Haha, don't you worry about that. They might dare to stir up trouble for others, but they wouldn't dare touch us," Wang Fatty laughed confidently. "The films this year are all being shot in Yandu; we don't need to go to Hong Kong. You’re worrying a bit too early."

The aunt’s business in the United States had stabilized. She wasn't the primary operator anymore and now found herself with plenty of free time. She had already claimed the role of her nephew’s manager and assistant. No one could take that away from her, not even her own cousin.

She had many more questions and took the opportunity to ask Wang Fatty for advice.

"Mu Tou, come here and let me see how much you've grown lately," Sharla Cheung beckoned to Liu Jing with a brilliant smile.

Liu Jing walked over; he liked pretty women. Sharla Cheung pulled him onto her lap. "Wonderful, you've grown quite a bit and are becoming more handsome. When you grow up, you'll surely be a heartthrob who captivates countless girls."

"I think so too," Liu Jing agreed deeply. Feeling the softness and firmness against him, his heart remained as calm as still water. Born in the wrong era, she wasn't his type, so he didn't have many thoughts on the matter.

"Hehe, Mu Tou, I want to go out for some fresh air. Could you be my guide? I’m afraid I’ll get lost and won’t know how to find my way back," Sharla Cheung giggled. This kid was so full of himself.

"Sister Min, do you have something on your mind? We have a good relationship, so if you need anything, just say it. If I can do it, I won't refuse. If I can't, I won't force it." Liu Jing took the opportunity to lean against her chest; even if she wasn't his type, taking advantage of the moment wasn't a bad idea.

Sharla Cheung tapped him on the forehead and whispered, "You little rascal, you’re so honest, yet so hopeless. I do have a favor to ask. Let’s go outside and talk."