novellhall In Chapter 56, there are three types of winning: "Win," "Big Win," and "Ext
In Chapter 56, there are three types of winning: "Win," "Big Win," and "Ext
"I prepared two versions of the script."
Lin Yu took out another plot summary from his bag and handed it to Han Sanping.
This is the version that was actually filmed. The protagonist is set to visit Earth at the end of the Ming Dynasty, and the female lead is rescued by the male lead when she is being chased by the Qing army. She dies protecting the male lead during the Yangzhou Massacre.
The subsequent two versions of the story are largely the same. The core of both is a love story spanning four hundred years.
Han Sanping quickly flipped through the Ming Dynasty version, his brows gradually relaxing. This version didn't pose much of a risk of being flagged for censorship.
"Let's 'accidentally' leak the Qing Dynasty version first." Lin Yu's smile was exceptionally innocent. "A few days later, we'll release the Ming Dynasty version, along with the investment scale and the fact that we had to change the dynasty background at the investors' request."
"Then why not leak the Ming Dynasty version first, and then give them the Qing Dynasty version after they pay?" Han Sanping was a little puzzled, as Lin Yu's operation seemed rather complicated.
"First, we need to let them know that we have the capability and the willingness to create a Qing Dynasty version," Lin Yu said, leaning back in his chair. "Second, we need to let them know that we are willing to make appropriate adjustments to the script as long as they are paid."
"If we had given them the Ming Dynasty version from the start, they would most likely have reported the script directly, obstructing its approval process, rather than trying to solve the problem by paying money." Lin Yu looked intently at Han Sanping. "Besides, if they paid us and we didn't make any changes in the end, wouldn't that be fraud?"
"Aren't you committing fraud right now?" Han Sanping resisted the urge to roll his eyes.
"Uncle Han, what are you saying?" Lin Yu shook his finger at Han Sanping, looking innocent. "When we spread out the Ming Dynasty version later, it means that this version is the final draft. And by spreading out the investment scale at the same time, it means that the normal investment route is blocked, and they can only 'support' the production team through other means."
"And if they are willing to 'donate' a sum of money after receiving the news to support the production team in better restoring history and verifying the true image of the Qing army..." Lin Yu leaned forward, his tone becoming serious, "and the production team is also willing to use this money to optimize costumes, props, and special effects, then it would be a mutually agreeable collaboration."
Han Sanping fell silent.
He carefully considered Lin Yu's words and actually detected a hint of legitimacy in the plan. But after thinking for a long time, he still found a flaw.
"It's still not right," Han Sanping said, frowning. "They gave you the money to beautify and promote that dynasty, but your final version still has a money-rat tail and a deer-like face. This doesn't match their requirements, so they'll still sue you for fraud."
"So it needs to be clearly stated in the contract." Lin Yu leaned back in his chair and shrugged. "This funding is to help the production team research the real history between the Ming and Qing dynasties and to restore the true image of the Qing army."
He paused, his smile turning strange: "That's how they've been portrayed historically, so you can't blame me."
Han Sanping was stunned for a moment, then realized what was happening and couldn't help but laugh out loud.
The "true image" of the Qing army was one of forced hair-shaving and clothing changes, massacring cities and seizing territory—this is clearly written in black and white in historical records. You want me to recreate the true image? Fine, I'll do that. As for the discrepancies between your imagined "truth" and historical reality, that's not my problem.
As for these old-fashioned remnants demanding that the contract include provisions to glorify and promote the image of the Qing army, then we'll simply refuse to cooperate. Once the drama becomes popular, we'll publicize the contract and let people know the sinister intentions of these old-fashioned remnants.
No matter how you play, Lin Yu will win; the only difference is how much he wins.
"The money will definitely be used to improve the production team," Lin Yu said firmly. "The costumes, props, and sets were all meticulously recreated according to historical accuracy, as requested by them. Even if they complain to the central government, they can't find us guilty of fraud."
"Shall we give it a try?" Han Sanping's tone was somewhat uncertain.
"Absolutely." Lin Yu smiled. "I've already thought of a scapegoat."
"The two kings of Huayi?" Han Sanping blurted out.
The two looked at each other and laughed.
"Great minds think alike."
Both Wang Jianlin and Wang Lijun claim to be of Manchu descent. Using this narrative to lure in the remaining loyalists and descendants of the old regime is perfectly appropriate.
"Let's talk about the investment. How do you plan to divide it?" Han Sanping changed the subject.
"Hmm..." Lin Yu pondered for a moment, "Based on the actual investment scale of 100 million, I will contribute 10 million myself, plus the script and director's fees, and take 15%."
He lowered his head and calculated for a moment before continuing, "Then I should be able to raise 50 million from my older brothers and sisters' investment funds, and give them 45%. Uncle Han, see how much you can contribute, and I'll find someone else for the rest."
No one would object to how much Lin Yu wanted to take, but only by making money together with everyone could they be more willing to invest in the film and television industry.
A few years ago, everyone thought coal mine owners were foolish and rich, always finding ways to rip people off. But look at the next few years—who in the industry doesn't miss the coal mine owners?
These people in the industry are all short-sighted and short-sighted, they don't understand what sustainable development means at all.
Lin Yu didn't want to do something short-sighted like killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. What he wanted was to build a long-term, stable investment network where everyone could make money, and he would continue to invest in good projects in the future.
"How much do you want for the remaining forty percent?" Han Sanping asked.
"Forty million, that's not too much," Lin Yu readily agreed. "If we run out of money later, we'll add more proportionally."
He had considered unforeseen circumstances; if those old-fashioned youths didn't take the bait, he would rely on normal investment channels to raise additional funds. After all, with his connections, finding money was the easiest thing for him.
Upon hearing the amount, Han Sanping nodded. The price was reasonable; in fact, it could be said that he had gotten a good deal.
This kid is so kind.
"Then there's no problem. I'll find the money for this part," Han Sanping decided. "When we're promoting it, we'll say the total investment is 200 million."
The gimmick of 200 million is enough to attract attention and make those old-fashioned people believe that this is a "big production" and worth their money.
"Then there's no problem." Lin Yu picked up the Qing Dynasty version of the script outline and reference illustrations from the table and spread them out on the coffee table in the reception area of Han Sanping's office.
The meticulously designed storyboards, the gorgeous concept art of Qing Dynasty costumes, and the "majestic and imposing" scenes of the Qing army looked especially alluring in the afternoon sunlight.
The two exchanged a smile, cast the bait, and now it was time to see if any fish would bite.
"Then I'll head back now?" Seeing that the matter was settled, Lin Yu prepared to take his leave.
"Go back now." Han Sanping waved with a smile. "Remember the celebration banquet for 'Twelve Citizens' tomorrow night, don't be late."