PNB Chapter 157 Chen Xun Personally Steps In to Slap People in the Face [5000]
Chapter 157 Chen Xun Personally Steps In to Slap People in the Face [5000]
Chapter 157 Chen Xun Personally Steps In to Slap People in the Face [5000]
Chen Xun never expected that what was just a fan event would be escalated to the level of treason by these anti-fans in China.
Chen Xun looked at it carefully.
These comments mostly came from fan accounts of other young male celebrities.
Because their idol's trending topics and supertopic were surpassed, they came to Chen Xun's fans' side to hurl insults.
The logic is quite crude.
Equating Chen Xun's career development in Hollywood with being unpatriotic!
To equate business success with making money for outsiders.
In fact, for imported films, such as Hollywood blockbusters, Hollywood can only take 25% of them, and the rest is consumed domestically in China.
The cinemas take a portion, the theater chains take a portion, and the distributor, as the general agent, takes a portion.
But fans and netizens don't care about any of that.
As the saying goes, it's better to stay at home than to go out.
Chen Xun remained silent.
He recalled the discussions he overheard in a Chinese supermarket when he first arrived in Hollywood.
"play a small role!"
"Useless!"
"Forget your roots!"
He often heard these comments.
Now that he's in a higher position, those whispers behind his back have turned into public accusations.
However, these kinds of things usually can only be dealt with by ignoring them.
These comments, being made domestically, did not have a significant impact on Chen Xun's development in Hollywood.
But these remarks hurt the feelings of domestic fans.
They celebrated for Chen Xun, only to be ridiculed in this way.
Chen Xun could imagine how frustrated and saddened his fans must feel when they saw accusations of being "traitors" and "money-grubbing".
He can ignore negative comments, but he cannot let his supporters suffer.
He owes his success to the real money support from his fans.
Chen Xun decided to do something!
Back in the living room.
I turned on the TV and randomly flipped through channels.
A tech news channel is rebroadcasting Apple's fall product launch event from a few days ago.
The host spoke eloquently about the newly released iPhone 5.
This thinner, lighter phone with a larger screen is sparking a buying frenzy worldwide, including in China, where it is an absolute must-have fashion item.
Chen Xun remembered that in his previous life, there were people who would buy cell phones by rubbing their kidneys.
A thought suddenly flashed through my mind.
Since the haters say he's making money in Hollywood, then Chen Xun will let them watch how he spends it.
He asked Robert to contact the team in China and commission them to do a few things.
"Purchase 1000 iPhone 5s, 200 of the latest iPads, and 100 iPod Touches."
Robert was stunned when he heard the news.
Chen Xun explained the reason and announced his decision: "I'm going to hold a lottery on Weibo. All domestic viewers who purchased tickets through official ticketing platforms and kept their ticket stubs during the release of 'The Hunger Games' can participate in the lottery using their ticket stub information and Weibo ID. One thousand mobile phones, two hundred tablets, and one hundred media players will all be prizes."
Rob gasped.
"This budget is way too high! And it's incredibly complicated to operate, requiring measures to prevent vote rigging and verification—"
"The budget will come from my newly arrived income. For complex issues, we'll handle them ourselves, find professionals to build specialized systems, verify that they can interface with ticketing platforms' data, or design rigorous audit processes."
Chen Xun paused for a moment, giving Robert time to process the message, before continuing: "My fans were having a happy gathering because of their support, but they were attacked for no reason. I can't fight back for them, but I can use my own way to thank them and tell everyone that I see their support and remember it in my heart."
This is a way of giving back to the fans.
It is the most direct way to share a portion of the profits from the film with those who actually go to the cinema to support him.
"In my personal capacity, I am launching a long-term public welfare project called 'Rural Shadows' initiative, establishing a special fund with an initial personal investment of two million US dollars."
"The purpose of this project is to purchase professional mobile film projection equipment, form a volunteer team, and go deep into remote villages in China where there are no cinemas to screen movies for children and villagers there for free."
"There are no restrictions on the source of films. Excellent Chinese films, classic foreign films, animations, documentaries—as long as they are wholesome and can broaden horizons, they can be shown."
He paused for a moment: "Movies are a good thing; they shouldn't just be entertainment for people in big cities or those with spending power."
"I want more children, no matter where they are born, to have the opportunity to see the light and shadow on the screen and to see a wider world. This has nothing to do with nationality or culture."
There was a few seconds of silence on the other end of the phone.
Rob immediately replied excitedly, "I understand. I will entrust this matter to Lionsgate's China team. They just established their China branch and have plenty of manpower!"
After hanging up the phone, Chen Xun let out a long sigh of relief.
The lottery is the most direct way to respond to and express one's stance on the current conflict.
The "Rural Shadow Search" project is a longer-term public welfare initiative.
Combining the two can both warm the hearts of fans and silence malicious comments, while also allowing us to do something truly valuable.
He suddenly remembered that in his previous life, when he was a child, his father would take him to the crossroads to watch a movie on a bicycle.
At that time, he didn't understand the meaning of the movie; he only knew that he was happy spending time with his father.
Chen Xun logged into Weibo and wrote a long post: "I am an actor, born in China, and now working in Hollywood. My job is to do my best to play every role well and tell every story well. The Hunger Games is a global team effort, and its success belongs to all participants and all viewers. I am very grateful for the huge support from Chinese audiences, and this support is an important driving force for me to move forward."
"Arguing about where you work or who you like doesn't represent a certain stance. Film is a language that transcends borders. A good story can move anyone. I love movies and hope that more people can enjoy the joy and reflection they bring."
"Two things are hereby announced:"
"1. To thank all the domestic audiences who purchased tickets to support 'The Hunger Games,' I will be holding a lucky draw. See the image for details (detailed rules, participation methods, verification methods, and notarization information are attached). One thousand iPhone 5s, two hundred iPads, and one hundred iPod Touches will be given away as a token of my gratitude."
"2. I will personally fund the Rural Film Search Charity Project, dedicated to enabling children in remote rural areas to watch excellent films for free. Details will be announced later."
"Thank you for all the kindness. May light and shadow illuminate more corners."
Chen Xun did not vehemently refute, nor did he try to elicit sympathy or complain about how difficult it was for him to venture out into the world.
He was simply stating his decision.
The Weibo post went viral instantly.
The fans, who were initially somewhat aggrieved and angry, suddenly erupted in cheers: "My God! A thousand iPhone 5s! Brother Xun is awesome!"
"I cried, I really cried! Our support for you wasn't in vain!"
"Giving back to the audience through a lucky draw, and responding to slander with charity! That's a truly grand vision!"
"Don't those haters feel the sting? What can you do besides typing on keyboards? I'd rather do charity work!"
"The Rural Film Search Project is so meaningful! I support it! I want to sign up as a volunteer!"
"This is what a responsible idol should be!"
"I felt so stifled after being scolded before, but now I've finally gotten my revenge! Brother Xun is awesome!"
Public opinion shifted almost instantly.
Tangible benefits and well-intentioned charitable programs are far more powerful than any weak excuses.
Many passersby also chimed in with their praise: "Whether you're a fan or not, I'm impressed by this move. Giving back to the audience with real money and doing charity with real money is a million times better than empty talk."
"Those who are cursing, why don't your masters take a thousand cell phones and see? Or donate two million US dollars to charity and see?"
"I became a fan because of this rural film-hunting project. People who do good deeds deserve support."
The initial smear posts and mockery were quickly drowned out by the wave of "hoping to win the prize" and "supporting public welfare," appearing powerless and laughable.
The haters probably didn't expect Chen Xun to act so unpredictably.
By directly overturning the table and using financial power and positive energy to break the deadlock, no new flaws could be found for the time being.
Just half an hour after Chen Xun posted on Weibo, Robert called again.
"Bro, I just got off a call with Kevin Sanders, Senior Vice President of International Publishing at Lionsgate."
Rob spoke quickly: "They're paying close attention to what you've been saying on Chinese social media!"
Chen Xun is looking for information about rural film screening programs.
If we're going to do this, we can't just pay the money and then ignore it!
He had heard plenty about the unspoken rules in this world in his previous life.
It's like how the donations from those who gave money in a past life often didn't reach the people who truly needed them.
Chen Xun was somewhat puzzled by what Robert said on the phone.
Rob continued, "Lionsgate was shocked by your big spending, especially the Rural Film Search project. They believe it's not just a public relations move, but a visionary and positive brand-building initiative."
"Lionsgate's branch in China had just been established, and they wanted to get involved."
Now it was Chen Xun's turn to be a little surprised: "How do I participate?"
"sponsor!"
Rob uttered the words: "Lionsgate is willing to fully sponsor your fan appreciation event in the name of the company, including the 1,000 mobile phones and tablets, as well as the initial equipment purchase and part of the operating costs of the Rural Film Project. He said this is the company's way of thanking you for your outstanding contributions to the Hunger Games project, and also a gesture of giving back to important markets together with our partners."
Chen Xun remained silent for a few seconds, his mind racing.
Lionsgate's reaction was quick and their calculations were quite shrewd.
"Do they want naming rights? Or are there some other conditions?"
Chen Xun asked directly.
There's no such thing as a free lunch in Hollywood, especially not from the generosity of production companies.
"clever!"
Rob expressed his appreciation for Chen Xun's response: "There are conditions, of course, but they are not harsh. They hope that in all related promotional materials and follow-up reports, the words 'Lionsgate's honorary support' or 'Special thanks to Lionsgate' will appear, preferably alongside your personal name."
"At the same time, they want to obtain the exclusive rights to provide film and television content for the Rural Film Search Project for the next three years. This means that films with Lionsgate's copyright can occupy a priority and prominent position in the film list, and of course, they will provide the film source for free."
"If future plans expand to involve more complex collaborations or commercialization explorations, Lionsgate has the right of first refusal in negotiations."
Robert paused, then added, "Kevin specifically emphasized that this is just company-level support and will not interfere with your personal decisions and plans. They are more of a sponsor and content partner than a leader, adopting a rather humble stance."
After listening, Chen Xun understood.
Lionsgate has capitalized on the popularity of this event and its long-term positive effects, aiming to use a small investment to achieve a more humanized brand integration in the Chinese market.
This investment is just a drop in the ocean compared to their earnings of 1.1 billion yuan.
By packaging commercial sponsorship as a thank you to Chen Xun for his contributions to the film, it looks good both on the surface and in reality.
It can also bind him, the core actor, more closely to the company's business, paving the way for sequel collaborations and even other projects.
This is a clever plan, but it's not exactly offensive.
At least prices should be clearly marked so that everyone can get what they need.
"What do you think?" Chen asked Robert.
"From a business perspective, this is a win-win situation."
Rob explained, "This will save you a significant amount of cash, which you can then use to invest elsewhere or further into your plans."
"The addition of Lionsgate will provide a more stable source of films and a certain level of professional support, allowing the Rural Film Search Project to get off to a more solid start and gain greater momentum."
"For them, this is a low-cost but potentially highly effective brand marketing and social responsibility demonstration that can further solidify their friendly image in the eyes of Chinese audiences and officials, and directly benefit the promotion of your next film in China."
"From a public relations perspective, this can also completely silence the doubts of those haters."
Rob patiently explained, "If you were to fund it yourself, some people might criticize you for putting on a show or trying to whitewash your image. But now that a Hollywood production company is proactively funding it, it becomes an international partnership recognizing and supporting your charitable act. It has a higher level of prestige and better reflects your industry influence and recognition."
Chen Xun fell into deep thought.
Rob's analysis is spot on. Accepting Lionsgate's sponsorship is more beneficial than harmful.
The key point is that the conditions proposed by Lionsgate did not cross his bottom line.
He still holds the reins of the plan.
There is another advantage, which Rob is unaware of.
That is, once foreign capital is involved, Chen Xun's lottery event, including the "Rural Shadow Search Project," will be much more convenient than if Chen Xun personally funds it.
Those who want to interfere will also be hesitant.
"Sure, but I have a few requirements."
Chen Xun would not let Lionsgate reap the benefits: "My personal name must come first in the publicity; Lionsgate is the supporting party."
"They can provide a list of recommended films, but the final selection of films must be decided by the project team based on local conditions and cultural suitability. Unsuitable films cannot be forced in."
"Finances must be transparent. Lionsgate's sponsorship funds are managed in a dedicated account, and brief reports are published regularly."
"No problem, I will discuss these as core terms."
Rob immediately responded, "I knew you'd agree. I'll get back to Kevin right away and finalize the details as soon as possible."
Lionsgate's efficiency is astonishing.
In less than 48 hours, a draft of a sponsorship cooperation memorandum was sent to Robert's email, and the terms basically met Chen Xun's requirements.
At the same time, Lionsgate's official account in China also issued a statement: "We are incredibly proud of the extraordinary success of The Hunger Games, which is inseparable from the tremendous enthusiasm for watching the Hunger Games around the world, especially in China."
"We were deeply moved to learn about Mr. Chen Xun's rural film-seeking charity project and his efforts to give back to his fans. In gratitude for Mr. Chen Xun's outstanding contributions and to fulfill our commitment to long-term tours in key markets, Lionsgate has decided to fully sponsor and support this initiative."
"Film has the power to connect people's hearts. We, along with Mr. Chen Xun, will bring the light of film to more people who need it. #HungryGames #Lionsgate
"Official sponsorship by Lionsgate? That's impressive!"
"This shows that Xun Ge has really established himself in Hollywood; the company is really supporting him!"
"Double the joy! My favorite film company is supporting my favorite actor in doing charity work!"
"This collaboration is very meaningful, and I hope it can really help the children."
"Those haters have nothing to say now, right? It's a good thing that Hollywood companies approve of it."
Chen Xunjian posted Lionsgate's statement, along with the caption: "Thank you @Lionsgate for your recognition and support. It is our common wish to let more people see good movies. The rural film search is about to begin."
A few days later, Rob brought news that the final agreement had been reached and the first sponsorship payment had been received.
Chen Xun also reissued the lottery event description according to the new plan, adding the words "Honored by Lionsgate".
The heat of the fiber has reached a new high.
Chen Xun's lucky draw officially kicked off over the weekend.
The entire internet is flooded with the keywords "Chen Xun fans" and "iPhone 5".
The lottery page that Chen Xun posted on Weibo had an alarmingly high number of visits. The technical team had to work overnight to expand the server capacity to prevent it from being overwhelmed by enthusiastic fans and curious passersby.
Verify ticket stub, register information, click to participate —
Countless people are glued to their computers and phones, holding their breath, waiting for the lottery results to be announced.
Robert called and said, "Bro, do you know how many people participated in this fitness movement? You'll be shocked!"
"A full two million!"
"The person at Lionsgate responsible for data sourcing said this is absolutely record-breaking for online promotions targeting a single market in Hollywood!"
Chen Xun just smiled.
He is more concerned about whether the process is fair and transparent.
To this end, the team responsible for the lottery specially invited a third-party notary office to supervise the entire process, the lottery algorithm was also professionally audited, and all winning results corresponded to a unique ticket stub verification code and Weibo ID, thus eliminating the possibility of cheating to the greatest extent.
On the day of the lottery draw, Weibo became a massive celebration of good wishes.
The lucky winners couldn't wait to post screenshots of their winning notifications, their captions overflowing with joy: "Ahhhhh I won! An iPhone 5! Brother-in-law, I love you!"
"Even I, with my terrible luck, have achieved something like this! Thank you, Brother Xun! Thank you, Lionsgate!"
"I just received a text message, my hands are shaking! This is the closest I've ever been to Hollywood!"
"iPad! I can use it to binge-watch dramas now! Happiness came so suddenly!"
Fans who didn't win were devastated, lamenting, "I'm crying, Lady Luck really doesn't love me."
"Breaking in the good luck! Congratulations to the lucky winners!"
"Even though I didn't win, seeing so many people happy makes it all worthwhile! Brother Xun is so generous!"
"It's okay! We still have rural film screenings, we want to volunteer there!"
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