My Virtual Girlfriend-Chapter 431: There Aren’t Many Gentleman Like Me Anymore (6000 words)

Chapter 431: Chapter 431: There Aren’t Many Gentleman Like Me Anymore (6000 words)

Chen Yan glanced at He Mengxue, the woman who had regained her enthusiasm after "a good night’s sleep," and remained silent.

He tilted the screen toward He Mengxue and then tapped on the video app.

The app opened to the homepage featuring the Xu Brothers Film Company’s press conference.

It was only when He Mengxue saw the headlines that she realized why Chen Yan suddenly didn’t get out of bed.

She lay in Chen Yan’s arms, her beautiful eyes fixed on the screen as she remarked with emotion, "The Xu Brothers Film Company truly is something. Holding a press conference and even having it featured and live broadcasted by the three major streaming platforms."

Chen Yan silently nodded, then started formulating some guesses in his mind.

As he speculated, he clicked on the link to the press conference.

Suddenly, the screen switched to show the Xu Brothers’ younger brother, Xu Zhaoqing, and Director Zhang, sitting behind the conference table, making introductions.

While looking at his notes, Xu Zhaoqing said, "As one of the top three film and television companies in the country, we should set an example and lead the industry."

"Therefore, this time, our three companies have joined forces to develop these projects to elevate the overall quality of domestic film and television productions,"

"We will invest these twenty billion over the next five years into the industry."

"We will promote the great integration of the film and television industry and create a batch of quality works."

"Whether it’s movies, TV series, or variety shows, we will be involved in all of them."

While speaking, he pressed the page turner in his hand, and instantly, the names and photos of several actors appeared on the large screen in front of everyone. They were all top-tier celebrities... and all top-tier movie stars.

Included were an international award-winning actress, actresses who had received multiple golden awards, and well-known, talented award-winning actors.

Every celebrity there was top of their game, a box office guarantee, proven to have the ability to carry box office sales on their own.

Then, Xu Zhaoqing, with a profound look, swept his gaze across the audience and said, "These outstanding actors and actresses will join our first batch of film and television projects as partners."

"And our Director Zhang will also take part in this grand plan, working with all the actors to deliver a visual feast for everyone."

A reporter raised their hand and asked, "May I ask, President Xu, does gathering these actors and actresses mean that you have major moves planned in the film Industry?"

Xu Zhaoqing smiled and replied, "We do have major moves in store for film. However, these actors and actresses will not be involved in them."

"They will be participating in... TV series."

Xu Zhaoqing paused for a moment, then said, "That is to say, these actors and actresses will be transitioning from the big screen to the small screen for the first time."

"Stepping out from movies, into TV series, they will deliver film-level performances on television!"

"And our Director Zhang will personally handle one of the TV series, providing a cinematic visual experience on the small screen."

The journalists were in a stir upon hearing Xu Zhaoqing’s words.

The entertainment industry is one that prioritizes status and seniority. Even among top celebrities, they are hierarchically categorized by their works.

Among all film and television projects, movies are considered the most prestigious.

Once an actor has proven themselves on the big screen, they rarely return to TV series or variety shows, as it would be seen as a step down.

Some celebrities who started with film roles never even shoot TV series in their entire career.

Naturally, they sit at the top of the entertainment industry’s food chain.

To engage these top-tier movie stars, who typically only shoot films, would require a huge amount of capital and a vast network of connections.

And now, Xu Zhaoqing had managed to bring five distinguished actors and actresses on board for television series. The people present were astounded.

Seeing the reaction of the audience, Xu Zhaoqing smiled with satisfaction.

Since the recent success of the "Sunrise Project," he and his brother, Xu Zhaorong, knew that Chenlu Film Company was gaining momentum. The Xu Brothers Film Company had only two options: fight back or face inevitable demise.

After years of struggling in the entertainment and film industry, he and his brother were certainly not ready to be defeated by a newcomer.

Thus, after much deliberation, they decided to accept the olive branch from Zhao Group.

Moreover, with the help of Zhao Group, they gained the support of many domestic investors.

After receiving support, Xu Zhaorong initiated this twenty-billion plan tailored to take on Chenlu Film Company.

And after winning over two other major domestic film and television companies. Utilizing the goodwill and resources accumulated by these companies over the years, they gathered a group of acclaimed actors and actresses, all for today’s remarkable surprise!

It was known that although there had been instances of actors and actresses participating in television, there had never been so many at once.

So, even though his brother Xu Zhaorong had been gloomy and tight-lipped these past few days, Xu Zhaoqing believed firmly that with these prominent figures, their TV series projects could not fail!

Thus, amidst the shocked gazes of those present, Xu Zhaoqing confidently continued detailing, "The actors and actresses joining us this time are all well-known by everyone."

"They include international movie star, Miss Zhang Yi."

"The golden actress, Miss Zhou Yu."

"The golden horse award-winning actor, Mr. Zhang Zhen."

"..."

"The projects we have chosen are all based on major IPs with guaranteed content quality."

"Some of the series will even be personally directed by our Director Zhang."

"Everyone can look forward to them."

Hearing Xu Zhaoqing’s introduction, another reporter raised their hand and inquired, "Hello, President Xu. Would you mind revealing some of the characters that the actors are interested in playing?"

With a smile, Xu Zhaoqing responded, "Of course. Miss Zhang Yi will play a teenage girl at the age of over thirty."

"Everyone will get to appreciate her youthful beauty as it appeared during her teen years on screen."

"Miss Zhou Yu will, for the first time, star in a costume drama, playing an enchantress known across the heavens."

"Mr. Zhang Zhen will also move away from his usual tough-guy image to act in a fantasy idol drama, showing everyone a different side of him."

"...."

Hearing Xu Zhaoqing’s introductions, the journalists exchanged glances.

Clearly, they were all taken aback by the results.

They had assumed that the actors would stick to their usual character types that they’re best at, but unexpectedly, they’re all stepping out of their comfort zones?

Put nicely, it denotes an artistic pursuit; less charitably, it might be called... too risky, right?

Just as everyone was pondering the Xu Brothers’ strategy, Xu Zhaoqing dropped another bombshell, "In addition to TV series, we’re also making significant investments in variety shows."

"We’ve invested a massive sum to acquire several popular variety show formats from abroad."

"Preparations for them are in full swing."

"In our programs, only celebrities of second-tier status and above can join as regulars."

"For our top-tier program, there will even be permanent participation by award-winning actors."

"When choosing special guest appearances, we also plan to invite mega-star singers to join the programs."

"We assure you that our variety shows will have the most prestigious cast lineups in the country!"

Upon hearing Xu Zhaoqing’s words, the reporters were astounded once again.

Such grand schemes again?

Permanent appearances by award-winning actors and flying visits by mega-star singers?

Which domestic program can match this level of celebrity involvement?

Immediately, a journalist raised their hand and questioned, "President Xu, could you kindly reveal the list of personalities you intend to invite?"

Xu Zhaoqing’s enigmatic smile, "It’s not convenient to disclose."

"But..." he elongated his tone, adding, "I can share a piece of news with everyone. The mega-star singer Sister Xun will appear as a special guest in multiple programs."

When Xu Zhaoqing spoke, the people present were stunned yet again.

Sister Xun, a true mega-star singer, is among the top in the music world today.

She has sung many widely popular songs and is also known for her straightforward personality.

And they got her to join a variety show?

How much did the Xu Brothers have to pay?

Xu Zhaoqing continued, "Moreover, regarding the film. We have plans."

"We believe that science fiction is the way forward for domestic movies, so we’ve purchased Jiang Nan’s acclaimed work ’Magic City Fortress’ with plans to invest five to seven billion to produce a large-scale sci-fi movie."

"To support new actors, we will also give preference to those with a fan base who haven’t had the opportunity to shine, providing such actors with a chance to take leading roles."

"For example, the recently popular star Lu Xiaohan, we are interested in collaborating with."

One bombshell after another left everyone astonished.

Even He Mengxue, who didn’t usually pay much attention to the film industry, was impressed by their lavish lineup, exclaiming, "My goodness. The Xu Brothers have really played a royal flush."

"So many award-winning actors and actresses, mega-stars, and top-tier traffic celebrities."

"They’re planning to build a super-luxury entertainment carrier!"

As she reflected on this, Chen Yan, who was holding He Mengxue, remained silent for a long time.

Because... he felt something was not quite right.

It wasn’t that he had any special insight or had seen some information, but from his experience over the years creating content, he felt... the Xu Brothers seemed to have gone off course.

Since when does the success of a TV series depend on who has the biggest name or the most fans?

The most critical aspect of the film industry is content quality!

If it’s just about piling up stars and capital, and even asking actors to leave their comfort zone and push themselves, Chen Yan felt... this is bound to flop.

After all, the film industry is inherently high-risk. The rule of the game is to choose the right people, the right style.

With so many uncertain factors in the Xu Brothers’ approach, how could they reduce the risk and produce quality work?

Chen Yan was skeptical. ƒгeeweɓn૦vel.com

And concerning the idea of inviting mega-stars to variety shows, Chen Yan was even more puzzled.

Variety shows need humor, ad-libs, and interplay among the guests.

Given these mega-stars’ entertainment industry status, would other guests dare to interact with them freely?

If interaction isn’t possible, and they don’t even dare to joke around, always deferring to the mega-star singers, would anyone still watch the shows?

And regarding casting traffic celebrities in a sci-fi movie, Chen Yan was even more bewildered.

In sci-fi movies, the genre itself is crucial.

Humans are really just a backdrop.

Paying a hefty price for traffic celebrities... is this about making a movie, or is it about promoting individuals?

Honestly, seeing the Xu Brothers’ sensational tactics, Chen Yan didn’t know if they’ve become overconfident due to Zhao Group’s support, hoping to take a big gamble.

Or if they have been driven by capital to make corresponding compromises.

Or perhaps... money laundering?

Amidst Chen Yan’s utter bafflement, the grand press conference finally came to an end.

And at the close of the press conference, the Xu Brothers also revealed why the event was broadcasted on CoolMeow: they had not only selected the IPs, cast, and directors, but they had also found a network broadcasting platform – that is CoolMeow.

These movies, variety shows, and TV series, will all be broadcast on CoolMeow.

Effectively, this established a strategic partnership between the parties.

The press conference ended, and He Mengxue, lying in Chen Yan’s arms, couldn’t help but glance at him before whispering comfortingly, "Chen Yan, don’t put too much pressure on yourself."

"The film and television market is inherently unpredictable, having competitors is normal."

"Even if we fail, we still have the investment company."

"With the growth trend of Headline Technology alone, with their shares, we won’t have to worry about food and drink for the rest of our lives."

She paused for a moment then continued, "Even if Headline Technology wasn’t successful and we lost everything, you could always return to the He family with me."

"Our He family is very wealthy. By the time you marry me, I’ll be the chairperson, and you’ll be the general manager, you’d be in control of the He family’s assets worth hundreds of billions. You’ll be the true helmsman of the He family."

"Just treat me well, and I won’t fuss over anything you do."

Chen Yan gave her an odd look.

Is this the confidence of the wealthy class?

To fall back on inheriting a fortune of hundreds of billions if you fail?

At that moment, Chen Yan really wanted to shout: Wealthy lady, I’m starving. I don’t want to try hard anymore!

But the problem was... Chen Yan didn’t feel a smidgen of pressure from Xu Brothers Film Company’s recent moves!

So, he flicked He Mengxue’s forehead with his finger and said, "Who told you I was under pressure?"

He disdainfully said, "With that combo move from Xu Brothers, I feel like I don’t even have to lift a finger, they will knock themselves out."

"What kind of crappy plans are these?"

"Celebrities acting in TV dramas?"

"Do they think everyone is Sister Xun?"

"Having kings and queens star in variety shows? How will other artists cope?"

"Having popular celebrities in sci-fi? That’s even more ridiculous."

Hearing Chen Yan’s no-holds-barred criticism, He Mengxue couldn’t help but cover her mouth and giggle.

Chen Yan looked at her curiously and asked, "What are you laughing at?"

Suppressing her laughter, He Mengxue said, "Chen Yan, you just now... you sounded exactly like a villain."

"The type who disparages the protagonist’s plan with all sorts of scathing mockery."

"And then ends up getting slapped in the face by the protagonist time and time again."

Chen Yan: ...

Not to mention, being told so by He Mengxue, Chen Yan actually did feel like he resembled that a bit.

He couldn’t help but begin to reflect on his own behavior.

When he had launched the "Sunrise Project," hadn’t everyone in the circle doubted him?

So many famous directors and golden producers, how many of them thought he would succeed?

And now, weren’t Xu Brothers just like him back then?

Although they didn’t have Golden Finger and couldn’t see the potential of projects or judge their success...

They did have more than twenty years of experience, after all.

Perhaps they might actually turn the tide and produce a major hit!

With this thought, Chen Yan felt that He Mengxue had a point. He should indeed be more cautious. Take this seriously.

Thinking this way, Chen Yan also subdued his expression and said to He Mengxue, "You’re right."

"I shouldn’t assume they’re going to fail before their projects come out."

"Since they are the enemy, I should go all out in response."

Seeing Chen Yan regain his usual composure in just a few seconds, He Mengxue’s gaze sparkled all the more.

She asked with a smile, "So... as the person who reminded you, shouldn’t I receive a reward?"

Chen Yan placed his hand on her, hugged her gently, then said, "Then I’ll reward you with a hug."

Hearing Chen Yan’s words, He Mengxue slowly shook her head, "Is that all?"

With that, she climbed up from Chen Yan’s body, propping her hands on either side of his head, looking condescendingly at Chen Yan with a seductive gaze, and in that ultimate enticing tone, she asked,

"Don’t you believe in giving and taking?"

"I just did you such a big favor."

Her face lowered, the shell-peeled egg’s white and delicate complexion almost touching Chen Yan’s face.

"Shouldn’t you... give me a bigger reward?"

Chen Yan eyed He Mengxue’s provocative movements and swallowed hard.

Then his gaze shifted downward; He Mengxue’s slip dress was quite loose, and when she leaned forward, the neckline opened wide, the blinding whiteness nearly making him dizzy.

But, strong willpower allowed Chen Yan to resist that moment of temptation.

He stretched out his hands, took He Mengxue into his arms, then with a roll, he flipped her underneath him, his hand pressing at her collarbone...

Seeing Chen Yan’s bold move, He Mengxue’s face flushed with color, her heart rate sped up, and her body trembled slightly. Her eyes became misty, as if expecting something, yet also somewhat fearful.

But just when the air seemed to still, Chen Yan quickly pressed her neckline down and said, "You just had a wardrobe malfunction."

"You can’t wear such loose clothing in the future."

"Not many people are as chivalrous as I am."

With that, Chen Yan quickly let go of He Mengxue’s hands and briskly left the master bedroom, leaving behind He Mengxue lying there clueless.

After a while, a shriek came from the master bedroom, "Ah! Chen Yan! Are you even a man?"

In the bathroom, Chen Yan, taking off his clothes ready for a shower, hummed a tune and shook his head, "Am I a man?"

"Once you change your mind, why not give it a try!"

"Hmph."

"You’re shouting now, what good does that do?"

Perhaps because Chen Yan was too unromantic, He Mengxue continued to give him the cold shoulder after that.

After breakfast, the security door magically fixed itself without Chen Yan mentioning anything.

Chen Yan, who now really enjoyed teasing He Mengxue, knowing fully well about everything between them yet still chose to provoke her, said, "Wow. This door is really magical. Breaks when it says so and fixes itself just as easily."

"Had I not known better, I would’ve thought it was under your control."

Peeved, He Mengxue wanted even less to deal with this scoundrel now.

So, upon reaching the company, He Mengxue exceptionally didn’t pester Chen Yan further, didn’t even utter a "goodbye," and left the elevator with a cold face.

Watching He Mengxue’s chilly silhouette, Chen Yan found that when the girl was angry, she exuded a bit of Yang Rou’s serene elegance, which made one feel all the more desire to conquer.

While idly thinking, Chen Yan followed the elevator upwards.

Because of Xu Brothers’ sudden strike, Chen Yan had a meeting at the film company today.

When the elevator reached the 17th floor, Chen Yan got off, straightened his shirt, and headed straight for the conference room.

Today, there was none of the usual ease and joy at Chenlu Film; the atmosphere was oppressive.

Obviously, Xu Brothers collaborating with several major companies for a targeted production plan similar to the "Sunrise Project," with a host of movie kings and queens leading, pressured everyone.

They had just experienced Lu Man’s "dimensional attack" shock.

To date, "Soul Suppressing: Netherworld" had already accumulated over 40 million in profit-sharing box office, becoming the highest-grossing web film in history.

And it was still climbing, utterly crushing all other web movies.

So, seeing other top stars following suit and launching a "dimensional attack," what would be the fate of Chenlu Film? Everyone was beating drums in their hearts.

But Chen Yan didn’t ignore the employee’s low morale.

He greeted each employee with a smile as he passed by, making small talk.

As the backbone and the core of the company’s consistent victories, Chen Yan’s confidence and composure brought considerable reassurance to everyone.

So, as Chen Yan passed, the company’s atmosphere gradually livened up.

Even if it hadn’t returned to its original liveliness, it was much better than the stiffness from earlier.

So, following this, Chen Yan reached the conference room.

At the doorstep of the conference room, he happened to run into Lu Man and Mei Li.

Chen Yan greeted them with a smile.

Seeing him, they both seemed to have found their pillar, hurrying over.

Especially Lu Man, who relaxed a great deal upon seeing Chen Yan after bearing a slightly heavy expression.

She sidled up to him, whispering coquettishly, "You finally arrived. I was so worried last night I couldn’t sleep."

Chen Yan smiled, about to reassure her.

But just then, Lu Man, in the middle of speaking, frowned, leaned in, and sniffed Chen Yan.

Then she looked up at him in suspicion and asked, "Wait. Chen Yan. Why do you smell like another woman?"

---

To date, "Soul Suppressing: Netherworld" had already accumulated over 40 million in profit-sharing box office, becoming the highest-grossing web film in history.

And it was still climbing, completely crushing all other web movies.

So, seeing other top stars following suit and launching a "dimensional attack," what would be the fate of Chenlu Film? Everyone was beating drums in their hearts.

But Chen Yan didn’t ignore the employee’s low morale.

He greeted each employee with a smile as he passed by, making small talk.

As the backbone and the core of the company’s consistent victories, Chen Yan’s confidence and composure brought considerable reassurance to everyone.

So, as Chen Yan passed, the company’s atmosphere gradually livened up.

Even if it hadn’t returned to its original liveliness, it was much better than the stiffness from earlier.

So, following this, Chen Yan reached the conference room.

At the doorstep of the conference room, he happened to run into Lu Man and Mei Li.

Chen Yan greeted them with a smile.

Seeing him, they both seemed to have found their pillar, hurrying over.

Especially Lu Man, who relaxed a great deal upon seeing Chen Yan after bearing a slightly heavy expression.

She sidled up to him, whispering coquettishly, "You finally arrived. I was so worried last night I couldn’t sleep."

Chen Yan smiled, about to reassure her.

But just then, Lu Man, in the middle of speaking, frowned, leaned in, and sniffed Chen Yan.

Then she looked up at him in suspicion and asked, "Wait. Chen Yan. Why do you smell like another woman?"

But just then, Lu Man, in the middle of speaking, frowned, leaned in, and sniffed Chen Yan.

Then she looked up at him in suspicion and asked, "Wait. Chen Yan. Why do you smell like another woman?"