Chapter 210: Chapter 174: The Company’s First Artist (2)
Who is Hu Ge?
He’s the leader among the young generation in Hua Country’s TV circle, and it’s not an exaggeration to call him the top influencer.
As the key figure of Tangren Film and Television, countless people pay attention to his movements. If the news gets out that Gu Bai is interested in poaching Hu Ge, this topic is sure to trend the next day.
"Chairman Gu, you might not like what I’m going to say. A lot of people in the entertainment circle are easy to poach—just offer enough benefits, and no one can resist. But Hu Ge is different...
Tangren Film and Television has been declining for so many years, have you ever heard any rumors of Hu Ge wanting to switch companies?
Frankly speaking, to poach Hu Ge, you’d need to acquire all of Tangren; otherwise, there’s almost no chance.
No sane person would do that now, as everyone knows it’s a losing investment just for one Hu Ge; it’s not worth it."
Gu Bai nodded, agreeing with Yang Function’s words.
"Some things are difficult to poach simply because the benefits offered aren’t enough. I’m capable of acquiring Hu Ge, including offering a decent price for the entire Tangren Film and Television. Plus, I currently have a project in the works. I believe if Hu Ge truly wants to break through the TV circle and step into the film industry, he won’t refuse this project.
Regarding the relationship between Tangren and Hu Ge, I’ve already sent someone to contact his parents.
Rumors say Hu Ge is a filial son, so if Tangren can play the emotional card, why can’t I?"
"But..."
Yang Function wanted to say something else, but considering his relationship with Gu Bai, he decided to swallow back his words.
"Actually, before this, I simply wanted to invite Hu Ge to participate in the anniversary celebration. Moreover, during the initial preparation of the project, I had already decided on Hu Ge as the lead, but I really dislike Tangren Film and Television’s attitude.
That’s just my temper.
If you respect me an inch, I’ll return a foot. But if you don’t give me face, I’ll make sure you feel uncomfortable."
Gu Bai has never claimed to be a good person. Since Tangren Film and Television doesn’t respect him, Gu Bai sees no reason to give them face.
After saying this, Gu Bai directly ended the topic.
Yang Function wisely chose not to continue the conversation.
While Gu Bai was still talking with Yang Function, a middle-aged man accompanied by a young man in ancient costume approached Gu Bai.
"Chairman Gu."
"Chairman Gu."
Two voices greeted Gu Bai.
Turning his head to look at the newcomers, Gu Bai immediately showed a slight smile and said, "Liu Peiyun, what were you just up to? I asked you to come over as the representative from our investors to oversee the filming. I’ve been here for half an hour before I saw you—this is neglect of duty. I might have to dock your salary."
The middle-aged man standing before him was the representative sent by Black Swan Capital at the time, also a supervisor from their company.
Liu Peiyun, knowing Gu Bai was joking, responded with a laugh: "Chairman Gu, you’re really wronging me here. If you don’t believe me, you can ask President Yang. I’m the earliest riser and the latest sleeper in the entire crew every day, more dedicated than these actors.
I didn’t even have time to attend the group’s founding ceremony, though I know you gave all your employees big red envelopes. Considering my dedication to the company, Chairman Gu, shouldn’t you think about giving me an even bigger red envelope?"
"As long as the Fuyao project succeeds, I guarantee the red envelope you get will be bigger than Xiao Qiang’s!"
"Let’s just forget about that..."
"Hahaha."
Xiao Qiang is the head of Black Swan Group’s entire film and television assets and Liu Peiyun’s direct superior. Even if Gu Bai offered a bigger red envelope than Xiao Qiang’s, he wouldn’t dare accept it.
"Ruo Yun, this is Chairman Gu, and he’s the one who specifically asked for you to play the lead role."
Liu Peiyun pulled Zhang Ruoyun over to introduce him.
Gu Bai sized up Zhang Ruoyun in front of him and nodded in satisfaction.
When it comes to ancient costume roles, Zhang Ruoyun isn’t particularly outstanding, but compared to the originally planned lead for Fuyao, Ruan Jingtian, he is far superior. And besides, Zhang Ruoyun hasn’t reached the popularity of his breakout hit "Joyful Years" yet, so his pay isn’t high. Furthermore, with Gu Bai personally choosing him, no one in the crew dared to object.
That’s how Ruan Jingtian, who was originally internally decided by Yang Function as the male lead, lost the role, while Zhang Ruoyun unwittingly became the lead in this 850 million production.
"Hello, Chairman Gu."
Zhang Ruoyun greeted Gu Bai a bit cautiously.
Gu Bai nodded slightly in acknowledgment, asking, "You should be getting acclimated to the crew, right? If there’s anything you’re unhappy about, let me know. Just so happens President Yang is here, and I’ll handle any issues for you."
Zhang Ruoyun, feeling somewhat overwhelmed, replied, "The crew is great. It’s my first time joining such a major production, and any usual problems are due to my shortcomings."
Yang Function was surprised to see how highly Gu Bai regarded Zhang Ruoyun, and he scrutinized the lead actor more closely.
Gu Bai nodded slightly.
"As long as everything’s fine. You’re the chosen lead actor, don’t let me down. If you affect the quality of this TV drama, it’s my face you’re tarnishing."
Zhang Ruoyun repeatedly promised he’d be cautious.
After some casual conversation, Gu Bai asked Zhang Ruoyun, "Your contract with your previous company should be nearing expiration, right?"
Zhang Ruoyun, suspecting what Gu Bai intended to say, immediately replied, "It expires in March next year. The company is already negotiating renewal terms with me."
Gu Bai calmly asked, "Interested in joining my company?"
Gu Bai’s proposition had barely finished before Zhang Ruoyun quickly responded, "I’m willing!"
"Don’t you want to hear what terms my company can offer?"
Gu Bai said, amusedly looking at him.
Zhang Ruoyun realized he had acted a bit rashly, and awkwardly chuckled.
"Given your position, Chairman Gu, how could your terms be worse than those of my previous company?"
This was a tactful way of flattering Gu Bai.
Gu Bai laughed as well.
"My artist agency is currently empty. If you agree to join our company, you might be the first artist we sign.
As for the terms, I won’t offer anything too extravagant. We’ll match your previous contract terms.
But I promise, joining Black Swan Artist Agency ensures you’ll participate in at least three large high-quality production TV and film projects each year. As for smaller productions, you’ll have the freedom to choose as long as the script is good. If you can accept this, I’ll have someone reach out to your current company, Mengzhou Media."
"I agree."
Zhang Ruoyun was indeed very perceptive, and the "Joyful Years" project probably wasn’t even initiated yet for the following year. Perhaps it’s time to consider grabbing that project in advance?
Gu Bai looked at Zhang Ruoyun in front of him with a bit of envy.
You know, her previous company wasn’t as generous as Gu Bai—resources were all self-fought.
If she didn’t own her own company now, she’d be tempted to join under Gu Bai with such conditions.
With three high-quality major production film and television projects a year, even a fool would be propelled into becoming a top influencer with such extensive exposure.