Chapter 41: Film Screening Approved, Submission for Review

The screening proceeded in silence. The light from the large screen played across everyone’s faces, reflecting their varying expressions. Jiang Wang found himself increasingly shocked and incredulous as the film progressed.

At first, he had maintained a critical and scrutinizing gaze, but as the plot unfolded, he began glancing frequently at Cheng Cheng in the back row. Was this movie really made by him in just 48 days? Cheng Cheng, thinking "Old Man Jiang" wanted popcorn, offered it to him several times, wondering why he wouldn't take it.

Finally, the two-hour film concluded. Throughout the process, aside from a few gasps, there was no sound in the screening room. Everyone was watching with intense focus. When the film ended and the credits began to roll, Jiang Wang was still reeling; it wasn't until the theater lights came on that he seemed to snap out of his trance.

The secretary spoke up, "Let’s hear everyone’s thoughts."

In the back, the reviewers looked at one another. What was there to say? How could they even begin? Was this truly shot by a newcomer? And in just 48 days? With a cast of has-beens? It was unbelievable!

After a long pause, one reviewer stood up and said, "I'll go first. I think—"

Before he could continue, Jiang Wang suddenly coughed, interrupting him: "Speak truthfully, speak fairly. Do not be biased."

The reviewer froze, then suddenly understood. Was the wind changing direction? If Chairman Jiang had wanted him to suppress Cheng Cheng as previously arranged, there would have been no need to say that. Unless, of course, the Chairman himself had been stunned by the film, making the prior arrangements inappropriate. He breathed a sigh of relief. He could have slandered the film if forced, but it would have been difficult to justify. If he could be fair, things were much simpler.

He quickly discarded his prepared remarks and rephrased: "First, from a production standpoint, this film is undeniably a work of excellence. The visual effects, sound design, and score all reach a remarkably high standard..." As he spoke, he observed Jiang Wang’s reaction. Seeing the Chairman nodding repeatedly, he felt reassured that his guess was correct.

The other reviewers signaled their agreement. He continued, "The depiction of the scam process is particularly compelling. Furthermore, the acting is a major highlight. However, while *No More Bets* performs exceptionally well in many respects, there are some issues. For instance, in its portrayal of tension and conflict, the film leans too heavily into excitement, perhaps neglecting a deeper exploration of the characters' inner lives. Some plot points feel slightly rushed..."

"All in all, it is a very competent film. To be honest, I truly find it hard to believe this was made in 48 days."

His summary voiced the inner thoughts of many in the room. If the industry knew such a film had been completed in 48 days, it would cause an earthquake. Great directors who spend years on a single project would be ashamed enough to hang themselves.

One by one, the reviewers gave their opinions. While they varied, the consensus was that despite minor flaws and a lack of profound artistic depth, it was undoubtedly a blockbuster with massive commercial potential. One reviewer even estimated a box office of one billion.

***

Walking out of the theater, Jiang Wang felt as though he had been slapped in the face. When he heard the film had taken only 48 days, he hadn't bothered to investigate; he had jumped to conclusions, labeled it a trash film, and intended to make an example of Cheng Cheng. As it turned out, reality was the complete opposite of his expectations. His face burned.

The secretary whispered, "Chairman Jiang, I apologize. My assessment was wrong."

Jiang Wang waved his hand. He wasn't petty enough to blame his secretary. "It’s not your fault. I was also prejudiced. Cheng Cheng is truly not a man to be judged by conventional standards."

***

In a meeting room, Cheng Cheng and Beret sat across from Jiang Wang. This was the first time Jiang Wang had observed Cheng Cheng at such close range. He realized the man was indeed inhumanly handsome—far surpassing his own appearance in his youth. It was no wonder his daughter was so close to him.

"I have to ask again, was this really made in 48 days?" Jiang asked.

Cheng Cheng replied, "Yes. Nearly a month of preparation, 12 days of filming, and 8 days of post-production and editing."

Preparation took up more than half the time. If he were given a more professional crew and more resources, how fast could he make a film? Jiang Wang couldn't help but entertain the thought. In the film market, time is money. Many stars have short golden windows; the more films they can churn out, the more they earn. A short production cycle also means a faster return on investment. This was a golden opportunity!

But Jiang quickly regained his composure. He was getting ahead of himself; the film hadn't been released yet, and everything remained to be seen.

***

Jiang Wang began discussing the next steps. First was the rating and the amount of promotional resources Vans Pictures would allocate. The quality of the film was not an issue; the only—and most critical—problem was the public's current acceptance of Cheng Cheng. Though he had won his legal battles, it did not mean the public had accepted him back.

In reality, Cheng Cheng was currently a pariah. He wasn't being discussed for his talent or his work, but for a string of scandals and controversies. For a public figure, this was disastrous. Whether the public would accept him remained an unknown. Whether they would be willing to spend money at the cinema to see him was an even greater unknown. After all, even at his peak, no one was willing to pay to see his movies. Furthermore, the cast was comprised of unknowns or has-beens. Did they really have any box office appeal?

Jiang Wang felt a pang of regret. If he had bought the script back then, hired a top director, and cast his own daughter, the current dilemma wouldn't exist. Nannan might have even become a serious film actress overnight.

Next was the submission for censorship. Cheng Cheng’s connections and channels certainly couldn't compare to Vans Pictures'. Using their channels would save a great deal of time.

Jiang Wang said calmly, "I will arrange for someone to submit the film as soon as possible. While we wait for the review, please be patient. The company will discuss and decide on the rating for the film."

"Understood." Cheng Cheng placed a USB drive on the table. "Chairman Jiang, these are some ideas I had for promotion, including some videos and copy. Your company can use them as a reference. I hope they help with the rating process."

Jiang Wang told his secretary to take it and pass it to the head of the marketing department. "Very well. I will have my team look it over. Add my secretary's contact information. We will notify you once it passes review."

After exchanging contact details, Cheng Cheng and Beret left the building. Beret felt a weight lifted off his shoulders. They had done everything they could; now, it was just a matter of waiting for the censorship board.

"I can finally go home and spend some time with my wife and kids," Beret said, tilting his head. "Director Cheng, what are you doing in the next few days?"

Cheng Cheng replied, "The National God of Cookery Competition is starting. I’m going to compete tomorrow."

Beret was speechless. It wasn't the National God of Cookery Competition; it was the entry-level chef qualification exam! And, were you actually planning on taking it?!