015 "Crazy Stone" Is Bound to Be a Big Hit!

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The protagonist had just made his debut. Wasn’t he already ruined, his family destroyed? So naturally, the audience’s anticipation was pinned on revenge. Yet, as the story unfolded, it veered off into the path of cultivation. Of course, that wasn’t completely unacceptable; a cultivation storyline certainly befits a grand fantasy epic. But what about the revenge plot? Why did the narrative chase that thread so intensely at the start, only to abandon it entirely later? The film was only about a third done, yet that initial hook was simply discarded. Plot holes are meant to be filled, aren’t they? Otherwise, why bother revealing the protagonist’s background in such detail? Perhaps the audience lacked sophisticated taste, but their judgment of the film was entirely based on the story presented. Sigh, what was expected to exceed expectations ended up being a major disappointment. At this moment, the viewers felt somewhat bored, the early thrill inexplicably gone. Yet, these were industry elites after all. They still kept up appearances, sitting obediently in their seats, eyes fixed earnestly on the screen, though their minds had long since wandered far away. As time dragged on, some even began stifling yawns. Cheng Jie, a manager with lofty ambitions but mediocre skills, was perceptive enough to notice the subtle shift in the atmosphere. A sly smile crept across his face. “Wang Xingxing, Wang Xingxing, always thinking so highly of yourself. The movie hasn’t even achieved anything yet, and you’re already showing your ungrateful nature? Hmph! I don’t mind giving you a lesson—let the old fox teach the young pup! After all, I am your boss.” Cheng Jie pulled out his phone and sent a message. Meanwhile, Wang Xingxing remained upright in his seat, wearing a composed, proud expression. After all, he was just a clever young man without great wisdom, not skilled enough to notice the subtle cues. He was still lost in fantasies of the film’s success, especially moved by the protagonist’s choice to forgo revenge and instead generously help the refugees who had killed his parents. Charity, selflessness! Wasn’t that the ultimate path? As a cultivator, one should transcend ordinary human grudges and embrace the eternal Dao. Those refugees had killed the protagonist’s parents, but they were merely surviving. One shouldn’t limit oneself; rather, one should view oneself from a higher dimension and appreciate the noble meaning of life! Ah! After tonight, who wouldn’t praise Wang Xingxing’s lofty spirit portrayed in the film? Would the audience fail to see this? Wang Xingxing frowned slightly. Maybe he should write an anonymous review later, highlighting and subtly claiming credit for these profound insights. That way, no one would misunderstand, and with his guidance, the film would surely be overanalyzed by pretentious cinephiles. Time would pass, and this movie would become a monumental epic in film history, an unparalleled masterpiece—and he, the young director, the god of creation! Immersed in his own self-satisfaction, Wang Xingxing failed to notice the stunned expressions of the audience, who were increasingly baffled by the unclear intentions of the scenes. The film was neither outright bad nor clearly good; every frame was grand and majestic—after all, a billion-yuan investment wasn’t for nothing. Yet, as for the story, it was incoherent, jumbled like a chaotic stew. Unlike a well-cooked dish where ingredients blend harmoniously, this film’s disjointed plot left the senses unsettled. As industry leaders, they simply couldn’t accept such illogical and unrealistic nonsense. “I just can’t do it.” Despite their efforts to maintain decorum, their discomfort was evident; they shifted anxiously in their seats. Though less than fifteen minutes remained, they felt restless and uneasy, longing for the ordeal to end. Honestly, even a dull meeting would be more entertaining. Soon, whispering became the norm. Someone noticed with surprise that the seats by the door were now empty—were some sneaking out early?

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The elites exchanged knowing glances. Thus, those who had come for an audiovisual treat quietly slipped away. But because of the large crowd and the seasoned media veterans present, they paid no mind to this small setback. So, from Wang Xingxing’s perspective, the auditorium still seemed fully occupied. Moreover, the guests wore solemn expressions—surely, that meant they understood the film’s deeper meanings? As the story neared its end, Wang Xingxing’s excitement surged again. He had penned the closing narration: “The Dao is formless, boundless is great love!” What a grand and resounding declaration! The film concluded, and the theater lights gently brightened, casting a soft glow over Wang Xingxing’s head. At that moment, he felt like a fallen deity among his adoring angels. Taking a deep breath, he slowly turned his head. “Where is everyone?” What he didn’t realize was that while he was lost in his emotions, the few media representatives who had stayed until the finale were already swiftly making their exit. They left with dazed eyes and trembling lips, as if they had endured some cruel torment. Park Fang felt dazed. Who was he? Where was he? What was he even doing here today? Oh, right—to make money! But was this money easy to earn? Dragging his feet, he nearly howled at the sky. This money, he feared, he wouldn’t get. After all, no one could honestly lie to themselves. Sigh, what a loss! These two-plus hours were wasted. He regretted persevering. Wouldn’t it have been better to leave early like some of the others? This damned occupational sickness! What was he hoping for? A thousand curses ran through his mind, mocking this man who bent over for a few coins. Ugh! Money is hard to earn, and shit is hard to swallow! From now on, he vowed not to restrain himself anymore. If it was time to leave, then leave! Burning with anger, he knew tonight would be a sleepless one. What to do? “Don’t miss it! ‘Crazy Stone’ is showing now!” “Only ten minutes left, no lines!” Someone shouted near the entrance of another screening room. Park Fang’s interest was piqued. He’d seen street vendors hawking wares but never a movie promoted like this. “Crazy Stone”? That title sounded unfamiliar, but the Basilians were naturally drawn to spectacle. Many were attracted and thought, why not? If it’s good, great; if not, they could leave early. They had to reclaim the momentum! Couldn’t let this habit of leaving early persist! “Take a ticket near the door for ‘Crazy Stone’!” “Got it! Thank you for your patronage!” Hao Han smiled broadly while Chen Yuanyuan urged the front desk clerk to issue tickets quickly. “Here’s your ticket! Please enter through Hall 7 on the right!” The clerk’s fingers flew swiftly, her smile practiced and professional. Park Fang entered the theater and was impressed—almost full! “Yuanzi, your idea really works!” The clerk laughed at Chen Yuanyuan and Hao Han with a grin. “Of course!” Chen Yuanyuan smugly lifted her chin. Heh heh! Since there was nothing else going on, the family decided to help the cinema. They had already helped with poster design; buying tickets was no problem. To their surprise, many who had just exited the “Tai Chi” screening were lured right into “Crazy Stone” with just a few calls. They had thought the audience wouldn’t respond, but their thick skins paid off. Moreover, “Crazy Stone” was genuinely hilarious—a comedy that could kill you with laughter. So why not promote it loudly? Only, they hadn’t expected the audience to greet them like laborers trapped in a park seeing their rescuers—a long-awaited relief!

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“Come get a ticket and refresh your eyes!” Wow! People eagerly paid for tickets. But what did “refresh your eyes” mean? It was odd! Still, it wasn’t their concern, so no need to waste energy on gossip. The most important thing tonight was to cheer for “Crazy Stone.” Opening day box office was critical. Galaxy Pictures was their home. Director Pei was the head of the family, and Director Qian was the eldest son. Hmm, the hierarchy was a bit muddled, but that didn’t matter. What mattered was that as a family, they needed to protect their collective interests. “Hahaha!” Bursts of laughter echoed through the theater. They had bet on the right horse! Park Fang took a deep breath, eyes shining, fixed unwaveringly on the screen. As the plot unfolded, the audience laughed uproariously. Wow, what kind of divine director crafted this story? How was it so funny? Though the actors were mostly unknown bit players, their performances were truly remarkable! Especially the character Hei Pi, who was the comedic highlight. Basilian cinema needed talents like this! Park Fang was deeply moved and was already drafting his review in his mind. Meanwhile, outside the theater, the trio at the front desk exchanged knowing smiles. Heh heh, it seemed human emotions were universal. They had previewed “Crazy Stone” early and had to admit, no one could resist genuine laughter at such humor. No doubt, “Crazy Stone” was destined to be a blockbuster! Tonight promised to be sleepless! Many were keenly watching the summer releases’ opening day results, but Qian Lang was unfazed. “Crazy Stone” had already proven itself in the market. Though box office figures weren’t out yet, everything was predictable. Recently, several major film award committees had sent him invitations: the Basilian Film Splendor Awards, the Basilian Film Legends Grand Prize, the Capital University Student Film Festival, even the Treasure Island Golden Steed Awards—all asking him and the creative team to attend. Heh heh, luckily not too many to overwhelm him. Qian Lang almost chuckled. If others knew, they’d call him a green tea bitch showing off. Heh heh. Outside, the moon shone brightly in a sparse sky. Stretching lazily, Qian Lang was ready to meet the Sandman, but his phone wouldn’t cooperate. “Ding dong! Ding dong! Ding dong!” Notifications kept buzzing. He checked—someone in the family chat was spamming memes! Who was it? That was baffling. Director Pei had repeatedly emphasized: no work talk during breaks, and even personal matters should be timed wisely. Who dared to defy this? Hmph! Qian Lang switched his phone to airplane mode and turned off the lights to sleep, all in one smooth motion. Meanwhile, Pei Duoduo frowned slightly at the incessant phone alerts. Sigh, family members, why can’t you listen? Kidney meridian detox time is 5 to 7 pm; pericardium meridian detox from 7 to 9 pm; focus meridian detox from 9 to 11 pm; gallbladder meridian detox from 11 pm to 1 am. It was now midnight. Why don’t you cherish your health? Pei Duoduo sighed. She had planned to send a message to stop the chaos but realized that as the big boss, everything she said or did might be overanalyzed by the family. What if her words scared them and kept them awake? That would be unforgivable. Better to talk face-to-face at the company tomorrow. Written words could be cold and misunderstood, but a warm smile in person would be more acceptable. With that thought, she set her phone to airplane mode. “Alright, back to sleep!” Of course, she was unaware that the family chat was buzzing with excitement over the box office numbers!