Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Three highly anticipated films—Legend of the Great Demon, Legend of the Heavenly God, and Shaolin Soccer—are released on the same day, marking the start of the summer blockbuster season.
• Shaolin Soccer, directed by Li Xun, surprises everyone by its strong box office performance, despite having the lowest screen share among the three films.
• Shaolin Soccer's opening day box office is 247 million, closely following Legend of the Great Demon's 275 million, and surpassing Legend of the Heavenly God's 193 million.
• Shaolin Soccer's word-of-mouth is overwhelmingly positive, with a Dou Miao rating of 8.6, higher than the other two films.
• Shaolin Soccer's box office continues to surge, ultimately grossing 1.15 billion in its first week, marking a box office miracle in the Huaxia film industry.

Character Developments

• Li Xun, the director of Shaolin Soccer, proves his talent and success in the film industry, following his achievements in television.
• Netizens and industry insiders are surprised and impressed by Shaolin Soccer's performance, leading to a reevaluation of Li Xun's capabilities.

Significant Themes

• The power of word-of-mouth and audience reception in determining a film's success.
• The competition and dynamics within the film industry, with different films vying for attention and box office dominance.
• The talent and potential of young directors, as exemplified by Li Xun's achievements.

Character Interactions

• Netizens, directors, stars, and production companies in the industry are all paying close attention to the box office performance of the three films, leading to discussions and debates online and within the industry.
• Li Xun's fans are ecstatic about Shaolin Soccer's success, while fans of the other two films may feel disappointed or surprised by the outcome.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shaolin Soccer dominates the summer box office, marking Director Li Xun's successful transition into filmmaking.
• The film receives rave reviews and high audience satisfaction, with many viewers praising its unique fusion of soccer and Kung Fu.
• Li Xun expresses humility about his success, attributing it to luck rather than genius.
• Shaolin Soccer's box office predictions continue to rise, with Eagle Eye predicting it could reach 2.93 billion, potentially making it the highest-grossing film in mainland China.
• The film's rating also increases, reaching 8.9 and nearing a 9.0 rating.

Character Developments

• Li Xun remains humble and focused on his craft, prioritizing his personal vision over box office concerns.
• Cao Shiyu's dedication and professionalism are praised, with her actions demonstrating gratitude towards Li Xun.

Significant Themes

• The power of storytelling and audience connection, as seen in Li Xun's success and the impact of Shaolin Soccer.
• The importance of humility and self-awareness in success, as demonstrated by Li Xun's response to his achievements.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun interacts with fans and the media during promotional tours for Shaolin Soccer.
• Online discussions praise Li Xun's work and personality, with some calling him a "Hero."
• Li Xun works with Assistant Directors Jin Feng and Song Liang on the post-production of his TV series, demonstrating his hands-on approach to his projects.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shaolin Soccer becomes the highest-grossing film in Huaxia's history, surpassing 2.9 billion yuan.
• The film industry congratulates Li Xun and Shaolin Soccer.
• The crew celebrates with a dance, sparking a short-lived box office surge.
• CCTV purchases broadcast rights for The Sky of History and Drawing the Sword, scheduling The Sky of History first.
• Li Xun attends a Film Bureau seminar and discusses his next film project, a perfect crime story set abroad.

Character Developments

• Li Xun gains recognition as a genius director, with his first film topping the box office charts.
• Cao Shiyu feels conflicted about her role in Li Xun's success but ultimately congratulates him.
• Director Liu of a competing film company feels overshadowed by Shaolin Soccer's success.

Significant Themes

• Success and recognition in the film industry.
• The impact of a film's theme and quality on its box office performance.
• The power dynamics within the film industry and the influence of Li Xun's work.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun and Cao Shiyu maintain a supportive relationship, with Cao Shiyu congratulating Li Xun on his success.
• Director Liu feels envious and overshadowed by Li Xun's accomplishment, leading to introspection about his own work.
• The film industry unites to congratulate Li Xun and Shaolin Soccer, highlighting the collaborative nature of the industry.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Xun plans to remake the Indian film "Sheep Without a Shepherd" and is determined to film it according to the 2015 Indian version, including the ending where the protagonist surrenders.
• Li Xun's new anti-Japanese war drama, "The Sky of History," is set to air on CCTV-8, causing a stir in the industry and among netizens.
• "The Sky of History" premieres, introducing the protagonist Jiang Daya, who saves his godfather from a Japanese bombing and later decides to enlist to fight the Japanese.

Character Developments

• Li Xun: Confident in his ability to pass censorship with his current status, he aims to film the remake according to his preferred version.
• Zhou Shan: Frustrated with the negative reception of his own anti-Japanese war drama, he feels schadenfreude when Li Xun announces his new drama.
• Jiang Daya: Introduced as a loyal, righteous, and reckless protagonist who risks his life to save his godfather and later decides to enlist against the Japanese.

Significant Themes

• The anti-Japanese war theme and its reception by audiences.
• The challenges and expectations surrounding Li Xun's new drama.
• The portrayal of a more down-to-earth protagonist in "The Sky of History."

Character Interactions

• Li Xun's announcement of his new drama sparks anticipation and debate among netizens and industry professionals.
• Zhou Shan's frustration with the reception of his own anti-Japanese war drama contrasts with the anticipation for Li Xun's new drama.
• Jiang Daya interacts with Han Chunyun, Chen Mohan, and Zhu Yidao, displaying his loyalty and righteousness as he decides to enlist against the Japanese.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The four main characters initially disagree on which army to join.
• Jiang Daya and Zhu Yidao join the New Fourth Army, while Chen Mohan and Han Chunyun initially plan to join different armies.
• Jiang Daya and Zhu Yidao encounter the New Fourth Army and are mistaken for spies by the National Revolutionary Army.
• Jiang Daya meets Dongfang Wenying and decides to stay with the New Fourth Army.
• Jiang Daya becomes a squad leader and faces internal conflicts within the Qilin Mountain Military Region.

Character Developments

• Jiang Daya grows from a reckless, hot-headed youth to a more disciplined and responsible soldier.
• Han Chunyun's character is further explored, revealing her stubbornness and unwillingness to compromise.
• Yang Tinghui, the commander of the Qilin Mountain Military Region, is depicted as a pragmatic leader who understands the complexities of war and revolution.
• Zhang Puji, the political department director, is portrayed as a firm believer in communist ideology but struggles to connect with the common soldiers.

Significant Themes

• The complexities of war and revolution, including the need for discipline, ideological awareness, and the struggle against internal conflicts.
• The importance of education and raising political consciousness among the soldiers.
• The tension between pragmatic leadership and ideological firmness.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Daya and Zhu Yidao's friendship deepens as they face challenges together.
• Jiang Daya's interactions with Dongfang Wenying hint at a potential romantic connection.
• The power struggle between Yang Tinghui, Zhang Puji, and other leaders within the Qilin Mountain Military Region highlights the complex political landscape of the time.
• Han Chunyun's stubbornness creates tension with Jiang Daya and other characters, revealing her strong-willed nature.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Daya's rapid rise in the New Fourth Army, becoming a company commander.
• His refusal to accept parachuted cadres as company commanders, causing a rift.
• A meeting is held to discuss Jiang Daya's punishment, with some advocating for his execution.
• Jiang Daya is appointed as the captain of Chenbu County Brigade after a vote.
• Yang Tinghui is transferred, and a "purification movement" is launched.
• Jiang Daya is arrested and tortured, but later released upon Yang Tinghui's return.
• Jiang Daya is nominated as the new commander of the Qilin Mountain Military Sub-region.

Character Developments

• Jiang Daya (Jiang Bida): Grows from a passionate, impulsive fighter to a strategic, thinking revolutionary general.
• Yang Tinghui: Starts as a trusted commander, faces accusations of power abuse, and is transferred.
• Zhang Pujing: Starts as an upright political officer, becomes more nuanced in his understanding of revolution and people.
• Dongfang Wenying: Grows from a cultural instructor to a romantic interest and a creator of the new Jiang Bida.

Significant Themes

• Revolution and its true meaning.
• Power dynamics and corruption within the revolutionary ranks.
• The struggle between principles and pragmatism.
• The transformation of individuals through struggle and adversity.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Daya and Yang Tinghui: Their relationship evolves from commander-subordinate to mentor-mentee.
• Jiang Daya and Zhang Pujing: Initially at odds, they come to understand and respect each other.
• Jiang Daya and Dongfang Wenying: Their relationship deepens from instructor-student to romantic partners.
• Yang Tinghui and Zhang Pujing: Their conflict highlights the tension between principles and pragmatism.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Xun leads the Shaolin Soccer team to Jilin Province for the 30th Huaxia Film Golden Rooster Awards.
• Shaolin Soccer receives seven nominations, including Best Feature Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Music, and Best Original Screenplay.
• Cao Shiyu is nominated for Best Actress, her first major nomination.
• Li Xun is nominated for five awards, hoping to win Best Actor.
• The awards ceremony is heavily padded, but Li Xun wins Best Director and Best Music for Shaolin Soccer.
• Shaolin Soccer also wins Best Picture.
• Meng Lai wins Best Supporting Actor for his role in Shaolin Soccer.

Character Developments

• Cao Shiyu maintains a positive attitude about her Best Actress nomination, treating it as a practice run.
• Li Xun places particular importance on winning Best Actor, as his acting skills have sparked debate online.
• Meng Lai's win for Best Supporting Actor is well-received by netizens, who praise his performance as the Golden Right Foot.

Significant Themes

• Recognition and controversy surrounding Li Xun's acting skills.
• The impact of fame and awards on an artist's career.
• The influence of online discussions and fan groups on public perception of awards.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun, Cao Shiyu, and Gong Longfei applaud enthusiastically when Meng Lai wins Best Supporting Actor.
• Nie Licheng's fans discuss the awards and Li Xun's chances of winning Best Actor, with some feeling uncomfortable about his consecutive wins.
• Netizens discuss and praise Meng Lai's performance as the Golden Right Foot.

• Key Plot Points and Events: Stephen Chow's directorial debut, "Shaolin Soccer," sweeps the 21st Hong Kong Film Awards, winning 7 major awards, including Best Film, Best Actor (Stephen Chow), Best Supporting Actor (Wong Yat-fei), Best Director, Outstanding Young Director, Best Sound Design, and Best Visual Effects.
• Character Developments: Stephen Chow, despite being new to filmmaking, proves his prowess as a director and actor, earning multiple awards. His character, the protagonist of "Shaolin Soccer," is already revered as a "god" in TV series and novels, further cementing his status.
• Significant Themes: The chapter explores the theme of recognition and reward for artistic excellence, with "Shaolin Soccer" being honored for its innovative storytelling, visual effects, and sound design. It also touches on the idea of firsts in film history and the potential controversy surrounding untested talent receiving multiple awards.
• Character Interactions: The chapter focuses on Stephen Chow's interaction with the Hong Kong Film Awards, rather than interpersonal relationships. However, it implies recognition and validation from the film industry, represented by the awards committee.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The 30th Huaxia Film Golden Rooster Awards are announced, with Li Xun winning Best Actor for 'Shaolin Soccer', causing an uproar among Nie Licheng's fans.
• 'The Sky of History' reaches its climax: Dongfang Wenying sacrifices herself, leading to an outpouring of grief from viewers. Jiang Bida and Han Chunyun finally get married, but Jiang Bida is later betrayed by Zhu Yidao. The series ends with Jiang Bida retiring and Zhang Puji's tragic death.

Character Developments

• Li Xun: Wins Best Actor award, causing controversy; continues to write scripts, including tragedies.
• Nie Licheng: Loses Best Actor award to Li Xun, causing his fans to protest.
• Jiang Bida: Grows into a visionary commander and revolutionary, eventually retiring.
• Dongfang Wenying: Sacrifices herself heroically, becoming a beloved character among viewers.
• Zhang Puji: Stands firm in his principles, ultimately driven mad and killed.

Significant Themes

• The impact of awards and recognition on artists and their fans (Li Xun and Nie Licheng).
• The emotional toll of immersing oneself in a plot (viewers' reactions to 'The Sky of History').
• The growth and sacrifice of revolutionaries (Jiang Bida, Dongfang Wenying, and Zhang Puji).

Character Interactions

• Li Xun and Dai Ying: Li Xun comforts Dai Ying after she cries over Dongfang Wenying's death.
• Jiang Bida and Han Chunyun: Finally get married, but their relationship remains complex due to Jiang Bida's past.
• Jiang Bida and Zhang Puji: Despite their differences, they both exhibit unwavering principles and dedication to their cause.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The TV series 'Drawing the Sword' is released, dedicated to the heroes of the Huaxia War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.
• The first episode of 'Drawing the Sword' introduces Li Yunlong, a fierce and cursing warrior, who is demoted after taking out the elite Sakata Regiment with one cannon but is later reinstated as the commander of the Independent Regiment.
• The drama receives high praise and viewership ratings, surpassing the finale of 'The Sky of History'.

Character Developments

• Li Yunlong: Introduced as a fiery, cursing warrior with exceptional combat skills. Despite being demoted, he is later reinstated due to his importance and influence within the Eighth Route Army.
• The Headquarters Leaders: They value Li Yunlong's skills and consider him a top fierce general, despite his disobedience of orders.

Significant Themes

• War and Heroism: The series celebrates the heroes who fought against Japanese aggression and emphasizes their bravery, strategic thinking, and resilience.
• Redemption and Reinstatement: Li Yunlong's story shows that one's worth is not determined by their current position but by their actions and contributions.

Character Interactions

• Li Yunlong and the Brigade Commander: They have a good relationship, with Li Yunlong negotiating with the commander playfully.
• Li Yunlong and the Headquarters Leaders: Despite his disobedience, the leaders value Li Yunlong's skills and importance, leading to his reinstatement.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A migrant worker watches "Drawing the Sword" at a small tin-roofed restaurant and recommends it to his colleagues, leading to a surge in customers.
• The restaurant owner, initially struggling, benefits from the increased patronage and starts showing the series daily to keep customers.
• "Drawing the Sword" becomes a national phenomenon, breaking viewership records and sparking industry discussions about Li Xun's monopoly.
• Li Xun completes his new script, "Sheep Without a Shepherd."

Character Developments

• The migrant worker, initially eating alone, becomes a catalyst for the restaurant's success by recommending "Drawing the Sword" to his colleagues.
• The restaurant owner, initially struggling and argumentative with his wife, becomes more optimistic and proactive after the increase in customers.
• Li Xun, now a successful author, expresses his bewilderment at the industry's reaction to his success and defends his right to create popular content.

Significant Themes

• The power of word-of-mouth marketing and community engagement, as seen through the migrant workers' recommendation of "Drawing the Sword."
• The impact of popular culture on society and the economy, demonstrated by the restaurant's transformation and the industry's reaction to Li Xun's success.
• The tension between individual success and industry perception, as Li Xun faces accusations of monopolizing the market.

Character Interactions

• The migrant worker and his colleagues bond over their shared enjoyment of "Drawing the Sword," leading to increased camaraderie and community engagement.
• The restaurant owner and his wife initially argue about the business's struggles but later work together to capitalize on the increased patronage.
• Li Xun and Dai Ying discuss the industry's reaction to Li Xun's success, with Li Xun defending his right to create popular content.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Weijie's daughter accidentally kills a rich heir, leading to blackmail and a cat-and-mouse game with the corrupt police.
• Drawing the Sword continues airing, depicting the Independent Regiment's desperate battle and Li Yunlong's wedding, which turns tragic due to a traitor.
• The Independent Regiment assembles over ten thousand men to attack Ping'an County, leading to a massive battle and Xiuqin's sacrifice.

Character Developments

• Li Weijie: Starts as a simple man with limited education but uses movie knowledge to outsmart the police.
• Li Yunlong: Proves himself a skilled commander and a romantic novice, leading the Independent Regiment in a daring attack on Ping'an County.
• Xiuqin: Sacrifices herself to motivate Li Yunlong to attack the county town, inspiring the soldiers and audience.

Significant Themes

• Anti-corruption: Li Weijie's struggle against the corrupt police.
• Sacrifice: Xiuqin's sacrifice to inspire the Independent Regiment and the audience.
• Heroism: The soldiers' determination to fight against overwhelming odds.

Character Interactions

• Li Weijie vs. Police Chief La Yun: A battle of wits between an uneducated man and a corrupt official.
• Li Yunlong and Xiuqin: A romantic relationship that blossoms amidst war and tragedy.
• The Independent Regiment: United in their determination to avenge their comrades and the villagers of Zhaojiayu.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Xun's popularity skyrockets with the success of Drawing the Sword and Shaolin Soccer.
• He receives an invitation to appear on CCTV's Peak program with Feng Xiao, the chairman of Jubao Group.
• On the show, Li Xun and Feng Xiao engage in a pointed conversation about Li Xun's works and the concept of enterprise values.
• Li Xun shares his idea of the "political commissar system" for enterprises, inspired by Alibaba's system in his previous life.
• Feng Xiao is deeply moved by Li Xun's words and decides to implement the "political commissar system" in Jubao Group, leading to a high-level shakeup in the company.

Character Developments

• Li Xun gains confidence in his abilities and decides to participate in the Peak program despite his initial hesitation.
• Feng Xiao shows his open-mindedness and willingness to adapt by deciding to implement Li Xun's idea in his company.
• Vice President Wang Xiaojun is shocked by the sudden decision to establish the "political commissar system" in Jubao Group.

Significant Themes

• The influence of Li Xun's works and his personal brand.
• The importance of enterprise values and the "political commissar system" in business management.
• The impact of Li Xun's ideas on the business world.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun and Feng Xiao engage in a thought-provoking conversation on the Peak program, leading to a significant change in Feng Xiao's perspective.
• Li Xun's wife, Dai Ying, boosts his confidence and encourages him to participate in the Peak program.
• The audience and Jubao Group's executives react to Li Xun's ideas and Feng Xiao's decision.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Independent Regiment's attack on Ping'an County gains widespread attention online, with classic scenes and characters gaining nicknames.
• Chu Yunfei stations his forces in Daguzhen, and Li Yunlong counters with three of his battalions, effectively tripling the Independent Regiment's strength.
• Xie Baoqing, a bandit from Heiyun Village, intercepts the 358 Regiment's supply convoy, but Kong Jie recovers the supplies and incorporates the bandits into the anti-Japanese forces.
• Wei Heshang is shot and killed by bandits while delivering a letter, causing an uproar among viewers.
• Li Yunlong avenges Heshang by attacking Heiyun Village, leading to his demotion and Zhao Gang taking over as regimental commander.
• Netizens initiate a one-day boycott of Drawing the Sword in protest of Heshang's death, but the ratings remain high, even breaking 11%.

Character Developments

• Ding Wei: Gains the nickname "Ding Baishou" and continues to command the Independent Regiment.
• Kong Jie: Earns the nickname "Kong Guoyin" and incorporates the Heiyun Village bandits into the anti-Japanese forces.
• Chu Yunfei: Nicknamed "Chu Bangchangzi," he stations his forces in Daguzhen, preparing for a civil war.
• Li Yunlong: Triples the Independent Regiment's strength and avenges Heshang's death, leading to his demotion.
• Wei Heshang: Dies heroically, sparking widespread outrage and grief among viewers.
• Zhao Gang: Takes over as regimental commander of the Independent Regiment after Li Yunlong's demotion.

Significant Themes

• The impact of war on soldiers and civilians.
• The power of collective action and online activism.
• The tension between personal feelings and the greater good.

Character Interactions

• Ding Wei and Kong Jie are perplexed by Li Yunlong's strategy of focusing on Chu Yunfei's forces while the Japanese threat looms.
• Li Yunlong and Kong Jie clash over the incorporation of the Heiyun Village bandits, leading to Li Yunlong's demotion.
• Li Yunlong and Zhao Gang share a heartfelt conversation about their losses and the emotional toll of war.
• Netizens unite in protest of Heshang's death, leading to a one-day boycott of Drawing the Sword.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Xun and Yang Bin discuss a crossover between 'Drawing the Sword' and 'Hero' on a flight to Thailand for filming 'Sheep Without a Shepherd'.
• 'Drawing the Sword' maintains high viewership ratings, with all four major domestic satellite TV stations purchasing secondary broadcast rights.
• Li Xun's film 'Sheep Without a Shepherd' begins and wraps up filming in Thailand.
• Zhu Lihua, Deputy Director of the Film Bureau, struggles to boost domestic films' market share against Hollywood blockbusters.

Character Developments

• Li Xun remains calm and composed amidst the high demand for 'Drawing the Sword' and the challenge of Hollywood films.
• Zhu Lihua grapples with the pressure of improving domestic films' market share and protecting domestic cinema.

Significant Themes

• The struggle and competition between domestic and Hollywood films in the Chinese market.
• The impact of censorship on film production and release strategies.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun and Yang Bin discuss potential crossover ideas for their TV series.
• Zhu Lihua discusses with film distributors to move up the release dates of domestic films.
• Li Xun interacts with a flight attendant who slips him a business card, but he has no interest in pursuing it.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The film industry faces a challenge with Hollywood blockbusters dominating the Spring Festival box office.
• Director Zhang Qiang suggests releasing Li Xun's new film, "Sheep Without a Shepherd," on the first day of the Lunar New Year to counter this.
• The film, "Sheep Without a Shepherd," is being reviewed. It tells the story of Li Weijie, a man who uses his knowledge of movies to outsmart a corrupt police chief after his daughter accidentally kills her son.

Character Developments

• Li Weijie: A humble movie enthusiast who uses his movie knowledge to protect his family. He evolves from a seemingly ordinary man to a cunning strategist.
• Police Chief: A corrupt and powerful figure who becomes the antagonist. Her obsession with finding her son's killer leads her to underestimate Li Weijie.

Significant Themes

• The power of movies and storytelling.
• The struggle between the underprivileged and the powerful.
• The use of deception and misdirection to overcome adversity.

Character Interactions

• Li Weijie and his family: They support each other and work together to create a solid alibi.
• Li Weijie and the Police Chief: Their interactions highlight the power dynamics between them, with Li Weijie using his wit to outmaneuver the chief.
• Review Committee Members: They discuss the film's merits and demerits, with some appreciating Li Weijie's strategy and others struggling to grasp it fully.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The committee approves Li Xun's film, Terminator, for release on the first day of the Lunar New Year.
• Li Xun meets with industry colleagues, including Director Kong Teng and Producer Tang Jiahe, to discuss future projects.
• Li Xun decides to create an animated version of Journey to the West and contacts Modu Animation Film Studio to discuss cooperation.

Character Developments

• Li Xun shows his determination to make a sci-fi film despite the challenges of the domestic market.
• Li Xun considers the value of his Journey to the West IP and decides to create an animated version to enhance its influence.
• Director Kong Teng and Producer Tang Jiahe express interest in working with Li Xun on future projects.

Significant Themes

• The struggle of domestic sci-fi films in the Huaxia film market.
• The value and influence of Li Xun's Journey to the West IP.
• The potential of animated films in enhancing the value of classic IPs.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun interacts with Director Kong Teng, Producer Tang Jiahe, and other industry colleagues, discussing future projects and sharing ideas.
• Li Xun contacts Modu Animation Film Studio to discuss cooperation on the animated version of Journey to the West.
• The customer service representative, Xiao Zhou, and Director Tong Ren at Modu Animation Film Studio react to Li Xun's call, initially misunderstanding his intentions but eventually realizing the significance of his proposal.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Director Tong, inspired by Journey to the West, agrees to collaborate with Li Xun to create an animated film.
• Li Xun presents his character designs and plot sketches to Director Tong, who is astonished by their quality and similarity to his own ideas.
• Director Tong and Li Xun discuss the project's details, deciding on Modu Animation Film Studio's involvement and Li Xun's funding.

Character Developments

• Director Tong: Recognizes Li Xun's talent and potential, becomes more enthusiastic about the project.
• Li Xun: Shows his artistic skills and dedication to the project, winning Director Tong's respect.

Significant Themes

• The power of collaboration and mutual respect between experienced and young talent.
• The importance of cultural heritage and traditional art styles in storytelling.

Character Interactions

• Director Tong and Li Xun: Establish a professional relationship built on mutual respect and admiration for each other's skills.
• Director Tong and his niece: Share their thoughts and observations about the project and Li Xun's work.
• Employees of Modu Animation Film Studio: Anticipate the project's opportunities and engage in creative competition.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Li Xun, a renowned director, is approached by Bodag Pictures, represented by Wang Xiaoyu, the son of the chairman, to discuss a new sci-fi film project.
• Li Xun reveals his new script, a Terminator-like story, to Wang Xiaoyu, who is impressed and offers favorable terms for collaboration.
• Li Xun considers Zhao Zhuo for the role of the Terminator and Kang Xin for the female lead, Panna.
• Wang Xiaoyu posts about the new project on Weibo, sparking speculation about the unknown actress from the 96 batch of the Central Academy of Drama who might be cast as the female lead.

Character Developments

• Li Xun: Confirmed as the director for the first two Terminator installments, he is sought after for his guaranteed box office success.
• Wang Xiaoyu: Initially perceived as a playboy, he surprises Li Xun with his genuine interest and understanding of the script, showing a serious side.
• Kang Xin: An unknown actress from the 96 batch, she is considered for the female lead role due to her exceptional acting skills and physical prowess.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and hierarchies within the entertainment industry, with Li Xun's projects being highly sought after and Wang Xiaoyu's influence as a major gossipmonger.
• The struggle of lesser-known actors to gain recognition and opportunities, as seen through the experiences of Kang Xin and other actresses from her batch.

Character Interactions

• Li Xun and Wang Xiaoyu: They hit it off due to their shared interest in the project, with Wang Xiaoyu showing respect and admiration for Li Xun's work.
• Wang Xiaoyu and Li Xun: They discuss the casting for the film, with Li Xun revealing his initial choices for the male and female leads.
• Kang Xin and her twin sister, Kang Lan: They discuss the possibility of Kang Xin being cast as the female lead, with Kang Lan expressing her unwavering belief in her sister's talent.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Kang Xin auditions for a role in Director Li Xun's new film.
• Li Xun learns that Zhao Zhuo can't participate in Terminator, and Yan Shuangying will likely take the role.
• Dai Ying signs Xia Qing to her company, Xinyu Culture, without Li Xun's knowledge.
• Li Xun learns about the Hollywood adaptation of Iron Man and feels pressured to protect his copied works.
• The advance ticket sales for Li Xun's film, Sheep Without a Shepherd, are ranked fourth among six films releasing on New Year's Day.
• Netizens and reporters discuss the upcoming films, with Little Ghost Big Trouble 2 leading in advance ticket sales.

Character Developments

• Kang Xin shows determination and ambition in pursuing her acting career.
• Li Xun demonstrates his competitive nature and desire to protect his work, feeling threatened by the Hollywood adaptation of Iron Man.
• Dai Ying shows cunning and deception in signing Xia Qing without Li Xun's knowledge.

Significant Themes

• Competition and rivalry in the entertainment industry.
• The pressure of living up to one's past achievements and the fear of being surpassed.
• The struggle to maintain one's status and relevance in the face of changing circumstances.

Character Interactions

• Kang Xin and her agent, Sister Chen, discuss Kang Xin's audition for Director Li Xun's film.
• Li Xun and his assistant, Zhang Wei, discuss the poor advance ticket sales for Sheep Without a Shepherd.
• Netizens and reporters discuss the upcoming films, expressing their excitement and anticipation.
• Various production company CEOs discuss the competitive landscape of the Spring Festival slot, with some expressing amusement at Li Xun's situation.