Ch. 981What's Wrong With Having a Little Ambition?
Chapter Summary
1. Key Plot Points and Events
- The chapter is set at the opening ceremony of Ye Chen's new company, Chenwei Film Industry.
- Attendees initially speculate that Ye Chen will film Battle Through the Heavens, a popular IP, and debate the costs and risks of adapting it into a fantasy drama.
- Ye Chen announces his actual first project: My Own Swordsman, an episodic period sitcom he wrote himself.
- He reveals that the role of Bai Zhantang is reserved for his friend Cheng Tong, while all other roles will be filled through open national auditions.
- Ye Chen additionally announces a second project: the crime thriller film Infernal Affairs, also with roles open to audition.
- Both projects will be prepared simultaneously, and the ceremony concludes with mixed reactions from the audience, ranging from admiration to skepticism.
2. Character Developments
- Ye Chen: Shows his entrepreneurial ambition and strategic vision by expanding from music into film and television. He demonstrates loyalty (casting Cheng Tong), humility (making a modest speech), and confidence in taking on two major projects at once. He chooses not to act himself, prioritizing his family, music, and enjoyment of life.
- Cheng Tong: Referenced as Ye Chen's longtime, pre-fame friend. He is privileged with the lead role in the sitcom, highlighting his loyalty in the friendship.
- Industry guests/veterans: A broad ensemble of actors and industry figures who react to Ye Chen's announcements. They range from skeptical veterans wary of his inexperience to eager newcomers and former skeptics convinced of his talent. Some decide to audition based on his track record.
3. Significant Themes
- Ambition and risk-taking: The title's question "What's Wrong With Having a Little Ambition?" is echoed by characters defending Ye Chen's leap from music into both film and TV. His wealth and success are seen as enabling this risk.
- Loyalty and friendship: Ye Chen's decision to cast Cheng Tong (a friend from before his fame) reflects the theme of rewarding genuine bonds. Guests emphasize that "those who lend a hand when you're struggling are your true brothers."
- Creative faithfulness vs. commercial pressure: The earlier debate about Battle Through the Heavens (including the joke about cheapening effects into "Battle Qi Horse") raises the tension between budget constraints and staying faithful to beloved source material.
- Industry disruption: Ye Chen's unconventional choices (a period sitcom and a crime film as first projects) challenge industry expectations and showcase his unpredictable, innovative approach.
4. Character Interactions
- The guests engage in lively whispered discussions among themselves, debating Ye Chen's projects' viability, praising his talent, and gossiping about his friendship with Cheng Tong.
- Ye Chen interacts with the audience through two speeches: first announcing the sitcom, then the film. He is polite, humble, and appreciative of their attendance.
- Guests react to each other's opinions—some urge confidence, others advocate caution to avoid direct competition with Ye Chen's projects.