Here you are.
Just enough.
Will you dine here?
We'll have supper at home.
See you.
Please come again.
Old man,
is dinner ready?
Here it comes.
You hear me?
Stop staring at the TV.
Look!
Soldiers who know Kung Fu!
If the Nationalists knew Kung Fu,
would they have lost the Civil War?
Such bullshit!
Damn right.
Peﬂg,
You want to be an actor.
Are you all good to go?
If you ever become a leading man,
don't make trash like this. You'd put your dad to shame!
When your dad was young,
he reads Stani-something everyday.
Stani-what?
Siam...
Stani-ski...
Jet-Ski!
What are they talking about?
Nothing. I...
A young man must dream big.
Just tell your mother what you want.
What are you afraid of?
What are you guys trying to do?
I still want to live another year.
You'll live. Spill it.
L.
I want to go to Heng...
No-.
I'm not even finished!
Being an actor is nothing but a fantasy,
you better settle down and find a job!
Stop dreaming.
I haven't even finished,
just hear me out.
You should let the kid speak his mind,
he's no mute!
We don't talk when we eat.
Let's eat.
Have a drink...
Where is he?
Must've gone to Snow Town.
He's holding a grudge.
Find him,
talk some sense into him.
Mr. Liu,
closing up ShOP?
Yup.
Any business?
A few tourists came by earlier,
took a few pictures.
Dad.
You acted on that stage
when I was young.
I still remember.
Just messing around with the guys.
In junior high,
I said I wanted to act.
Mom gave me a beating,
she said acting is not for me.
I never believed that.
It's possible if you want it enough.
I really do like acting.
Every time I watch TV,
I get worked up.
I want to be a part of it.
Let me try.
Even if I fail, I won't regret it.
Otherwise,
how can I live with myself?
I'd blame you. What good is that?
That's nonsense.
I mean,
let me give it a shot.
If I don't make it,
I'll come back to work in the woods
and live with you and morn.
OK?
You're sure about this?
There's no future for him
if you make him stay.
Cutting and loading lumber all day long,
or taking pictures of tourists
with huskies?
What if he's crippled, like me?
What then? Run this shop?
You know
you can't keep him.
Not forever.
Who says I can't?
All the young people have left.
If he stays here,
he can't even find a wife!
It's not fair.
Who can guarantee that he'll make it?
Who can guarantee if anyone can?
It's all up to chance and fate.
Not arguing again, are you?
Listen,
we can only give you $1000.
If you need more money,
fend for yourself.
Success!
Hengdian extra forum
New Post
Dear everyone,
I'm coming to Hengdian.
Seeking info
on lodging...
A room with AC, shower, internet
costs about $500.
It's reasonable.
What about the weather?
Lots of rain in spring.
Hot in the summer!
It's as unpredictable
as an actor's face.
Standard of living?
Dirt cheap.
A meal costs $5.
You can even feed on $3.
On a shoot they'll feed you
three meals a day.
How about transportation?
If you have money, take a tuk tuk.
It's a small place,
I get around on foot.
Job opportunities?
A lot of work in the spring.
You won't starve
if you're willing to work.
Com'on down!
Son...
Morn, I haven't started yet,
let's save the theatrics.
Dad.
Stop crying-
He'd leave sooner or later, right?
The wild geese are back.
The wayward son
will come home one day.
The little brat
doesn't look back!
Snow Town
Hangman
I got it.
Let's go.
Hey buddy!
You an actor?
Then... Get in.
I'll show you around,
so you know where to go.
How much?
120
$120?
How much can you pay?
3O
Fine. Just for you.
Get in.
From one humble dream, to a city of millions.
Although Hengdian started small,
it's as cosmopolitan as the big cities.
Eat, drink, play
it has everything.
It's the world's largest movie studio!
Eastern Hollywood.
You know what that means?
No-.
It means Hollywood of the East.
Hengdian World Studios
was built in 1996.
Up to this moment,
it has produced around one thousand and fifty movies and TV shows.
One hundred fifty in 2012 alone.
Forty-eight of them about the Sino-Japan war.
This is not merely a film studio,
it's a bastion of anti-Japanese war effort!
This is the "Period River" back lot,
every famous director in China has shot here.
Furthermore, pay attention to every car passing by
a movie star could be in it!
That's a celebrity's car!
That's the type.
Here is Qing Palace.
Follow this road and head north,
you'd get into town.
I'm looking for a place to stay.
Buddy,
first time here? What's your hurry?
Look around first.
Here is a pass.
Don't buy a ticket.
You can get in with this.
Thanks!
It's expired,
just flash it.
My Change!
Call it a tip!
Don't bother, you can't catch me!
Identification please.
We're with "The Red Rain"
The Forbidden City!
A knock off.
Scene eight, shot five, take tweleve. Set.
March!
Cavalry.
Be quick.
Cut Cut Cut!
What the hell are you doing?
Why is he here?
Who let him in?
Get him outta here!
Excuse me.
The net says actors carry folding chairs.
Are you an actor?
What's up?
I'm looking for a cheap room.
Over by Jiangnan Road.
Can you take me?
I'm on my way to work!
Mind if I walk with you
and ask you about the business?
Try the internet caf?
Hey boss.
I haven't been a boss for a long time
A Better Tomorrow!
Great movie.
Newbie?
Right. I want to...
be in a movie?
Be at the union house, four o'clock.
4 AM?
What do you think?
You get nothing if you're late.
Leave your bags at the counter, spend the night here.
How much for overnight?
1O
What're you looking for, ladies?
Looking for a gig.
Ladies don't need to do extras work.
Ask the wrangler for some featured work.
Which one is the wrangler?
I'm the wrangler.
I'm a wrangler too.
Let's go.
Hold on, babe,
Can I have your number?
Who are these people?
What a waste of time!
Never seen those girls before...
Com'on, let's get a game going.
Sure, I'll take your money.
Bring it on.
What's going on?
These are all actors?
No kidding?
These are out of work actors.
Huh?
(Lemon guys,
Roll call.
- Cao 'Han. - Here.
He Shifeng.
Here.
Gong Jiangjiang.
Chen Hao.
I haven't worked in clays, count me in?
Count me in!
What're you doing?
Hey Boss!
Hurry up!
Sorry.
Hurry!
Sorry we're late.
Get in.
We're filling up!
Boss!
Sir.
Are you an extras wrangler?
Not me.
I'm just helping a friend out.
You're all newbies?
Do you have residence permits, union cards?
Not yet.
You can't work without union cards.
Check it out on the web.
I did.
But it's a little confusing.
Do you have a place to stay?
We stayed at the inn over there.
$80 a night.
A bit expensive.
Are you stupid?
Let's go.
I'll take you guys.
Young men are unreliable.
You know,
when they have no job,
they have no money.
When rent is due, you can't find them.
I'll never trust them again!
Ma'am.
Don't worry.
These guys are trustworthy.
I promise.
My restaurant is downstairs.
I'll do you this favor.
Otherwise no dice.
Here, sign your names.
Did you bring your IDs?
Fill out the forms.
Come on, Fill out the forms.
Everyone here
comes from somewhere else.
Mostly young men.
Some of them like to drink
and get into trouble.
Sometimes, they disappear
and no one can find them.
That's why landlords
don't want actors as tenants.
PeiJun!
No work today?
I'm on "Midnight Orchid" tomorrow.
New books?
Used.
They are cheap.
What is this stuff?
A bit of everything.
This room is not bad.
Look.
A bathroom.
And a window.
Let's share this room.
OK.
We gotta check out first.
You again!
Zhao,
in bed, on the phone again!
Try to find work!
He did.
Waiting to hear back.
Show your headshots to casting people
when you have time.
I did all that.
Give me a break,
I'm hustling just like he is.
If you have ten percent of his energy,
you'd be a star today.
One day I shall be triumphant,
not to prove that I am somebody,
but so I'll know my own worthiness.
A Better Tomorrow again!
Paraphrasing.
Hello Kai.
Would you like some greens?
Fresh from the rooftop.
Wen Bin,
are you slacking like him?
No way.
I'm lucky,
I'm working on set tomorrow.
See?
He doesn't pick and choose.
Maybe you should just go home.
Free food, free drinks, no worries.
First rule of living in Hengdian:
you gotta conserve money.
Second Rule? Conserve money.
You got it?
When you grow old,
I shall be king of the movies!
Qin.
Here come the freeloaders again.
This way.
- Jun - show Mr. Guo to the table.
- No problem - Please have a seat first.
- Ma'am - Hi there.
I invited a casting director,
I can't serve him just beer.
How about something fancier?
This is nice, I like it.
By the way.
I brought him to meet your husband.
I shouldn't have to pay for this.
Don't worry. Do your thing.
Many thanks.
Let's have a drink!
Lunch time, beer only.
Anything else for you?
Let's wait for the owner.
So you're Lai'?
Right.
They say you're quite a stuntman,
and an actor too?
Right.
Who taught you?
I taught myself.
You can't be an actor
if you stutter.
I stutter in conversations,
but never when I say a line.
Just make sure you don't infect others!
Of course not.
Tired?
I worked all night on a budget.
Ma'am.
This is Mr. Guo, the casting director.
Ms. Qin is second in command here.
In Hengdian
she's quite famous.
Not famous by any means.
I'm also an actor,
bit parts, mostly.
Everyone has to start somewhere.
When we start shooting,
I'll find a role for you.
Thanks in advance.
Forget the menu, I'll order
something special from the chef.
Order what you like.
New guys, come here.
If you have no cash,
pin your bill on this board.
You can pay when you get paid.
Zhou Peng
Have you renew your union card yet?
Help them get on the roster,
see if they can get a gig.
Fine.
Hello, Kai.
Mr. Guo is waiting for you.
When did you get in?
Your husband will lose his shirt one day.
Shut up.
Get back to work.
Hello everyone.
Welcome to beautiful Hengdian.
Acting is a noble profession.
Your work can touch the hearts of millions.
I hold in my hand an actor's union card
without it you can't work on the lot.
Do not lose it.
Here are the rules:
Be on time for roll call.
Obey the Wranglers on the lot.
Be protective of facilities on the lot.
Always vacate the lot
within thirty minutes of wrap.
Now, salary for your work:
An extra earns $40 for eight hours of work.
$5 bump for makeup.
Blood makeup, head shaving, heavy lifting,
working in rain, lying in water, etc...
will earn you a bump from $30 to $5.
A bump for playing a corpse.
Double pay for playing a prostitute, or body contact.
A $100 bump for kissing.
$200 bump for showing some skin.
$1000 dollars or more for nudity.
Is this clear?
Clear!
Did you get it?
How did you find out about this place?
I checked it out online.
If you get a bit part,
you can make up to $100 a day.
I'm here to make money.
How much do you want to make?
$100,000 is enough for me.
China is developing its cultural industries.
Here I can start from the bottom up.
So here I am.
Pitch in
and do what we can.
It's not that easy.
You'll get your kicks,
but you'll get homesick soon enough.
I can't go back.
All I had was $1000.
$400 for the tickets,
I spent another $30 on the train.
The tuk tuk guy cheated me for $70.
Last night I had a nice dinner,
cost me another $60.
Stop.
Why don't you stick around.
What's going on?
Zhou Peng! Tell us more!
They look nice.
This is the place?
I've been here before.
Let's go.
Joy Hotel
How long have you been here?
Two weeks.
How old are you?
Eighteen years old.
So am I.
So young-
Your families know you're here?
Mine does.
Not mine.
Have you been on a shoot?
I did.
Not my sister, she came with me.
Did you get on a shoot?
Yes.
What did you play?
A pedestrian and a maid.
Did you have lines?
Yes.
Once, they needed someone,
so the assistant director told me to
play hide and seek with the prince.
And I said, "Chase me! Chase me!"
I was the stand-in for the lead
in "The Four"
I stand for her when they're lighting.
They used me in the wide shots.
She looks a bit like Jiang Yiyan.
Yes, she does.
They also say that I look like Shu Qi and Zhang Ziyi.
You mean you look like all the movies stars.
But you have very little experience,
which is why we're reluctant.
I should be OK,
but she can be silly sometimes.
But I'm motivated!
Fine,
we're still casting a few roles,
bit parts, that's all.
Maybe you'd want to try out. OK.
Well, if everything works out,
you can be our "staff actors".
Staff actors usually get paid about $2500 a month.
We can do $3000 per month for you.
OK.
But you have to keep this to yourselves.
Fine.
And one more thing.
This is our director.
Nice to meet you.
He needs a personal assistant.
What does a personal assistant do?
The personal assistant
cleans the director's room,
makes sure his bed is warm,
does his laundry, and so on.
She can't even do her own laundry.
I do it for her.
I can too!
You don't have to do it by hand,
we have washing machines.
We don't know how to use them.
You can't use a washing machine?
We don't even have electricity in our village,
Let alone washing machines!
After I came here,
I saw a TV for the first time.
Well, Mr. Director,
these two aren't really actors.
If they mess up,
that's no good for you.
We will... leave now.
You two are such fools!
Stupid g
Couldn't you tell that
these guys are hustlers
who target girls like you?
That's not true.
Fine.
You stay. We go home tomorrow.
I'm not going back.
What makes you so sure
everyone wants to take advantage of me?
You'd be damn lucky
if you meet someone honest!
And what if you don't?
LWlbelucky.
Watch out!
If I'm not here, you won't last three days!
Whatever!
Watch out for cars!
Wei Xing.
Wei Xing!
Just wrapped.
They turned off the power right away,
I didn't even take off my makeup.
Come on,
let's eat.
Listen,
be a bit more aggressive.
You were only the lead
of a short film.
And take Mr. Liu's calls.
If he doesn't find gigs for you,
what will you do?
If we run out of money,
we have to do extras work.
Go ahead.
I won't.
You don't have to be an extra,
but keep your price low.
The stars make $300,000 per episode,
but it has nothing to do with us!
We max out at $500 a day.
If you have time,
might as well make the money.
Right?
Take Jun and Tao,
they get along with the producer, right?
All they do is schmooze,
they'd get nowhere.
It's useless.
You gotta pull yourself up.
If you want something,
you have to go get it.
Are you reading self-help books?
You sound just like them.
I'm not satisfied with where I am.
I constantly remind myself,
that I must aim high.
A high jumper
tackles the low bar
before he goes for the high bar.
Hengdian was the low bar.
Now I need a bigger arena.
Where is that?
Come.
Check this out.
"Beijing Film Academy"
Those movies and TV shows shot here,
All important roles were cast in Beijing.
Only small roles are left
to be cast in Hengdian.
They won't get me anywhere.
I didn't have the guts to go to Beijing,
but now it's different.
Now I have experience and confidence.
How much?
$35,000 a year at the Film Academy.
$48,000 at the Academy of Drama.
That's a lot of money.
Yes it is.
But it's worth it.
Worth it?
Then you better make some money.
Mr. Liu has a new show.
What's the role?
An officer,
three days, with lines.
I'm not going to take small roles
for a few hundred dollars.
I need to play characters,
not guys in the background.
Got it.
Ready.
Follow up.
Action.
My dear.
Did you go to the station yesterday?
I did.
Must you go?
I'm worried about you,
being all by yourself.
A man must experience the world.
I leave the house in your care.
You must take care of yourself.
What are they shooting?
Keep walking!
Pick up the pace, spread out!
Who is that actor?
Don't mess around!
Cut. One more.
Back to one!
One more time!
Action.
But...
No more buts.
Cousin,
I won't let you go!
Cousin...
Cut!
What's that guy doing?
What are you looking at?
Keep moving!
Don't look this way, mate!
I'm pretending to be lost.
Just keep walking.
It looks awkward
if I keep walking back and forth.
Mind your own business!
Props g
Right here sir!
Get some umbrellas, suitcases for the extras.
Got it.
Right away.
This is a long scene,
get some changes from wardrobe.
Got it sir.
What are we waiting for?
Camera.
Background.
So quiet.
No one talks. It's unrealistic.
Keep moving!
Easy, man!
It's not as heavy as it looks!
DonTlook!
Shut up!
Got it.
Take this.
The tuk tuk guy!
You owe me $70!
Hey buddy!
Be quiet.
Take this, for the heat.
What do you think?
This is nice.
$10 off the amount I owed you.
Sorry.
Hush, they are rolling sound.
I get it.
So they get clean sound from the actors.
You're a girl!
Aren't you observant!
Just kidding.
Why are you staring at me?
Am I?
Babe, do you have a boyfriend?
I do.
I've seen you before.
You were in "Detective Dee".
Remember?
I played a general, and you were a palace maid.
Give me your number?
Sleazebag.
Says the same thing to all the girls.
Babe,
do you have a boyfriend?
She has a kid!
Give me your number all the same!
Hands off!
Cut. One more.
Let's have dinner.
My treat!
- Please? - Background!
Action.
Now this is acting,
a couple taking a stroll.
Strolling all clay
for $40 is not bad.
I used to bring lunch to my dad.
$0.5 for walking eight miles!
Tired?
Yeah.
You can lean on me,
it'll be easier.
My name is Ting.
There ls Natural Grace - TING.
Please Eat Nervous Goat.
That's my name.
PENG!
That's good!
Hold onto me.
Is it hard working on set?
Depends.
Do you get to meet stars?
Plenty.
How much do you make in a day?
A hundred, give or take.
Do you take a commission?
I don't go for the chicken feed.
Will you call me if you need someone?
Sure. Check it out,
Lin Jian is kind of pretty, right?
Dance?
My sister is a professional.
She doesn't dance with amateurs.
I'm a professional too.
Yeah right.
How was that?
What's your name?
Annoying-
Can you please cash the vouchers?
I'm out of cash
I'm broke too.
Do you have any money?
Can you cash these vouchers?
I need to pay rent,
but I don't get paid until the fifth.
I have one $70 voucher,
and two $40 vouchers.
I'll give you a discount.
I don't want a discount.
Do you have enough for yourself?
I still have about $200.
It should last until the fifth.
Thanks. See you.
I can't dance.
Oh no,
my legs are sore from all that walking.
You want my phone number?
No, I'm not that kind of person.
I wonder when we'll meet again?
It's a small place. We'll meet again.
Bye.
'H..-
I'll walk you home.
Just say it!
Com'on,
get in line, guys.
Wardrobe,
Fifty Chinese soldiers, fifty Japs.
First timers can't play a corpse.
It's bad luck.
Gotta play a live one!
Wait for your turn!
Don't rush! Stay in line!
This is dirty!
Can I get a clean set?
I can give you the star's costume.
That's too much. Will you really?
Get lost!
Get in line!
What's your problem? Look at him!
Let me have those too.
Stay still!
Come here, Lai.
Get your Props
Be quick!
Please do not litter on set!
Sneaky bastard,
aren't you sly?
You're disgusting.
Hey Yi Fei,
is your sister here?
What's her name again?
Yi something? Or something Fei?
Give me her phone number.
Or give her mine?
Come on,
I'm not a bad guy.
I know all about you.
"When he grows old,"
I'll be the king!
How did you know my motto?
Everyone knows!
When I become a star,
I will cast you as my leading lady
not.
Not interested.
Do you want my number?
Don't give it to him!
Waiting.
Everyday.
Should I keep waiting?
Come on!
Guys,
Listen up!
I have a higher rank than you.
Therefore
you'll follow my orders!
Don't we follow the director's orders?
Shut up.
Attention!
Salute!
Jesus.
What a sorry looking bunch.
Watch me.
Salute!
At ease.
Salute!
At ease.
Just like the real thing.
He is the real thing.
Zhang Wenbin,
Corps of Engineers,
University of Defense Technology
Currently movie set
Runner!
What's going on?
A real battle?
Keep moving!
Main Unit.
Working since day break.
We're needed at the front.
Fine.
Roll camera.
Charge!
Run!
Cut!
Very good. Let's go again.
Back to one.
Reset right away!
Roll camera.
One, two, three, run!
Charge!
Don't Stop, or we'll go again.
Ready.
Charge!
Cut.
Very good.
Back to one.
Let's go again.
If it's very good, why go again?
Why keep saying "very good" before we go again?
Just say "no good!"
Are you ready,
Mr. Long?
Almost, sir.
Try a little higher.
OK? No problem?
- No problem - Good.
Sir.
That kid is about to faint.
Put him up here
as a corpse.
We don't want to send him to a hospital.
Go ahead.
Come here buddy.
Hurry.
Just lie there.
Don't move until you hear "cut."
OK?
OK. I need to get some shut eye.
Put on the helmet.
Clear the spot.
Light the fire.
Get ready.
Run in place!
It's safe, right?
Should be.
Relax,
where's your dedication?
Ready for a take. Roll!
One, two, three, jump!
Charge!
What's going on?
Cut!
Dude! What are you doing?
Put out the fire!
What?
Why did you get up?
I can't hear so good!
Can you speak louder?
I can't hear!
What are you laughing at?
Having a good time with nurses?
Get your ass over here!
Reset!
Let's go. Or he'll scream again.
My ammo case.
Ready“.
Soldiers, charge!
One, two, three, jump!
Jump!
Cut!
Do not litter with lunch boxes!
Hold onto your gear.
Playing a corpse is tougher
than playing a live person!
Man I'm tired.
Hello.
You looked pretty sharp.
Of course!
I felt sharp.
Newbie?
How does it feel?
Thrilling
Surreal.
Excited and tired.
But walking or running
is not acting.
That's the life of an extra.
First day was a real let down.
Guys at the Union House
were playing cards, gambling.
I was disappointed.
But I've thought it over.
I'm not like them.
I'll do my thing.
It's complicated.
But that happens everywhere.
How long have you been here?
Over a year.
Old timer!
Got any pointers?
Newbies have grand aspirations,
most of them don't make it.
But, only you can judge
how you like it.
It's easier for girls.
If they look decent they can get bit parts.
Define "decent."
I mean "pretty."
Pretty like you.
Uh...
They get better costume.
It's boring playing a palace maid,
you just stand there all day.
A maid is better,
at least you get to walk around.
A palace maid stands all day.
A maid walks all day.
What about a prostitute?
You might get a pervert,
with his hands all over you.
I'd push him away,
fan him away with a handkerchief.
If he persists,
I'd pinch him real hard.
What's a good role for guys?
A diner.
All you do is eat
and chat all day.
It's pretty easy.
No more soldiering for me. Diner only.
You wish!
This is where
I want to build our new warehouse.
So that's easier for trucks...
Here she is.
Look at this kid.
Where is your luggage?
Do you...
want to come in?
Have some tea.
This is Gen Lishu.
His dad, the owner, has been good to me.
The owner has health issues,
so he is in charge now.
Your brother took care of the factory.
I'm just learning the business.
Why don't you two chat a little?
Here you are, Ting.
How are you?
Where are we dining tonight?
Why don't we invite Li Shu?
600d idea.
I have to work tonight.
We haven't finished shooting yet.
I'm established.
How long do you want to keep doing this?
Stay out of it!
What are you waiting for?
That douche bag
is never coming back!
I'm going back to work.
Ting,
when you had enough fun, come back.
I'm not doing this for fun!
Li Shu,
go for her if you want,
if not, no worries.
I'll find you another match.
Ting,
let me give you a ride.
You can't get a taxi here.
- No, thanks. - I give you a ride.
It's my day off. I have time.
You look too casual.
No makeup?
Should I put something on?
No,
they are almost here,
ls this dinner
really necessary?
Wine and dine is part of every business.
You need connections.
I'd rather find jobs on my own terms,
If this "casting couch" business is a must,
I won't do it.
They're away from home and tired,
they just want some company.
You can say no at any point,
alright?
What's a casting couch?
Part of casting?
I think you better pack up and go home.
I won't.
Next time, just tell me
if you don't want to do this.
You don't have to be polite.
But be careful when you turn down others,
Be careful of what you say.
Don't say things like
who do you think you are, or "why should I dine with you."
etc.
You may piss people off.
If I said these things, what can they do?
Most people won't do much.
Some bastards will spread rumors
behind your back.
So and so...
It could ruin your reputation.
Since you are here,
come eat with us.
I know these guys.
They are OK.
They are here.
Mr. Liu!
Long time no see!
This is Ting and Jian.
Fine.
Let's go in!
- Jian - Yi Fei!
Ting! You are here!
This is Zhang Xun.
- Hello. - Let's go.
Come on.
Are you OK?
Let's do karaoke!
Let's have a good time!
It's too late. I'm drunk.
You're OK.
She's drunk.
Give her a hand.
What are you doing?
Get away!
Give me a hug.
Are you crazy?
- How dare you hit me? - Sir.
Get away!
How dare you hit me?
I'll call the police!
Do you know who I am?
They're just kids, let's go.
You can forget about acting in this town.
I'll blacklist you!
Get them out of here!
Hurry up!
You're drunk again.
I told you not to go.
Stand up.
Stand straight.
Wei Xing, don't give me shit.
I'm doing all this for you.
I love you so much.
Let's go home.
What a shame.
Who took you drinking?
Chen.
You know who she is.
How did you get mixed up with her?
She talks to girls on the square.
Is she a pimp?
How can you say that?
Go with us, see for yourself!
What's there to see?
All you want is to have a good time.
I know all your tricks.
You like that punk actor, right?
What if I do?
You must stop seeing him!
Why?
Because he is a burn!
You know
I've never liked anyone as much.
I really do like him.
Don't kid yourself.
Take a look in the mirror.
Plenty of girls who are prettier than you,
When this show wraps,
he will be gone.
You don't trust anyone
in this business, do you?
Tell me,
Why did he take you drinking?
Because he likes me.
And that's the reason?
Why else would he take me?
He wouldn't do that if he didn't like me!
What if he drugged your drinks?
They were there as well!
If they jumped off a cliff, would you?
I'm silly but I'm not retarded.
They can't cheat on me.
One day they will.
That's my business.
I don't care if he lies to me.
You'd be worthless after he's done with you.
Union card
Xiao, ignore the rain.
Let's get started.
Come on people, time to work
You are very tired on set, right?
Wanna learn some tricks?
Listen up.
First rule of being an extra:
don't play a street vendor.
Second rule: stay away from the stars.
Why?
Once you get established next to the stars
you'd have be there all the time.
After you change,
stay out of sight.
If you can't get away,
walk away during the first take.
Where are you guys going?
Toilet.
Hurry up!
Stay away from assistant directors.
You don't want them to recognize you.
I promise,
no one will find us here.
Let's go to sleep!
Nice!
If I want to sleep, I might as well go home.
Let's go back to set.
OK.
Fools!
Wanna know how to get on camera?
Look, prime location is next to the actor.
Just stick with him.
Unless it's a big deal
they won't say anything.
You two, over here.
You over here.
There's the camera.
Don't look at it while rolling
You'll get yelled at.
Xiao,
get some sharp looking guys,
put these two in the back.
Got it.
You two! Always up front,
acting cheerful.
I'm on camera, of course I'm happy!
You two are in every shot,
take a spot back there, OK?
Back there, OK?
Go ahead!
You, come here.
You two, sit here.
Hello?
Is it lunch yet?
Anyone looking for me?
What do you take me for?
I'm not your lookout.
No phone on set!
Yo buddy.
It's all gone. Lunch is over.
Again.
Here.
Get a chair,
don't sit on the floor.
Have some self respect.
Anyone can do what we do.
It's pointless.
The day is long.
You think the day is long
because you want to go home
and play video games.
I feel the day is short
I gotta pay rent when I get home.
Me too!
Standing all day,
aren't you tired?
How about you guys?
Not as bad as working in a coal mine.
You were a coal miner?
That's right.
That's hard work.
It's not hard work,
it's a hard life.
Being an extra is easy for me
because I like performing.
I'd get on camera
even if I have to squeeze in.
As long as I'm in the shot,
I can tell my son
that his old man was on TV.
That's something.
It's a different story
if you want to act.
It depends a lot on chance.
You'll get your break
if you keep trying-
Let's go back to set.
Sir.
Come here Zhao.
My buddy is good looking,
can you put him in a good spot?
Maybe even a line or two?
Not bad. Follow me.
Sorry about earlier
- putting you back. - It's OK.
Why are you so nice to him?
Why,
Are you jealous of his good looks?
If you're not handsome,
try to be a good actor.
If you haven't been to school,
do the best job that you can.
- Got it? - Yeah.
Let's go.
What's this smell?
Who's frying chili?
Cooking again!
Cooking with chili again!
I will evict you!
I told you not to cook chili here!
I'm sorry
- I didn't mean to... - I will evict you!
No more discussion.
Hengdian Job Refferal
Ting!
I happened to be in the neighborhood.
Uh...
Right.
Your sister-in-law asked me
to bring you some money.
My sister-in-law won't give me money.
I mean...
Your brother asked me to.
He won't give me money neither,
unless I move back.
Your boyfriend?
See you later.
Li Shu,
thanks.
It's alright.
I heard you got blacklisted.
It's OK, I quit anyway.
So you're looking for a job?
What's this?
I was cooking with chili,
my landlady can't stand spicy food.
Come in.
Your room is messy.
I'm the neat one.
I clean up once a month.
Why don't you eat only once a day?
Sometimes I do.
When I have no money, I don't eat.
How much is the rent?
400
There's a TV but no antenna.
Nothing to watch.
There's a heater in the bathroom
but it doesn't work.
We can buy a new heater.
A rich man.
Last month I rented a bunk in the back,
I moved here
after I earned a little money.
How much for electricity?
$1 per unit.
Comes to about $200.
That much?
What do you use that much electricity for?
Nothing.
Recharging my phone?
My cel-phone is eating up all this electricity?
Your landlord is cheating.
I know,
I spoke to her about it.
She's an old lady.
Forget it.
I only have $300 left.
Do you want to split the rent?
Is your boyfriend going to beat me up?
I'll do clean up and pay $150.
Is there a problem?
Work problem.
Have you ever been a cashier?
Yes.
I worked in my dad's restaurant for a year.
I was in charge of stocking.
Great.
Take a look at the books.
Qin.
They're calling for us.
One minute!
How much do you want?
Whatever you can pay.
Let's discuss when I get back.
Tell Kai that I've hired someone.
Why? He doesn't care.
Remember,
don't let anyone keep a tab.
OK!
Thanks, Peng
It's alright.
Stop scratching.
Let me.
Still itching?
Yeah.
Not if you're pinched.
- Good night. - The pain is elsewhere!
Should I sleep on the inside?
If I try anything,
you can get away faster.
Master, please spare my life.
Are you always so calm?
What do you mean?
You're always quiet.
It's hard to read you.
You must have some kind of secret,
I mean,
something you don't want to talk about?
Right,
but it's almost over.
Do you have time tomorrow?
I'd like to take you
Oh you're working
at the restaurant tomorrow.
Can I have your number?
Wait, we're sharing an apartment.
Why would I need your number?
Do you have a boyfriend?
That's an annoying question.
I take it back.
Action.
Greetings, Your Highness.
You may rise.
Are you feeling better, Lady lan?
Better than I did this morning.
My thanks to Your Highness.
Your Highness,
my father wishes to present a gift:
this foreign pocket watch.
An item of intricate design.
Cut.
What is that girl doing?
Stop swinging.
I'm sorry.
Again.
From the watch.
Again.
From the gift box.
Lady Fu,
we know your intentions.
Your father is...
Sorry, forgot my lines.
Your father is...
It's OK. Keep rolling.
Your father is the Field Marshal
of our Wetsern Army.
If your brother becomes the General
- of the Southern Army, we fear that... - Cut
Why are you swinging?
I'm running out of time!
I can't keep going
when she keeps doing that.
Miss, what happened?
- Are you OK? - What's the matter with you?
Are you OK?
Why did you take this gig?
I knew the assistant director,
so I did him a favor.
Might as well make some money.
Right.
Anita.
- Sit. - Take a seat.
Sit.
Were you sick?
It was stuffy inside.
This weather is depressing.
Anita.
An actress once told me...
What?
Tell me.
I love to hear gossips!
When choosing a husband,
one should never choose an actor.
What do you think?
Is that true?
My husband is also an actor.
Yours as well, I believe?
Yes.
So is her boyfriend.
So we're all in the same boat.
Marrying an actor is a paradox.
You want him to be successful,
but not too successful.
Once he is, there'll be trouble.
Other women,
and god knows what else.
I used to get riled up
when I see my husband kiss someone on screen.
But then I thought
I've kissed others on screen.
So be it.
So you see,
sometimes it's easier
if couples are both actors.
You'd understand each other better.
How do I put it?
When he is acting, all is good.
But outside of acting
he knows nothing.
Cares for nothing.
His heart is in acting.
He is acting even when he's not in costume,
but as himself, he acts badly.
That's right.
People who choose to act
are emotional beings.
These guys
have dysfunctional left brains!
Anita,
at least her man is an actor.
I don't know what to call my guy!
You have to give him more time.
How much time are you giving Kai?
We're married.
There is no expired date for that.
I've known him since I was seventeen.
L quit my job
and moved here from Wenzhou
all because of him.
He didn't have a steady income,
so I borrowed money from my family
and opened a restaurant.
I think
if your man has a dream
you have to support him.
Right?
Right.
My guy
just sits around all day.
I can't talk him into anything.
I don't know how long can I keep this up.
Do you love him?
I just don't know
if he can make it in this business.
What about you?
Can you make it?
I don't know.
If you're not sure about yourself,
how can you tell about him?
In love, you don't always get back
as much as you had put in.
You shouldn't expect to, anyway.
Stop dwelling on this.
You'll know
when you're ready to leave him.
Cut!
Swap lenses, go again.
Excuse me,
can I get some touch up?
This is a wide shot.
Can't see your face.
No need.
- Hurry up! - Excuse me,
are the costumes ready for the next scene?
We're missing an actor,
the scene is merged with another one.
Back to one One more
Back to one. Again.
Get ready.
For country, charge!
Cut!
Shut down the water!
Just move your ass!
Who told you to ad-lib lines?
Sir, in the script...
Everyone comes up with useless lines.
Who taught them this shit?
Sorry sir. Let's go again.
My mistake. Sorry.
Back to one!
G0 again!
Be ready to go again!
What're you doing?
Over there!
Wei Xing.
Haven't had lunch?
Here you go.
Veggies, onion,
chicken broth so thin
you can't even taste the chicken.
This show has budget, right?
What's with the shitty food?
No rice,
what is this crap?
What do you take me for?
Com'on Xing, leave it.
Eat whatever is there.
Why compare with them?
You're getting paid.
They are actors, so am I.
Why do I get different food?
Why do they get to sit down
and I have to damn squat?
What's the deal?
Please calm down.
You know we don't have space for two hundred chairs.
Take it easy.
Actors and extras deserve the same respect.
I don't mean no disrespect.
Here buddy.
Xing,
take a seat.
Forget it.
I don't deserve a seat.
Guys,
get back to work, hurry!
Hey you, did you hear me?
I'm not an extra.
What are you then?
I'm an actor.
Extras, featured, bit players, day players,
all the same to me.
When you are famous,
you can prima donna all you want.
Now get back to set!
So you're saying if I'm famous,
you'll kiss my ass, right?
Just you wait.
Hold on
buddy.
I'll be a dog if you can make it.
Even if I can't make it, you're still a dog.
Damn it!
Com'on!
What's going on?
Damn it, I quit!
Hurry up and quit!
Don't think we can't do without you!
- You. - Sir.
Put on his costume,
may his part!
Thank you sir.
Fools.
Wei Xing,
I heard you had a fight on set again.
You're still young, true,
but don't get worked up for nothing.
You're too proud,
too stubborn.
You're audacious. That's a strength,
but also a weakness.
Do you have to lecture me?
You sound just like my mom!
It's annoying!
I told you I don't want jobs like this.
Now I look like a fool. Happy?
That clock never moves, does it?
You gotta be thick skinned.
Everyone takes shit from time to time.
Turn the bad stuff
into motivation.
How do you turn shit into motivation?
I'm not a dog,
I can't kiss ass all the time.
I think you're messed up in your head.
Maybe you should have a think,
try to sort out
what do you want.
You've known me for three years.
You know what I want.
I'm not doing this for money,
I want to go the distance,
I want to be the best actor there is.
Why don't you try to "act" humble?
Just for a little while?
Life is but a play,
right?
You earn respect by being a good man,
not by being successful.
No worries.
Even if no one understands you,
I always will.
Take it easy.
This show is good!
Come to me my dear.
No sir,
I have to leave now,
Farewell.
It ain't finished yet!
These shows are tearjerkers
but this one got to you real fast!
That actor was my boyfriend.
You don't have to talk about it
if you don't want to.
If you want to say something,
knock yourself out.
I came here on a whim,
and I met him.
He was an actor, starting out.
I didn't know anyone.
He was nice to me.
We started talking.
...and became a couple.
For a while he had no work,
and he was really depressed.
So I moved in with him.
...and built a home.
We worked different shifts,
and hardly saw each other.
Eventually, we only had phone contact.
Six months later,
he signed a contract with a company,
and left town.
I cried, I went to my brother,
and he slapped me.
I called my parents,
and they scolded me.
It was really painful.
It must be tough!
Then I got over it.
Maybe, I really didn't like him that much.
Sure you did.
Why else would you cry just now?
Seeing him on TV just now,
it felt really surreal.
Pretend he is stuck in TV forever.
It's all your fault, tuning in to his show.
We'll never watch TV again.
His ratings will take a dive.
If you work hard, maybe someday
you'll get to co-star with him.
That's too hard.
And it won't be a happy ending.
Such a pessimist!
I wish I were a true pessimist!
A little hope is what make it so hard!
So I've decided not to wait anymore.
Giving up?
I made the decision after I moved in with you.
Are you ever going to fall in love again?
Hopefully I will!
I can rest easy then.
What are you doing?
Attracting mosquitoes.
Bite me! Bite me!
Leave the fragile lovesick girl alone!
You're a fool!
There really are mosquitoes!
It's OK. Sit down.
"Micheal's Dance Studio"
Come on.
Come on. One, two...
Dragon Film Stunt
Stephen Fung!
Daniel Wu!
Quite good.
What kind of a man can make you fall in love again?
The good kind.
What's a good kind?
Honest
Generous.
Kind.
Not too delicate.
A man with nothing to hide.
That's all.
You're talking about me!
Not too modest, are you?
It's true!
At first,
I thought you were a fool.
But then I realized
that you only looked like a fool.
I'm more of a Mr. Bean type.
You are actually kind of smart.
And you are perceptive.
Popular with girls?
I wouldn't really call myself Casanova.
I get tongue-tied
when I talk to girls.
Are you honest?
For sure!
And sincere?
Of course!
Do you want to kiss me?
More than anything.
Just kidding.
Too much saliva!
That's it,
only a handful of shows left.
A few more will wrap next week.
Let's see.
I heard of some new shows.
Small shows. Not enough work.
The summer draught
is worse than the winter chill!
Kai,
let's invite the casting directors,
do some networking.
You can't buy
your way to success, OK?
How else can I do it? You have a better way?
We treat them, they return the favor.
That's how it works.
Did it ever get you anywhere?
What's wrong with networking?
This is the real world.
Can you get anywhere with your looks?
No-.
Your acting chops?
Forget it!
Networking is all you've got!
To be honest,
I've been here seven months.
I'm used to failure.
I was innocent.
After all this time,
I don't know what I've become!
You always complain
but never think of your own problems
Frankly,
you can use some self reflection.
I'm networking! What's wrong with that?
Are you still interested in acting?
I aim to be a star!
Or at least a stand-in.
Stay out of it.
How far did you get?
Not far at all.
Then why are you still here?
Because he has nowhere to go!
All his money is gone.
OK, your honest opinion
do I have what it takes?
As a character actor, maybe.
Hardly.
Go ahead and laugh. I won't give up.
Dream on.
Nothing but a dream.
Guys, tell me
why did you come here?
For my dream!
To be an action star.
To find success.
So my relatives
will respect me and my family.
I'm here to make money.
Do you think you can make it?
Sure I'll make it.
I believe I can make it.
I'm doing what I like to do. I'm learning.
I will become a good actor.
So many bad actors made it,
why not me?
PeiJun?
I already made it.
I lived through a cave-in in the mines.
I'm alive, under the sun.
That's enough.
Well, you know what you want.
Keep at it.
I can't keep going. I'm desperate.
Jun,
you're stuck in a rut.
You should try another profession.
A guy like you,
only half-smart,
won't go far in this business.
Don't rub it in.
We all have our own problems.
What should I do then?
Be a runner, pick up trash on set?
Picking up trash isn't a runner's only job.
Is that what you came here to do?
I came here to survive.
I'm not handsome.
But I don't mind being a stand-in.
You know,
sometimes, it just ain't up to you.
You have the least pressure among us.
Your life is much easier than mine!
Let me tell you.
Lai is a stuntman,
Kai is an actor.
lam nothing.
I want to send something to my folks
but I have no money.
I just want to send something home,
something nice, anything...
Wen Bin,
No tears, eh?
Real men don't cry. Right?
I know,
We're all here to hack it out.
We have ideals,
aspirations.
We won't end up begging on the street.
Besides, Kai will help us out.
Right.
First you have to survive.
Otherwise,
you can only play a corpse.
No use crying. Right?
How long have you been here?
Almost a year.
Made any money?
I make a living.
But no savings.
Remember,
the money you earn ain't yours
until you bank it.
Some people are suited for this business
some aren't.
Everyone wants to be famous.
But at the same time,
you gotta ask yourself,
do I have what it takes?
Wen Bin,
don't take this personally.
Lai,
you are a stuntman.
You don't understand what they go through.
I've played thugs, butchers, killers, executioners.
Etc...
How could I not understand what they've gone through?
I'm not born a stuntman.
But I work hard,
Did you make any money
from all that hard work?
No-.
Then what makes you the expert?
True, I don't have any savings.
But it doesn't make what I say less true.
Why are we stuck
doing extras work?
Instead of playing a role?
Why always stay in this stage?
Finally,
that's the point.
May I ask a key question?
Did anyone from Hengdian ever make it?
Kai!
Me?
Yeah, you're the template of success!
Qin minds the shop, you get to act.
Qin has to do both!
- Hush - The rest of us have nothing.
What are we doing here?
I suggest you leave right away.
No-.
Because I'm better looking than you,
you want to get rid of the competition!
How can you compete against me?
You can't even face your own problems!
Check this out,
he couldn't hack the last night shoot,
he swore never to do night shoots again!
You're not tough enough.
One year ago I was tougher than you.
If you're really tough,
no matter what happens,
you'd always be tough.
Shut up!
You GUYS'
calm down.
Sit.
Sometimes troubles in life
make us lose sight of our goals.
Why did I come to Hengdian?
Because there is no prerequisite here.
I can start from the bottom.
Slowly,
I can work my way up.
This is not only a dream factory,
this place is built for guys like us.
To sum up,
Hangman,
is a place of hope.
Right?
Where is Fei?
He's sick.
I'll wash the dishes.
I can do it.
Talk is cheap
without action.
Cut the rain.
Towels!
I orderd hundred extras,
where did they all go?
I can go look for them.
Good!
Find the stunt guy first!
OK!
Check out my hand!
Get back to set!
You startled me!
What's wrong with you?
The assistant director wants you back on set.
Why do you care? Get lost!
Let's keep going.
Get lost!
You want to keep your jobs or what?
Get out!
All extras get lazy after a while.
Not you. You're not tired?
I want to keep busy,
otherwise I'll never learn.
I'll see if I can get you a role.
I'm lucky to have met you,
many thanks!
Let's get back to work!
It's chilly today.
Hengdian's weather's unstable.
Don't catch a cold.
Bro.
Yo, buddy.
Home at last.
I've been waiting for an hour.
Run!
What are you doing?
Stop it!
None of your business. Get lost!
Hold Still!
Sit down.
Go ahead and run.
Run!
Go ahead!
Stop!
I've called the police.
They will be here any moment!
Buddy,
you got off easy this time.
Next time you won't be so lucky!
Are you OK?
"Dental Clinic"
Does it hurt?
Another dose of Novocaine? Just $10.
Hurt.
Let's get out of this racket.
I'm OK.
Acting is all about life experiences.
Now I have experience in getting beat up.
If you stay, they will come again.
That's their problem.
I won't change myself for them.
You gave yourself one year.
It's not a year yet.
It makes no difference.
No one ever makes it
from Hengdian.
No one made it to a star,
but plenty people made a living.
Why be here if you can't be a star?
Why learn to cook if you can't be a chef?
It's pointless.
Once I improve my skills, I'll move up.
This line of work has potential.
And I like it.
Liking it and making it are different things.
When you decide to settle down,
you have to start over again.
That's when you'll fall behind others.
I won't marry until I'm at least twenty five years old.
We're still young.
We can afford to dream.
I can't leave here with nothing
just as I came!
Maybe you should try something else.
You put all your eggs in one basket,
with nothing to fall back to.
This is only the beginning,
I need to focus.
When I have experience, when I play speaking roles,
I'll try other things.
You haven't had schooling
So what?
Just because I'm not a rich kid, I haven't learnt drama,
so I'm doomed to fail?
It should not work like that.
What if it does not work out?
What's the matter with you?
Do you think I'm hopeless?
A little encouragement doesn't hurt.
Have you been happy here?
Of course!
When I met you.
We have nowhere to go.
It doesn't matter where we go,
which job we get,
it's the same for us.
If you can't forget the past,
it'll follow you everywhere.
Don't worry so much.
It's going to be OK.
Kai,
how come the doors are unlocked?
You're home.
What happened?
A friend had a wrap party,
everyone was here!
What now?
You've been moody.
Unpredictable.
I heard wonderful news,
let's not bicker today, OK?
What news, where from?
From the show, of course!
I got a role as a minister
in a period drama!
It's an important part:
a minister.
Stop.
I'm pregnant.
I want to sell the restaurant.
We're going to need the money.
You stopped taking the pill?
But
we're short on funds,
now is just not a good time.
Will you listen to me?
What's there to say?
Will you hear me out?
I'm almost twenty six years old!
I know!
I want a child too!
But I just got this role.
Why is that a problem?
Do you think we can afford it?
We could've.
Don't worry.
I'll think of a way.
Life is hard enough as it is!
I'm not afraid of a hard life
I'm not talking about you or me,
Why bring a child into this?
So you want to get rid of it?
Let's wait a little longer.
How long must we wait?
You do what you want. Don't worry about me.
Listen to me.
To achieve our goal, sacrifices have to be made!
I want to be responsible to my child!
We can have many children.
When things get better,
when I know they will live a good life.
That's why
I can't have this child now.
Let's get a divorce.
Don't!
You're everything to me, you know?
No I am not!
Your acting is everything to you!
Your "friends" are everything to you!
I will not lose my baby
for your damn dream!
Qin.
Let me tell you.
A man's life is more than just his family.
If you have this child,
you will ruin my plans,
you will ruin my life!
How can you say that?
How can you call yourself a man?
Kai,
this mole by my ear holds a prophesy.
It says that someday,
someone
will speak a sentence to my ear.
And it'll be all over.
You just spoke that sentence.
It's up to you.
If you don't want to stay,
Quit the restaurant.
Don't be like these guys,
all talk and no action;
they can't even deal with
basic problems in life.
Be your own man.
I've said enough.
Long'
she's carrying a baby.
Drive carefully.
No worry.
Let's go.
Your Majesty.
No ceremony.
Cut.
Good.
I'm OK with that one.
Check it.
Ping.
Camera here. Close-ups.
Stay where you are.
Let's block the scene.
Places. Blocking for camera.
Places.
Mr. Fong,
take off the undergarment.
The shot is over the shoulder.
Great.
Wardrobe!
Sir.
Let's run the lines.
Hurry UP-
The King says:
"I thought our army is victorious,"
why are my generals bloodied and dishevelled?
Lai's Line
Your Majesty.
We underestimated our foe and fell for his diversionary tactics.
We beg for reinforcement troops,
so that we may retake the day!
Alex, step forward.
I shall die in battle
before another defeat!
Good. Next.
The minister steps forward.
Your Majesty's ambitious word...
Hold on.
Step out a bit more.
Come to this spot.
Step out more.
OK.
Again.
Your Majesty.
Your majesty's ambitions are most inspiring.
Yet four years of war
has filled our kingdom with strife.
General Lee, step forward.
Our army is strong and morale is high.
None dares stand in our path!
If what you say is true,
why does General Fan speak of defeat!
- Step up. - You fool!
Insolence!
Step up now?
Right.
Step UP-
Your Majesty has reigned for thirty years.
Don't rush. Again.
OK.
Your Majesty has reigned for thirty years.
Now, Your kingdom achieved,
your sovereignty attested, so peerless is Your Grace,
Yet waging war brings chaos to our land.
All lords yield to your prowess.
Just as soldiers follow their captain,
if Your Majesty should employ
righteousness and kindness,
all shall fall under Your Majesty's rule.
" Up to here? Right. Just like this."
OK, we take it to here.
They can take a break.
OK, take a break!
Your majesty's ambitions
are most inspiring.
Yet four years of war has filled our kingdom with strife.
Civil discord will surly follow.
Relax.
Don't worry, Kai.
You'll do fine.
Mr. Shen,
nice acting.
Looks like networking has paid off.
Buddy,
looks like you're jealous!
Why am I jealous about him?
Lai,
no more stuttering?
Get lost!
Let's go!
Kai,
forget the business at home.
Don't worry.
Ready?
Action.
I thought our army is victorious,
why are my generals bloodied
and dishevelled?
Your Majesty.
We underestimated our foe
and fell for his diversionary tactics.
We beg for reinforcement troops,
so that we may retake the day!
I shall die in battle
before another defeat!
Your Majesty.
Say your lines! What're you doing?
Keep rolling, Ping.
Back to one.
Ready, acfion.
Your Majesty.
Cut.
After Alex's line!
Roll camera.
Action.
I shall die in battle before another defeat!
Your Majesty.
Cut.
Stay where you are.
Be patient.
Be quiet. Stop talking.
Quiet. Quiet back there.
From there.
Try it.
Your Majesty. And step out.
Back up a bit.
Back up when he steps out.
Your Majesty.
Ready, acfion.
Your Majesty.
Go.
Don't hesitate. Speak right away.
Monitor.
Turn the monitor around.
Look.
Do you see?
You're not in frame.
Keep going.
Step closer.
Alright? Got it? You see the distance?
You got it?
OK, one more time.
Ready, acfion.
Your Majesty.
Four years of war...
OK. Everyone take a break.
Next shot,
Steadycam...
Try the camera movement!
Your Majesty, Four years of war...
Like this: "Your Majesty"
...four years of war...
How can you use guys like this?
We spent months on casting,
Why didn't we cast in Beijing?
Gosh.
Learn your lines, quick!
Four years of war...
Four years of war has filled our kingdom with strife.
He's crying!
Ping!
Take him outside for a break.
What's going on?
How is this going to work?
He was fine in the casting session.
Fine in the casting session.
This is an important role!
What a mess.
First method:
you are a fair and just courtier,
truly concerned for the people.
What are you doing? Giving directions?
I said not to bother him!
Are you the director?
Alright,
take it easy, OK?
Let's shoot this, let's make haste.
From the top, from the entry!
Yes sir.
Last looks!
Wardrobe! Makeup!
Let's go. Places.
Roll sound.
Your Majesty,
our army is strong and morale is high.
In battle,
none dares stand in our path!
If what you say is true,
why was General Fan wounded!
You fool!
Insolence!
Your Majesty has reigned for thirty years.
Now your kingdom achieved,
So peerless is Your Grace, all lords
from near and far yield to your prowess.
Yet waging war brings chaos to our land.
If Your Majesty should employ...
Cut.
Almost there.
Stop. Step forward.
Step forward from the end mark.
Just a little bit, you'll catch the light.
You got it?
Ready,
Roll sound.
Action.
Your Majesty has reigned for thirty years.
Now your kingdom achieved.
All lords from near
and far yield to your prowess.
As soldiers follow their captains,
Your Majesty should employ kindness...
Employ righteousness and kindness,
Your Majesty should employ righteousness...
You're babbling again.
I'll give you one more chance.
Here is your mark.
Here.
OK?
Don't tense up.
We rehearsed this morning.
Just do the same thing.
Stay where you are back there!
OK, let's go!
Standby.
Give us the last line.
Alex, your last line please.
Insolence!
Ready.
Action.
Insolence!
Your Majesty has reigned...
Cut.
What's the matter with you?
Makeup, touch up.
Ping.
Where is the stand-in?
Get the stand-in to read the King's lines.
Get the stand-in!
Be quick!
Step aside! Step away!
Give him some air!
Step aside!
Scissors!
Pinch him.
Get a car. Hurry!
He fainted, get him outside.
Easy.
Don't stick around.
Make Way!
Take a break.
Stop meddling.
Leave him alone!
Finish all the lines this time.
Ping.
You still haven't got it?
All this time,
all these takes!
Read it out loud.
Read it out loud for yourself.
I shall die in battle
before another defeat!
We can't keep going like this.
I'll swap the guy.
Can you fly out tomorrow instead?
Fine by me, but you have to talk to Ronald.
What are you doing with Ronald?
Overheard 3.
Sorry sir, we lose the location tomorrow.
A TV show booked it for two months.
We have to finish today.
How can we finish?
How can I shoot?
Can we shoot close-ups first?
What close-ups?
Over here,
or over there?
We haven't established everything yet!
Let's wrap.
I'm flying out!
Do it. It's OK.
Mr. Fong, you're done today.
Where is Guo Wei?
I'll get him.
I called for him a while ago!
Tell me.
What is this?
Why didn't you cast someone from Beijing?
You've been here several times.
You had three months!
This is what you can find?
Is this a test of my skills as a director?
No Sir. I'm sorry.
Sir.
I can give it a try.
Your majesty's ambitions are most inspiring.
Yet four years of war
has filled our kingdom with strife.
Civil discord...
Come back when you know the lines,
OK? Now get out.
Sir. I'll take him away.
Fine. Take him away. You go too,
OK? Swap him.
And I swap you as well.
It's a wrap.
A cucurbit flute, sir?
No, thanks.
I asked around
where you live.
Your brother found a plantation in Indonesia.
We're sourcing the lumber from there.
He moved there with his wife.
He didn't say a word to me.
He is proud.
You didn't talk to him neither.
He...
didn't want this for you.
But if you really
like that boy,
maybe it's worthwhile.
But actually you can live better.
I don't want it.
Takeit
No, I really don't want it.
- I don't. - Take it.
How about...
I take you to lunch?
I'll buy you lunch.
Sure!
Hello, Yi Fan.
Yi Fei,
is Zhang Xun here for you?
I told you to not to talk to him!
What are you doing?
I'm leaving.
Zhang Xun convinced his producer
to take me on as a staff actor.
I'm going to Beijing.
Do not nag at me!
What about me?
You have plenty of work here,
and suitors too.
I'm not worried about you.
Can you ask them
if I can go with you?
It's not convenient.
After I've settled over there,
you can join me.
Yi Fei,
l.
There are a lot of people like you,
what are you afraid of?
They are more driven than I am.
You have to be on your own
sooner or later.
Just watch out for yourself.
You want to dance,
but you don't dare dance on the square.
You should go out there tonight.
L.
Don't worry.
What if you don't have a sister?
Right?
I'm not leaving the country.
You can visit when I'm not shooting.
Never mind.
I've made my decision. I'm going.
Last week I saw him
walking out of a hotel with a girl!
Stop badmouthing him!
Stop being infatuated with him!
I will not give up my love
because of something you said.
You can't make this decision!
I'm your older sister.
Mom couldn't run my life.
Who are you to decide for me?
I'm worried about you.
You always think that I've been fooled.
Not everyone is a lier, you know?
Listen.
He tried his hands on me too,
do you hear me?
How can you say that?
From now on, I'm no longer your sister.
Sister,
you're nineteen years old.
You can't rely on me all your life.
You understand?
Take care of yourself.
Yi Fei...
You can't leave.
Saveit
Kai.
Your Majesty's ambitions
are most inspiring.
Yet four years of war has filled our kingdom with strife.
Your Majesty's ambitions
This looks really bad man!
Yet four years of war...
Kai.
...filled our kingdom with strife.
Kai, this looks really bad...
Sir,
you're looking for new talent?
That kid is pretty good.
I noticed him. Bring him over.
Peﬂg,
come here.
Director Mak.
How long have you been acting?
Almost a year.
Any roles?
No-.
Did you go to acting school?
No-.
He can play the village kid.
Look,
we have a film about young people.
We have a training program in Beijing.
It's paid.
We select the cast after training.
Are you interested?
Yes.
But you may not make the final cast.
That's OK.
It'll be part of my experience.
Fine. Take a seat.
I saw a handsome kid yesterday.
Find him for me.
He was here this morning.
He's here.
What's wrong?
Did we wrap?
Where is wardrobe?
Let's go.
Where are my clothes?
Stop.
What're you doing?
Mao Dun says,
I never dream. I strive to face the reality.
The dramatist Hong Sheng says,
I aim to take on more hardships next year.
Lu Xun says,
waking up to hopelessness is most painful.
Socrates says,
"to enjoy life one must struggle, and to struggle..."
for one's ideals is the most worthwhile.
You want to be Louis Koo?
You can't accomplish that by sleeping all day!
Look at me.
No one wants me because I'm ugly.
They put me in deep background.
You're handsome,
I really think you can make it.
Why don't you try harder?
You know,
you're the laziest person I know,
bar none.
Same for me too!
Think of your future.
Peng got his break today.
If you keep going like this,
we're no longer your friends.
Get in.
Driver,
Let's go.
Driver,
go faster.
PeiJun,
you bastard!
Catch me, Wang Zhao!
Run! Catch me!
Faster!
Here is a spot for you!
Faster!
Ting.
What's going on?
Why are you so happy?
What are you doing?
We're going to Beijing!
This is a gift from above.
D0 you know Alan Mak and Felix Chang'? They directed "Overheard."
They are looking for new faces.
I'm lucky to catch this break!
I must do good.
If I'm good in this,
I'll get more opportunities,
I'll get lead roles or at least support roles...
I'm OK.
Look, babe.
You can see our old apartment.
Rent is cheaper here.
Only $380.
There's no bathroom, though.
But there is a shower downstairs.
You turned down Mr. Liu again.
What's the matter with you?
Mr. Liu this, Mr. Liu that.
Who the hell is he to you?
Thirty five scenes.
Eight days of work.
It pays $600 a day.
How much is that?
$4800!
How much was our rent?
$550 a month.
That's eight months of rent!
How else are you going to
get the money for the academy?
You only want lead roles.
You want to jump from an extra to a star,
you want to skip the middle!
It's not about skipping ahead,
I just don't want to step backwards.
Two steps forward, two steps back,
I'd go nuts!
Then get a move on!
You're like the clock outside,
broken and stuck.
You can't afford to go to school,
can't afford to get married,
can't afford to buy a flat,
can't afford a baby.
Everyday you do one thing, which is nothing.
You don't want to live in a better place.
I think this is it for you.
Your life is finished.
I chose this apartment
to remind myself
of where I am in this world.
I don't want to a part of this world!
It's dingy, filthy, full of shit!
I don't want to live here!
I don't want this!
I don't want to live here!
Nice day.
That tall building wasn't there
when I first got here.
We shall buy one suite next time
What's up?
I called Li Shu.
He will pick me up tomorrow.
What? Who is that?
My brother's boss.
You've seen him before.
What is this?
Why are you doing this?
What about last night?
Am I just a one night stand?
Did you do it out of pity? Or a memento?
That's not why I did it.
Is it because I'm going to Beijing?
If I go,
even if I fail, I'll regret for two years.
If I don't go,
I'll regret my whole life.
What about me?
If I let you go, I may not see you again.
What's the use of going?
Who do you want to be?
I'm not trying to be someone else.
I just want to prove myself.
It's an illusion!
How can this opportunity be an illusion?
You want a life with someone you don't know
that's an illusion!
You can't leave this life.
You gave yourself one year.
When time is up,
will you give yourself another year?
I don't want to live like this anymore.
Every line, every expression,
it's all fake!
The entire Hengdian studio, the film industries,
not to mention the filmmakers are all fake!
Impossible!
Everyone is real!
You and I, we are real!
I can't just think of your dream.
I have to think of my future.
I see no future
between us.
We can't make it to the end.
If we're not in the same place,
how do we stay together?
People say, in a couple,
the man should be older than the woman.
Maybe you should find someone younger.
That's bullshit.
My mom is three years older than my dad.
Where do you come up with these lines?
I don't want to drift anymore.
I know,
Hengdian is not an illusion.
The illusion is that I have talent.
Peng.
Do you have me in your dream?
Ting,
you are my dream!
Don't you know that
I work so hard because of you!
You and I
are like a dog and a butterfly.
We'd never know each other's thoughts.
Go marry your rich man!
Brother,
are you an actor?
I'm an out of work actor.
Can you tell me about the business?
Get your residence permit, ATM card, union card.
You can't work unless you have a union card.
Show up at the union house at 4 AM,
and wait.
Do you have a place to stay?
Not yet.
Spend the night at the park.
How old are you?
I'm eighteen.
Go home after you've had your kicks.
I can't go home.
I only have $100 left on me.
Not enough to go home.
It's not an easy line of work.
No line of work is easy,
right?
Plenty of scum in the business.
There must be good guys too.
Good luck to you then.
Forgive me for asking,
can I lodge with you tonight?
Never mind.
Thanks.
See you.
It's a nice room.
Smells good!
You must have a lady friend.
You have the upper bunk.
Fine.
I'll stay at Yi Fan house tonight, all the best. Ting
A dance in midnight,
the crowd has thinned out.
It's exhilarating,
it's benumbing.
Who is comforting whom?
Who is happy, who is alone?
A lonely dance for a lonely city.
Safisfied?
Confused?
Who can I talk to?
We all know in our hearts.
We can't go back to where we were.
Let my dancing steps take me afar.
Let reality keep me aground.
Lost again and again.
On this taxing journey
Too many feelings, too many memories,
let them not bound us.
I don't want to give up.
I keep giving.
lam stubborn. I am alone.
I don't want a typical ending.
Or the so called catharsis.
I want to walk with my own feet,
I want to see with my own eyes.
Along the path everyone must take,
one loses one's dreams.
One gets used to an ordinary life,
No more understanding. No more crying.
We all know in our hearts,
we can't go back to where we were.
Let my dancing steps take me afar.
Let reality keep me aground.
If you love me, run with me
on the journey of hope.
No regrets, be steadfast.
Start the countdown
to happiness
Learn to chase your dream,
I still care about your embrace.
A separation is a gift
all the pain boxed away.
I want to walk with my own feet,
I want to see with my own eyes.
Morn.
SQ“!
What's going on?
You've been gone for so long,
you still haven't learned to speak up.
My dream is nearly all gone.
How much is left?
I'm not sure.
You can't expect instant success.
Work hard, you'll get results.
Keep a positive outlook,
and you'll get what you deserve.
There will be setbacks,
but you have to get back on your feet.
If you decide to give up,
then give up.
It's not a big deal.
You insisted on leaving home.
It was your decision,
you should stick to it.
There is nothing to regret.
Go after what you want.
Keep what's dear to you.
Make up your own mind.
I won't tell you what to do.
Ting.
I'm here.
I'll come down.
They haven't gone far.
Chase her, you dumbass!
Hurry up! Go after her!
Run! Hurry up!
Buddy!
What's wrong?
Ting!
Ting?
Ting ran away?
Go after her?
- Yes. - Okay!
I got a full battery. Get in!
Ann,
the tuk tuk is in continuity, right?
Why is it going away?
Get that tuk tuk back! It's established!
What's wrong?
Go after it!
Which one?
The grey car!
Got it!
You got to get in shape
if you want to keep chasing girls!
Also,
the $60 I owe you?
We're even, OK?
I'll give you another $60!
Right on!
Giddy up!
Just married
Driver.
Let's speed up and take the highway.
Speed up, faster!
I'm going as fast as I can!
Any faster, we'd break apart!
We'd be a bicycle!
Let's go!
Giddy up!
Stop the car!
The car is stopped!
I need to be honest with you.
I had a girlfriend,
she didn't like the lumber business,
and my lack of education.
She left me.
In fact,
you are a substitute for her.
Think it over.
If you want to get over him,
we can give it a try.
If we both have someone else in our hearts,
it's not going to work.
Do you have someone else in your heart?
Yes.
I understand.
He's been chasing you.
He must love you a lot.
He flipped back there.
Let's go to toilet.
Good boy.
Come on.
Alright.
Slowly.
Okay?
Hengdian to Yiwu
Do you think you can find success?
Not sure.
I think...
I'm a little ways away.
I think I already am!
How about you?
I do.
I'm still looking
for the way.
Depends on how you define "successful".
If you did your best. That's enough.
I try hard.
I will be.
I think I Will be.
I don't know,
but I work hard for it.
Never thought about it.
Do your best,
no regrets.
I must.
I think...
I can.
Yes.
Yes!
Yes I can.
That's not my concern.
I just want to...
be happy-
Charge!
Way to go, Zhao!
Oh my god!
This stuff is pretty real!
Right.
There's smoke out of those guns!
How long have you been here?
Three days.
I just got here yesterday.
Where are you from?
Taizhou, Zhejiang.
What's your name?
Zhang Peiyu. And you?
Ge Lusheng. I'm from Shandong.
Shandong?
Right.
That's far away!
I want to experience life.
Same with me.
Is there a lot of seafood in your hometown?
Cut.
Very good! Let's go again.
Reset