Chapter 647: Shocking! Time for a Big One (1)
Translator: _Min_
Tang Haiqiu doubted his ears for a moment before he finally spoke, “What did you say?”
Even many domestic films could not achieve simultaneous domestic and international releases, much less TV dramas.
Securing international release dates was even more challenging than domestic ones, so they were typically delayed.
For a delayed international release, the production must catch the eye of international producers.
Despite the massive success of Tang Haiqiu’s last series “Sword Immortal,” which exploded in ratings within the Great Xia Empire and remained a classic for ten years, no foreign producer bought the international broadcasting rights.
Such negotiations required connections.
Within the country, he could easily pick and choose his broadcasting slots with other networks, but even with Great Xia TV, he still needed Director Qin’s help.
Not to mention the difficulties of scheduling internationally.
Compared to other dramas, the xianxia genre was rather niche. Tang Haiqiu had never imagined his dramas reaching an international audience.
“I’m serious,” Si Fuqing said nonchalantly, “I know someone. I worked for him without pay; he told me to find him after I finish filming, and he would arrange the international broadcasting slot.”
Tang Haiqiu’s hand trembled slightly, his eyes sharpening, “What do you mean?”
“I’m asking if you could secure the international broadcasting rights?” Si
Fuqing smiled, “Locally, we can look to other channels, no need to stick with Great Xia TV. I remember Starlight TV has approached you before, offering the same prime-time slot during winter break.”
Starlight TV had an idol drama slot every evening at eight.
“But if we also launch during winter break, you’ll be competing against Tong Luoyun’s ‘Great Zhao Dynasty,”‘ Tang Haiqiu frowned, “That wouldn’t be good for you.”
The entertainment industry thrived on comparisons.
Certainly, with Si Fuqing’s current achievements and status in the industry, she couldn’t compare to Tong Luoyun, the foremost among the top four actresses.
Tong Luoyun was not just an actress with hollow accolades, not like someone like Gu Zhinan who only won a questionable award; she was a frequently awarded leading actress who had already transitioned to international projects.
Originally, there was no basis for comparison between the two.
However, the trouble arose because Tong Luoyun was also discovered by Sang Yanqing. Her high achievements meant that marketing and media often used her as a benchmark against Si Fuqing.
Tang Haiqiu guessed that Tong Luoyun’s team suddenly decided to air the drama during this time partly because the winter break was a lucrative slot, and partly because they were tired of comparisons and wanted to affirm her status.
It was foreseeable that if “Crossing the Demon Realm” didn’t outperform “Great Zhao Dynasty,” Si Fuqing would be harshly criticized.
For Si Fuqing’s sake, Tang Haiqiu preferred to delay the release.
Si Fuqing crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow, “Do you doubt yourself,
Director Tang, or do you doubt me?”
Stirred by a competitive spirit, Tang Haiqiu slapped the table, “Alright, I’ll contact Starlight TV right now. I usually don’t like investing too much in promotions, but we need to create enough momentum for this drama!” He was determined to show everyone that the xianxia genre would never die.
Tang Haiqiu strode out.
“Who have you been working for?” Sang Yanqing asked puzzledly, “Isn’t Mr. Yu enough?”
“It’s different,” Si Fuqing waved her phone, “A teacher and a boss are not the same. Shh, Sister Sang, I need to make a call.”
To spare her own heart, Sang Yanqing acquiesced smoothly and closed the door behind her.
As usual, Si Fuqing made a video call with Gu Wenzhu.
Ever since she had taken over the design drawings, the old man had a lot more free time.
“Why so early today?” Gu Wenzhu put on his glasses, “Is your drama finished?”
“I was just about to discuss my drama with you, teacher,” Si Fuqing said, “It’s finished. I need an international broadcasting slot, ideally in late January.”
“Are you referring to International Film and TV Channel (IFTV)?” Gu Wenzhu mused, “Their channel head is a good friend of Lingyun; he owes him a favor.
I’ll have him contact you directly.”
Si Fuqing nodded, her eyes narrowing like a fox’s, “Teacher, you’ve been helping me so much; hasn’t he ever suspected me?”
“No,” Gu Wenzhu expression turned disdainful, “I’ve given up expecting anything from him. What use is he?”
As for Si Fuqing’s identity, Qu Lingyun truly had no suspicions.
Gu Wenzhu was a fashion godfather who, like himself, had a strong appreciation for anything beautiful.
Si Fuqing’s appearance was undeniably flawless, a miraculous creation as if by divine craftsmanship.
Qu Lingyun did wonder how Gu Wenzhu knew Si Fuqing, but after a couple of evasive answers, he stopped paying attention..