novellhall Chapter 74 of "Nirvana in Fire" aired.
Chapter 74 of "Nirvana in Fire" aired.
Chapter 80 of "Nirvana in Fire" aired.
The hustle and bustle of the wrap party for "The Disguiser" still seems to echo in her ears, but Chen Nianbei has already returned to the Beijing Film Academy campus and rented an apartment near the campus.
The room was piled with luggage and souvenirs from the film crew that hadn't been unpacked yet, but the study was neat and tidy.
My phone vibrated; it was a WeChat message from Kong Sheng, concise and to the point: "Post-production of 'Nirvana in Fire' is almost complete, and the TV slot has been basically finalized for the first half of next year. The promotional period won't be short, so get ready."
Also, I have a script that I'm polishing; it's a period drama, and the male characters are quite interesting, but it's not fully developed yet. Don't get distracted for now; focus on promoting these two dramas right now.
Chen Nianbei tapped the screen lightly and replied, "Understood, Uncle Kong. I'll be available anytime for publicity. Please let me know as soon as the new notebook is finished."
He put down his phone, his gaze falling on the yellowing ginkgo leaves outside the window. Two years after his rebirth, he had been relentlessly moving forward, finally finding a moment to catch his breath, but the tension in his heart had never eased.
He knew that the next six months would be a crucial period to test all the plans and accumulations he had made since his rebirth.
"Nirvana in Fire" and "The Disguiser," two major productions by Daylight Entertainment, will hit the market one after another, and his performance will be directly scrutinized by the widest audience.
Doorbell rang.
Chen Nianbei went to open the door. Outside was Zhang Lei carrying two large bags of ingredients, followed by Wang Hao with a silly grin on his face.
"Brother Bei, congratulations on wrapping up filming for 'Mingtai,' and also on moving out! We have to have hot pot tonight!"
Zhang Lei walked in and carried the ingredients to the kitchen. "Haozi brought some wine, sent from his hometown. I heard it's good."
Wang Hao held up the bag in his hand: "There's also some braised beef that my parents made. They insisted that I bring some for you, saying that you work hard filming and need to eat more to nourish yourself."
Chen Nianbei felt a warmth in her heart and accepted the things: "Uncle and Aunt are too kind. Come in quickly, I'm hungry too, but I'm too lazy to cook for myself."
After his rebirth, these two roommates are among the few friends he can completely relax with, especially Zhang Lei. They shared the pressure of "Kuai Ge" and the joy of success together, and their relationship has long surpassed that of ordinary classmates.
The hot pot quickly rose, steam rising, with mutton rolls tumbling in the red broth.
After a few drinks, they started talking non-stop.
"Beizi, what are your plans next? Just waiting to do some publicity?"
Zhang Lei picked up a piece of tripe with his chopsticks and asked questions as he ate.
"Yes, Director Kong said that publicity is the key. Also, I'm looking at some scripts, but Director Kong has a project in the works, so I'd like to wait and see."
Chen Nianbei took a sip of her drink. "What about you? 'Brother Kuai' was a success, so is Enlight Media eyeing you now?"
Zhang Lei chuckled and wiped his mouth: "That's right. My uncle handed me several scripts, some about making youth films, and others of other genres. But I'm thinking I can't just take any of them."
The success of "Kuai Ge" was due to a combination of favorable timing and circumstances, which we should be aware of. I want to take some time to reflect and see if there are any better original stories.
Of course, Beizi, if you have any ideas, just let me know. We're a reliable team!
Wang Hao nodded in agreement: "Lei Zi is right. Brother Bei, you need to be more careful when choosing scripts now. You can't afford to waste a good foundation."
He paused, a little embarrassed, "I recently took on the second male lead role in a low-budget web series, and I'll be joining the cast the day after tomorrow. Although I can't compare to you, I think it's good to be down-to-earth."
"That's right."
Chen Nianbei patted Wang Hao on the shoulder, "No role is too small, as long as you play it well, it's all part of the experience. Haozi, you have a solid foundation, so keep up the good work, and you'll definitely succeed in the future."
As the three were chatting, Chen Nianbei's phone screen lit up. It was a message from Na Zha: "Finished work! Filming GG today, so tiring~ (crying face) I miss you. Sister Li hasn't been keeping a close eye on things as much these past few days, seems to have gone to mentor some new talent. I don't have any plans tomorrow afternoon, so I'm sneaking out to see you?"
Chen Nianbei looked at the message, and the image of those bright, sparkling eyes appeared before his eyes. He moved his fingers and replied, "Okay, I'll pick you up tomorrow afternoon. The usual place? What would you like to eat? I'll make a reservation first."
Almost immediately after sending the message, another message popped up from Dilraba Dilmurat. It was a photo of fireworks at Orange Isle in Changsha, with the caption: "Back in Changsha filming a show again. Seeing the fireworks made me miss you. When will 'Nirvana in Fire' air? Looking forward to seeing your Prince Jing!"
(cute)"
Two pieces of information, two completely different feelings and expectations.
"What are you looking at?"
Zhang Lei, with his sharp eyes, teased, "Whose confidante is it this time?"
Chen Nianbei put away his phone, casually picking up a slice of mutton: "Nothing much, just work information. Come on, let's drink."
He changed the subject and started talking about the performance details in an old movie he had recently watched.
Wang Hao listened attentively, while Zhang Lei raised an eyebrow but didn't ask any further questions.
They all knew Chen Nianbei's personality and could sense the subtle romantic interests around him, but as brothers, they kept some things to themselves.
After dinner, after seeing Zhang Lei and Wang Hao off, Chen Nianbei cleaned up the dishes by herself.
He went to his study, turned on his computer, and opened Weibo.
His fan count has exceeded three million since the broadcast of "Swords of Legends". In the super topic, three junior administrators - Wang Churan, Liu Haochun and Tian Xiwei - have organized his recent schedule, stills and interview clips in an orderly manner, and have also launched some gentle interactive activities.
Wang Churan occasionally posts snippets of her life at the Shanghai Theatre Academy Affiliated High School.
Liu Haochun shared some photos of her daily dance practice, with a clean smile, and many fans of "Kuai Ge" expressed their concern for her in the comments section.
Tian Xiwei just posted a Weibo post celebrating her successful exams and also mentioned that she will continue to support Chen Nianbei.
Looking at the updates from these early supporters, Chen Nianbei felt a mix of emotions.
They were the initial witnesses to his acting career, and they are also among the audiences he hopes to live up to.
He logged into his account, reposted the official wrap-up video released by the "Disguiser" team, and captioned it: "The story of 'Mingtai' has come to a temporary end. Thank you to the crew, and I look forward to seeing you again." Soon, comments and reposts began to increase.
By the time I finished dealing with all that, it was already late at night.
Chen Nianbei leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes to rest.
But my mind involuntarily began to "rehearse".
Simulate how to handle various upcoming promotional occasions, the sharp questions reporters might ask, interactions with other actors in the play, and—how to arrange a meeting with Nazha under Sister Li's watchful eye.
His past life experience taught him that his work is the foundation of an actor's career, but in this industry under the spotlight, every step, both on and off stage, requires careful planning and a composed approach.
Acting skills are his armor, while his intelligence and social skills are his weapons.
The autumn wind blew past the window, carrying away a few fallen leaves.
Chen Nianbei opened her eyes, her gaze clear.
The short break is over.
The new journey is a battlefield for publicity, a consolidation of popularity, a further shaping of reputation, and another delicate balance between emotion and reality.
In March 2015, "Nirvana in Fire" premiered on two major satellite TV channels during prime time.
Initially, the market did not have high expectations for the viewership of this historical drama.
The subject matter is somewhat heavy, lacking the currently popular elements of fantasy or family ethics. Although the lead actor, Hu Ge, is extremely popular, his character is quite different from his previous dashing swordsmen.
However, as the plot unfolds, the excellent production, solid script, and outstanding acting from the entire cast, especially the deep sense of patriotism and patriotism it conveys, quickly captivated the audience.
Word of mouth began to spread at an astonishing speed.
Online discussion has been rising steadily, and the Douban rating broke 8 at the start and has been rising steadily ever since.
Chen Nianbei's portrayal of Prince Jing, Xiao Jingdan, is undoubtedly a bright spot in the drama and one of the key characters who resonated strongly with the audience. This role was not easy to play. He is upright, resolute, loyal, and even a bit stubborn, which makes him seem out of place in the turbulent court struggles. In the early stages, he was neglected and ostracized because of the "Chiyan case".
He had a burning flame in his heart, a deep longing for and unwavering trust in his old friends, a sense of helplessness and resentment towards the current situation, and a sense of responsibility and duty as a prince.
How to portray this "pure heart" without being pretentious or superficial, and how to control the restraint and outburst just right, is an extreme test of an actor's skill.
Chen Nianbei delivered a result that far exceeded the audience's expectations.
On Weibo, topics about "Prince Jing Xiao Jingdan" and "Chen Nianbei's acting skills" quietly climbed to the top of the trending search list.
"My God, the way Prince Jing looks at Mei Changsu (Lin Shu)!"
He didn't have many lines, but I just felt like he knew everything and was desperately trying to convince himself to believe it! Chen Nianbei's eye acting is amazing!
"Prince Jing isn't expressionless!"
When he frowned, clenched his fist, and his eyes reddened, the suppressed emotions practically burst through the screen! The actor's performance was so nuanced!
"I used to think Chen Nianbei looked handsome in period costumes, but now I realize how solid his acting skills are!"
She held her own against Hu Ge in their scenes, and there was even a wonderful chemistry between them. I'm totally shipping the "Su Jing" couple!
"I heard the actor himself is very young? He hasn't even graduated from Beijing Film Academy yet? His acting skills are so mature and experienced, it's not like a newcomer!"
The action scenes were also impressive; in the military camp scenes, his posture was upright and his movements were swift and clean—no wonder he's trained.
"I first noticed him as Xiaoman in 'Battle of Changsha,' then as Jin Yichuan in 'Brotherhood of Blades,' Ling Yue in 'Swords of Legends,' and now Prince Jing. He's taken each step with remarkable stability, playing completely different roles and constantly pushing his own boundaries. That's what a true actor is!"
"@Chen Nianbei, Your Highness Prince Jing, I'm bowing down in awe! A true acting fan reporting for duty!"
Chen Nianbei's Weibo followers began to grow at an unprecedented rate. From more than three million before the premiere of "Nirvana in Fire", it broke through the five million mark in less than two weeks and is still rising.
The super topic was bustling with activity. The three administrators, Wang Churan, Liu Haochun, and Tian Xiwei, were busy but organized, guiding new fans, compiling clips of the actors' highlights, and releasing official materials, thus transforming the surge of "Prince Jing fever" into a solid fan base in an orderly manner.
Various reactions followed.
Kong Sheng called first, his tone filled with barely suppressed satisfaction and pride: "Nianbei, did you see that? The audience's eyes are discerning! Prince Jing has been established! This is the reward for solid acting! Keep it up, stay humble and focused, and keep up with the momentum of 'The Disguiser'!"
After the series aired, Naza sent Chen Nianbei a bunch of voice messages after watching each episode, her excitement overflowing: "Nianbei! Prince Jing is so handsome! You acted so well! Everyone in my dorm is watching it, and they all say I have great taste! (chuckles) You're the best!"
Dilraba's message was bright and direct, reflecting her characteristic cheerfulness: "Nianbei!! Your Highness Prince Jing! (emoji) You acted so well! My mom is watching it and says this young man is really good! (shy) Looking forward to your 'The Disguiser'!"
Zhang Lei and Wang Hao immediately started spamming the dormitory group chat.
Zhang Lei: "@Chen Nianbei, Brother Bei! No, Your Highness Prince Jing! You have to treat us! You absolutely have to treat us! Now I'll have new material to brag about!"
Wang Hao: "Brother Bei is too good - my web series was broadcast but didn't make much of a splash - I still have to learn from Brother Bei and work hard to hone my acting skills."
Chen Nianbei smiled and sent a large red envelope in the group chat: "It's all thanks to luck, plus Director Kong and everyone in the crew. Haozi, don't worry, there's still a long way to go. Leizi, I'll treat you to hot pot next time."
Even Zhou Yiwei, who became acquainted with him through "Brotherhood of Blades," sent him a rare message: "Kid, Prince Jing's acting was pretty good. There's something in his eyes."
Liu Yijun, Wang Kai, and other "older brothers and sisters" from "The Disguiser" have also expressed their approval of "Prince Jing's" performance in private or public, jokingly saying that "Mingtai" is coming soon and telling the audience to get ready.
Chen Nianbei herself, on the contrary, remained relatively calm.
He stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window of his apartment, holding a glass of warm water, looking at the night view of Beijing outside.
On my phone, the Weibo notification sound was still ringing from time to time, and the number of followers was slowly but steadily scrolling upwards.
In his past life, he experienced both frenzied adoration and the desolation of being ignored.
The current success is the result of his careful planning and hard work. While he is pleased, he is also sober-minded.
He knew that the success of "Nirvana in Fire" was a collective victory, and he was just a qualified, or even outstanding, member of the group.
The audience's recognition is an affirmation of his acting career and his choice to "start over and move forward steadily." But this is just another starting point.
The drama "The Disguiser" is about to air, and the character "Mingtai," who is completely different from "Prince Jing," will bring new challenges and tests. He opened Weibo and edited a new post with a picture of Prince Jing in military uniform released by the official "Nirvana in Fire" account, looking firmly into the distance.
"Thank you for the encounter, Prince Jing, Xiao Jingyan. I have fulfilled my mission and my loyalty remains unchanged."
The path of an actor is long and arduous, but perseverance will lead to the destination. Grateful for everything, looking forward to the next leg of the journey. —Chen Nianbei
Click send.
Soon, the number of likes, comments, and shares increased at an astonishing rate.
Chen Nianbei put down his phone, his gaze passing over the dazzling city lights and looking towards the deeper night sky.
His era is slowly unfolding with the widespread recognition of "Prince Jing," and the curtain is slowly being drawn back.
Every step from here on out must be taken with extreme caution, yet we must forge ahead with unwavering courage.
The wind has already begun to stir from the tip of a blade of grass.
>