Upon receiving this news, Zhou Xingxing was very excited. He packed up his script and flew directly to Zhonghai.
Since he was no longer a top-tier actor, the paparazzi in Hong Kong had lost interest in him. He didn't have to worry about being photographed when he went out, which made his travel more convenient.
He had many questions he couldn't figure out, and he had read many interpretations of *A Chinese Odyssey* online.
It had confused him to the point of dizziness. Did he have that intention when he filmed it?
Why was that scene added? Five years had passed, and many memories had become hazy.
However, *A Chinese Odyssey* was now a success, while he had faded into obscurity.
Zhou Xingxing arrived at Tianxing Investment Company. Seeing the building, he couldn't help but sigh, "This building is so grand."
The surrounding environment was a bit lacking, but he was here to seek investment. He hoped this trip wouldn't be in vain.
Zhang Tianxing and Guo Jiajia were waiting outside for Zhou Xingxing. They hurried forward to welcome him.
Zhang Tianxing got to see Zhou Xingxing up close for the first time. Perhaps due to the misfortunes of life, Zhou Xingxing now lacked his usual sharp edge and spirited demeanor. The burdens of life had ground everyone down.
"Mr. Xing, let's talk in our office."
Zhang Tianxing took the lead, guiding Zhou Xingxing to his office.
"Before we begin, I'd like to congratulate you on the successful re-release of *A Chinese Odyssey*," Zhou Xingxing said.
Hearing this, Zhang Tianxing laughed heartily, "Its success is mainly due to your excellent directing, Mr. Xing. Even a clever cook can't cook without ingredients."
"Mr. Zhang, I'll be direct. I have a script here, and I wonder if you'd be willing to invest in it?" Zhou Xingxing directly produced the script for *King of Comedy* and handed it to Zhang Tianxing.
Zhang Tianxing was so young yet already the boss of an investment company. Zhou Xingxing felt pathetic, still struggling for his livelihood. He gained a clearer understanding of the script in his hands.
Zhang Tianxing took the script and began to read.
Yes, it was the version he remembered. Zhang Tianxing was very interested in *King of Comedy*, but he wanted to confirm, especially since the Zhou Xingxing in front of him had suffered five consecutive failures.
He then handed the script to Guo Jiajia, "Here, you take a look too. Mr. Xing has traveled a long way; we must host him properly."
Zhou Xingxing was restless. As long as the investment wasn't settled, his heart felt like catkins in the wind, unable to calm down.
"Mr. Zhang, this script is adapted from my personal experiences. Based on my years of experience, I believe this script has market potential, and the investment required is not high."
Hearing Zhou Xingxing's words, Zhang Tianxing was amused. "Mr. Xing, I'll be upfront with you. We will definitely invest. After all, the money for *A Chinese Odyssey* came from your success, and your visit is a matter of respect. However, the amount of investment needs to be discussed."
Initially, Zhou Xingxing's eyes lit up at the mention of investment. But when it came to discussing the amount, his gaze dimmed.
Was he going to be disappointed again? He couldn't afford another failure. But his reputation was no longer what it used to be.
*A Chinese Odyssey* was his transitional work from five years ago. If it could become popular five years later, could his other films also find success?
Thinking this, Zhou Xingxing's heart stirred. He then reminded himself not to be rash. From now on, he could only succeed, not fail.
Otherwise, he would have no chance to start over. Opportunities missed are opportunities lost.
Zhang Tianxing said to Zhou Xingxing, "How about this: you rest for a while, and I'll have Ms. Guo look at the script. We'll discuss the investment amount later. Shall we meet again in two hours? We have a VIP room here."
Seeing this, Zhou Xingxing had no choice but to agree. It seemed Zhang Tianxing was sincere enough.
He would give his answer today, whether it was a go or a no. It seemed Zhang Tianxing was a man of his word, depending on how much money he was willing to offer.
He couldn't find anyone willing to fund him now. Some people wanted to fund him to make movies, but not the kind of movies he wanted to make. He had his principles and wouldn't compromise.
"Boss, after reading it, I feel this script is quite good. How much are you planning to invest?" Guo Jiajia finished reading the script and felt it was viable. It had a story, comedic elements, artistic elements, and many highlights.
Hearing Guo Jiajia's words, Zhang Tianxing nodded. "This script is good and will definitely be a hit, as long as Zhou Xingxing performs normally."
"Then it's settled. We'll prepare the funds based on how much Zhou Xingxing needs. The amount will be deducted from the proceeds of *A Chinese Odyssey*."
Guo Jiajia was stunned. "Boss, aren't you going to find someone to share the risk? This way, it'll be a sole proprietorship. If it fails, we'll lose everything."
"If we lose, we lose. We can win or lose. Anyway, the money came from *A Chinese Odyssey*, so it's just returning it to its origin," Zhang Tianxing said with a smile.
"Alright, you're the boss, you decide. But I agree with Zhang Tianxing's reasoning."
Doing business also means building a reputation. Regardless, Tianxing Investment Company's first pot of gold was provided by *A Chinese Odyssey*.
Zhou Xingxing came to them for help, and it was only right to assist him. To ignore him would be like spitting in the chef's face after a satisfying meal.
When they came out, Zhou Xingxing was looking at a book. Zhang Tianxing and Guo Jiajia went to see what it was.
Zhou Xingxing was actually reading "An Actor's Preparation"! They were both astonished.
They had initially thought he added that to the script but hadn't expected him to be so dedicated in real life.
The corners of the book "An Actor's Preparation" were curled, clearly showing signs of being read multiple times.
Talent is rewarded for hard work. If such a person doesn't succeed, who will?
Zhang Tianxing stepped forward. "Mr. Xing, I've decided. I like this script. Just tell me how much you need, and I'll have the accountant transfer it to you. We'll sign the agreement."
Upon hearing this news, Zhou Xingxing was overjoyed. He had already prepared himself for the possibility of a fruitless trip.
He hadn't expected that after they went back, they would bring him such good news.
However, Zhang Tianxing casually asked, "Have you finalized the female lead for this movie?"
Zhou Xingxing shook his head. Without investment, how could he approach anyone? As long as the money was secured, casting would be easier.
"How about this: Hao Fangfang introduced you, right? See if she's suitable for the female lead."
Hao Fangfang? Zhou Xingxing knew her. She had collaborated with Andy Lau, who had a high opinion of her.
"No problem. I'll start preparing the cast choices now. As for the specific details..."
"For the specific details, you can coordinate with Ms. Guo. She's in charge of Tianxing Investment Company's affairs. I'm just a student," Zhang Tianxing said with a light smile.