As expected, Zhang Yimou released "Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon" on the first day of the Lunar New Year.

The premiere was held directly at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At first, Zhang Yimou was genuinely a little embarrassed. This place was a filming location, a meeting place for leaders. Even with his fame, holding the premiere here seemed a bit too ostentatious.

Han Sanping directly replied that it was appropriate; the Great Hall of the People could indeed be contracted out, with the business operating on a profit-and-loss basis. Of course, to host an event there, two things were crucial: first, official backing; second, the specifics of the event and the people involved. Zhang Yimou had already caught the attention of higher-ups, so he was given this opportunity.

When the news broke that the premiere would be held at the Great Hall of the People, it immediately ignited a nationwide media frenzy, attracting over 300 media outlets and drawing massive crowds. The Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon project is a co-production between two regions, but it was entirely spearheaded by Zhang Yimou. Currently, China and Japan are in a honeymoon period, and this is something that higher-ups are happy to see, with even official media getting involved.

"Senior brother, you seem a bit nervous?" Shen Fang asked, noticing the slightly flustered look on Zhang Yimou's face.

"President Shen, don't even mention Director Zhang, everyone who came today isn't nervous. This is a grand auditorium." Hua Zai, standing beside him, shared the sentiment. To be honest, he'd been here before, but only once as one of China's Ten Outstanding Young Persons. This time was different—a premiere! The very political center's conference hall was hosting this premiere. Hua Zai secretly marveled at Shen Fang's truly impressive background. Today had been an eye-opener; this was incredible. He could brag about it for three years.

Where did you hold the premiere? I was at the Great Hall of the People, playing the male lead. Just saying that makes me more impressive than any Best Actor award winner.

Standing to the side were MJ Q, Xu Qing, and several veteran Hong Kong actors including Ti Lung, Simon Yam, Damian Lau, and Daniel Wu. They were all dressed in formal attire today, with Ti Lung even wearing a Zhongshan suit. Whether the movie made money or was a box office hit was no longer important. Just the handprint scene today was enough to make it all worthwhile for them.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Zhang Yimou nodded, calming himself down: "Junior brother, you're putting me on the spot. If this film succeeds, all will be well, but if it fails..."

Zhang Yimou, one can only imagine how much criticism he will receive from the national audience.

Shen Fang smiled and said, "Senior brother, don't worry. Everyone has seen the finished film, including the leaders, and they are all very satisfied. It's going to be released in the Asian region and North America, and it's going to be released worldwide. Universal has used 1,300 screens this time, and in Japan, there are promotional posters for our film everywhere on the streets. It's going to be a sure thing, so don't worry."

Zhang Yimou smiled wryly: "I hope so. Junior brother, please don't do this again next time. I'm too old for this kind of thing."

Shen Fang shrugged: "This wasn't my decision; it was made by President Han and Director Wang."

At this moment, the scene was filled with flashes of light, and the reporters from the media present were in an uproar.

"That's Director Liu from the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, right? And that Director Wang from the Film Bureau, that guy who seems to be a big shot from the Ministry of Culture, Director Liu, General Manager Tong from China Film Group, and General Manager Han are here too! My god, all these big shots are here! Wow!!! That's incredible!!!"

The reporters present were all astonished to see these big names all appear at the premiere. This was unprecedented; normally, one could only witness such a gathering at events like the Golden Rooster Awards or the Hundred Flowers Awards.

"The leader is here, everyone pay attention to your demeanor." Shen Fang quickly called out to everyone, and they all straightened their backs and became very serious.

"Director Liu, Director Wang, Department Head Liu, General Manager Tong, General Manager Han," Shen Fang greeted them one by one.

The five people nodded and looked at Zhang Yimou and the others. Director Liu smiled and shook hands with Zhang Yimou, greeting him warmly: "Director Zhang, I am honored to come here. I wish you great success in 'Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon.' This collaboration is very important, and I hope you can make a good start for everyone."

The old strategist said seriously, "Director Liu, I hope there will be a good result. Leader, I will do my best."

Director Wang smiled and said, "Minister Liu, we've all seen the movie. It's quite well made. Although it's a bit different from our traditional Three Kingdoms period, it's a completely new experience."

Director Liu nodded: "There weren't any sensitive topics throughout, so it can be used as a test case. We can follow this approach to build the tone for future co-productions."

The group then chatted with the male lead, Andy Lau, for a few minutes. Andy Lau is not only an artist, but also one of China's Top Ten Outstanding Young Persons, making him a very outstanding artist. Coupled with his fame, he caught the attention of the higher-ups.

Shen Fang smiled and said, "Please come in, leaders."

Liu and the others nodded and entered the meeting room.

Shen Fang greeted him, "Senior brother, I'll go in first."

Zhang Yimou nodded: "You're busy."