The so-called announcement of the nomination list is not simply about releasing a list in a crude manner. Rather, it is about widely publicizing it through the internet and live television broadcasts.

The unethical aspect of the Screen World Film Festival lies precisely in this: its live broadcast is neither during prime time nor secondary prime time, but rather begins in the early hours of the morning—a time that everyone finds unpleasant. The reason, it's said, dates back to its early days, with Asian film critics excessively favoring and pandering to the Western entertainment industry… but let's not dwell on that.

In short, although times have changed, this habit that everyone despises remains unchanged. A group of elderly people still stay up so late to do their live streams. Shang Yechu and the others have to stay up with them.

The clock struck midnight in the room, and the live broadcast began on time. Gu Wenhua and Shang Yechu, the director and lead actor, stared intently at the screen the entire time, not wanting to miss even the long and tedious opening remarks.

The sofa was oddly designed; too spacious for two people, too cramped for three. Ji Juntao had no choice but to stand behind Shang Yechu, staring at the screen.

Shi Shan was the only outsider here, idle and utterly superfluous. Yet he refused to leave, simply leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, his expression indifferent, showing little emotional fluctuation.

The film festival is held in rotation among China, Japan, and South Korea, and this year it happened to be Baogang's turn. I could only half understand the host's Cantonese, but fortunately I could still understand the traditional Chinese characters on the screen introducing the films.

The first thing shown was clips from the films that made it to the finals. The scenes changed rapidly, with clips from films such as "Water Moon Lake," "Blazing Green," "Heart of the Desert," and "Crack" flashing by.

These scenes were so captivating that just watching the actors' superb performances made the whole story flood into Shang Yechu's mind.

The mute woman did not appear in these scenes.

Shang Yechu was somewhat disappointed, but not discouraged.

"I've read 'Heart of the Desert,' it's fantastic," Shang Yechu said with a smile, trying to warm up the atmosphere. "It tells the story of a pilgrim. It's well-deserved to be the first book introduced."

“Hmm,” Gu Wenhua said softly, “I watched it too. Vikas Sharma’s performance was superb.”

While they were talking, the host had already begun introducing the films shortlisted for the final round. As Shang Yechu had expected, "The Hero" was only briefly mentioned, while the two films from Baogang were discussed in detail. As for "The Mute Woman," it seemed to have been forgotten by everyone.

Shang Yechu's heart sank deeper and deeper.

Perhaps tonight's wait is just wishful thinking. The quality of "The Mute Woman" is simply not worthy of this pan-Asian cinematic extravaganza.

"Every ripple is an echo of the past; every ship that docks tells a story of irreversible loss..."

The host enthusiastically introduced "Night Boat Stop". Shang Yechu turned his head and saw Gu Wenhua with his head down, looking somber.

"It's alright," Shang Yechu comforted her. "There are five spots for Best Film, and since the mainland is one of the organizers, they're bound to get at least one film. 'Fighting Spirit' has no chance, and the other two—"

Gu Wenhua wasn't particularly happy. He glanced at Shang Yechu and said dejectedly, "Is it because other movies 'have no chance' that we 'have a chance'? Or is it because we have a chance that others have no chance?"

Shang Yechu was shocked and immediately fell silent.

She couldn't quite describe the feelings churning within her. Shang Yechu suddenly felt a pang of discomfort.

The live stream continuously flashed clips from various movies, and the host showed no signs of fatigue, introducing the popular candidates in a light and cheerful tone.

"Nishida Makoto's portrayal of the young monk in 'Water Moon Lake' is undoubtedly a breakthrough in his acting career..."

Shang Yechu was so disheartened by Gu Wenhua's words that even the name she had heard seemed to fade into the background. Just as she was feeling dejected, she suddenly felt a hand pat her shoulder.

"Ye Chu".

Shang Yechu looked up and saw Shi Shan looking down at her. Their eyes met unexpectedly, and a hint of nostalgia and encouragement flashed in his deep eyes.

"Ten years ago, I accompanied Director Zhan to this film festival. We sat there for three hours, but in the end, we didn't get anything," Shi Shan said gently. "It rained that day, and I only brought home a body soaked with rainwater."

Shang Yechu's heart stirred slightly: "You..."

“You’re still young,” Shi Shan smiled. “It’s only been ten years since then.”

A hint of emotion flashed in Shang Yechu's eyes: "...Yes."

Gu Wenhua's face paled, not understanding why he had upset Ye Chu by simply speaking his mind. He turned to President Ji for help, only to receive a disapproving glare in return.

The moment of announcing the nominations has finally arrived.

"First up, we'll be announcing the Best Supporting Actor..."

As the giant screen opened, rows of names appeared on it.

"On Many Helpless Nights" - Feng Lan

"The Plump Thin Man" - Ke Lingmu

"Blazing Green" - Choi Hong-yeol..."

Unsurprisingly, "The Mute Woman" didn't win Best Supporting Actor. Then, the awards for Best Music, Best Visual Effects, and Best Short Film were announced. Again, "The Mute Woman" was absent.

After announcing a series of nominations, it was finally time for the Best Supporting Actress nominations.

"Best Supporting Actress"