Chapter 113 Jinjiang Exclusive Interview
Su Ruyi made it clear in advance that she would be going to the interview location and did not need anyone from the TV station to come out and greet her, so she entered the interview venue by herself according to the signs.
When she arrived at the conference room door, she saw that many people were already waiting at the office door.
There were more than twenty people at the entrance, doing all sorts of things. Some were waiting quietly, some were chatting in groups, and some were muttering to themselves.
When Su Ruyi appeared, everyone turned their attention to her, and some people's eyes showed vigilance.
Su Ruyi has a good temperament and appearance, and some people regard her as a competitor.
However, quite a few people felt that Su Ruyi looked familiar, but couldn't remember who she was for a moment.
Although the program "The Common People" has high viewership, it doesn't mean that everyone happened to watch the episode featuring Su Ruyi.
As time passed, the hype gradually subsided. Although business at the factory and stores remained brisk, many people could no longer clearly remember what Su Ruyi looked like.
Su Ruyi walked into the crowd. Some people nodded at her, some glanced at her and then turned away, and many more, out of nervousness, only looked at her once and then ignored her.
Those waiting for their interviews were secretly comparing themselves to each other, analyzing their chances of success. However, everyone waited patiently, and no open conflict occurred at the door.
Su Ruyi lingered at the door for a while, observing everyone's behavior and gaining a better understanding of them. Five minutes before the official start time, she pushed the door open and went inside.
The people waiting at the door all looked surprised. They hadn't even been called inside yet, so how did this person get in? Could he be someone with connections?
This conjecture immediately stirred up the crowd.
Although the Economic Television Station was a new station with an uncertain future, and the staff were only on contract, it was still an opportunity for everyone on site to get in touch with the television industry, so they all worked very hard to seize it.
I originally thought that the new station, which touted innovation, competition, and openness, would be different from other old stations and wouldn't rely on connections or seniority. But it turns out that it still couldn't avoid it.
People at the scene had a range of emotions, but no one was willing to leave now.
"Mr. Su, please take a seat."
When Liu Quan saw Su Ruyi walk in, he greeted her warmly.
The meeting room was spacious, with a row of tables and chairs placed against the inner wall. The interviewers were already seated, and there was an empty seat in the middle reserved for Su Ruyi.
Su Ruyi readily accepted the offer and took her seat. Today's interviewers included the three core members of the program team, as well as a leader from the station in charge of human resources.
Like everyone else, she was very young, around thirty years old.
The entire team at the Economic Television Station is very young. Apart from a few key leaders and some technical staff, most of the others are in their twenties or thirties.
"Boss Su, this is Director Yang Qing, who is in charge of personnel at our station," Liu Quan introduced the two.
They greeted each other with smiles, and then the interview officially began. The assistant went outside and called people by their numbers.
The first person to enter was already very nervous, and when she saw Su Ruyi, she was stunned and stood there dumbfounded.
He never expected that the girl who had been standing at the door for a while was not the interviewee, but the interviewer.
This also means that their interviews had actually already begun.
Number One became increasingly nervous, and his answers to the questions were hesitant and stuttering. His poor initial performance affected his subsequent performance, and he left looking utterly dejected.
Chen Mingsheng shook his head: "I was quite satisfied with his information before, how come he's so nervous about such a small interview?"
A host must have good mental fortitude to calmly handle various unexpected situations.
If someone panics so easily at the slightest thing, how can they possibly manage to put on a show?
Their show really tests the host's adaptability, and the requirements are only higher. Chen Mingsheng felt that the preliminary screening work was not done well enough to let such a person enter the interview stage.
Su Ruyi did not express her opinion; she knew perfectly well why this person was nervous.
While she was outside, this person was one of the more active members of the group, constantly boasting about his past experience and implying that he had been specially invited and that he actually had connections. However, in order to ensure fairness and impartiality, he was brought in for the interviews together, putting immense pressure on the other interviewees.
Su Ruyi couldn't help but glance at him then, and it was probably that one glance that made him think he had a problem with her.
Although the impression was indeed bad, Su Ruyi didn't plan to do anything about it; the other party had already broken down on their own.
After Number One went out, everyone gathered around to ask what happened.
At this moment, Number One's expression no longer betrayed his earlier embarrassment; he calmly said, "As expected."
After saying that, he left without caring what others thought.
This statement put even more pressure on those preparing for the interviews. One girl had already been hired, and now this one seemed completely confident of success; it made everyone else feel like they were just there to make up the numbers.
Some people were already mentally unstable before the interview even started. Some of them had jobs and took time off work specifically to come here for the interview.
Although many people chose not to announce their plans to become TV hosts before the fact, quite a few others couldn't keep it a secret and it was publicized.
I originally thought there would be fewer applicants for the new job, and since it was a contract position, the competition wouldn't be too fierce. But when I arrived, I was surprised to see a huge crowd of people.
After their mental state collapsed, many people behaved very poorly. Even after entering the room and seeing Su Ruyi and guessing her true identity, they still couldn't adjust themselves and recover.
Chen Mingsheng was somewhat disappointed. He had already interviewed seven people, and most of them had performed poorly.
While this is partly due to the fact that many people are not formally trained and have not undergone systematic training, they are just doing it out of interest, which inevitably leads to a lack of professionalism, but it is still very disappointing.
Moreover, those with formal training didn't perform well; they were too serious and started speaking in a formal manner, like they were broadcasting the news.
When Chen Mingsheng was chatting with Su Ruyi, Su Ruyi mentioned some clips from variety shows decades later. He had a clearer picture of the shows' positioning and general presentation, and he felt that none of these people were qualified.
Chen Mingsheng's ideal candidate was the host of CCTV's "Variety Show," but he certainly wouldn't dare to even consider such a person. She would be gentle and beautiful, have excellent audience appeal, be highly adaptable, and possess a great sense of humor.
The most recent example is Yang Qi, the host of "The Common People," but Yang Qi is not only a host but also a producer and a pillar of the provincial TV station, so it's impossible to poach him.
Chen Mingsheng was somewhat anxious. There wasn't a very suitable host at the station, and many people couldn't adapt to the style of the show, feeling that it was frivolous and lacked seriousness.
He had intended to take out a cigarette, but Su Ruyi glanced at him and made him put it away again.
When Number Eight came in, Chen Mingsheng's expression was full of regret.
This is a radio host named Chen Rui. He has excellent hosting skills and a very humorous hosting style.
Chen Mingsheng once heard his program while taking a taxi, and liked him very much, so he invited him to join him.
Unexpectedly, Chen Rui had a pleasant and melodious voice, but in reality, he was overweight, much fatter than the person in the photo.
Chen Rui is actually quite good-looking, but he gained weight like a balloon a couple of years ago because he was sick and taking medication.
His image is far inferior to that of other hosts.
Although being a host isn't like a beauty pageant, it still comes down to overall ability, and many famous hosts have quite ordinary looks.
Being good-looking is definitely a bigger advantage for TV presenters.
Su Ruyi was also impressed by Chen Rui. She had listened to his programs and found him to be witty and humorous, making him a host she admired.
I am a little chubby, but Su Ruyi doesn't think it's a big deal.
After Chen Rui gained weight, although he wasn't as handsome as before, his appearance became more pleasing, and he even had a bit of a pushover vibe.
Based on Su Ruyi's experience watching so many variety shows, this kind of person is more likely to create a good show effect.
Chen Rui also performed very well, demonstrating his own ideas both in his professional field and in answering questions about how to deal with unexpected situations encountered during the recording of the program.
Chen Rui reacted quickly; he clearly sensed that the required host style was different, so he proactively chose the role of the clown.
When Su Ruyi asked him what his reaction would be if he accidentally fell during the recording of a program.
Chen Rui immediately put on a show of lying on the ground and refusing to move, stretching out his hand and saying in a pretentious manner, "Hurry up and help me up!"
No one expected Chen Rui to pull this stunt, and everyone couldn't help but laugh.
After Chen Rui left, everyone expressed their satisfaction with him.
Although Yang Qing didn't understand—was this still a host?—she didn't raise any objections.
She didn't really understand the show, but since it hadn't happened before, she felt she should try it boldly and didn't object.
There were still a dozen or so interviewees, so the discussion didn't go any further, and the interviews continued.
After Chen Rui, several other outstanding individuals emerged.
Su Ruyi's favorite girl is Li Qing, who has just graduated from the Broadcasting Department of the Radio University and works at a provincial and municipal television station in Qing.
She is very beautiful, with a bright and approachable smile. She speaks quickly but clearly, revealing a straightforward and cheerful personality.
After graduation, she did not become a host, but was assigned to logistics.
Although Li Qing didn't say it, Su Ruyi guessed that she must have been sidelined.
Although Li Qing had no experience hosting television programs, she had already participated in hosting many large-scale events during her university years and had also worked as an on-location host during her internship.
Li Qing came prepared; while others simply handed over their paper resumes, she also played a videotape of herself hosting a program.
The videotape was edited, including different moments of her performance. The editing was smooth and quickly showcased Li Qing's hosting skills and adaptability.
It's hard not to like a smart, ambitious, and very capable girl like that.
While outside the door, Li Qing also noticed Su Ruyi. Although there was fear of her competitor in her eyes, there was also admiration. Su Ruyi was confident and positive, with a vibrant life force, yet she was also inclusive and not aggressive.
“I think Li Qing and Chen Rui are both very good. One controls the pace, and the other is funny. They are a perfect match,” Chen Mingsheng said.
Wang Xiaowei nodded in agreement, saying, "I also think they're a good match, but I think Su Yangyang is also great; she's compatible with everyone."
Liu Quan: "I also think Su Yangyang is great. She is very approachable, quick-witted, and down-to-earth, so she can participate in the game very well."
Su Yangyang is a kindergarten teacher, but she has excellent speaking skills and, because of her profession, she knows how to create a lively atmosphere in games without forgetting her job duties.
Li Qing is a qualified host, but she still has some of the airs of a traditional host and can't fully immerse herself in the game right now; she's still carrying that burden.
This show requires the host and guests to play games and interact together; to achieve the desired effect, you have to let loose and be yourself.
Yang Qing: "Our recruitment of hosts this time is not just for this one program. We are currently short of both male and female hosts, and it would be best to hire one male and one female."
Therefore, the point of contention lies between Su Yangyang and Li Qing.
Both of them are excellent, and Chen Rui is a good fit with everyone. He is a professional host who can control the pace of the show and also blend in with the audience.
With Li Qing, he can play a supporting role; with Su Yangyang, he can become the one in charge.
All eyes turned to Su Ruyi, who remained silent throughout.
Su Ruyi pondered for a moment and said, "I think all three of you are excellent. Can't we admit them all?"
Adults don't make choices; they want it all.
Yang Qing pursed her lips: "Our station is short-staffed right now, so it's not a bad idea to hire everyone."
Anyway, they are on contract, and there is a six-month probation period. If they are not suitable, they can be dismissed.
Chen Mingsheng: "But who should we choose for our program?"
The problem remained unresolved, and everyone was still stuck in a dilemma.
Su Ruyi: "Let's send all three of them."
Everyone gasped; they had never seen a program that required three hosts.
It's either one or two hosts, and usually, the two hosts are a male-female pair.
With so many hosts, it would be so noisy; and with the guests, the screen would be so cramped.
Liu Quan was both amused and exasperated: "Boss Su, I'm afraid this won't work. Nobody does this. I know you value talent and don't want to give up anyone, but we still have to consider the practicalities."
I used to think Su Ruyi was very reliable and had great insights into television programs. Some of her opinions and views impressed even real television professionals.
What's going on this time? How did they come up with such an idea?
Su Ruyi: "In our program, during the games, we will be divided into two groups to compete. Since none of us have seen a program like this before, we need the host to lead the way and liven up the atmosphere so that the guests can get into the zone quickly."
Wang Xiaowei understood immediately: "You mean that two hosts will come down on stage to lead the two teams and then compete against each other?"
Su Ruyi nodded: "The hosts can't all go on stage. One person has to stay behind to control the pace, explain and connect the flow of the process, and adjust or intensify the competition as needed. I think Li Qing is very suitable for this role, and the other two will serve as host assistants, specifically responsible for leading the team and creating a lively atmosphere."
Everyone thought the suggestion was good.
Su Ruyi was not involved in the final decision-making process.
All three hosts are excellent, and Su Ruyi can accept whoever is chosen.
Of course, it would be even better if things went according to her wishes.
After the interview, Su Ruyi went to Liu Quan's office to discuss the first episode of the show.
"I have invited several of the main actors from 'Going South,' but both the male and female leads declined."
The male and female leads are currently very popular, so it's not surprising that they would refuse.
Perhaps they looked down on the TV station that hadn't officially started broadcasting yet, or perhaps they didn't want to ruin the image of the main character, or maybe the schedule wasn't right.
You can't just want someone and expect them to come to you.
Su Ruyi nodded and waited for Liu Quan to continue.
Liu Quan contacted many film crews, but it wasn't easy to gather all the necessary people.
The male and female leads definitely need to be included, otherwise the show will lose its appeal. Other main supporting characters also need to be included, which increases the difficulty.
"The last people I invited were the main actors from the TV series 'Going Home.' Most of them are from Qing Province, so it was relatively easy to get them together. It's just that this TV series aired six or seven years ago."
The TV series "Going Home" was produced by Qing Province Film Studio. Although Qing Province is not economically developed, it has a significant presence in the film and television industry.
The local film and television industry is very strong, and has produced several famous directors whose films have won international awards.
In the film and television industry, this group is known as the Northwest Gang, and they are very powerful.
The TV series "Going Home" is adapted from the work of Zhao Dong, who was accused of forgery in Qing Province. It tells the story of a group of people in a compound and their various grudges and entanglements during various changes.
After the TV series aired, it received unanimous praise from the audience, and its ratings reached a new high at the time. Many classic lines are still mentioned today.
Although it has been several years since its premiere, it is rebroadcast from time to time because the copyright belongs to Qing Province TV. However, with the increasing number of TV dramas in recent years, the rebroadcasts have become less frequent.
"That's perfect! It'll bring back everyone's memories," Su Ruyi said with satisfaction.
Although the TV series "Going Home" was very popular at the time, and the actors in the show became well-known to the public, most of the actors have now faded into obscurity, and even the male and female leads are rarely seen on television screens anymore.
This is also why Liu Quan was able to assemble the entire team after issuing the invitation.
With less work, people have more time to go out and participate in activities, and most of them are from the same province and live close to home.
They asked for very low prices, half the budget.
Upon hearing this, Su Ruyi said, "Then let's spend the remaining half of the money on stage decoration. I suggest we build the courtyard from the TV series, so that the audience can be immediately transported back into the TV series."
Liu Quan gasped: "How expensive must this be!"
The stages nowadays are very simple and are often reused repeatedly.
Liu Quan couldn't help but feel sorry for Su Ruyi, thinking how she had suddenly made such a grand gesture, only to have it used once.
"The first episode should leave a deep impression, but it's not a one-to-one replica. It just needs to have a general idea as a background, and we also need to leave room for the stage."
Even so, the cost is still not low, and compared to other programs, it is ridiculously expensive.
Most importantly, this is a one-time use item!
Doing this every time adds up to a considerable expense.
“Mr. Su, I know you also want this show to be better, but your money doesn’t grow on trees.”
Although it wasn't his own money, Liu Quan still felt the pinch.
"Let's try it out for the first episode. We'll have the actors wear their costumes from the show, and that'll instantly create the atmosphere. I'll also dress the guests in the show's costumes so they can appear in front of the audience in their original form, making the visuals even better."
The TV series is from seven or eight years ago, and the story takes place even further back in time, so the costumes are quite outdated by today's standards.
Moreover, the main characters are all ordinary people, and their appearances are very simple.
Therefore, the entire program cannot maintain this style. When performing, the costumes still need to be changed to create a sense of contrast between past and present lives.
Liu Quan felt a mix of emotions. He had been struggling to secure investment before, but now he had found a money-making machine who spent money without batting an eye. Ironically, he was more concerned about the money than she was about it.
Ultimately, at the request of the financier, Liu Quan agreed to the decision.
After all, who doesn't want to make the show better? He's just worried that the input and output won't be proportional, and then there will be no future.
Chen Mingsheng was overjoyed when he found out. He spun around in circles on the spot, thinking how he had actually encountered such a wonderful investor!
With financial support, the original studio was converted into a larger one, otherwise it would have been difficult to set up and hold events.
Before the recording of the program, the production team invited Su Ruyi to watch the recording on site.
Su Ruyi didn't have time to spend several hours there. She had already seen the stage setup via fax and was very satisfied.
The cost was not as high as originally expected. Many workers nowadays are not only skilled, but also very frugal.
Su Ruyi sent Wang Huiting and Li Guangqian over. The two were very interested in recording the program, and they both loved watching TV, so they could represent the audience's perspective to some extent.
When the two returned, they couldn't help but run up to Su Ruyi and recount what had happened.
"Wow, this show is so much fun! I laughed until my stomach hurt!" Wang Huiting exclaimed excitedly.
Li Guangqian said, "Boss, this show is sure to be a lot of people's favorite! It's really fun, the hosts are hilarious, Li Qing is so pretty, and the other two are so funny, they almost got into a fight on stage!"
Su Ruyi was surprised. She knew it was all for the sake of the show, but she didn't expect the two of them to be so uninhibited.
"You're exaggerating. But it was really funny when they were fighting over teammates. Su Yangyang felt she was too short, so she even moved a small stool to stand on and yell at Chen Pangpang."
The fact that the two of them chatted back and forth in the studio for several hours without losing their excitement shows that the program was quite successful.
Su Ruyi felt a little relieved. She had invested a considerable amount this time and was very interested in the project. She hoped everything would go smoothly.
The on-site effect looks good so far, but we don't know about the post-production editing.
Su Ruyi wasn't worried about the technical aspects; the new editor was someone the station director had specifically poached. He was quite well-known in the industry, and if it weren't for the need to care for his elderly family members, he would have stayed in Beijing instead of being picked up by the station director.
However, Su Ruyi was unsure whether she could bring out the dramatic effect of the variety show.
Even the best technical skills are useless if the editor can't understand the core of the show and can't grasp the interesting points.
This show would still be considered too unconventional by today's standards.
Just as Su Ruyi and Li Mei signed the contract and were preparing to make their mark, Liu Quan called and invited her to review the film.
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