Sheng Tang didn’t have many scenes in "Invincible Life," and she wrapped up filming within a month before leaving the crew.
Her agent, Ke Fei, maintained a good relationship with Ding Ruifan’s side.
"There are small groups in the film industry too." Ke Fei hinted slightly when speaking about Ding Ruifan to Sheng Tang, "Some are divided by regions, some by schools. They are quite united internally and will introduce each other when opportunities arise."
Sheng Tang was aware of this.
In her previous life, she knew her alma mater had a "Drama Academy" group. Of course, not every alum could join.
This clique consisted of no more than thirty people, who added one new member every two years, selecting someone recognized for "high acting skills, high achievements, and high reputation."
They didn’t have regular gatherings and paid great attention to keeping it secret from the media. Fans knew nothing about its existence, only the insiders of the film industry did.
Their members included directors, producers, and actors, all of whom were highly accomplished in the industry.
Sheng Tang knew about it because, after her second film was a huge hit, someone tried to recruit her into the group.
However, she was very cautious by nature. While there were many benefits to joining a group, the risks were also significant. If she belonged to a group, every member’s actions might leave an imprint on her.
After careful consideration, she declined the invitation from the group.
Her agent tried his best to persuade her, urging her to seize this rare opportunity.
"Those famous directors and producers will only give opportunities to their own people. They’re inviting you because they value you. Once you’re in this circle, awards and high box office success will be within easy reach." The agent advised earnestly.
However, Sheng Tang insisted on staying independent. The agent was very disappointed and soon parted ways with her.
That still wasn’t the worst part.
The worst was, the celebrity who tried to recruit Sheng Tang felt humiliated, thinking she didn’t respect him and started to mess with her.
With no strong backing, how could Sheng Tang withstand such bullying from the group?
That incident coincidentally happened in the same year as the total solar eclipse in her previous life, which was her unluckiest year.
Later, she had a chance to make a comeback. Instead of being down and out for five years, she only had to endure a year-long lull without hitting rock bottom.
Seven years later, Sheng Tang heard that a bigshot in that clique was accused of sexual assault, causing a huge scandal that prevented a multi-million dollar film from being released, infuriating the capital circles.
Birds of a feather flock together, and all members of that group were suspected of touching the high-voltage line, making the capital circles wary of them. They were in a terrible state, with everyone pulling out and the group that had been operating for over twenty years collapsing.
Sheng Tang always believed her choice was correct, which was later proven true, saving her from a lot of trouble.
Therefore, she never had a good impression of cliques.
Hearing Ke Fei mention "small groups," Sheng Tang immediately became alert.
She hid her vigilance well and glanced at Ke Fei, "Brother Fei, why did you bring this up?"
"I know Ding Ruifan is a member of the S City clique. I think he genuinely wants to groom you, since you’re a local too." Ke Fei said.
Sheng Tang gauged his tone.
"And what’s your opinion?"
Ke Fei hesitated for a moment before saying, "I think having a personal connection with one person is better than with a group of people."
Sheng Tang understood his point.
He believed that while Sheng Tang could befriend Ding Ruifan, it would be best to avoid joining his clique.
Sheng Tang secretly let out a sigh of relief.
Ke Fei explained further, "I know there are many benefits within these small groups. Take Ding Ruifan for example: he isn’t particularly attractive, not tall, and comes from an ordinary background. How did he achieve 5 billion total box office? Certainly, these benefits are tempting, but there are also many downsides. I think only those within the circle truly know. I can’t say for sure."
Sheng Tang quickly said, "Brother Fei, I don’t want to join any small groups. The more people there are, the more instability. For instance, if I’m part of the S City clique, and any other producer dislikes a member of that group, they might dislike me too. I’d lose many, broader opportunities."
Ke Fei nodded with satisfaction, "It’s best if you think this way."
The two reached an agreement.
Networking with bigshots is necessary, but avoiding involvement with any groups to maintain independence.
With aligned views, the cooperation would be pleasant.
Sheng Tang was very pleased to have Ke Fei as her agent, as their thoughts coincided in many ways.