Chinese Showbiz: I Am the King of the World

My new book is out: Breaking Through in Chinese Entertainment Starting in 2015

In 2002, Lu Guan, a sophomore at the Shanghai Theater Academy, merged with the memories of the Jiajing Emperor.

The good news: he awakened an Achievement Reward System. The bad news: his reputation was at negative one hundred million from the start.

To avoid being erased, he had to trade money for more time to live. He had no choice but to work himself to the bone just to survive.

From Qin Shi Huang, who unified the realm, to Puyi, the last emperor.

From Gaozu, who slew the white serpent, to Emperor Wu, who drove back the Xiongnu in the north.

From Emperor Renzong, whose reign was one of peace and prosperity, to the Heavenly Khan, who commanded armies across the land...

Before long, the industry was abuzz with rumors that an imperial throne awaited him at home.

The Golden Rooster, the Golden Lion, the Golden Bear, and the little golden statuette all followed one after another...

Reporter: Why have you played so many emperors?

Best Actor: Not that many, have I? I just happened to play one from every dynasty.

Reporter: Some say you're a pioneer in fighting discrimination, a brave man exposing the dark history of the West.

Best Actor: I didn't expose anything. I just helped people reflect.

Look, Crash helped them recognize the dangers of racism, and Green Book taught them the righteousness of “Black Lives Matter”...

Reporter: One last question. Do you think you've become the king of the world?

Best Actor: I am the king of the world!