The Best Director

With Wang Yang’s voice reading aloud, the banquet hall erupted in loud applause time and again. The stage screen and television screen displayed the logos of the nominated shows along with the expressions of their teams, and TV fans watching at home were getting increasingly nervous—who would win the award?

This season, HBO’s ‘Six Feet Under,’ now on its third season, snatched the Best Drama Series award at the 59th Golden Globe Awards in 2002. It tells the life and trivial matters of a family running a funeral service, rich with philosophical thoughts on life, and has been a regular guest and winner at the Emmys and Golden Globes ever since. Its NBC fellow, ‘The West Wing,’ is now in its fifth season. Its viewership dropped from the peak of the third season, averaging 17.14 million viewers (ranking 7th that year), to 11.78 million (30th), but its characteristics of exploring current political and social issues made it a favorite for awards; it was the winner of the Best Drama Series at the 58th Golden Globe Awards.

CBS’s ‘CSI’ has now entered its fourth year, reigning over the viewership with an average of 25.12 million viewers (2nd), and after its 59th appearance, it was again nominated at the 61st.

The third season of FOX’s ’24,’ while being the channel’s flagship series, only averaged 10.30 million viewers (43rd place), yet it was a giant in terms of awards—the narrative structure of ’24’ has garnered widespread praise: “’24’ changed the face of television dramas, every hour, every minute, every second.” Its counter-terrorism theme was very timely, and the first season was nominated but lost to ‘Six Feet Under’; the second was nominated but lost to ‘The Shield’; now it was making its third assault.

“‘Prison Break,’ ‘Prison Break,’ ‘Prison Break’!!” Evelyn and other ‘Prison Break’ fans stared at the television screen, chanting with fervor; Rachel, looking at the stage, was also silently rooting for it, as were countless fans around the world in front of their televisions and computers, enthusiasts all rooting for the phenomenal series ‘Prison Break’!

“It’s the most revolutionary and innovative unique series, every second it’s controlling your nerves, thrilling starts, thrilling ends, you just can’t take your eyes off the screen.” ‘TV Guide’ and many other media outlets praised it with similar sentiments. Its structure and techniques changed the pattern of television; nearly nine out of ten fans declared it “the best in history,”—it was the most popular TV series of 03-04, without a parallel.

Though its viewership average was 20.65 million viewers (5th), behind ‘CSI’, its popularity online reached incredible levels, not to mention the more intensely stormy overseas regions, ‘Prison Break’ was considered a monster that would sweep all popular and youth choice TV awards.

However, at this stage, awards allocation doesn’t really adhere to viewership ratings, otherwise awards would be distributed based on rankings. The theme of “political incorrectness” and relatively lack of depth were major drawbacks preventing ‘Prison Break’ from winning awards. However, its popularity and the dazzling appeal, plus the vigorous promotion and lobbying by NBC, an even stronger backer than FOX, were all advantages, especially for the Golden Globes.

Moreover, everyone was aware that ’24’ could go on for many seasons, with plenty of time left. ‘Prison Break,’ on the other hand, was destined to have only one season of the escape plot— if it wasn’t chosen this year, it was very likely it wouldn’t be seen next year.

How did the media predict the outcome? It was either ’24’ or ‘Prison Break,’ both with the halo of being “revolutionary” suspenseful dramas. Because ‘Six Feet Under’ and ‘The West Wing’ had already won, ‘CSI’ wasn’t as timely as ’24,’ or as stunning as ‘Prison Break.’

“The winner of the Best Drama Series is…” In front of over a thousand guests and an audience with their eyes fixed on him, Wang Yang on the stage opened the envelope in his hand, the silence of the hall allowing the sound of tearing paper to be heard. The television screen was divided into five, with four representatives for the award on the left with calm expressions; on the right was Wang Yang, who took out the paper, glanced at it, and showed a slight smile. He opened his mouth to speak.

What’s the result?! At this moment, drama fans everywhere were holding their breath, the nominees fixed their gaze, and in less than a second, their hearts skipped a beat. Did “Prison Break” make it? Did they get it or not?…

“YEAH! Awesome!” Jessica clenched her fists excitedly, they got it!! Maybe others couldn’t tell, but as the one who had been in a five-year relationship and lived together with him for three years, his familiar pre-excitement smile of joy was very clear to her. She shouted with a fist pump, “It’s us!”

“We got it, right? Well done!” Natalie tipped up the corner of her mouth, maybe others couldn’t tell, but that was a “Wow, are you kidding me?” smile. He always looked like that when he encountered a surprise. The winner must be “Prison Break.” “You got it! Congrats, marvelous Yang.” Rachel followed with a smile, a somewhat relieved and content smile. Maybe others couldn’t see it, but yes, it was “Prison Break.”

Did we get it? Dressed in his suit, Wentworth Miller felt his heart pound suddenly, tense with excitement. He really couldn’t tell what Wang Yang’s smile meant.

When Wang Yang saw “Prison-Break” written on the paper, he was immediately overwhelmed by a surge of joy. What a joke! Winning a Golden Globe before the first season even finished airing! This was just amazing! He wanted to laugh out loud and shout, “It’s us!” But obviously, this was not the occasion, so he couldn’t help but smile naturally. As he prepared to read “Prison-Break,” he let out a sigh of relief. “Prison Break’s” “new glory” was not just about ratings; it now included awards!

“‘Prison Break.\'”

“Ahh—” A roar went up from the crowd at the venue, followed by thunderous applause. Joel Surnow, Jerry Bruckheimer, and the creative teams of the other four nominated series either clapped in congratulations or, after a brief moment of disappointment, also joined in the applause for “Prison Break.” Meanwhile, the “Prison Break” team at their table was already embracing each other with joy, with several representatives excitedly making their way onto the stage. Jessica, who was seated at a different table, smiled and stood up to applaud, and so did Natalie, Rachel, and from the distance, Scarlett Johansson, Charlize Theron, and others.

It was a major ending award for the TV category in and of itself, and with miraculous Yang’s not inconsiderable status in the film industry, many people had benefitted from his kindness, collaborated with him, or anticipated plenty of future opportunities to do so. For a time, the spirits in the banquet hall rose to a temporary peak for the evening, as if they were presenting Best Picture.

TV fans of “Prison Break” were also jumping for joy at home, with no objections to speak of. Michael Scofield was currently the “most nerve-wracking” character on the screen, moreover a genius of high intellect. Many die-hard “24” fans were already bewitched into switching camps. “Prison Break” was the best TV series on the planet! Clair kept happily saying YES YES, and thinking of the sulking faces of those who lost their spat, she reveled in their dismay!

They said “TDWP” was going to flop, but then “TDWP” grossed half a billion worldwide. They said “Prison Break” would come to nothing, but it was unfortunate for them that they were not members of the foreign press association. They also talked about “Firefly,” about “The Big Bang Theory”… Watching Wang Yang and a few of the “Prison Break” creators celebrate and embrace on screen, Clair grinned happily for him and silently said, “This isn’t the end! Next year ‘The Big Bang Theory’ is going to sweep all the comedy TV awards!”

“Thank you! Thank you very much, thank you…” On stage, after embracing fellow executive producer Marty Andstan and others, Wang Yang took the hefty Golden Globe trophy from a staff member, handing over the nomination list in return. Looking down at the audience as they quieted, he smiled at the microphone and said, “First, I want to thank the organizers and Wang Yang for giving this award to us.”

A flutter of soft laughter arose from the audience, with Marty Andstan and the others lined up behind Wang Yang all wearing smiles. Out of respect for the other nominees, Wang Yang did not use this opportunity for a laugh, lest it offend. He raised the trophy and said earnestly, smiling, “We are surprised and immensely honored to receive this award. There are so many people I need to thank, but standing here at this moment, the person I want to thank the most is the judge who sent me to prison, without him! There would be no ‘Prison Break’ you see.”

“`

The hall erupted in a chorus of gasps, accompanied by laughter and applause. It was an open provocation, a revenge!? The few women who held him dear all smiled; sometimes this guy was just too stubborn… The journalists, however, were thrilled—they had a story to write! The dull 61st ceremony was now spiced up with a spectacular highlight; “Prison Break” was indeed filled with Wang Yang’s intense dissatisfaction and defiance!

Now, Magical Yang had responded to the original court ruling in such a successful manner that the journalist from the Los Angeles Times, Ramy Williams, thought of a scripted line on the spot: “Your mistake has made my legend.”

Maybe there was still reason to be grateful? Evelyn frowned, unable to make sense of it. She was very unhappy with the court’s decision, but “District 9,” “Prison Break”… She shook her head; it was all in the past.

“Haha! It’s just a joke, he indeed is on my list of thank-yous, but the person I most want to thank is…” Wang Yang laughed. He had long forgotten what that old man looked like; it was just a kick in the butt. He turned to look at the key creatives behind him and said with a smile, “It’s this team, both in front of and behind the camera of ‘Prison Break.’ Everyone made extraordinary efforts. Thank you very much!”

As he spoke, he handed the trophy to Marty Andstan and stepped aside to give up the microphone. Compared to the seasoned Magical Yang, who had seen grand events and won bigger awards, it was Andstan’s first time on the awards stage. Standing in the back was one thing, but once he touched the trophy, he couldn’t help but take a deep breath, his voice trembling with excitement: “It’s incredible! It’s just unbelievable!…”

Amidst a round of applause, the award-winning “Prison Break” team entered the hotel backstage to be photographed and interviewed by various media, while the banquet hall’s award presentation continued.

The Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama was snatched by Frances Conroy of “Six Feet Under,” and the Best Actor trophy went to Anthony LaPaglia of “Without a Trace.” Wentworth Miller, stepping into the Golden Globe realm for the first time, predictably lost. While Scofield’s fans were obviously disappointed, Miller didn’t feel any loss; everything had already surpassed his expectations. The Best Actor in a Musical/Comedy Film was awarded to Bill Murray for “Lost in Tokyo,” and the Best Actress…

“And the winner is…” On the TV screen, the five nominated, Scarlett Johansson, Natalie Portman, Diane Keaton, Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep—radiant in their prime or graced with enduring beauty—and with Streep already having won once tonight, “Meryl Streep, ‘The Devil Wears Prada’!” The hall erupted with cheers and applause, nearly everyone rising to their feet. Jessica and Wang Yang joined in the celebration; Meryl’s second triumph!

This ovation wasn’t for Magical Yang or ‘TDWP’; it was purely for the incredibly popular Meryl Streep. The vanquished competitors, including Diane Keaton, also looked as pleased as if they had won themselves. Natalie didn’t feel any resentment or displeasure this time; Streep’s glamorous transformation deserved this trophy.

“Thank you to my family who has always supported me, my husband, my daughter… And I also have to thank Wang Yang, who has made a significant change in my acting career.” As Meryl Streep spoke onstage, the camera panned to a smiling Wang Yang and the happy faces around him. With the trophy in her right hand and her left hand pressed to her chest, Streep was truly overwhelmed with emotion. ‘TDWP’ had brought her a successful career transformation and unimaginably successful box office returns.

Two hundred, three hundred, four hundred, five hundred million! It wasn’t just about substantial box office profits; the taste of this honor was something she had never experienced before, refreshingly delightful as swearing! Looking at everyone, Streep continued to thank through the microphone: “He is a very magical director, who gave me many suggestions and insights for acting, allowing me to perform in this comedic style, appearing in such an extraordinary film as ‘The Devil Wears Prada’! Thank you, and lastly…”

The media journalists were no longer concerned with who else she might thank; they had another excellent news item for their papers. A reporter from Reuters in the hotel’s news center was sending out a piece: Meryl Streep endorses Wang Yang!

“`

At the end of last year, which actually wasn’t too long ago, the principal actors of “TDWP” all said in interviews that “The Devil Wears Prada” was excellent, yet none of them directly joined the war of words; and now, the typically low-key and amiable Meryl Streep openly praised “TDWP” on stage, undoubtedly making a statement. Who said he had lost his spiritual energy? Who said “The Devil Wears Prada” was rotten? She, Meryl Streep, disagreed.

“Honestly, I think both movies deserved to be nominated,” Natalie said as she applauded and sent Streep on her way backstage, while also telling Wang Yang beside her. She was referring to “21” and “TDWP,” both of which should have competed for Best Musical/Comedy Film.

But if you’re not nominated, you’re not nominated. The spotlight wasn’t on Wang Yang that evening; after Howard Shore won Best Original Score and “INTO THE WEST” won Best Original Song, “The Lord of the Rings 3” bagged two more trophies. “Clumsy actor turned genius director” Sofia Coppola won Best Screenplay for “Lost in Translation” with ease. She was very thankful to her family, especially for her father’s constant encouragement and support.

Witnessing this scene, Wang Yang couldn’t help but whisper to Jessica, “Hey, our daughter will also be a director in the future, right? And then one day, like now, she’ll stand on stage and thank me…” Jessica nodded proudly, “But first she will thank her mother.” Wang Yang teased her, “Thank her mother for raising her to be a clumsy actress, giving her the chance to become a genius director?” Natalie pursed her lips slightly upon seeing their affectionate laughter.

After presenting Michael Douglas with the Lifetime Achievement Award, Peter Jackson unsurprisingly snagged the 61st Best Director award, the New Zealander’s hefty charm conquering the Golden Globes, and “The Lord of the Rings 3” added one more award to its collection; Best Actor in a Television Movie went to Al Pacino for “Angels in America”; the Afghan film “Osama” captured Best Foreign Language Film; and Sean Penn, the new Golden Globe winner, wasn’t present, so Clint Eastwood accepted the award on his behalf.

“And the winner for Best Actress in a Drama is… Charlize Theron, ‘Monster’!!” Amid the thunderous applause, Charlize Theron couldn’t contain her delight as she hugged her boyfriend Stuart Townsend, and upon reaching the stage, she was too excited for words. She thanked the director and entire crew of “Monster,” her friends and family, and when reciting a list of friends’ names, she unexpectedly mentioned while smiling, “Wang Yang, he’s sitting right there, haha! And…”

In the hall of over a thousand people, why did Charlize specifically mention Wang Yang? Their collaboration in “The Hangover” back in ’02? It was, after all, entirely different from “Monster.” Regardless, since the new Best Actress said “he’s sitting right there,” the director had no choice but to switch the camera back to a close-up of Wang Yang. He still wore his signature sunny smile, giving a thumbs up as the camera panned to him.

“And the winner for Best Musical/Comedy Film is… ‘Lost in Translation’!”

“And the winner for Best Drama Film is… ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King’!”

“Wow!!” The Hilton Hotel erupted, the last major award of the evening found its home, the much-anticipated “The Lord of the Rings 3”! The entire room burst into commotion, the applauds and shouts mingling in a raucous cacophony, everyone spontaneously stood up clapping, laughing as they watched Peter Jackson and his team excitedly take the stage. After all, a film award is still a film award, and at that moment, the decibel level in the banquet hall easily hit a new high for the night, “The Lord of the Rings 3” second to none for the time being.

Apart from a television trophy, Wang Yang left the film awards empty-handed. In 2004, he had no planned releases and had said he would “focus on ‘Firefly\'” in terms of the silver screen. This meant that his next chance for any Golden Globes or Oscars would be no earlier than 2006.

No matter whether “Firefly” was eligible for awards or not, it would be two years later! Looking at the smiling faces of “The Lord of the Rings 3” team on the television screen and thinking about these things, Evelyn suddenly felt a pang of emotion. Ah! By then, if Wang Yang and Jessica hadn’t divorced, they would have been married for two years, right? Perhaps they would even have a child. (