Open Sesame: An Interview with Zhang Jizhong

Author: Zhang Jizhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-09-01
Features: Zhang Jizhong, the producer of major films such as The Legend of the Condor Heroes, The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, Water Margin, and The Years in Fire, has written Sesame Opens—Interviews with Zhang Jizhong, sharing his career in the entertainment industry! This book, in the form of interviews, focuses on introducing readers to his personal and winding journey in film production, including behind-the-scenes people and stories from The Smiling, Proud Wanderer and The Legend of the Condor Heroes. It also features answers to many controversial questions about him.
This is a proverb popular worldwide. How many people secretly hope it is a magical key that opens a treasure chest and enlightens the mind, waiting for the call of "Open sesame" to reveal the treasure's location. Is there such a mystical key? Is there such a magical spell? In this world, is there the treasure we long for in our hearts? Some will say yes, while more will say no. Those who say "no" are speaking from their own experience; those who say "yes" are speaking from others' experiences.
Four years ago, I was still unknown. I walked among any crowd, and no one would spare me a second glance. That was normal—I had lived like this for over forty years. But today is different. Often, people would stop me, ask, "Hey, are you Zhang Jizhong?" and want to shake my hand, take a photo with me, or get my autograph. Honestly, I was deeply moved and flattered. I haven't done anything extraordinary. The joy I have given this era is far less than what the era has given me. I have only done my best within my professional scope, doing what I should.
This is the matter: mass entertainment culture.