The New King of Comedy 2019

Ru Meng is a determined actress in her thirties who struggles to make a mark in a heavily competitive industry due to her unremarkable looks and modest stature. For over ten years, she has toiled as an extra and stunt double on various film sets, constantly chasing her dream of being a leading lady. Unfortunately, each passing day presents new challenges, with rejection and mockery becoming routine. Her lack of support from her father and peers weighs heavily on her aspirations, as they remain skeptical of her ambitions.

Despite her father’s tough exterior and dismissive remarks regarding her dreams, he shows his care by surreptitiously visiting film sets to ensure she receives fair treatment. The lone supporter in her corner is her boyfriend, Charlie, to whom she entrusts her modest earnings, dreaming of the day they can use them for their wedding.

A turning point occurs when Ru Meng and her close friend Xiao Mi cross paths with a talent scout during a shopping trip. However, the scout is only drawn to the more conventionally attractive Xiao Mi. Yet, Ru Meng’s fortunes take a small upswing when she secures a minor role in the much-anticipated international film Snow White, featuring her childhood idol, Ma Ke, who portrays the prince. Once a dazzling star, Ma Ke has seen a decline in his acting prowess and audience acclaim, which leads to a complex dynamic filled with arrogance and insecurity. This makes Ru Meng’s experiences working with him both draining and humiliating.

As if her professional life weren’t tumultuous enough, Ru Meng uncovers the shocking truth about Charlie: he is a male escort—dubbed a “contract boyfriend”—and a con artist who has been manipulating her affections and finances. This betrayal plunges her into despair, culminating in a near-fatal car accident during a heavy downpour.

In the aftermath, Ru Meng rescinds her ambitions of stardom, retreats to her parents’ home, and takes up a job as a waitress. Then, fate intervenes; Ma Ke, experiencing an unexpected resurgence in his career, visits her with exciting news—she has been shortlisted for an audition for a new film helmed by the renowned director Stephen Chow.

With renewed resolve and bolstered by her parents’ encouragement, Ru Meng attends the audition. Drawing on the pain from Charlie’s deceit, she delivers an emotionally charged performance that ultimately earns her the coveted role. Fast forward a year, and at a glamorous film awards ceremony, Ru Meng stands tall as she is honored with the prestigious Best Actress award, finally realizing her lifelong dream.