He has been up close and personal with legendary industry leaders like Bill Gates and Rupert Murdoch. In the process, he has turned himself into a legend as well.

Of course, there is more at work than luck. His business acumen and foresight have been crucial to his success.

And of all the newcomers to the film industry, he is being watched most closely and with greatest expectations.

It is interesting to note that Gao has decided not to plunge into film production－at least not yet－the part of the industry with the biggest halo, but rather businesses that serve the industry, like providing it with stories, scripts, talent and financial services.

Jack Gao, film industry leader.

I t will be interesting to note where his next step will take place.

Everyone is lured by showbiz, but Jack Gao has seen through the razzle-dazzle and has a sharp focus on where the business opportunities are.

Q&A

How do you spend your weekend?

Since I am traveling most of the time, I don't get enough time for my favorite pastime of playing golf. Instead, I try to use the time to spend as much time as possible with the family, hiking, going to movies and catching up with friends.

What is your favorite movie and why?

I am an avid cinema buff and usually stay at hotels that are close to the movie houses when I am in places like Shanghai, New York, Taipei, Hong Kong, Mumbai, etc. There are quite a number of movies in recent years that I like a lot, including Life of Pi. Ang Lee is one of my most favorite directors and someone with whom I share a close personal rapport. Another film that I enjoyed is American Dreams in China. It is one of the few movies in China that reflect the way this generation grew up and became successful.

What are the sayings that you like the most?

"Life is measured by thought and action, not by time.

"Love is photogenic. It needs darkness to develop."

Who is your role model?

Bill Gates.

What kind of experiences has shaped your thoughts the most?

I was lucky to work closely with three great leaders－Bill Gates, Carol Bartz and Rupert Murdoch. I have learned a lot from them during my 20-year career. They are different in style but share commonality. The only thing that doesn't change in today's world is change itself.

How would you describe Chinese movie stars and Hollywood film stars?

Comparatively Hollywood movie stars are much more popular than Chinese movie stars except for a few like Gong Li, Jet Li, Li Bingbing and Jackie Chan.

If you could choose, what kind of movies do you want to make or cooperate with?

I wish to see more co-produced movies that can leverage Hollywood's advanced presentation style, tell appealing Chinese stories and be welcomed both in the East and West.