Back and forth, thoughts collided.
Even though this wasn't Nicholas and Anson's first interview, it sparked an incredible chemistry on the special stage at Cannes, making the conversation a delight.
From their expressions, it was clear that both Anson and Nicholas were completely absorbed, their faces glowing with enthusiasm, and even those listening in were not left out.
Anson's words continued, coming from the heart, with no trace of a rehearsed script.
"So, instead of worrying about whether the character is in the spotlight, focus on the character's depth and nuances; instead of worrying about the character's importance in the story, focus on their place and value within it; instead of worrying about your ranking on the cast list, focus on the value you contribute to the entire story."
"Even a comedic side character has its own brilliance."
"When we talk about 'The Lion King,' no one forgets Timon and Pumbaa; when we reminisce about 'Titanic,' we still remember the captain who faced death calmly and the orchestra that played until the last moment on deck; when we mention 'Ice Age,' that squirrel is the biggest highlight."
"To me, there is no difference between these characters."
"As you said, I'm still a newcomer. I consider myself an apprentice, just entering the world of acting, maybe not even that—perhaps I only know how to strike a pose in front of the camera, you know, a handsome pose."
Caught off guard, a laugh escaped his lips.
Obviously, Anson never minded being called a "pretty face." Not only did he not mind, but he was completely candid about it.
This kind of wisdom and openness was enough to make anyone take notice—let's not forget, this young man isn't even twenty-one yet.
"I don't know exactly what to do when facing a role. I'm still learning and training. So, every role, every scene is a new lesson for me, and I can't relax at all."
"Otherwise, the roles I can play in the future will only decrease."
"Of course, I'm not pessimistic. I know I have some freedom now. The success of two films has given me a privilege countless actors dream of: choice. This means I can make some selections."
"For film companies, when producers come to me, it's often with market and box office considerations in mind. This might limit my exploration of characters to some extent because taking on the box office responsibility means you need to fulfill your role and stay handsome."
Ha.
Anson laughed again, "But supporting roles are a bit different. Because the spotlight isn't on you, it allows for some bold and even crazy experiments. So, I welcome supporting roles, as long as you don't mind me going wild on set."
Pfft.
Emmanuel couldn't hold back and burst out laughing.
Turning her head, Emmanuel saw Anson's manager looking exasperated, wanting to say something but holding back. After struggling for a moment, he looked up at the sky and chose silence in the end—
Clearly, the manager didn't want Anson to keep taking supporting roles. After all, Anson's career was just starting, and now was the time to establish his position in the industry, focusing on leading roles.
But...what could the manager say?
Emmanuel's smile grew even brighter. She liked this talkative and eloquent Anson, who showed his love for acting.
Evidently, Nicholas felt the same, his eyes shining with a mix of excitement and anticipation.
"Although you don't have much experience now, the important thing is that each of your roles brings a surprise. How do you prepare for a role?"
Anson, "Oh, that's a tough question."
"I think the key is how you communicate with yourself and how you trust yourself, giving yourself to an unfamiliar character."
"It's like losing your keys. When you finally find them, they bring back those familiar scenes, 'Ah, of course, I left it here.' But while rummaging through every drawer and strange corner, you can't seem to recall where you put them."
"However, when you do find it, there's this sense of rediscovery."
"It's the same with shaping a character."
"You doubt yourself, you get confused, and you encounter setbacks. There's no shortcut or method other than trusting yourself. You keep trying until you find that familiar feeling."
"The problem is, once the film starts shooting, you don't have enough time to find the keys every time. The director and the cast can't wait around for you, and weather can be a terrible factor. So, you have to prepare in advance. And we often forget we're already prepared, so we need to keep calming down to find that feeling again."
"To me, maintaining interest and patience is very important. Once you get bored, everything loses its meaning."
"See, that's another reason to take on different roles."
Sincere, candid, deep.
At this moment, it was clear that Anson was not just a pretty face. He was always thinking, always exploring the craft of acting.
Nicholas gently lifted his chin, his face showing a keen interest—
Previously, people often focused on Anson's appearance, like fashion choices or lifestyle habits, hoping to live like him.
Now, Nicholas was starting to get curious about Anson's inner world. How did this actor lead trends—whether in fashion, box office, or discussions? One time might be luck, two times a coincidence, but three times it's inevitable. The sensation Anson stirred at the Cannes Film Festival this time was definitely no accident.
Nicholas thought this was a chance to gain a deeper understanding.
And not like on "The Tonight Show," where it was all light-hearted chatter, but a genuine dive into an actor's world. What place could be more fitting for this than Cannes?
Nicholas took it a step further, "What you just talked about is an inner preparation. I'm curious about the acting aspect and the work level. So, let's assume—do you watch playback on set? Or maybe go back in the evening to watch the day's footage?"
Eric: Speechless.
So profound, so professional—Eric clearly couldn't keep up. He felt like yawning but knew he couldn't doze off now without being told.
Eric secretly turned to look at Alex, only to find Alex completely focused, listening with keen interest.
Eric: Traitor!
But Alex was genuinely intrigued. Didn't he find this extremely fascinating?
For once, the usually observant Anson didn't notice this. He was completely immersed in the in-depth discussion with Nicholas.
Passionately.
"Occasionally," Anson said.
"As I said before, I'm still learning. I try to trust myself and the character, then throw myself into the director's hands, following their guidance, avoiding as much as possible standing behind the monitor, pointing fingers. Believe me, I'm not quite there yet, ha."
"Like this time, filming 'The Elephant,' I realized that an actor's performance largely depends on the camera's position. This means that telling a good story isn't a one-person show for the actor."
Nicholas' interest was piqued, "Oh, how so?"