Suspicion, vigilance, curiosity.
During the interview, Nicholas, the experienced journalist, found himself lost in thought, reminiscing about his first encounter with Anson—
In the Warner Bros. studio parking lot, thrust into the spotlight due to rumors of being the interloper in Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston's relationship.
A tabloid news story that marked this young man's first appearance in the public eye.
From that moment, Nicholas was intrigued by him; now, standing on the Cannes stage, it felt like a whole new world had opened up.
As an actor, it seemed Anson's journey was just beginning.
Nicholas looked at Anson with great interest and tossed out another topic, "So, is it the same here at Cannes?"
The outfits for the opening ceremony and the premiere, including the change in hairstyle—are these also part of bringing the character into real life? Is this the film extending its voice into reality?
Later, in a feature article for The New York Times, Nicholas wrote:
"… When I asked this question, Anson didn't answer, he just laughed heartily, confident and unreserved, throwing the question back at me, just like his performances and roles—
Presenting, but not answering.
Thinking and responding are left to the audience/readers. Just as a thousand people see a thousand Hamlets, Anson leaves the space for interpretation to us.
Much like Anson himself.
'Elephant' crashed into the Cannes Main Competition section for its world premiere, much like how Anson Wood appears in films: calm, yet crazy.
However, when I saw him the next day, he had already returned to his tall and slender figure, handsome and charming, effortlessly stealing all attention.
But he always remained low-key and enthusiastic, not a disguise, because when you look into his eyes during the conversation, you can feel the warmth of his soul.
He is the type of actor who is easily labeled a 'pretty face,' but in my opinion, his professionalism has never been in doubt. The enormous success of 'Spider-Man' and 'Catch Me If You Can' made Anson Wood a superstar, while also paving the way for his adventurous journey.
Clearly, 'Elephant' is just the beginning.
It's unimaginable, as my question turned into Anson interviewing me instead, and it was just the beginning. By the time the interview neared its end, it was I, sitting opposite Anson, who became the interviewee."
Plain and simple, yet you can feel Nicholas's admiration and praise between the lines. The journalist does not hide his appreciation for Anson.
But Emmanuel would say, who could refuse Anson?
As the interview was nearing its end and the work was wrapping up, Anson looked at Nicholas, like a friend, "So, what do you think of this year's film festival?"
Emmanuel was taken aback in surprise.
Nicholas, however, seemed particularly calm and unfazed by the direction of the conversation, "So far, it's disappointing. The Main Competition section isn't very impressive, but luckily, 'Elephant' has lit up our otherwise tiring and terrible journey."
Anson looked over curiously, "Any other good films?"
Nicholas thought for a moment, "Marco Tullio Giordana's 'The Best of Youth.'"
Anson's eyes lit up, "Ah, that six-hour film, right? I met Paul Giamatti yesterday, and he told me this work is quite good, comparable to 'Once Upon a Time in America'? Looks like I have to watch it."
Nicholas, "I wouldn't say it's like 'Once Upon a Time in America.' Personally, it feels more like '1900' or 'A City of Sadness,' but still worth watching."
Anson, "And?"
Nicholas, "Of course, Paul Giamatti's 'American Splendor' is also quite good; additionally, 'Crimson Gold' from the Un Certain Regard section, and 'Father and Son' by Alexander Sokurov in the Main Competition section…"
Anson, "'Father and Son'? I've heard this film is terrible."
Some films in the Main Competition section may have media previews or market screenings, so before the official premiere, different opinions may circulate.
Nicholas shook his head, "Quite the opposite, this work is excellent."
Anson, "Alright, then I have to check it out."
Nicholas, "Are you sure? I think you might be a bit busy in the next two days."
Anson, "Haha. One must have dreams, right? This is the film festival, and I'm really, really looking forward to watching some films. Please save some hope for me."
Is this normal?
Emmanuel watched this scene unfold before her, full of amazement and admiration. At the end of the interview, the positions of interviewer and interviewee swapped? And the two exchanged information about the festival's works, like regular movie fans, like a conversation that could happen in any corner of Cannes?
Thinking back carefully, this atmosphere ran throughout. Rather than a performance or work, Anson had set the tone for the conversation from the very beginning—
An equal dialogue between peers, so Anson was willing to open up, truly delving into the world of an actor, showing a small part to the world.
From fashion styling to character exploration to film understanding, step by step, from the outside in, peeling off the exterior labels to glimpse more possibilities.
Perhaps this year's Cannes Film Festival is indeed different; it opens a window, revealing the "actor" aura on Anson's body.
No longer just a pretty face.
Until the entire interview ended, Nicholas was about to put away his voice recorder, but he couldn't help picking up his role as an interviewer again, asking one last question.
Nicholas, "So, what's your next plan?"
Anson, "Go home and continue being a regular person."
Then, the interview ended.
In Cannes, under the spotlight of the world, actors enjoy applause and flowers; journalists are often curious about their next plans—
Which director will they work with? What type of genre will they explore? What roles will they delve into?
Things like that.
Actors are usually happy to share, using this platform to showcase their future as actors, with a grand ambition to conquer the world.
Until Anson gave a different answer.
Nicholas was stunned, watching Anson's confident and light smile, and eventually smiled along, repeating, "Continue being a regular person. Ordinary Anson Wood, right?"
A teasing remark that made everyone in the hotel room burst into laughter.
Including Emmanuel.
In Emmanuel's career, she's taken countless photos and experienced countless interviews, with many leaving a deep impression while most quickly faded from memory. But she's very certain that this one in front of her would be unforgettable for a long time.
The New York Times was only the beginning of that long interview day. Later, the 'Elephant' crew was surrounded by a throng of media, so dense it was impenetrable. When Emmanuel finished her shoot and left for the next job, the line of media in the hotel corridor was still spectacular.
Later, Emmanuel heard that the interviews with the 'Elephant' crew lasted until 11:30 p.m., and the crew even had a late-night snack with the journalists—
And still couldn't finish.
Helplessly, the interview had to be put on hold temporarily, to be continued the next day after getting up.