Chapter 45: Introduction
Almost in the instant Tom and Steven appeared, the entire scene erupted like a boiling pot of water. Each bubble burst open, and the fans on both sides of the road vigorously waved their posters while screaming and cheering. The journalists on either side of the red carpet rushed forward in a swarm, their camera flashes illuminated the area, creating an illusion that one's eyes were about to be blinded.
Only at this moment did the premiere of "The Pacific" reach its true peak.
Bradley hesitated for a moment, struggled slightly within himself, then abandoned Renly and joined his colleagues, crowding towards the beginning of the red carpet to get one more shot at Tom and Steven.
Although Renly was interview-worthy and had a few angles to offer, it was Tom and Steven, the ones who had hired Renly, that were the true focal points. Forget about Renly, even all the others present were temporarily set aside. For the journalists, this choice required no struggle.
Following the surging crowd's direction, Renly also looked over. Tom and Steven, enveloped in a sea of silver light, could only be seen in vague silhouettes. Their facial expressions were indistinct. They waved at the surrounding crowd with practiced ease, taking the spectacle to the next level. The frenzy truly embodied the essence of being a "megastar".
Renly couldn't help but break into a wide smile. He exchanged a glance with Rami, as if saying, "Indeed, they are genuine big shots; their entrances are different."
Rami tiptoed and loudly yelled into Renly's ear, "Next time you attend a premiere, remember to inquire ahead of time, so you won't pick the wrong moment." After the grand entrance of the shining stars, Tom and Steven followed closely behind. Not to mention newcomers, even first-tier celebrities would pale in comparison. The timing of Renly's entrance couldn't be considered fortunate.
Contrary to expectations, Renly, as the person involved, took it all in stride. The corners of his mouth tugged downward slightly before he raised them in a helpless shrug. His innocent and candid demeanor said it all, even without uttering a word. This made Rami chuckle helplessly.
The two industry titans became the center of attention, bathed in spotlights that followed their every move. It was as if the entire focus of the room had shifted. This, however, gave Renly enough social space. Accompanied by Rami, they arrived at the theater entrance and actively greeted their colleagues from the "True Blood" and "Band of Brothers" crews.
Although this wasn't quite the premiere Renly had imagined – no spotlight following, no cheers resonating, not even the enthusiastic inquiries from reporters – it felt more like a formality. They walked down the red carpet, strolled around, and then it was over. However, the sense of disappointment only lingered momentarily in his chest before swiftly dissipating. Participating in the filming of "The Pacific" was miraculous in itself. This was just the beginning; he shouldn't be too greedy, should he?
In the blink of an eye, Renly had made quite a few new friends.
"So, when you see your father completely naked in a movie, what does it feel like?" Hearing Renly's question, Alexander Skarsgård hesitated for a moment, then burst into laughter. His father, Stellan Skarsgård, was a legendary Swedish actor, renowned in Europe. In a moment of realization, Alexander touched his upper lip, concealing his uncontrollable smile. "My sexual enlightenment was my father taking me to see R-rated films. It laid a psychological foundation for me. When I saw it in the movies later, I wasn't too surprised."
Compared to American actors, European actors tend to be freer and more spontaneous when it comes to showing their bodies. They view it purely as a part of art, which is one of the reasons for the stylistic differences in film productions between the two continents.
"I've watched two films by Lars von Trier, both starring Stellan. So, I'm sorry, I realize my behavior earlier was a bit impolite," Renly politely expressed his apology. For most second or third generation members of showbiz families, they loathed it when others mentioned their family backgrounds. Once they entered the entertainment industry, they were most eager to shed the halo of their family heritage, craving to carve out a realm of their own.
Alexander indeed didn't like it when others brought up his father, but he had to admit that Renly's approach was truly unique. He didn't feel offended or resistant. "No, no," Alexander shook his head with a hearty smile. "I'll tell my father about this when I call him next time. I think he would be more than happy to be friends with you."
"Renly? Renly?" Just as Renly was about to respond to Alexander, a sudden call echoed from behind, transmitted through the speakers. It was quite abrupt, causing both of them to turn their heads. Before them, the crowd parted, creating a pathway. They stood amidst the lineup of actors, engaged in conversation. At the end of the path, Tom and Steven were being interviewed by the media.
With a broader view, Tom spotted Renly, who was elegantly understated yet unique in his attire. Tom broke into a wide grin and waved at Renly.
What had happened?
Renly was baffled. He offered an apologetic nod to Alexander before stepping forward. As he passed Rami, he cast a puzzled glance his way. Rami responded with a big smile, leading the applause.
Applause? Why were they applauding?
Tom led the applause, and his voice resonated through the speakers. "Ladies and gentlemen, let's give our young man some encouragement." The applause and whistles from the audience gradually intensified. The flashes of reporters' cameras simultaneously lit up. Caught off guard, Renly thought the premiere was nearing its end. Why did it seem like the climax was just beginning?
Countless question marks swirled in his mind, yet Renly's steps remained steady. His pace wasn't hurried, yet he exuded an air of unflappable confidence. Finally, he stopped beside Tom, lifted his head, nodded in greeting to Steven beside him, then noticed James Badge Dale and Jon Seda, who were slightly behind. So, was this the section for introducing the main cast?
"This is Renly Hall, the soulful character in this TV series," Tom took the initiative to introduce. "As you all know, in "Band of Brothers", the role that remained constant was portrayed by Damian Lewis. However, this time it's different. The entire story is divided into three interconnected storylines, and the character played by Renly is the core soul of the entire series."
"Swish, swish, swish." Renly could even distinctly hear the sound of air friction. In an instant, the gazes of the entire crowd fell upon his shoulders. The pressure skyrocketed, weighing heavily on his shoulders. It was as if he bore the weight of a mountain, and even breathing became somewhat difficult.
Sensing the touch in his hand, Renly lowered his head and saw a microphone being handed to him. Subconsciously, he took it, sweeping his gaze across the entire room. Just a second ago, he was chatting in the back, and in the next, he became the center of attention. He had thought the premiere was over for the day, but the unexpected turn of events left him somewhat caught off guard.
"Tom, James, and Jon are watching from the back," Renly's tone had no deliberate fluctuations, just a serious reminder. Yet, people quickly caught on, and the whole room burst into laughter. Even Steven standing beside him couldn't help but grin.
Bradley's eyes lit up. Tom's actions just now had revealed a lot. Not only had he chosen a newcomer to play one of the three main roles in "The Pacific", but he was also very satisfied with this newcomer's performance. This signal conveyed so much. So, Bradley raised his right hand high, seizing the first opportunity and smoothly gaining the chance to ask a question.
"Tom, as far as I know, Renly is an entirely new face, with no prior acting experience. Why did you select him to portray the core soul of the series?" Bradley emphasized the term "core soul," intensifying his tone. The journalists started anticipating an answer.
"In fact, there was a disagreement between Steven and me regarding whether to cast Renly. We all know that bringing in a newcomer is a risk—a risk that could lead to total failure," Tom's words successfully piqued everyone's interest. "But the outcome has proven that our choice was correct. Renly is an exceptionally unique actor. His performance exudes a special spirit that leaves a lasting impression."
"Ahh," a wave of murmurs swept through the journalists. Tom's effusive praise was crystal clear. The gazes directed at Renly instantly became complex—alongside envy and jealousy, there was also a hint of criticism and expectation. People were always demanding of newcomers, regardless of the industry or time.
"Steven, what are your thoughts?" Tom's shift in questioning redirected everyone's attention.
Steven crossed his arms defensively and gently swayed his body a couple of times before speaking. "Well, "The Pacific" and "Band of Brothers" are two completely different projects with vastly different requirements for actors. So, during the casting process, we were extremely cautious. Choosing a newcomer like Renly was a gamble." He paused slightly, the glint behind his eyes flickered, "But, as Tom said, our choice is wise."
Though not overt praise, Steven's words held a more substantial weight, immediately sparking discussions among the journalists.
In the highly anticipated masterpiece, "The Pacific", Renly stood out instantly, becoming the focal point within the spotlight. Yet, this was unquestionably a double-edged sword. The presence of anticipation and attention raised the bar for expectations. If the final product failed to meet expectations, this foundationless newcomer, Renly, would face ruthless criticism and ridicule from the media. Of course, if successful, the effect would multiply.
The situation was becoming intricate.
"Renly! Look here! Look here!" Reporters in the audience began shouting, hurriedly capturing the moment. But whether this was an instance of honor or disgrace, only the viewers could judge.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Shallowman
Shallowman But we all know that he will smash their expectations (spoilers-not-spoilers)
Leave the comments bellow at what Renly will get from the role of Eugene Sledge. How far he will go. Maybe looking back at the comment you left, you will laugh at your own imagination.
Anyway, the chupster is here, and it is 45th guys, so... emm... take it, no?...suckers?
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