Once inside the cinema, the film's opening credits were already rolling, shrouding the entire theater in darkness. Bending slightly, Renly navigated to a back-row seat, settling into an empty spot.
"The Illusionist" was a truly unique animated film. In an era where scripts and dialogues had grown increasingly dull, this film dared to return to the essence of cinema. It had almost no dialogue, relying solely on the visual language of cinematography to depict a story about dreams, loneliness, and growth. The delicate melancholy and poetic essence flowed like a stream in a rainy night, a silent touch of emotion.
Yet in today's film market, these heartfelt, earnest works struggled to find appreciation. Even at a festival with a strong commercial atmosphere like Toronto's, where interactions among cinephiles held importance, the movie's attendance was only around two-thirds full. In ordinary theaters, this turnout would be considered quite successful. However, amid the packed cinemas of the festival, it seemed somewhat forlorn.
"Excuse me." Another viewer entered, bowing slightly as they made their way to a seat. Renly moved his feet to the side, but the person accidentally stepped on Renly's toe. They mumbled an apology and took the seat next to him. However, as they settled down, their backside inadvertently pressed against the armrest, trapping Renly's right hand. "Sorry, truly sorry."
Renly looked up, surveying the clumsy newcomer. In the dim lighting, the slender face was distinctively recognizable – the neatly trimmed sideburns and the slicked-back hair were unmistakable. The name slipped from his lips... Ryan Reynolds!
The fact that Ryan Reynolds would be in the screening of "The Illusionist" was jaw-dropping. After all, Ryan was Canadian, and he attended the Toronto International Film Festival every year as a staple. He was present at the opening ceremony yesterday, even cheering for "Score: A Hockey Musical". However, the issue was that "The Illusionist", with its strong artistic vibes, didn't seem like Ryan's cup of tea.
It seemed Renly had jumped to conclusions about Ryan.
Suddenly, a very crucial piece of information flashed in Renly's mind – "Buried." Would Ryan appear at a screening of "Buried"? Renly grew excited and nervous; the original performer of the role he took over in his previous life might be sitting in the audience, scrutinizing his performance. The feeling was quite strange.
Only Renly knew the subtle sense of competition he harbored, causing a slight thrill. However, he wasn't concerned about the competition, nor the judgment of his rival. Only by continuously challenging stronger opponents could he become stronger himself. Furthermore, during the audition process, he had defeated Ryan solely based on merit. So, he felt calm.
"Hey." If they hadn't made physical contact, he might have left it, but now that they were sitting side by side with a slight touch, a greeting seemed appropriate. Renly offered a smile and initiated a friendly exchange.
Ryan appeared momentarily stunned, seemingly not anticipating this situation. He took a moment to study Renly's face, a bit slow to react. After a brief pause of about two seconds, he awkwardly tugged at his lips. "Hey." Another two-second pause. "Sorry about the earlier mishap."
Renly wasn't surprised by Ryan's slowness. After all, he was just a small, nameless figure. If it wasn't for "Buried", Ryan probably wouldn't remember him. Of course, there was another possibility – Ryan might have completely forgotten about "Buried". He could have come to Toronto solely to support his hometown, and all of Renly's thoughts might just be his own overthinking. Therefore, Ryan might not have recognized Renly at all.
"It's alright." Renly politely nodded in response and then turned his attention back to the big screen. "The Illusionist" was a great film that required one's full concentration to appreciate.
The time watching the film flew by, and before they knew it, the movie had come to an end. The credits began to slowly roll up, and the theater lights gradually brightened. Renly stood up immediately, offering enthusiastic applause for the film.
Even though he had seen it before, the emotional impact remained undiminished. Like a magician performing tricks, an entertainer of a bygone era, they had been surpassed by time. However, the protagonist of the story still held a burning passion, tirelessly performing in various venues, lonely yet steadfastly guarding the last shreds of sincerity and enthusiasm in their heart. It wasn't just about performers; it was a portrayal of craftsmen from the old generation, along with countless dream-chasers. Wasn't it all the same?
Renly clapped vigorously, always able to be moved by such films without any barriers. The inner emotional response never diminished.
Spurred on by Renly, the entire audience also stood up, joining in applause. The claps grew louder, but people also realized that the theater wasn't completely full. Such an outstanding work, brimming with warmth and depth, was still met with indifference at the Toronto Film Festival. How ironic, how sad. The muted sense of loneliness made the applause even more raucous, echoing like thunder in the screening hall.
Even though this wasn't a screening of "The Illusionist", and no members of the cast or crew were present, even though it was just a regular movie screening that would end with the film, the entire audience stayed, rising to their feet to offer applause. The applause grew even more fervent, lasting for a full seven minutes. In the simplest and most sincere way, they expressed their love for the film and their support for the crew.
"I'm sorry for my behavior earlier. It was really impolite." A voice filled with remorse came from beside Renly – the third apology from the Canadian.
Renly couldn't help but chuckle, turning his head to make a playful comment. However, upon seeing the person's face, he froze. Even with excellent manners and composure, he couldn't hide his astonishment.
In the light, the features of that face became clearer, even the melancholy between the brows was distinct. The person in front of him was clearly not Ryan Reynolds, but Ryan Gosling – the one who rose to fame through "The Notebook" and further proved his acting skills in works like "Half Nelson" and "Drive".
Honestly, even though both were named Ryan, their temperaments and styles were worlds apart. Ryan was more open and cheerful, his handsome features carrying a touch of charm. On the other hand, Ryan Gosling was more brooding, his features seeming slightly smaller, not quite the typical handsome heartthrob.
But Renly had still mistaken him for someone else.
Ryan Gosling caught the anomaly in Renly's expression. "This film was fantastic, wasn't it?" His words gradually grew softer, pausing for a moment. He chuckled lightly and then directly asked, "What's wrong? Is something amiss?"
Renly chuckled softly, a touch of embarrassment in his smile. He shook his head, but after a brief hesitation, he scratched his head and earnestly said, "I'm sorry, I mistook you for someone else."
Ryan paused, then burst into laughter, "It's alright, really. You must have thought I was Ryan Reynolds, right?" Ryan's laughter was full of joy. "Many people make that mistake. People often stop me on the street and say, "I really loved your "The Proposal", sweety", and all I can do is shrug and reply, "Thank you"."
Hearing Ryan's relaxed tone, Renly still felt a bit awkward. "I apologize; it was really impolite." Perhaps if he hadn't mistaken him for Ryan, he wouldn't have initiated the greeting.
"If you hadn't admitted it, I wouldn't have guessed." Ryan said sincerely. "You used polite words to cover up, so I couldn't know. Your honesty is commendable." Seeing the smile on Renly's face, Ryan opened his arms and added, "Please don't tell me you're Canadian." Renly's accent was unmistakably British. This statement was meant to stop Renly from continuing to apologize.
Renly relaxed and chuckled. "In front of a three-time apologizing Canadian, I wouldn't dare admit it. Otherwise, I'd soon reveal my true colors." Renly playfully retorted, causing Ryan to burst into hearty laughter. Just as Ryan was about to step forward for a hug, Renly raised his hand to stop him and took a half step back. "I have to tell you, I'm British."
The British didn't like hugging. They disliked it in any context, especially between strangers. Even between acquaintances, a hug would only involve the upper body; the lower body would maintain distance, preserving etiquette.
Ryan drooped his eyebrows and mouth in disappointment, a wounded expression on his face. Yet, taking advantage of Renly's suppressed amusement, he stepped forward and gave him a warm embrace. "But this is Canada; let's adapt to the local customs." Ryan patted Renly's back with force, prompting Renly to feel both helpless and amused.
Ryan's embrace was brief, and he soon released his arms. Although it was all in good humor, it didn't go overboard.
"But you don't look anything like Ryan," Renly inquired curiously, "Why do so many people mistake you?"
Ryan grinned, then laughed heartily. "No, not at all," he shook his head, "Firstly, we're both Canadians. You know, in the eyes of Americans, all Canadians are the same." Renly earnestly nodded in agreement, making Ryan's smile even brighter. "Secondly, we both have the name Ryan. Moreover, from a certain angle, we do resemble each other a bit."
Renly spread his hands, speaking candidly, "I guess I can't argue against that." Ryan laughed again and then Renly changed the topic. "Do you like this movie too?"
At this point, the audience hadn't completely left. Only a small portion were starting to leave, while most remained, engaging in discussions. Although many of the Toronto Film Festival attendees were just there for the excitement, there were also seasoned film enthusiasts among them. It was clear that many in the audience were fans of "The Illusionist".
"Yes," Ryan nodded sincerely, "You know, there are fewer and fewer companies willing to put so much effort into creating a film these days. I'm glad I got to watch this movie."