"Mr. Fraser, you've obviously gained weight compared to the first film."
In the press hall, a reporter pointedly asked Brendan Fraser, "Did you not prepare specifically for this film?"
Brendan Fraser slightly furrowed his brow, but such a level of questioning was not enough to trouble him. He answered with ease, "Eight years have passed since the last film. O'Connell has moved from his prime into middle age. Isn't it very normal for a middle-aged man to gain a little weight?"
After answering, Brendan Fraser waited for the reporters to continue their questions.
Unexpectedly, the next reporter who stood up did not ask him or Rachel Weisz, the female lead, but instead directed a question towards Matthew Horn, who was seated at the very edge of the row.
"Hello, Mr. Horn, I'm a reporter from 'Entertainment Weekly'."
'Entertainment Weekly', a leading entertainment magazine in North America published by Time Warner, focuses on the film and entertainment industry, "You looked great in the film, and your action scenes were impressive. Did you do a lot of preparation for this?"
A microphone was promptly placed in front of Matthew, who sat up straight and responded loudly, "For this role, I underwent extensive professional training. Starting from the auditions, I was already working out, and later on, I took two months of boxing and close combat training."
He looked at the reporters below, "But it was all worth it. I'm proud to have played such a role."
It seemed that the role of the Scorpion King had indeed caught the media's attention, as another reporter stood up to ask, "We all saw that the action scenes were spectacular. Did you use a stunt double?"
Matthew honestly replied, "No, I did all of it myself. I've just mentioned that I underwent a lot of professional training."
Several more reporters asked questions, showing him attention that was no less than the male and female leads.
Reporters, being particularly keen, immediately noticed this and, always seeking drama, a female reporter stood up and asked, "Mr. Horn, you've put in so much effort for a minor role. Brendan Fraser, with his increased weight, gets to play the lead. Do you think this is fair?"
The question brought silence to the room. Matthew, having more experience with the media, knew he was faced with a tricky question.
Saying it was unfair might offend Brendan Fraser; saying it was fair would mean acknowledging Fraser's weight gain and implying he was less fit.
Brendan Fraser, though appearing carefree and hearty, was observed to be more than that facade during their red carpet walk.
Having two faces is all too common in Hollywood, not just for established stars like Brendan Fraser but even for minor actors like himself.
Matthew knew a poor response could sour his relationship with Fraser.
Not answering was also not an option, as the media might take it as implicit confirmation of internal discord.
Rachel Weisz glanced at Matthew, whose character seemed even more appealing on screen than on set, making it unsurprising that journalists focused their questions on him.
She was curious about his answer but didn't think much of it. As a male actor, Matthew couldn't steal the spotlight from a female lead, nor would anyone compare her to him.
However, Brendan Fraser was in a somewhat awkward position...
After the press conference, 'The Mummy Returns' premiere concluded. Matthew checked his phone, found no calls or messages, and prepared to leave the Grauman's Chinese Theatre; it was getting late.
"Matthew!" the press officer reminded, "Remember the event in Las Vegas next Monday. Don't be late."
"I remember," Matthew tapped his forehead, "I'll be there on time."
The film had just had its grand premiere and would soon be released widely across North America. Starting next Monday, including him, Rachel Weisz, and Brendan Fraser, they would tour major cities in America to promote 'The Mummy Returns.'
Matthew walked towards the side exit of the theatre and noticed Brendan Fraser ahead. He quickened his pace to catch up.
"Hey, Brendan," he kept the same demeanor as before the premiere, "Got time for a drink?"
Brendan Fraser slowed down, "Maybe some other time."
They exited the theatre, approached two black cars parked side by side, and were immediately surrounded by a horde of reporters.
These reporters bombarded them with various questions. Matthew and Fraser headed to their cars, but Matthew found himself surrounded by twice as many journalists as Fraser, many of whom seemed familiar from the press conference.
"Matthew Horn, was everything you said at the press conference true? We've heard from the crew that you're always on time, but Brendan Fraser likes to be late. Is that true?"
These gossip-focused journalists seemed determined to dig up dirt on the crew.
Matthew guessed why more reporters surrounded him; compared to an established actor like Brendan Fraser, a newcomer like him was an easier target.
But he didn't say a word, just slowly made his way to his car.
"Matthew! Matthew!" a journalist shouted, "Don't you think Brendan Fraser, that 'fat guy', was terrible and ridiculous in the film? I watched the whole movie, and his performance as the lead left no impression on me. In contrast, your portrayal of the Scorpion King was very striking. What do you think about that?"
Matthew ignored them, broke through the crowd, and got into his car.
On the other side, Brendan Fraser heard the question clearly and frowned deeply.
The premiere was over, and 'The Mummy Returns' began its wide release in North America, but the reception was not as good as expected.
___________________
(Support with power stones, comments or reviews)
If you guys enjoy this story, In support me on Patreon and get access to +200 advance Chapters
Read Ahead
Patreon.com/INNIT