Besides, Eric remembered that young Tom Hardy had issues with alcohol and drugs and was likely still undergoing treatment. Making him the lead would be risky.
Michael Fassbender's issues were similar. He was handsome, but his face expressed inner conflict and stubbornness. Especially when he frowned – he looked like someone who had overcome many difficulties, which suited Magneto but not Sam, who needed to exude optimism and enthusiasm.
Nevertheless, both actors didn't leave empty-handed. Eric offered them roles as American soldiers with lines and close-ups.
McAvoy, who wasn't suited for a military role, got the part of a computer genius – perfectly matching his intellectual look.
Tom and Michael looked great in military uniforms, especially Fassbender, whose facial features were perfect for battlefield scenes.
Thus, the "Brotherhood of Brits" was entirely out of the casting.
...
In the audition room, Eric looked at James Franco. He wasn't yet the controversial actor he would become, but even now he was the most famous of all who had come to audition.
"James, turn sideways. Excellent."
"Frown a bit. Good."
"Now smile."
James Franco slightly smiled, and his face immediately reflected the image of a rich, spoiled youth, which didn't suit Sam, who was from a typical middle-class family.
Eric frowned: "James, relax. Smile wider, show that you're genuinely happy, with laughter."
"Okay."
Franco nodded and changed his facial expression, but he looked too cold.
Then he laughed broadly, but it looked too forced and silly.
Some casting members slightly shook their heads. They saw in him a typical problem of young and handsome actors – they know they are attractive and strive to emphasize their best features, avoiding their weaknesses. It's human nature, but over time, such behavior becomes an inseparable and hard-to-correct part of their personality.
After finishing with the assessment of his appearance and demeanor, Eric asked: "What do you think you can bring to this film?"
"A lot. I'm ready to follow any direction from the director. I can work in tough conditions, perform complex scenes without stunt doubles. If more realism in action scenes is needed, I'm ready to participate in them without stuntmen. I'm confident I can create a Sam that the audience will love."
The answer was excellent, and everyone was pleased – everyone loves obedient and responsible actors.
When James Franco left the audition room with a smile on his face, everyone waiting for their turn had a bad feeling.
Next, Jake Gyllenhaal came out, silently heading for the exit. He was recalling Eric's words.
Then Ben Foster appeared. His face didn't show any disappointment, which was not surprising since he didn't have a strong desire to win.
All these years, he had been acting in TV series and wasn't very popular. Especially after his girlfriend, Kirsten Dunst, became famous thanks to her role in "Spider-Man," he keenly felt the difference.
His unremarkable acting career, constant failures, and disappointments had long undermined his spirit, and he often doubted he had chosen the right path.
Lately, he had frequent quarrels with his girlfriend, which further depressed his mood and lowered his motivation. He applied for the audition more out of curiosity. Getting the role – great, not getting it – no big deal.
Fortunately, he got a small role as an American soldier.
After Ben Foster left, the audition continued.
There were fewer people waiting their turn, and many left disappointed, until only Heath Ledger and Chris Evans remained in the room.
Their gazes accidentally met, and although they weren't acquainted, in the empty room, this created awkwardness.
Both smiled, and at that moment, Chris Evans was called for the audition, defusing the situation.
In the audition room, other observers were beginning to understand Eric's approach. He seemed to know these young actors well and always managed to highlight their strengths and weaknesses.
It was obvious that he had a dislike for some of them and asked them aggressive and tricky questions.
However, he was more lenient towards others, like Jake Gyllenhaal, to whom he gave a lot of useful advice. He was also kind to the "British trio."
As for the just-departed Ryan Gosling, a young actor who had only started his career a few years ago, Eric also showed tolerance, allowing him to showcase his abilities to the fullest. Ryan indeed fit the spirit of Sam's character, although he had a slight flaw – a slightly elongated chin.
And then the door opened again, and a tall, handsome young man with a sunny smile entered, politely introducing himself.
Eric smiled, looking at this 21-year-old boy with a still youthful and shy expression.
"Chris, relax, no need to be so nervous. It's just an audition, not an interrogation!"
A light laugh echoed in the room, and the atmosphere immediately became more relaxed, allowing Chris Evans to unwind.
"The interviewer is quite a nice person, so why are the others so gloomy?" thought the young actor, performing various tasks and expressions Eric asked for.
Chris successfully passed all the stages of the audition because over the past two years, he had only played schoolboys, making him an expert in such roles.
After completing all the procedures, several jury members nodded approvingly. His appearance, charisma, and talent made him a strong contender for the role of Sam.
Suddenly, Eric stood up and approached Chris Evans, surprising everyone present. He circled around him, scrutinizing him closely.
Then, to Chris's surprise, he took him by the chin and patted his stomach and chest before returning to his place.
"Sorry, Chris. I didn't mean to offend you. For the role of Sam, you'll need to make some extra effort."
Chris was stunned, but recalling Eric's gestures and his handsome appearance, he thought: "Is he gay?"
"What does it matter, it's a top-tier blockbuster, it's Hollywood. Chris, you have to be ready for anything. Just close your eyes and move forward."
Gritting his teeth, Chris said: "Whatever you ask, sir, I'm ready to do it."
"Actually, it's nothing complicated. You're in great shape, but you're too muscular. Sam shouldn't be like that."
"I need you to lose weight and shed some muscle mass. This will narrow your chin, and you'll look more like Sam."
The young Captain America sighed with relief. It was an emotional roller coaster.
All previous auditions had required him to gain muscle mass, constantly playing strong characters. This was the first time he was told to slim down.
Maintaining form was difficult, but getting rid of it was a big relief.
With a smile on his face, Chris Evans left the audition room.
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