Laughter and joy filled the air, creating a harmonious atmosphere. It was evident that the smooth and successful filming had lifted the spirits of the "Friends" superstars, making them shine even brighter.
As the director, Michael was more than pleased. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, even off-camera, which boded well for the upcoming shoots.
This veteran director lightly patted Anson on the shoulder, a hint of appreciation in his eyes. "When I heard that a guest star was being invited for this episode, I was quite worried. I thought you might just be a pretty face with no substance. But I didn't expect your performance to be so outstanding—absolutely surprising."
David Schwimmer: ???
Is that something you can just say?
Even though that's exactly what they were thinking, saying it out loud like this—was that really okay? Could they still be friends after this?
In fact, it wasn't just Michael and the actors in front of him who felt this way.
The entire set probably shared the same sentiment.
Each person harbored different feelings—anticipation, skepticism, or just casual banter—but there was no doubt that everyone had come to a consensus about the "pretty face" label. The only difference was in their attitude toward it.
However.
But.
No one expected this!
The smooth flow of the shoot, the explosive chemistry, the perfect charm, and the quick-witted handling of situations—"Paul" had become the center of attention as soon as he appeared.
Of course, from a scriptwriting perspective, the guest star was supposed to be the core of the story. The entire plot revolved around the guest star, so "Paul" becoming the focus was only natural. This was the intention of the writing team from the start.
The key was that Anson seized the opportunity.
Not only did he portray the character flawlessly, but he also showcased his personal charm, unconsciously and deservedly becoming the focal point of this episode.
At this moment.
Even though the filming had paused and the director was communicating with the actors, a quick glance around revealed the subtle glances that were all converging in this direction.
Curiosity. Inquiry. Scrutiny. Speculation. Doubt. Excitement.
All sorts of emotions intertwined, and it seemed like you could hear the sound of brainstorming in people's heads, their minds overheating.
This was the reality.
But acknowledging reality and saying it directly to the person involved are two different things.
It wasn't just David Schwimmer who was shocked.
Courteney's pupils slightly trembled as she quickly glanced back and forth between Anson and Michael.
Matthew calmly raised his right hand to cover his mouth, as if he had just seen Godzilla.
**Lisa's eyes widened as she spoke seriously, "Director, even someone as clueless as Phoebe wouldn't say something like that."**
Michael: ...Are you insulting me?
A soft chuckle.
All eyes turned toward Anson.
Perhaps, as the person involved, Anson was actually the calmest and most composed one in the studio at this moment.
"Oh." Anson shrugged lightly. "I was just planning to do the job of a 'pretty face' and clock out. But now, it seems like I've exceeded expectations. Director, why don't you apply for some extra bonus pay for me?"
He looked completely sincere.
"Haha!" Matthew couldn't hold back and burst out laughing, especially after seeing Michael's stunned expression. He couldn't stop.
Matthew walked over to Anson, raised his right hand, and gestured with his eyes—
Anson, a bit confused, still raised his right hand, and the two shared a high-five.
Matthew looked thoroughly satisfied, smiling brightly.
Michael finally snapped out of it and looked at Anson again, his expression a bit strange. Was this young man really acting for the first time?
He couldn't help but feel a bit more appreciative in his gaze.
Michael didn't forget his task. After the small joke, he returned to business. Since Anson's performance was so outstanding—not only fitting the role but also creating sparks with the main cast of "Friends"—as the director, Michael naturally wanted to explore more.
"Anson, that first take was very, very good. Next, we need to switch angles to capture close-ups and facial expressions."
"Don't worry, just keep the same rhythm as before, and it'll be fine."
"As for that incident…"
"Don't worry, I think your and David's reactions were great. We can keep that part."
"When you switch places, maybe bump shoulders—you could even deliberately bump into David..."
On-set direction.
A director's job is to oversee the entire production, attempting to construct the images in their mind, conveying their ideas and information, and then having each department use their expertise to execute, interpret, and build, eventually combining into the ideal scene envisioned by the director.
That little mishap earlier was accidental, but now Michael wanted to incorporate it into the scene.
Anson listened attentively.
In fact, Anson wasn't planning to share his opinion—he was just a guest star and acting for the first time, so there was no need to voice his thoughts. Simply doing the job was enough.
But as Michael spoke, Anson's own ideas started to form in his mind. He looked up at Michael, a brief exchange of glances.
Then, Anson spoke his thoughts, "Director, deliberate and accidental are two different things."
"If Paul deliberately bumps into David, it implies he isn't trying to hide his aggression and is even taking the initiative, which would affect the character's introduction."
"If Paul accidentally brushes against David, and his reflexive reaction reveals his inner feelings, it's different—better comedic effect."
Anson could sense all eyes on him, but he wasn't nervous. In fact, he felt a slight thrill.
A pause.
"So, was it deliberate or accidental?"
From beside him came Michael and David Schwimmer's simultaneous response, "Accidental!"
Matthew looked at Michael, then at David Schwimmer and Anson, a beat behind, "Accidental! Wait, are you guys playing some sort of coordination game?"
Immediately, Courteney and Lisa burst into applause and laughter. Both in and out of character, Matthew was naturally the one with the best sense of humor.
Michael looked at Anson again, "Accidental bump."
"Work it out with David and see how to create an accident… Anson, keep that feeling from before—the panic and reflex after the accident. That subtle reaction was excellent."
Anson nodded in understanding, then turned to David Schwimmer, "Looks like I'll have to hit you again."
David Schwimmer: ???
Courteney laughed even more heartily, "Haha, David, Anson's got you again. God, today's filming is just too much fun."
Michael's smile also grew wider.
The atmosphere was cheerful and harmonious.
Not just here, but the crew and the audience on set weren't exceptions either. Amid surprise and admiration, one by one, they couldn't help but smile, and quiet discussions about Anson quietly spread. The lively scene filled the set with a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
Clearly, this was something people hadn't anticipated before work began.
Marta didn't need to turn her head to notice David Crane's smug gaze. She looked up at the sky in exasperation and rolled her eyes.
"Alright, I was wrong. I admit it, okay?"