Light yet rich.
Delicate, yet intricate.
Simple, yet multidimensional.
The brilliance of this scene was completely unexpected.
Strictly speaking, not entirely unexpected, because the whole crew knew the importance of this scene. In an action movie, the action and special effects set the baseline, while the drama determines the upper limit. This scene plays a crucial role in "Spider-Man," so everyone was on edge.
The shooting itself wasn't particularly difficult; the entire weight rested on the two actors.
However, the key point was that this is a commercial movie, so the performance doesn't need to be too complex. If the actors focus too much on the performance and try to delve deep, it could not only disrupt the movie's rhythm but also clash with the overall atmosphere. Thus, the actors' sense of proportion became extremely important—especially for Anson.
Putting aside the stereotype of being a "pretty face," this was Anson's first time starring as the lead in a film. There's a big difference between being the lead and a supporting actor. Standing in the spotlight, could Anson bring out the character's charm?
The result?
What was surprising was not just the brilliance of the scene, but the brilliance of the performance.
Anson truly delivered a stunning performance.
Logically, the focus of this scene should be on Uncle Ben, as he delivers that iconic line; but Anson, with his layered and vivid performance, expanded the interpretive space of the entire scene.
No one expected that the real stroke of genius would come from the silent moments, where the tension during the silence, the struggle and hesitation shown through body language, made the emotions overflow, revealing the beauty of the unspoken.
Moreover!
The most remarkable part was actually the silence after Peter got out of the car.
His hesitation, his inner turmoil, his stubbornness, all perfectly captured the confusion of adolescence, setting the stage for the events to come—
It is because he realized that his stubbornness and blind impulsiveness led to a mistake, and because he understood that his teenage rebellion caused a disaster, that he matured overnight.
Standing behind the monitor, watching that figure repeatedly stop and go in front of the traffic, the hearts of the onlookers tightened because they knew what was about to happen. They wanted more than ever to change history, hoping Peter could catch up to Uncle Ben's car and apologize.
This series of actions instantly filled out the narrative.
Clearly, Anson not only understood the character but also fully grasped the plot. In the limited space, he used the character's actions to reveal his psyche, subtly laying the groundwork, making both the character and the plot more complete.
No wonder!
No wonder this scene had several NGs, including one caused by Anson's off-feeling performance affecting his scene partner, Cliff.
Now, the answer was finally revealed—
So that's it.
Anson was carefully considering and adjusting. In a scene like this, overacting would seem redundant and add unnecessary drama, disrupting the audience's experience; underacting would lack depth, turning an idolized performance into something superficial, wasting the interpretive space of this scene. The balance and nuance were crucial.
Obviously, Anson knew what he was doing and how to do it; he just needed some time, so he kept adjusting.
On one hand, the inexperience and rawness of a rookie actor were fully on display.
On the other hand, looking at it from a different angle, the fact that this rookie actor could possess such interpretive and expressive abilities leaves no explanation other than talent.
One can't help but feel a growing sense of anticipation.
Given enough time and space to grow, how far will Anson reach? What kind of actor will he eventually transform into?
In that moment of reverie, people temporarily forgot about his handsome face.
This was indeed a pleasant surprise.
"Cut!"
In an instant, everyone began breathing heavily, exchanging excited and exhilarated glances. It took them a moment to realize their palms were sweating profusely, even more nervous than Anson himself. Unconsciously, all eyes turned toward Sam.
This included James Franco and Kirsten Dunst.
James had always harbored a doubt: Why was Anson chosen over him for the role of Peter Parker?
It wasn't that he looked down on or discredited Anson; it was simply a matter of self-confidence.
James still believed he was the best choice for Peter Parker. Even if it wasn't Anson, he would have the same question about any other actor who got the role.
Today, James finally found his answer.
The subtle yet precise performance from Anson made it clear that he was more than just a pretty face.
Confidence is one thing, but James didn't think he could deliver such a performance at this moment. Confidence doesn't mean arrogance; however, that doesn't bother him. Just because he can't do it now doesn't mean he won't be able to in the future. James believes he can shine on the big screen as well.
So, the question arises:
How should he delve into his own character in "Spider-Man"?
Meanwhile, Kirsten's thoughts were also in turmoil.
Unlike James, Kirsten believed in Anson's abilities. She had watched Anson's performances in "Friends" and knew he was more than just a pretty face. This was also why she was willing to audition for "Spider-Man." And Anson did not disappoint her.
Now, Kirsten was contemplating how her scenes with Anson should unfold.
How does Mary Jane "see" Peter Parker?
They've been neighbors all along, yet she never noticed him until later when she fell deeply in love. Moreover, Mary Jane fell for Peter Parker, not Spider-Man.
As an actor, she needs to showcase this transformation, so the story and plot can become complete. Otherwise, Mary Jane would be no different from other shallow characters in commercial films, and Peter Parker's growth story would be missing a crucial element. After all, like Uncle Ben, Mary Jane's role is essential in driving Peter Parker's transformation.
Watching Anson's performance, Kirsten began to think, her inspiration sparking in all directions.
Both James and Kirsten, like the crew, needed guidance and affirmation. All eyes turned to the director—
Sam Raimi, seemingly oblivious.
His face was serious, betraying no emotion, with the same slow-moving expression reminiscent of a sloth. One moment he called "cut," the next, he ignored the stares and reviewed the footage on the monitor, reentering the world of Spider-Man.
More accurately, reentering Peter Parker's story.
Sam hadn't forgotten his original intent. He wasn't preparing to film Spider-Man's story; he was preparing to film Peter Parker's story.
There's a fundamental difference between the two. The former is a superhero movie, while the latter is a coming-of-age story.
This is also why Sam chose Anson—he believed Anson could bring a different essence to Peter Parker.
And he was right.
Calmly and attentively, Sam rewatched the scene. His eagle-eyed focus, now fully awake, betrayed a hint of satisfaction. The emotional narrative and dramatic tension of this scene perfectly aligned with his vision for the film, even adding layers beyond his initial conception.
He truly couldn't ask for more.
With a gentle nod, he finally raised his right hand.
"OK."
Sam made a gesture—
And the crowd erupted in cheers.