Laughter and cheerful voices filled the air, the harmonious atmosphere revealing that the top stars of "Friends" were in high spirits due to the smooth and successful filming.
As the director, Michael was even more delighted to witness the chemistry between the actors beyond the camera lens, which boded well for the upcoming shoots.
The seasoned director gently patted Anson on the shoulder, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "I was particularly worried when I heard that this episode would feature a guest star. I thought you were just a pretty face, all looks and no substance. I didn't expect you to perform so well. It's a complete surprise."
In fact, it wasn't just Michael and the actors in front of him.
The entire set probably shared the same sentiment.
One or two people harbored different feelings, whether anticipation or disapproval, but without a doubt, everyone agreed on the 'pretty face' label, the only difference being their attitude towards it.
However.
But.
No one expected it!
The smooth filming, the electrifying encounter, the perfectly timed charm, the quick-witted handling – as soon as the character of 'Paul' appeared, he effortlessly became the focus of the entire set.
Of course, from a scriptwriting perspective, the guest star should be the core of the story, the entire plot revolving around the guest star. 'Paul' becoming the focus was a natural progression, the starting point for the writing team's script creation.
The key point was that Anson seized the opportunity.
He not only perfectly portrayed the character but also fully showcased his personal charm, and unknowingly, he truly became the center of this episode's story.
At this moment.
Even though filming had been interrupted and the director was communicating with the actors, looking around, one could notice subtle glances gathering in this direction.
Curiosity. Investigation. Scrutiny. Speculation. Doubt. Elation.
All sorts of emotions intertwined, and it was as if one could hear the sound of mental brainstorming, running too hot.
This was the reality.
But the reality was one thing, and saying it directly in front of the person involved was another.
It wasn't just David Schwimmer.
Courteney's pupils trembled slightly, quickly moving back and forth between Anson and Michael.
Matthew calmly raised his right hand to cover his mouth, as if he had seen Godzilla.
Lisa widened her eyes, looking serious. "Director, even Phoebe, who has no tact, wouldn't say something like that."
Michael: … … Are you scolding me?
Pfft.
A soft chuckle.
All eyes focused on Anson.
Perhaps, as the person involved, Anson was the calmest and most composed person in the studio at this moment.
"Oh," Anson shrugged lightly. "I was originally thinking of taking the money for being a pretty face and doing the job of a pretty face, clocking in and out of work. But now it seems to have exceeded expectations. Director, why don't you apply to the higher-ups for some extra bonus for me?"
He looked completely sincere.
"Haha," Matthew was the first to burst out laughing, completely unable to stop, especially after seeing Michael's stunned expression.
Matthew walked directly towards Anson, raised his right hand, and gestured—
Anson didn't know why, but he still raised his right hand, and the two gave each other an air high-five.
Matthew showed a satisfied expression, smiling particularly happily.
Michael finally came back to his senses and looked at Anson again, his expression a little strange. Was this young man really acting for the first time?
Unconsciously, a hint of appreciation appeared in his eyes.
Michael didn't forget his task. After a small joke, he returned to business. Since Anson performed so well, not only could he handle the role, but he could also create sparks with the regular cast of "Friends." As the director, Michael naturally looked forward to exploring more.
"Anson, the first take just now was very, very good. Next, we need to switch camera angles to capture close-ups and facial features."
"No need to be nervous. Just follow the rhythm of your performance from just now, and there won't be any problems."
"That accident."
"Don't worry. I think your and David's reactions were particularly good. We can keep that part."
"When you switch positions, your shoulders bump into each other. Maybe you can deliberately bump into David…"
Speaking the scene on the spot.
The director's job is to control the overall situation, trying to construct the picture in his mind, passing his thoughts and information down, and then having each department use their expertise to execute, interpret, and build, and finally converge in the director's mind to complete the ideal picture.
The little episode just now was originally an accident, but now Michael hoped to incorporate it into the plot.
Anson listened attentively.
In fact, Anson didn't plan to express his opinions. He was just a guest star, and it was his first time acting. There was no need to express his views. Completing the task in an orderly manner was enough.
But along with Michael's words, the thoughts in Anson's mind slowly took shape. 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 means that he doesn't intend to hide his aggressiveness, even taking the initiative to attack, which will affect the character's initial setting."
"If Paul accidentally brushes against David, Paul's conditioned reflex exposes his inner thoughts, which is different, and the comedic effect is better."
Anson could sense that all eyes were on him. He wasn't nervous, not only was he not, but he also felt a faint excitement.
A pause.
"So, is it deliberate or accidental?"
Michael and David Schwimmer's voices came from his ears at the same time, "Accidental!"
Matthew looked at Michael, then at David Schwimmer and Anson, a beat behind, "Accidental! Wait, are you guys playing some kind of tacit understanding game?"
Immediately, Courteney and Lisa clapped and laughed, in and out of the play, Matthew was the one with a natural sense of humor.
Michael looked at Anson again, "Accidental brush."
"You and David discuss how to create an accident… Anson, maintain that feeling just now, the panic and stress after the accident, that subtle reaction is very good."
Anson nodded to show that he understood, and then looked at David Schwimmer, "It seems that I have to beat you up again."
David Schwimmer: ? ? ?
Courteney laughed particularly happily, "Haha, David, Anson has caught you again. God, today's filming is really too interesting."
The smile on Michael's mouth also followed suit.
The atmosphere was harmonious.
Not only here, but the staff and audience in the studio were no exception. Among the surprise and admiration, one or two couldn't help but raise the corners of their mouths. Quiet discussions revolved around Anson, and the lively scene completely permeated the relaxed and joyful atmosphere of the filming site.
Obviously, this was something that people hadn't anticipated before the start of work.
Marta didn't need to turn her head to notice David Crane's smug gaze. She looked at the sky speechlessly and rolled her eyes.
"Okay. I was wrong. I admit I was wrong, okay?"
