Mistook for someone else

After entering the cinema, the movie had already started its opening scenes. The entire theater was shrouded in darkness as Renly bent over and made his way to a seat in the back row, finding an empty spot and sitting down.

"The Illusionist" is a very special animated film. In a time when movie scripts and dialogues are becoming increasingly dull, this animation boldly returns to the essence of cinema. It tells a story about dreams, loneliness, and growth almost entirely without dialogue, using the art of cinematography to convey its narrative. The subtle sadness and poetic beauty flow like a stream on a rainy night, silently moving the audience.

However, in today's film market, such sincere and heartfelt works are becoming increasingly marginalized and fail to resonate with audiences. For instance, at the Toronto International Film Festival, despite being a commercially oriented festival, audience engagement is still crucial. Yet, the attendance rate for "The Illusionist" was only about two-thirds full. If it were a regular cinema, this would be considered a roaring success, but at a film festival known for sold-out screenings, it seemed somewhat neglected.

"Sorry." Another audience member walked in, bending over as they entered the seating area. Renly moved his feet to the side, but the person accidentally stepped on his toes, quietly apologizing before sitting down next to him. However, before they could settle in, their raised buttocks accidentally sat on the armrest, pressing down on Renly's right hand. "Sorry, really sorry."

Renly looked up to assess this clumsy individual. In the dim light, the distinctive, thin face with neatly trimmed facial hair and slicked-back hair was instantly recognizable. The name slipped out... Ryan Reynolds!

It was indeed jaw-dropping to see Ryan Reynolds in the theater for "The Magician." Ryan, being Canadian, made frequent appearances at the Toronto International Film Festival. He had been present at the opening ceremony yesterday to support "The Hockey Musical." However, "The Illusionist," an artistically inclined film, didn't seem like something Ryan would typically enjoy.

Clearly, Renly's preconceptions about Ryan were misguided.

Suddenly, Renly remembered something crucial—"Buried." Would Ryan attend the premiere of "Buried"? Renly felt both excited and nervous, knowing that the original performer from a past life might be in the audience, scrutinizing his performance. It was a peculiar feeling.

This subtle sense of competition was something only Renly understood, stirring a quiet excitement within him. Nevertheless, Renly had no fear of competition or judgment from others. Only by continually challenging stronger opponents could he grow more powerful. Moreover, he had won the role during auditions by outshining Ryan with his skills. So, he felt quite confident.

"Hey." If they hadn't made contact, Renly wouldn't have minded. But since they were sitting next to each other and had even had a bit of physical contact, it seemed best to say hello. Renly smiled and greeted Ryan, signaling friendliness.

Ryan seemed momentarily taken aback, not expecting this situation. It took him a few seconds to process before he awkwardly smiled back. "Hey." After another brief pause, he added, "Sorry about earlier."

Renly wasn't surprised by Ryan's delayed reaction—after all, he was an unknown to Ryan. Without the context of "Buried," Ryan probably wouldn't recognize him. Moreover, Ryan might not even remember "Buried." He could be here simply to support his hometown, and all Renly's assumptions might be baseless.

"No problem." Renly politely nodded in response before turning his attention back to the screen. "The Illusionist" was a great film that deserved quiet appreciation.

Time flies when watching a good movie, and before long, the film ended and the credits began to roll. The theater lights gradually came on, and Renly stood up immediately, giving the film a round of applause.

Even though this wasn't his first time watching it, he was still moved. Like the illusionist in the story, many traditional entertainers have been left behind by time, yet the protagonist passionately and persistently performs at various venues, holding on to his last shred of sincerity and enthusiasm. This isn't just about entertainers but also about countless dream chasers.

Renly clapped vigorously, genuinely moved by the film, a sentiment that never waned.

Following Renly's lead, the audience began to stand up and clap as well. The applause grew louder, though the audience noticed that the theater wasn't full. Despite the film's warmth and depth, it was somewhat overlooked at the festival, a fact that was both ironic and sad. The applause, however, became more fervent, echoing thunderously in the theater.

Though it wasn't the premiere and no cast or crew members were present, the audience didn't leave early. Instead, they stood and applauded for over seven minutes, expressing their appreciation for the film in the simplest and most heartfelt way.

"Sorry about my earlier behavior. That was really impolite." The apologetic voice came from beside him again—his third apology—typical Canadian politeness.

Renly couldn't help but smile as he turned to reply with a joke, but upon seeing the person's face, he was taken aback—so much so that his good manners and calm demeanor couldn't mask his surprise.

Under the lights, the face became clearer, revealing the distinctive features and melancholy between the eyebrows. The person next to him wasn't Ryan Reynolds but Ryan Gosling—the actor known for "The Notebook," "Half Nelson," and "Drive."

Despite both being named Ryan, they had different auras and styles. Ryan Reynolds had a more easygoing charm and handsome features, while Ryan Gosling had a more brooding presence and less traditionally handsome looks.

But Renly had still mistaken him.

Ryan caught the odd look on Renly's face. "The film was wonderful, wasn't it?" His voice softened, and after a brief pause, he chuckled and asked, "What's the matter? Is something wrong?"

Renly laughed, slightly embarrassed, shaking his head. After hesitating for a moment, he scratched his head and admitted, "Sorry, I mistook you for someone else."

Ryan was taken aback but then laughed heartily. "No worries, no worries. You probably thought I was Ryan Reynolds, right?" He laughed even more, "Many people make that mistake. People often shout at me on the street: 'I loved you in The Proposal,' and I just shrug and say, 'Thanks.'"

Renly, relieved by Ryan's lightheartedness, still felt a bit awkward. "Sorry, that was really impolite of me." Had he known it was Ryan Gosling, he might not have initiated the conversation so boldly.

"If you hadn't confessed, I wouldn't have known," Ryan said sincerely. It was Renly's candidness that stood out. Seeing Renly's smile, Ryan opened his arms. "Please don't tell me you're Canadian." Renly's accent was clearly British, implying he wouldn't continue apologizing like a Canadian.

Renly relaxed and laughed, "In the face of a Canadian who apologizes thrice, I wouldn't dare claim otherwise. I'd be found out quickly." His humor made Ryan laugh heartily.

Seeing Ryan move in for a hug, Renly held up a hand to stop him and took a step back, "I must tell you, I'm British."

The British typically avoid hugs, especially with strangers. Even among friends, their hugs are reserved and formal.

Ryan, looking theatrically hurt, pouted but still moved in for a big hug, ignoring Renly's protests. "But we're in Canada, so when in Rome..." He patted Renly's back firmly, making him chuckle helplessly.

Ryan quickly released him, knowing the hug was just playful and not overstepping. 

"But you and Ryan Reynolds don't look alike at all. Why do so many people confuse you two?" Renly asked, curious but aware it might seem impolite.

"No, it's not impolite at all," Ryan shook his head with a smile. "First, we're both Canadian. To Americans, all Canadians look the same." Renly nodded seriously, which made Ryan laugh more, "Second, we're both named Ryan. Plus, from some angles, we do look a bit alike."

Renly spread his hands in surrender, "I suppose I have no grounds to argue." Ryan laughed again, and Renly shifted the topic, "Do you like the movie too?"

The audience, meanwhile, was still mostly in the theater, with some people discussing the film passionately. Despite many attendees being there for the festival buzz, there were undoubtedly many genuine film enthusiasts present, as evidenced by the reaction to "The Illusionist."

"Yes," Ryan nodded earnestly, "It's rare to see a film made with such dedication and heart. I'm glad I watched it."

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200 powerstones - 1 bonus chapter