From Flower Vase to Film Emperor in Hollywood

Screen test, as the name suggests, is a test that involves being on camera.

In independent films, this step is often absent, though occasionally seen; however, in big-budget commercial films, it's very common, even an unavoidable hurdle to getting the role.

A screen test requires the actor to have their costume, styling, and makeup fully prepared, just like an actual shoot, and perform in front of the camera; moreover, the acting partner is often no longer the casting director or staff, but more likely another actor auditioning for a complementary role.

Firstly, it tests the actor's on-screen presence.

Some actors may look very handsome or attractive, but may not perfectly fit the role, especially some roles with specific period characteristics.

Secondly, it tests the actor's compatibility with the role.

After being fully made up, the audition scene is often from the final version of the film's script, and they need to see the effect of the actor's portrayal of the character.

For a simple example, consider Charlize Theron in "Monster" or Nicole Kidman in "The Hours."

In these works, they needed to uglify themselves, concealing their beauty, but after the makeup transformation, can they still present the character effectively, and is there chemistry between the actor and the role?

Thirdly, it tests the chemistry between actors.

This is divided into two situations: one is when all actors are undecided, then they test the on-screen effect between different partners and combinations; the other is when one actor is confirmed, and this actor is used as a benchmark to test the chemistry of different actors acting together.

In short, a screen test is both a test and a practical exercise, often the key step after passing the casting director's initial screening, where you truly come face-to-face with the director and producers, helping them make the final decision.

Therefore, if an actor can enter the screen test stage, it means that the actor is infinitely close to the role, within reach.

Of course, nothing is absolute—

Close, but not confirmed.

There are countless instances in Hollywood where actors pass the screen test but ultimately fail before the finish line, one of the most famous stories being that of Nicolas Cage.

In the mid-1990s, Warner Bros. was preparing to produce a brand new version of "Superman", directed by Tim Burton. At that time, Tim Burton had proven himself through works such as "Edward Scissorhands" and "Batman". The 1992 release of "Batman Returns" was a double success in box office and critical acclaim, and he was considered the best candidate to direct "Superman".

After layers of selection, Nicolas Cage became the final choice for this version of Superman, with no other competitors. He even went through the final screen test, wearing a custom-made Superman suit, and performed scenes of Superman flying and fighting while suspended on wires. Everything was on track.

However...

This version of Superman never met the audience, and the behind-the-scenes story was not fully known until more than twenty years later.

Therefore, a screen test is very important, but it still doesn't represent everything.

After all, this is Hollywood.

Despite this, Edgar was still mentally excited. From the initial accidental insertion of the photo to opening up the situation, they had come to where they were now step by step. If Edgar said he had no ambition for the role of Peter Parker, it would definitely be a lie. In fact, he not only had ambition, but was also very determined.

Because Edgar knew that this was Anson's opportunity, and also an opportunity to open up his career. He had absolutely no intention of holding back.

And Anson?

When Anson learned that this was a screen test, his first reaction was, "So, does that mean I'll have to wear the suit then?"

That is, Spider-Man's jumpsuit.

Edgar was stunned for a moment, "Possibly. What's wrong?"

Anson shrugged lightly, "I'm kind of looking forward to it. After all, I've always dreamed of becoming a superhero, and now I finally have the chance." This was the truth, "At the same time, I'm also thinking, if I wear the suit and put on the mask, it means that my expressions won't be visible, and expressions will have to be conveyed through body language."

Edgar suddenly realized. Sure enough, the actor and the agent think from different angles. "Sorry, this is my oversight. I'll inquire about the news."

Edgar readily admitted his shortcomings in experience.

But Edgar's strength lies in his ability to notice inconspicuous details. "Judging from the current situation, the possibility is relatively small, because they haven't asked me for your detailed body measurements."

"For the suit, it needs to be custom-made and fit perfectly to see the effect; moreover, the cost is not low. If every auditioning actor wears the suit, the cost expenditure for the screen test alone would be very considerable."

"Sam Raimi is a shrewd and economical director. He doesn't like extravagance and waste, and is more enthusiastic about using every penny wisely."

"So, the possibility is small."

"But you are correct. After landing, I will inquire about the news to confirm."

In a flash of lightning, Edgar had already completed his judgment and quickly followed up.

Anson nodded slightly to indicate that he understood.

After a pause, confirming that Anson had no questions, Edgar continued.

"In addition, for the screen test, it's highly likely that you'll need to act with a female actor. They may need to see the on-screen effect of different pairings and combinations. The scene with the partner is the focus, so I inquired about the news in advance."

"Sony Columbia's side is very tight-lipped. Male and female actors are auditioning completely separately. I can't confirm the accuracy of the information, at least not 100%."

"But I think this list is a good reference."

Edgar handed over another long strip of paper, like a fortune cookie slip from a Chinese restaurant. He lowered his voice, "Destroy it after reading."

A smile appeared in Anson's eyes, "The feeling of 'Mission: Impossible's' Ethan Hunt is immediately there. Shh, keep it a secret."

Alicia Witt.

Jamie King.

Eliza Dushku.

A series of names that weren't so familiar. It's not to say that they were all newcomers. In fact, the list was quite interesting:

Alicia Witt had a wonderful performance in the classic HBO series "The Sopranos"; Jamie King is a child star and model; Eliza Dushku not only played Arnold Schwarzenegger's daughter in "True Lies", but also left a deep impression in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Charmed".

The so-called unfamiliarity was because Anson didn't see the name of Kirsten Dunst—

The female lead of the previous life's "Spider-Man".

Now, he didn't see Tobey Maguire on the male lead audition list, nor did he see Kirsten Dunst on the female lead audition list.

Did this mean that Anson, this little butterfly, had completely changed all of history? Had the world he was familiar with completely deviated from its course?

However, without Kirsten Dunst, there was another familiar name:

Kate Bosworth.

Second chapter.