From Flower Vase to Film Emperor in Hollywood

Clap, clap, clap, clap—

Applause thundered.

James was the first to take the lead in cheering, applauding "The New Yorker's" sharp critique.

Finally, despite being just a moderate review, "The New Yorker" still retained its edge and color, relentlessly attacking the film's conservatism and clichés.

Obviously, this was also a major controversy facing "Spider-Man."

Sam Raimi did respect the original work, taking a unique approach to Peter Parker as a superhero, but considering the age of the original comics, it was inevitably behind current aesthetics. The loyalty of the original fans might become an obstacle to the film's ambition, thereby affecting the audience's immersion.

James looked serious, "What did I say? We should have used the Green Goblin as the protagonist. Harry is the most worthwhile character to explore in the whole story, okay?"

Tsk.

This time, hisses accompanied the potato chips thrown at James.

However, Anson did not join in the booing, because he knew James was right—

Chris spread his hands, looking innocent.

James joked with a grin, "If it's Hayden, I'll give him a full score of one hundred."

The atmosphere stagnated slightly—

Jack and Ryan had no idea that Hayden used to live here; while Seth and the rest of the gang had learned the whole story from James, and even if they didn't say it, it was clear they didn't welcome Hayden.

So, it immediately became awkward.

James raised his hands in surrender, rolling his eyes, "Okay, okay, it's just a joke, just a joke."

But this joke wasn't funny.

If it really was Hayden, what would that mean?

There were many, many possibilities, but one of them was the worst and most terrifying of their series of guesses was the correct answer:

Hayden's departure without saying goodbye was perhaps because he was worried that Anson and James might be as successful as him, or even more successful. Before the positions were reversed and subverted, he left in advance to maintain his dignity. He was willing to be friends with people who were inferior to him, but he couldn't accept friends who were as successful as him or even more successful.

And now, knowing that "Spider-Man" might sink like the Titanic, the thing he was worried about wouldn't happen, and they could continue to be friends with peace of mind.

So, he's back.

Anson really didn't want to guess and explore in those dark and ugly directions. The Hayden in his memory was definitely not like this; but... this is Hollywood, and they can't guarantee that they won't change. No one can guarantee that they can always remain the same in the face of fame and fortune.

Otherwise, why did Hayden choose to appear today?

Coincidence?

Although Anson wanted to see Hayden again, it was definitely not at this moment.

Anson exchanged a look with James and Chris.

James still had that nonchalant look, having already prepared himself mentally. No matter what happens, he can face it calmly.

Chris stood up nervously, trying to leave the sofa and walk towards Anson.

Anson stopped Chris with his eyes, turned around, and walked straight to the door.

After adjusting his breathing slightly, without hesitation, Anson directly opened the door—

"Surprise!"

Pop, pop, pop.

Pulling the trigger of the confetti popper, while making crackling sounds with his mouth.

Then, Brad Renfro's sweaty, panting, smiling face appeared in front of him.

His tense mind relaxed slightly, Anson showed an unbelievable smile. Looking back, James and Chris also breathed a sigh of relief.

"Brad?"

"You actually... but, what about the producer? Are you sure it's okay?"

Anson looked behind Brad, but didn't see anyone else. Did this mean that Brad's conversation with the producer didn't go well?

Anson carefully hid his worries.

Brad shook his head, smiled, and patted Anson on the shoulder, "Don't worry, I've already taken care of it, hooray!"

Brad took the lead into the house, raising his hand to greet everyone, "Hey, everyone, happy movie review party!"

Chris had the same thought as Anson. Although they were slightly relieved that it wasn't Hayden, what about the meeting with the producer?

Chris quickly greeted Brad, "Are you sure?" Then he looked at Anson, his eyes full of confusion, but this time Anson couldn't give an answer either.

Brad waved his hand, signaling Chris not to worry, and without concealing anything, "Actually, a producer just invited me to a meeting, but I thought, hey, this is Hollywood, there are opportunities every day, meetings all the time, even if we are going to cooperate, there is no rush, right?"

"I told him that we can meet tomorrow to discuss, and now I'm going home to attend my friends' movie review party. How could I miss Anson and James's movie review party?"

In the hall, everyone looked at each other—

They weren't familiar with Brad yet.

Ryan had also stood up, blinking continuously, feeling a little flustered for a moment, and finally looked at Anson, sending a signal for help with his eyes:

Is this really okay?

Anson was also stunned, watching Brad walk to the whiskey for the first time, gulping the whiskey into the orange juice. He was also a little unsure.

Could it be that the meeting didn't go well, but Brad didn't want them to worry, so he said that?

In any case, since Brad didn't want to say, Anson didn't delve into it. After all, there were guests present, and some topics weren't suitable to be discussed.

"Brad, if you're thinking of showing your support today and then James will return the favor by getting you a role in his next starring movie, I can only say—"

"Good!"

A pause, a reversal.

Everyone laughed collectively, and the atmosphere became lively again.

Chris stepped forward again, giving Brad a hug to express his comfort.

Then, Anson changed the subject.

"Of course, provided there is a next one."

James clutched his heart, "Ouch."

The laughter was even more joyful.

Watching Chris and Brad also take their seats, Anson picked up his laptop again.

"Ladies and gentlemen, until now, those heavyweights haven't come out yet, let's see if they can come up with something fresh."

"Oh."

"Robert Ebert enters the arena."

Without needing the name of "Chicago Sun-Times," a name alone was enough, and everyone started tapping on the table, making ghostly howls.

Anson read carefully and widened his eyes.

"Wait, this, it's actually a good review!"

Anson looked around, Chris was the first to jump up, and Brad, who had just sat down, was stunned and almost knocked over by Chris.

"The original story is presented in its original flavor, and the character images will not disappoint the original fans—not even Gwen supporters will be an exception. The choreography of the fight scenes is surprisingly wonderful, coupled with Sam Raimi's personal horror-style movie quirks, the movie is unexpectedly interesting."

"And the real surprise comes from—"

Anson's gaze left the computer screen, looking at everyone in disbelief.

"Anson Wood."