Edgar had an ambition:
To not only fully showcase Anson's charm as an actor and as a man but also to present him as a fashion icon.
Up until now, there have been countless female fashion icons, from models to singers to actresses. Fashion has long been an important label for female artists, with top actresses being no exception. Everyone desires to be a trendsetter like Jennifer Aniston, who influences fashion effortlessly.
But what about male fashion icons?
There are none.
One simple and direct example is Mark Wahlberg. This actor gradually established himself in Hollywood with films like Boogie Nights, Planet of the Apes, and The Perfect Storm. But in fact, his breakthrough came from his CK underwear modeling campaign.
That was CK's first attempt to link underwear with sex appeal and fashion, and showing the waistband above jeans became a trend.
Young Mark Wahlberg quickly became a hot topic, and for the first time, men's sensuality became openly displayed and celebrated.
In an instant, the entire industry turned upside down.
Numbers don't lie; they reflect market demand. Overnight, the fashion world realized the immense potential of the male fashion market.
"I don't have a complete plan yet, but I estimate that at least 300 outfits will be needed to fully display Anson's power as a fashion trendsetter."
"Any brand you can think of, it's not an issue—luxury brands, high-end labels, whatever."
Edgar felt stunned. To him, this was an earth-shattering proposal, something that would completely revolutionize the industry. Yet to Anson, it seemed so effortless and nonchalant.
"So, sponsorships will be crucial."
Because 20 years later, when smartphones became ubiquitous and social media pervasive, every moment a celebrity appeared in public, even for something as simple as grabbing a coffee or taking out the trash, it became part of their public image. Life was wrapped in a bubble of lights and shadows.
"We need to create impact—more importantly, an impression. Your presence itself should scream fashion, and every time the public sees you, they should be left with a lasting memory."
"Anson, so here's a problem: we might not be able to renew with Dior."
It wasn't a brand-level issue—business partnerships come and go; that's normal. But personally, Eddie had given Anson a platform, which had boosted his visibility, making their relationship not so simple.
Edgar wondered if he was overthinking things.
"...This time, we need to put more effort into styling."
At last October's Spring/Summer Fashion Week, Dior became an industry disruptor. Its influence extended beyond fashion, touching various sectors, with entertainment being at the forefront.
Without a doubt, Edgar had shown his foresight.
Otherwise, how could Anson, as Dior's brand ambassador, wear another label's clothing?
It would either be a deliberate snub or an act of dominance.
Edgar was concerned.
"The movie will be promoted in different cities. My idea is that during every appearance—whether it's for a TV show, a radio interview, or even walking to the studio—you'll need a different outfit and look."
"From suits to sportswear, from jeans to leather jackets, a full range of styles."
Unlike the deeply entrenched female fashion market, which has been cultivated for half a century, the male fashion market is practically barren. Every brand is starting from the same point, and everyone has a chance. Dior is only slightly ahead, and it's not unbeatable.
There are no permanent enemies in this world, only permanent interests.
If possible, Edgar didn't want to burn bridges, especially in the fickle world of fame and fortune, where relationships are particularly valuable.
"More than 70 brands have already expressed interest in sponsoring this promotional tour."
He smelled opportunity.
Some might ask, where did all the previous objections go? Why the sudden silence?
First, industry experts, led by legends like Anna Wintour and Karl Lagerfeld, showed support. Edgar, too, stood by this movement.
Almost everyone realized that the male fashion market lacked an icon, a leader. Even top male models were scarce. The untapped business potential was boundless.
Mark didn't shy away from his past and happily embraced it. After all, it was where it all began. Yet in Hollywood, when people talk about this, it's always with a curious, sometimes mocking gaze.
Anson wasn't surprised. "Mmm, no problem."
After all, his role in this film showcased his versatility.
Edgar took a deep breath and continued.
A year later, Edgar realized that if Anson could seize this opportunity and become a male fashion trendsetter, he could solidify his superstar status and become the first to open up a new path in Hollywood.
A year ago, Edgar and his team had worked hard to avoid linking Anson to modeling and fashion, fearing it would trap him in the image of a "pretty face." His acting career hadn't even started before he'd be pigeonholed. That would be disastrous.
Then Dior changed everything.
So now Edgar was worried about how to approach Eddie with this conversation.
Society, deep down, still resisted male fashion.
Secondly, the revenue numbers spoke volumes. A single season of Dior menswear under Eddie Slimane's direction brought in as much as four previous seasons combined. Dior's profits skyrocketed, nearing those of top women's fashion brands, sending shockwaves through the industry.
Perhaps Catch Me If You Can could help Anson achieve this feat.
Looks like he still had work to do.
"Not just for the premiere."
Edgar tilted his head, thinking seriously. If it were Anson, it seemed logical—Anson always amazed him, while his own surprises for Anson were too rare.
Although Edgar hadn't fully realized it yet, Anson could see that Edgar was ahead of his time, grasping the essence of fame and fortune.
But Anson was worried about something else. "Are all the outfits sponsored?"
Edgar didn't get it. He nodded, "Yes."
Anson shook his head. "If that's the case, your plan will most likely fail. This won't work."