In general, public relations is often about adapting to changing circumstances, like soldiers guarding against enemy attacks or land holding back water. Wherever a crisis arises, public relations swoop in.
But truly skilled PR professionals act before a crisis even appears, gradually crafting a perfect public image step by step.
What does that mean?
Let's take Tom Hanks as an example. He's a world-renowned superstar. Maybe he's not as handsome as Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt, and maybe he doesn't exude the same magnetic charm as George Clooney or Will Smith, but his public image has undoubtedly become a brand in itself.
Now imagine a rumor starts circulating that Tom Hanks has been abusing his wife. How would the public react?
There would likely be a variety of responses, but the voices defending and supporting Tom Hanks would probably dominate. Why? Because his established image has nothing to do with violence.
Of course, this is just an example. I'm not suggesting Tom Hanks is actually guilty of anything, nor that his entire image is just the result of PR work. The point here is: this is what PR does.
They go with the flow and create a brand.
When there's no situation to handle, PR teams are responsible for creating one. That's why we regularly see public figures involved in charity work or hear about charitable deeds they've done quietly, only to reveal them when the timing is right.
When there is a crisis, PR teams use it to their advantage. The focus isn't on the problem itself—PR professionals actually worry when there isn't a problem. They need issues to showcase their skills. The real key lies in how they respond once a crisis hits.
That's exactly what's happening now.
Previously, some people complained about Anson missing the filming of The Princess Diaries 2, but Eve didn't bother responding. Now, however, she feels it's time to fight back.
The goal isn't just to address the online critics. The real aim is to leave an impression on Hollywood studios: this is Anson's loyalty, this is who he is. Whether it's The Princess Diaries 2 or Spider-Man 2, Anson hasn't let success go to his head after his rise to fame. He's still grounded.
So, what are you waiting for? Send the scripts flying this way!
But that's not all.
Thirdly, it's also a chance to emphasize that Anson is serious about his band, contrary to the online gossip suggesting he's just playing around for fun.
Maybe—just maybe—it would be nice if people gave the August 31st band's music a listen, or checked out their album. And if this boosts album sales or the band's recognition, that wouldn't be a bad bonus.
All these thoughts raced through Eve's mind, one after another. A small event or a little action could open the door to endless possibilities.
This is the magic of PR.
While Eve's brain was running at high speed, Gary was left frozen and speechless, momentarily stunned.
Anson hadn't heard a response. "Director?"
Gary finally snapped out of it. "Yes, yes, this is fantastic... absolutely brilliant."
"Wait, Anson, are you talking about your band's European tour?"
Anson replied, "Yes."
Gary was thrilled. "Wow, so can we use footage of your band's European tour in the film?"
Anson nodded. "Of course. You can work out the details with Warner Records, and I'll give them a heads-up. But I don't think it'll be a problem."
Gary took a few deep breaths, still beaming with excitement. "I think I'm getting light-headed. Maybe I can add a scene where Mia sneaks a look at your band's European tour online."
"See? Even though you two are apart, Mia still can't forget Michael completely. It's more natural that way."
In the previous timeline that Anson was familiar with, The Princess Diaries 2 didn't feature Michael either, since Robert Schwartzman, who played him, left to pursue his music career.
But the difference was, in that timeline, Robert didn't leave any parting message or appearance, which left the production in a tricky spot. Michael's character just disappeared with little explanation, leaving fans puzzled. This disconnect created a jarring feeling between the films.
Now, history was repeating itself with Anson missing the sequel. But at least this time, Anson could help avoid the same awkward situation by giving the filmmakers a reason for his character's absence and smoothing the transition.
Gary was beyond excited—no, more than that, his heart was racing with passion and joy.
Eventually, his excitement turned into a wide grin, and he couldn't contain his laughter. "Anson, you really didn't have to do all this."
Anson nodded. "I know."
Gary paused, surprised.
Anson continued, "But I want to do it."
Gary's grin widened.
Anson added with a lighthearted tone, "Don't forget, this is still a paid gig. All for the paycheck."
"Haha! Hahaha!" Gary couldn't hold back his laughter any longer. "Don't worry, I won't forget."
It wasn't perfect—after all, in an ideal world, Anson would be starring in the sequel alongside Anne Hathaway, and The Princess Diaries 2 would gross $300 million at the North American box office, skyrocketing both Anson and Anne's careers.
But that was just a fantasy. Reality wasn't so simple.
Still, life is rarely perfect. Even in imperfection, Anson had found a way to keep things moving forward.
After hanging up the phone, Anson turned to Edgar and casually remarked, "Captain, let's make sure this doesn't happen again."
That single sentence sent a chill down Edgar's spine. He couldn't even meet Anson's gaze.
Anson had long realized that his presence was altering the course of history. This was a parallel timeline, and the butterfly effect was changing the world around him. However, this time, he hadn't expected to change someone else's fate.
That person was Chris Pine.
This actor, who would go on to star in films like Star Trek, Wonder Woman, and Dungeons & Dragons, was one of Hollywood's "Big Four Chrises," alongside Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, and Chris Pratt. He came from a Hollywood family—his grandmother was an actress, and his grandfather was a lawyer in the industry. His parents were also actors, though mostly in supporting roles, both with careers spanning two decades.
Given his background, you'd think Chris Pine's career in Hollywood would have been smooth sailing, at least when it came to getting his foot in the door.
But that wasn't the case.
At twenty-three years old, he was still stuck in television, playing minor roles—characters with a few lines or even just dead bodies in medical and detective dramas.
Not only that, but his older sister, who also aspired to be an actress, hadn't had much luck either and eventually switched careers to become a clinical psychologist.
At this point, Chris's bank account wasn't just empty—it was in the red. He didn't even know how he'd pay next month's rent.
He had been asking his family for help with rent for three months now. Working as a bartender to make ends meet, he jumped at any audition opportunity he could find.
Chris was seriously considering whether he should change careers.
Then, he got a phone call.
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