**Chapter 316: Hidden Surprise**

The situation was not optimistic.

Robert Ebert's harsh review was undoubtedly a heavy sword hanging over "The Princess Diaries," and no one knew what would happen next.

When Brad saw Robert's review, he fell silent and didn't even know how to react. He looked at Anson with only worry in his eyes—

Especially after just seeing the astounding praise for "Ghost World," the stark contrast in the ratings of "The Princess Diaries" felt like an emotional rollercoaster.

So, what about Anson?

Anson wasn't a child. Although his biological age was eighteen, his soul wasn't. The dramatic changes in his past life and the second chance he gained after crossing over constantly reminded him:

Relax. Enjoy. Make the most of it.

A bad review for the movie isn't the end of the world; there's no need to be sad or fall apart. He genuinely meant what he said to Brad.

What actor hasn't made a few bad movies?

Even legendary actors aren't exceptions, because an actor is only one part of a movie. They can only influence a very small part of the film, so there's no need to become arrogant over good reviews or torment yourself over bad ones. They should learn to view the movie as a whole.

Acting in a bad film and being a mere decoration aren't really that terrible.

Besides, Anson understood—

These reviews weren't nonsense.

"The Princess Diaries" indeed had a simple story, with the sole purpose of creating a princess dream for a fifteen-year-old girl and letting those teenage boys and girls dream.

From this perspective, the professional critics' reviews were correct. Their dislike and even criticism were justified.

This could be considered... a standard ending?

"Truly professional, hitting the nail on the head," Anson nodded lightly as he commented.

Brad choked on his breath, nearly rolling his eyes and passing out.

James struggled to stand up and couldn't help but laugh when he saw Anson's calm expression. "That's the right attitude. It's about who can take the punches. If you're ready to die just because of a little criticism, then you shouldn't be an actor."

After speaking, James spread his legs and struck a pose like Ultraman.

Brad glared at James speechlessly, "If only it were that simple. If this movie fails, the next time we audition, those producers will..."

"Brad, Brad!" Anson quickly called out to Brad to control the situation, "There's no need to worry so much. Look, not all the reviews are bad."

"In fact, if a movie gets universally panned, it might actually attract some attention; but being mediocre, neither good nor bad, is the worst. Now I'm actually getting worried."

Anson made a little joke, and James burst into laughter. "That's the spirit. That's exactly what 'Freaks and Geeks' is all about."

Brad looked at the two of them with a deadpan expression, refusing to speak.

Fortunately, the page finally finished refreshing.

Anson called Brad over, looked at the page again, and James also leaned in. They could see a large patch of vibrant red followed by large swathes of yellow and green. The situation was somewhat alleviated.

Sixty-five points: "At certain moments, you can indeed feel the breath of youth."

Seventy points: "The film lacks surprises, but the actors' charm adds a lot. We expected Julie Andrews' screen presence to be captivating, but we didn't expect the surprises brought by Anne Hathaway and Anson Wood."

**Sixty-three points**: "When viewed through the lens of a teen drama, Garry Marshall indeed captures the essence of dreams to a certain extent."

These were all lukewarm reviews, neither hot nor cold, and the restraint and calmness could be felt through the words. However, what was truly surprising was the series of positive reviews that followed.

And there were many of them!

A string of green scores blossomed across the screen, completely turning the tide. Joy and happiness burst forth, lifting their hearts high and choking their throats. Brad was the first to cover his mouth in astonishment.

**Eighty points**: "Light and touching, Garry Marshall truly captures the worries and dreams of fifteen-year-old youth, showcasing a wonderful growth arc within family, love, and friendship that makes you want to keep dreaming."

**Eighty-five points**: "Garry Marshall has done it again, making people believe in the existence of fairy tales with such a simple story."

**Seventy-eight points**: "The reason fairy tales are fairy tales is because they are so perfect that they lack realism. From this perspective, the movie creates a perfect fairy tale world."

**Eighty points**: "Garry Marshall's camera has a special ability to highlight the most unique and brilliant qualities in everyone, making them shine on screen. This time is no exception."

Praise, recognition, and applause poured in.

Most importantly, apart from Robert Ebert, other authoritative media outlets finally weighed in, led by two major newspapers.

**Los Angeles Times**, eighty points: "A classic Disney-style movie, undoubtedly a perfect family film. But the biggest highlight of the movie is the charm of the three leads—Anne Hathaway and Anson Wood are the biggest discoveries."

**The New York Times**, eighty-three points: "I'm not surprised by Anne Hathaway's princess charm, but I never expected Anson Wood to be the movie's crowning touch. No one should miss this young actor's dazzling big-screen debut."

Additionally,

**The Wall Street Journal**, seventy-five points: "The movie isn't perfect, but it fulfills every teenage girl's fantasy of a perfect summer, especially when the male lead is Anson Wood."

This was a surprise.

It wasn't just Brad and James who were shocked; Anson himself was also surprised to see his name amidst a series of positive reviews.

Anson.

Anson.

It was all about Anson.

In "The Princess Diaries," Anne Hathaway was the absolute lead, and Julie Andrews was the biggest attraction. Their attention and discussion were well-deserved. But Anson?

Throughout the movie, Anson's screen time didn't exceed ten minutes, yet he was taking a significant place in the wave of positive reviews from professional critics.

A real surprise!

Little by little, the film's highlights and colors that moved the audience were pieced together, and Anson's name appeared everywhere in the carefully worded praise. Unconsciously, his heart began to swell, like a balloon gradually filling up.

"Wow."

James couldn't help but sigh, patting Brad on the shoulder. "I can't help but start to feel envious. I don't think we need to worry about this guy."

Brad also chuckled softly.

James glanced at Anson again, swaying his head and flopping heavily onto the couch, causing the bottles and cans to clatter noisily. "So, are you planning to replicate Hannibal Lecter's miracle?"

This…

"Haha." Anson couldn't help but burst into laughter. Not only did he not mind, but he was in high spirits. "Hannibal Lecter? I like it."