The Greatest Showman #784 - Feet Do Not Touch the Ground
After the nominees were announced, journalists and industry insiders anticipated the dynamic between Renly and Ryan Gosling in Gemini Shine. These two high-profile figures would have generated significant buzz, but without Renly, Ryan found himself on equal footing with top superstars like Brad Pitt and George Clooney. The overall excitement seemed to lack a certain chemistry, creating an undeniable void.
The Grammys Invitation
"What about the Grammys? Are you planning to attend?" Andy asked, bringing up another priority of this London trip. "Before I left, the Grammys committee sent an official invitation. They had trouble reaching your music manager, so they went through Eleven Studio to get to me."
For singers without a manager, the record company typically serves as the main point of contact.
"Do the Grammys and Berlin Film Festival overlap?" Renly asked instead of giving a direct answer.
The Berlin Film Festival, one of the three major European film festivals, had been losing global attention in recent years. Several factors contributed to this decline:
A resistance to commercial influences, keeping Hollywood at a distance.
An increasing focus on politically and artistically driven films, which alienated mainstream audiences.
An awkward February schedule—Germany's coldest month—leading to reduced public turnout and conflicting with Hollywood's awards season, keeping media coverage concentrated in North America.
Another challenge was the festival's overlap with the Grammys. Though one celebrated cinema and the other music, entertainment journalists often had to make a choice, which affected coverage.
This year, Tony Kaye's Transcendence had been selected for the festival's competition segment. It marked Renly's debut on the world stage of major international film festivals, drawing significant industry attention.
The Scheduling Dilemma
Festival promotional schedules were strict. If Transcendence premiered in Berlin on February 5, Renly's obligations would span February 4-7, covering press conferences, red carpet events, and post-premiere interviews.
Would he stay for the closing ceremony and awards? Not necessarily. In festivals like Berlin, Cannes, and Venice, the jury deliberates in secrecy before notifying potential winners. Reporters at airports often speculate on winners based on which actors and directors are recalled to the city at the last moment.
Thus, even if Berlin overlapped with the Grammys, Renly's decision would hinge on the film's premiere date, reception, and potential awards consideration.
"What if it overlaps?" Nathan interjected, eyes wide with disbelief. "Renly, this is the Grammys! The pinnacle of music! Everyone dreams of attending!"
Unlike the film industry, where multiple prestigious awards exist, the Grammys hold unrivaled influence in music. For any artist, gracing that stage is a rare honor.
Renly chuckled. "I'm an actor, not a singer. If there's a conflict, I choose Berlin. No question."
Still, he acknowledged the uniqueness of the moment. "If the schedules align, though, I'd love to go. It's the Grammys, after all. Who knows if I'll ever get this chance again? It should be fun."
It mirrored his Emmy experience two years prior—nominated but more of a bystander, enjoying the carnival-like atmosphere.
A Lucky Break
"Thankfully, that won't be a problem this year," Andy reassured. "The Grammys were postponed and will be held on February 19."
With declining ratings, the Grammys were adjusting strategies. This year, they scheduled the ceremony a week later than usual.
Roy chimed in, "The BRIT Awards also moved their ceremony to February 12 to avoid Berlin. The Los Angeles and Boston Film Critics Association Awards shifted their dates too."
It was a ripple effect, a game of scheduling dominoes as awards bodies vied for attention in the digital age.
Renly raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Who's in Berlin this year? The BRITs are worried about European entertainment journalists getting distracted?"
"Actually, yes," Andy confirmed. "Three key highlights:
Berlin is honoring Meryl Streep with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The festival is launching the Crystal Bear Awards, dedicated to children's films.
This year's jury president is Mike Leigh."
Leigh, one of Britain's most respected directors, had previously won top prizes at Cannes and Venice. A Berlin Golden Bear would complete his festival Grand Slam. His appointment reflected Berlin's confidence in his artistic vision.
Renly nodded. "Sounds like Berlin will be lively this year."
The Grammy Stage?
"You have a full week to rest after Berlin," Andy noted. "So, are you confirming your Grammy attendance?"
"Why not?" Renly shrugged. "Sounds like fun."
"Are you performing?" Andy pressed, a seemingly routine question.
Nathan and Roy turned to Andy, puzzled. Then, as realization dawned, they exchanged glances—Renly is an actor, not a singer. Even with six Grammy nominations, they hadn't considered him as a performer.
Andy smirked. "Renly is nominated alongside Adele and Bruno Mars. Of course, the Grammys want him on stage."
Now it made sense. When Grammy representatives reached out, they had emphasized their desire for Renly to perform—even if just two songs. It was an uncharacteristically warm and inviting approach from an institution known for its exclusivity.
Renly paused before laughing. "Do I even have time to rehearse?"
The Grammys stage was world-class, and the performances were broadcast globally. Each artist underwent rigorous rehearsals. Even A-listers ran multiple rounds—some with stunt performers, others personally—to perfect lighting, staging, and choreography.
With Edge of Tomorrow filming, Berlin promotions, and other commitments, Renly barely had time to sleep, let alone rehearse.
Andy exhaled, reconsidering his stance. Skipping the Golden Globes had been a wise decision. Should he now persuade Renly to skip the Grammys too?
"What? If I refuse to perform, the Grammys will bar me from attending?" Renly quipped.
Andy burst into laughter.