The Greatest Showman #808 - Arrive in Berlin

The journey to Berlin was a momentous one for Seven Hundred and Seventy-Four. Berlin, a city steeped in history, has always been a witness to profound changes. It has lived through various eras, including the Kingdom of Prussia, the German Empire, the Weimar Republic, and Nazi Germany, leaving an indelible mark on the architecture and streets. The city's buildings still stand as a testament to different cultural histories, each with its own narrative.

Berlin's complex history is also reflected in the Berlin Wall, which once divided the city both physically and ideologically. The city is a vibrant canvas for the contrast between East and West, with spiritual and cultural divisions still lingering despite the wall's fall.

Berlin is a city of endless possibilities. Some view it as dull and rigid, others see it as a free-spirited hotspot. To some, it feels depressive, while to others, life here is filled with surprises and sparks. In Berlin, a city so rich in layers, different perspectives reveal a spectrum of experiences.

Munich may be Germany's economic center, and Cologne a hub of art, but Berlin is unique. The city's resilience and historical significance define contemporary Germany. It is also the birthplace of the Berlin Film Festival, a major cultural event that would go on to shape international cinema.

Founded in 1951, the Berlin Film Festival was initially a product of the Western Allies, and in its early years, it served as a platform for the European New Wave directors. Over time, it garnered international attention. Although the Berlin Wall was still standing, and the festival was thus held in West Berlin, the festival gradually opened to the films of Eastern Europe. In 1974, Soviet films made their first appearance, followed by the inclusion of East German films as political conditions changed.

The Berlin Film Festival became a bridge between East and West, reflecting the political and cultural tensions of the Cold War. It remained a crucial space for cross-cultural and diplomatic exchange. After more than five decades, the Berlin Film Festival now stands alongside Cannes and Venice as one of Europe's premier film festivals. But where Cannes and Venice focus primarily on the glamour of the film world, Berlin has always maintained its emphasis on culture, politics, and social relevance, ensuring its place as a distinct cultural powerhouse.

Though the future may be uncertain, and the path ahead is full of challenges, the Berlin Film Festival benefits from the German government's steadfast support, providing it with an advantage that Cannes and Venice may not easily replicate.

Renly, who had visited Berlin several times, always found something unique about the city. While others may associate vibrancy with places like Barcelona, Amsterdam, or Paris, Renly believed Berlin held a distinct energy of its own. The graffiti on street corners, the melodies flowing from abandoned playgrounds, and the secrets hidden in old buildings—all added to the city's dynamic spirit. Even sitting outside a bar, observing the mix of people passing by, one could feel the pulse of Berlin.

As the plane touched down in Berlin, Renly glanced outside the airport's large glass windows, observing the snowflakes drifting down. The moment he left London, a light rain had started to fade; but here, snowflakes began to fall more heavily.

"Is Berlin different in February?" Roy remarked casually, but his words held some truth.

"At least there's no strong wind here," Nathan responded, just before the door to the airport opened. A sudden gust of cold wind swept in, stirring the air conditioned warmth within. Nathan rubbed his arms reflexively, even through the layers of his coat, seeking some comfort.

Just then, the sound of cameras clicking broke the air. The rush of flashing lights blurred everything around them, leaving only shaky outlines amidst the confusion. The noise of the crowd surged like an ocean tide, rushing toward them.

Renly paused. The crowd at JFK, and the recent incident at Lincoln Center, were still fresh in his memory. He wasn't sure he was ready to be caught in the frenzy again.

"Renly?" Nathan noticed Renly's hesitation and glanced over, followed by Roy who also slowed his steps.

Renly took a deep breath, feeling his heart rate begin to settle. He knew that facing the crowd, paparazzi, and the frenzy was part of his role as an actor. It was the public's recognition of his work. He couldn't let the negative side of fame overshadow the positive.

Taking a moment to compose himself, Renly offered a reassuring smile to Nathan and Roy. With a nod, he moved forward, stepping into the flurry of cameras. As the flashes continued, he held his composure, gracefully accepting the attention. After a brief but intense moment of flashing lights, the noise began to dissipate.

There were about a dozen reporters with cameras, along with a crowd of around forty or fifty fans, clapping and cheering from a respectful distance. The atmosphere wasn't suffocating; instead, there was a sense of warmth and genuine admiration from the crowd.

"Renly, welcome to Berlin!" someone shouted, followed by a chorus of "Welcome!" and "You're amazing!" The cheers filled the air, creating a lively, yet polite environment.

Renly, caught off guard by the warmth of the welcome, smiled broadly. He acknowledged the fans with a wave, appreciative of their respect and enthusiasm. He then took a step forward, and the crowd parted to allow him a clear path toward the waiting black van.

As he reached the van, Renly hesitated for a moment, then turned back to the reporters and fans. "Thank you!" he called out with a smile, before entering the van. Nathan and Roy followed, and the van slowly pulled away from the crowd, making its way through Berlin.

For the first time, Renly felt the difference in the city. This was Berlin, not London, New York, Los Angeles, or Toronto. The energy here was unique, shaped by the city's history and its people.

As the van moved through Berlin, high-rise buildings and bustling streets came into view. They were heading toward the city's most vibrant area: the western side of Berlin, known for its modern restaurants, theaters, shopping promenades, cinemas, and office buildings. Here, the remnants of the Berlin Wall stood as a reminder of the city's past.

The area had been the site of major construction efforts after the fall of the Wall, and since 1993, it had transformed into one of the most colorful parts of the city. The annual Berlin Film Festival took place here, as did many other significant cultural events. Sony's European headquarters also stood in the area.

The van pulled up to the Grand Hyatt Hotel, the press center for the Berlin Film Festival. Movie lovers gathered around the hotel, eager for a glimpse of their favorite stars. The anticipation was palpable, even in the falling snow. Fans pressed against the barricades, cheering and shouting as the official shuttle arrived.

Renly could already feel the excitement and fanaticism that would mark his time at the Berlin Film Festival.