The Greatest Showman #926 - Watertight
It's not just an exchange of polite pleasantries or an empty display of camaraderie. Their brief encounter is laced with humor, layered meaning, and an unexpected charm that captivates everyone watching.
"That's what I mean," Renly quips with a smile, drawing a round of laughter before adding, "But the good thing is, I don't have to think too much when voting."
The subtext is clear—Renly only needs to vote for himself, while Brad has to navigate the dilemma of supporting either Tree of Life or Moneyball, both of which he is deeply involved in. His decision isn't as simple.
Brad, unfazed, tilts his chin slightly and responds confidently, "Fortunately, our family has more choices."
With both Brad and Angelina having votes, they could each support a different project. Of course, in reality, voting in such a manner would be highly unusual. Couples typically align their votes to avoid splitting their support. However, Brad's remark cleverly turns Renly's joke around—while Renly has only one vote, Brad and Angelina effectively have two.
"Ouch, that really stings," Renly teases, raising an eyebrow with mock hurt, though the twinkle in his eyes betrays his amusement.
Robin, the interviewer, seizes the moment to shift the topic. "Renly, this is your first Oscar appearance. You chose a three-piece suit tonight—extremely elegant and sophisticated. Did you have any special preparations?"
Renly's attire tonight isn't a product of stylists or brand endorsements. This suit comes from his personal wardrobe—a hand-tailored piece crafted by a renowned London artisan.
The tailor, a master craftsman in his seventies, remains dedicated to the tradition of hand-sewn suits. Producing only about one suit per month, his client waitlist extends seven years into the future. Even the British royal family is not exempt from waiting.
Renly commissioned this suit when he first entered Eton College, and it was tailored to completion during his time at Cambridge University. Though he later left Cambridge for the Royal College of Art, the suit was finalized when he was eighteen—luckily, at an age where his physique had largely stabilized. Before departing London, he returned to the tailor for minor adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit.
The cost? A staggering 5,400 pounds. But for aristocrats, classic suits are timeless investments—designed not just for a lifetime but potentially for generations. The true value isn't in the price tag but in the history woven into the fabric. Every formal occasion—whether a wedding, a funeral, or a family gathering—adds another chapter to its story.
In contrast, luxury brands like Chanel, Hermès, and Burberry are often seen as disposable fashion by the aristocracy. True prestige lies in bespoke craftsmanship rather than commercial branding. This philosophy defines the "poor aristocrats"—those who, despite their financial constraints, uphold traditions of quality and heritage over material wealth.
Tonight, Renly's suit speaks volumes, a silent nod to those who recognize its significance. Among the glittering crowd of the Oscars, only a handful of individuals would appreciate the depth of such an ensemble.
Faced with Robin's question, Renly merely chuckles and sidesteps elegantly. "Standing next to Ms. Jolie, I think it's inappropriate for me to answer such a question."
His lighthearted remark both deflects attention and shifts the focus gracefully.
Angelina, quick-witted as ever, smirks. "So you're saying that when it comes to me, only my outfit is worth discussing?"
Renly, unfazed by the challenge, shrugs slightly. "Obviously, we don't want to steal the spotlight from tonight's true star. Don't you agree?"
The subtle implication? Tonight is about Brad. Angelina, though an icon in her own right, isn't in the running this year. With no nominations or major projects apart from voice-acting in Kung Fu Panda 2, she isn't the main event. But Renly also humbles himself in the same breath, redirecting the spotlight onto Brad with effortless finesse.
Angelina, momentarily caught in Renly's deft verbal maneuvering, pivots playfully. "So, Mr. Star of the Night, what do you think?"
Robin, Renly, and Angelina's exchange subtly highlights a long-standing red carpet debate—female celebrities are often reduced to discussions of fashion, while their male counterparts receive serious industry inquiries. This issue has sparked increasing backlash, with actresses calling out the media's gender bias.
Yet, paradoxically, elaborate gowns and designer ensembles remain an integral part of red carpet culture. While actors in standard black tuxedos hardly warrant discussion, actresses meticulously curate their looks to make a statement. Whether this dynamic is an unfortunate tradition or an inescapable facet of Hollywood's Vanity Fair remains a matter of perspective.
Renly, ever the smooth conversationalist, defuses the tension effortlessly. But Brad, unwilling to let Renly off the hook entirely, grins. "I wonder who Renly's tailor is."
With a knowing smile, Renly plays along. "Given all the attention, perhaps I should have warned my tailor—he's about to become an internet sensation."
The casual yet witty exchange sends the crew behind the cameras into quiet chuckles. Even Angelina and Brad can't help but laugh.
Robin, regaining control of the interview, steers the discussion back to the central theme—Moneyball vs. Crazy Love, the rivalry between nominees, and the actors' expectations for the night. After some discussion, Brad and Angelina make a graceful exit.
"We've taken up enough time," Brad says with a grin. "Now the audience can have a little one-on-one with Renly."
The meeting between Hollywood's power couple and its rising star had momentarily disrupted the balance of the red carpet. Viewers had anticipated drama—perhaps a heated exchange, a snub, or some live TV fireworks. Instead, they were treated to a sophisticated dance of words, a mix of friendly rivalry and sharp wit. It wasn't a scene-stealing scandal, but it was a spectacle nonetheless.
The only complaint? It ended too soon. The three-minute interaction passed in a blink, leaving audiences wanting more.
Yet, in those brief moments, Brad, Angelina, and Renly had crafted one of the most memorable and compelling highlights of the 84th Academy Awards.
With the Hollywood power couple now gone, Renly remained in the spotlight.
For Robin, the opportunity was golden—but also delicate. There was so much to discuss: Renly's back-to-back Best Actor nominations, his status as one of the youngest actors ever recognized by the Berlin Film Festival, his Grammy victories.
And, of course, the elephant in the room—Hypegate.
The controversy surrounding Renly had sent shockwaves through the industry. Though the truth had emerged and Entertainment Weekly had issued a formal apology, Renly had remained silent, declining all interviews and avoiding public commentary.
Should they bring it up now? Would it disrupt the celebratory atmosphere? Would it overshadow the purpose of the Oscars?
ABC, the network broadcasting the event, was desperate for an exclusive. The ratings boost would be undeniable. A direct comment from Renly would dominate headlines.
After a brief hesitation, Robin made the call.
"Renly, in recent weeks, there's been immense controversy surrounding you. With the truth now revealed and Entertainment Weekly issuing a formal apology, the narrative has shifted. Given all that's transpired, how do you feel about everything?"
Silence fell for a brief moment.
The audience held its breath.
The ball was in Renly's court.