Isn’t it Bromantic?
Dear Remy,
Hollywood would be rocked off its axis to know this, but all is not well in my marriage.
My spouse and I, whom some might label as a “high-profile duo” (a term I dislike as it conjures images of peddling health supplements), are globally recognized actors who have shared a marital bond for more than ten years.
Reflecting on this past year, I’ve been blessed to share the screen with my dearest male companion in a movie – a dream come true! Each day was like stepping into paradise, filled with endless bro-moments, working together in makeup and honing our stunts, even learning the hottest TikTok dances side by side. Alas, these heavenly days have been marred by my wife’s growing unease. She claims I chat too much about him, argues that our on-screen chemistry surpasses what we shared, and asserts he understands me better than she ever could.
Despite the media playfully speculating about my friendship with my co-star as a “bromance,” my wife appears to harbor genuine suspicions that there’s something more going on. If only it were true, I’d consider myself incredibly fortunate. He is multilingual, unparalleled in ambition, and boasts neck muscles that are nothing short of impressive. His singing voice could lull me to sleep, reminiscent of Manuka honey spun by Athena herself. Admittedly, he has a way of making me feel my best when I gaze into his warm, caramel-brown eyes — but isn’t it common for friends to have such an impact on us?
Remy, what’s an effective way for me to show my wife that I am dedicated to our marriage and that my bond with my male friend is purely platonic?… A remarkable, exceptional, and captivating friendship that’s as exciting as a whirlwind.
Yours,
A Dedicated Husband
Dear Dedicated Husband,
In a twist of life’s unexpected turns, I find myself in a predicament reminiscent of a beloved romantic comedy – only this time, it’s not about choosing between two lovers, but rather my cherished spouse and my dearest friend. The bond we share feels as though it’s been scripted for the silver screen, yet here’s hoping our story unfolds with more depth and complexity than typical Hollywood fare.
First, let’s acknowledge that your wife’s feelings are valid. It’s not easy being on the outside looking in on a relationship as close as yours with your co-star. But the good news is, she’s more concerned about being left out than about any real threat to your marriage.
As someone who has gone through the complexities of unrequited love before, I feel compelled to ask: Could there be a hint of truth in her concerns? Your vivid descriptions of your friend sound more like a poem than a casual observation. While it’s perfectly normal to admire someone, it’s essential to take a moment and ponder if there might be deeper feelings hidden beneath the surface.
Having been in a similar situation myself, I understand the complexity of wanting to maintain a close friendship while also ensuring my partner feels included and valued. Here’s how I would approach it:
Additionally, consider switching roles for a change. Demonstrate your appreciation for your marriage by setting aside exclusive time for the two of you. Revive the passion with activities that underscore why you chose each other in life. This could be a romantic trip or a date night where you leave discussions about work behind.
In essence, it’s all about maintaining a balance. Value your close friendship, but always remember to prioritize your spouse as the top priority, like the leading role in a movie.
Yours in harmonious casting,
Remy
My Battle with Schmooze
Dear Remy,
While some believe that networking is essential to our field, I’d prefer to spend the remainder of my life wearing colorful Crocs over any more time spent on networking.
As a writer, I understand that my future projects hinge on fostering relationships with producers, directors, and actors. However, these interactions sometimes feel insincere.
I’ve found myself observing friends bouncing from one Oscars after-party to another, flashing their wide grins at one studio executive or the next. Instead, I find myself huddled in a corner, sipping on a Negroni Sbagliato, watching them slap backs and laugh at shallow jokes. I’ve attempted to mimic their behavior, but it feels agonizing. Networking, quite frankly, is giving me an uneasy sensation, almost as if I might be developing IBS. Remy, I fear my social interactions are taking a toll on me.
Apart from feeling uncomfortable, it seems networking often feels morally questionable to me. How can I claim to work alongside individuals who genuinely align with my objectives when our relationship began with me feigning interest in their cufflinks during the Soho House registration? Authentic art emerges from sincerity, and yet here I am pretending to value the Montessori method simply because the person I’m conversing with at a professional gathering recently adopted 3-year-old twins and desires “a more thoughtful approach to education in parenting.”
Previously, when I spoke with someone at a professional gathering, it seemed as though they initially mistook me for the waitstaff, and we exchanged pleasantries for about ten minutes. As I departed, I wasn’t quite certain whether they were interested in my work or if they needed more bread rolls.
Remy — help! What tips do you have for someone who is allergic to networking?
Yours,
The Man with the Empty Contacts Book
Dear Man with the Empty Contacts Book,
I feel your pain. Networking can feel like a game where everyone’s wearing a mask and holding their true intentions close to their chest. But let’s reframe “networking” as “relationship-building.” At its core, it’s about finding genuine human connections in a sea of plastic smiles.
In essence: Networking doesn’t need to be a polished, superficial event. True connections are formed when you’re being true to yourself, rather than feigning interest in cufflinks or Montessori techniques. Those in this industry value honesty over what you might assume. Therefore, abandon the sales pitch and concentrate on establishing genuine relationships with people who share your interests. Discuss what truly stirs your excitement, even if it’s as specific as your preferred Negroni recipe. The individuals worth knowing will admire your authenticity, or at least, they’ll leave with a fascinating anecdote to share with their personal bartender.
If the thought of working a crowd leaves you feeling queasy, start small. Pick out a few individuals you admire or connect with on some level, and engage them in a private conversation. You might discover that it’s far more comfortable—and fruitful—than trying to network in a larger group. It wouldn’t hurt to have a dose of Bentyl handy, just in case.
Instead of rushing to attend every major gathering with anxious greetings, consider the possibility of striking up a conversation over coffee or a casual game of pool instead. After all, some of the most fruitful deals are often made in such laid-back settings. So, why not extend an invitation for a relaxed talk rather than facing the next big event?
Quality over quantity, my friend. A few genuine connections can go a long way.
Yours in authentic connections,
Remy
Obit Too Much
Dear Remy,
I earn my livelihood by penning obituaries for honors events, so don’t be alarmed – I’m neither an assassin nor a tomb raider.
2024 presents a challenging scenario: With so many renowned figures, my workload has skyrocketed to unprecedented levels. Back in the ’90s, the number of globally recognized personalities was measured in the thousands. However, by 2024, it seems that figure has grown exponentially, likely surpassing the hundreds of thousands.
Every year during awards season, it’s been challenging to decide which individuals to feature in our “In Memoriam” sections due to the numerous celebrity deaths. However, selecting who to report on feels more challenging each time. Should I use a method similar to Top Trumps, evaluating people based on factors such as philanthropy, awards received, or artistic influence? But Remy, I never aspired to play God; I merely wanted my words spoken by Morgan Freeman every now and then.
From my personal observation as a long-time admirer of Hollywood, I cannot help but notice the increasing number of celebrities who have passed away at a seemingly faster pace over the past few years. However, it is essential to separate fact from fiction when considering theories such as the mythical “Hollywood curse” or a supposed Dantean pact with the devil. Instead, I believe that the sheer abundance of famous people in our modern world has led us to a point where we are simply overpopulated with celebrities. The reality is that we do not have adequate resources available posthumously to support this vast array of talent and fame. It’s a sobering thought, but it seems that the price of fame may be too steep for some individuals who achieve it.
Hey Remy, it seems like I’m dealing with an unusual case of burnout here. This might sound strange, but do you have any suggestions on how to handle the situation? I’m finding myself overwhelmed because there are simply too many well-known figures around me.
Yours,
Overwhelmed by Obituaries
Dear Overwhelmed by Obituaries,
First, let’s approach this in a practical manner. If you find yourself overwhelmed, it could be beneficial to establish a more objective standard rather than a subjective one. Imagine you are creating a time capsule for future generations. Begin by focusing on those individuals whose influence extends beyond fame – people who have shaped culture, transformed lives, or pioneered something extraordinary. Using a game-like approach might aid in this selection process, even though it may seem cold. Keep in mind that the impact they’ve made, their legacy, is crucial for consideration.
Instead of making these challenging decisions solely by yourself, think about working with an assorted group of specialists – historians, cultural analysts, and even enthusiasts – to assist you. By doing so, the decision-making process becomes more collaborative and you can guarantee a wider viewpoint regarding who truly warrants recognition. Essentially, it’s like establishing a “People’s Choice” award for those who have passed away.
However, let’s discuss your burnout from writing obituaries, which can be quite an emotional strain, especially when they are for those who have made such a significant impact. It isn’t merely about the words; it’s about respectfully honoring lives in a meaningful way. Perhaps it’s time to take a step back and contemplate the stories that have touched you most during your career. Instead of focusing on quantity, consider emphasizing quality. By showcasing the lives that have had the greatest impact on you, you might reignite your enthusiasm for this work.
As a dedicated writer with a passion for storytelling, I believe it’s essential to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of Hollywood – those who may not have made the “In Memoriam” cut but whose contributions were just as vital. Having spent years in the industry, I’ve come across countless individuals who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, often going unnoticed by the general public.
As a fan, I always remind myself that it’s essential to step back occasionally. A brief pause might just provide the new viewpoint you need to approach your tasks with vigor once again. You know, even the Grim Reaper needs a rest every now and then!
Yours in eternal remembrance,
Remy
As a seasoned gaming aficionado with years under my belt, I’m now the mastermind behind Vitality Guru – a platform that provides strategic guidance for top-tier media professionals seeking career advancement. If you have any questions or queries, feel free to reach out at: guru@vitality.guru
Questions edited by Sarah Mills.
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2024-08-17 20:26