Unexpected win

As the Warner Bros. Pictures announcement about their film project with Lucas hit the internet, fans flocked to social media to share their thoughts. "I thought he was just avoiding Ricky Gervais at the Golden Globes," one user wrote. "Turns out, he was busy with this project. Too bad we missed his reaction when Ricky roasted him that night!"

Another fan chimed in, "I wonder if he'll show up at the Oscars now."

Fans were torn about whether or not Lucas would grace the Oscars with his presence. Amidst the speculation, Illumination Entertainment took over social media with trailers for their new animated movie, scheduled to hit theaters in March. The real buzz, however, started when they shared an interview video featuring none other than Lucas Knight, Taylor Swift, and several other actors as the voice cast of the animated film.

As the interview video of Lucas, Taylor, and the rest of the cast made its rounds online, fans couldn't help but recall the "Whisper Challenge" video Lucas had posted months ago.

"So that's why Taylor, Ed Helms, Danny DeVito, and the others were in Lucas's video! I thought they were all in a film project together, but it's an animated movie instead," one fan commented, feeling both disappointed and intrigued.

Another fan chimed in, "I've always loved the book 'The Lorax.' It's such a great story. Can't wait to see how they adapt it into an animated film!"

A third fan added their two cents, "I can't help but feel like Lucas would've been better suited as the Once-ler, but I guess we'll see how he does as Ted."

They were treated to a sneak peek of Lucas's voice acting as Ted and Taylor's as Audrey in the trailer, and Lucas's voice acting, in particular, impressed many. However, they knew that the short clip could have showcased Lucas's best moments, and the rest of his performance might not live up to the same standard. So, they decided to reserve their final judgment until they'd seen the entire film.

---

On February 26, 2012, the Oscars commenced at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles. Icons and legends graced the red carpet as thousands of fans cheered them on. Media outlets swarmed the area, interviewing celebrities left and right against a backdrop of glittering logos.

Meanwhile, Lucas, who was widely expected to be a no-show, sat in a rented limousine driven by his personal driver, Shawn. As they neared the venue, Shawn turned to him and said, "I wish you all the best tonight, Lucas. I hope you finally take home that Oscar."

Lucas chuckled in response. Just before stepping out of the car, he replied, "Oscar? We'll see."

As soon as Lucas emerged from the limousine, the crowd erupted in cheers, visibly surprised to see him in attendance. The familiar sight of the roaring crowd and the iconic red carpet greeted him, signaling that the night's festivities were about to begin.

Lucas waved to the cheering crowd, which only seemed to fuel their excitement. He approached the barricade, where a sea of outstretched hands and camera phones greeted him. A female fan handed him an album, and as he signed it, more hands tried to shove their way through.

The event's security guards quickly intervened, separating Lucas from the overzealous fans. Despite the commotion, Lucas managed to return the signed album to its rightful owner.

Lucas straightened his tuxedo, revealing a few scratches from the scuffle, but he didn't let it dampen his spirits. With a bright smile, he waved at the crowd one last time before striding down the red carpet and posing for the cameras.

As soon as Lucas stepped onto the red carpet, the swarm of reporters and photographers abandoned their current interviews and flocked to him.

"Lucas, everyone thought you'd skip this event, especially with your rumored commitments to Warner Bros. Pictures," one journalist said, shoving a microphone in his face.

"What made you change your mind?" another interjected.

Lucas chuckled, "Are you kidding? This is the Oscars we're talking about! Of course, I had to be here."

The journalists laughed softly, and another reporter continued, "How do you feel about being nominated again this year, especially with two nominations?"

"It's an honor just to be nominated," Lucas humbly replied. "I didn't expect it, but I'm thrilled to be here. Winning would be icing on the cake, but just being part of such a prestigious event is enough for me."

"Can you give us any hints about the sci-fi film you're working on with Warner Bros.?" a reporter asked.

Lucas hesitated for a moment before responding, "All I can say is that it's going to be heavy on CGI effects."

The journalists' eyes lit up, and one of them joked, "It's a sci-fi movie, Lucas. We kind of expected that."

They all shared a laugh, continuing to bombard Lucas with questions as other stars, both veterans and newcomers, looked on. Some of the veterans genuinely didn't recognize him, unaware of his recent rise to fame online, while others knew him well.

While some were already familiar with him, others were just learning about the rising star. It was clear to everyone that if Lucas's career trajectory continued its upward climb, he would soon be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Tom Cruise.

While Lucas might not have matched Brad Pitt's level of influence or reputation just yet, there was no denying the buzz surrounding him at that very moment. Fans and industry insiders alike were keeping a close eye on this promising newcomer, eager to see how far he would go.

After navigating the sea of reporters, Lucas made his way to his seat at a table where George Clooney was already seated.

"It's an honor to be sitting with a legend like you," Lucas said with a warm smile as he took his seat.

George grinned back, "I saw the swarm of journalists back there. You must be quite the catch these days."

Lucas chuckled modestly, "I'm still a long way off from your level, George."

"Very humble, I like that," George replied, and they continued to engage in light banter until the show began.

The hosts took the stage, entertaining both the live audience and those watching at home. As the night progressed, presenters started announcing winners for each category, and Lucas clapped along with the rest of the audience.

However, during one of the commercial breaks, he noticed Harvey Weinstein staring at him from across the room. Instead of acknowledging the man, Lucas casually raised his glass of wine in a mock toast before refocusing on the event. Lucas wasn't about to give the predator the satisfaction of a reaction.

Harvey scowled, visibly irritated by Lucas's indifference.

The event progressed, and finally, it was time for the highly anticipated "Best Actor in a Leading Role" category. The camera panned across the nominees' faces.

"And the Oscar goes to… Lucas Knight!"

The room erupted in applause as the music swelled, drowning out the gasps of surprise. Even Lucas looked stunned, but he quickly regained his composure as he stood up, shaking George Clooney's outstretched hand on his way to the stage.

***

Fans of Lucas watching at home were ecstatic to see their idol win the prestigious award.

In various houses across the US, fans watched and engaged in different conversations.

"He finally won! I mean, his performance in '127 Hours' deserved an Oscar too, but I'll take it!" one fan cheered.

"His acting in '50/50' was phenomenal," another added.

"He's a great musician and actor. He earned this!" a third fan chimed in.

"A 22-year-old Oscar winner? He's going places!"

As the cheers and comments continued, everyone fell silent as they watched Lucas accept the Oscar from the presenter, his eyes scanning the audience before meeting the camera lens. The moment had finally arrived; it was time for his acceptance speech.

"Um, I didn't expect to win this, so I didn't prepare a speech," Lucas stammered, eliciting laughter from the audience at the Kodak Theatre and those watching at home. "I guess I'll just wing it then."

He held up his Oscar statuette, examining it in mock wonder. "You know, I've always wondered what it would feel like to hold one of these babies," he joked, running his fingers over its surface. "And you know what? It's cold... and metallic."

The crowd erupted in laughter, warming up to the young actor's self-deprecating humor.

"But joking aside, I am very happy at this moment," he began, his voice filled with emotion. "I remember my mother used to tell me that every achievement I managed to fulfill deserved at least a little celebration and a pat on the back." He paused, glancing upwards, "Mom, this one's for you."

***

As the audience below applauded, they were unaware that Lucas was lost in a flood of memories from his previous life. His mother's words echoed in his mind.

But then, the memories of the mother of his current body began to surface, overlapping the others. "Lucas... always remember, I'll be with you no matter what." Her loving smile flashed before his eyes, and then her final words, "No matter what, live your life to the fullest. Don't wallow in self-pity just because you lost me. Remember, I'll always be in your heart." She had placed a trembling hand on his heart.

Lucas blinked away the moisture in his eyes, the two sets of memories swirling together as he clutched his Oscar tightly. He owed this moment to both of them, and he wouldn't let them down.

For the first time, Lucas glimpsed his current body's memories, and ironically, the memory was bittersweet. He didn't realize it, but a single tear escaped his eye, rolling down his cheek.

The people watching—fellow actors, influential people below, or those at home—noticed the tear that escaped Lucas's eye. They couldn't explain it, and they didn't know if he was acting, but they could feel the raw sadness in his tear alone.

The audience hung on every word as Lucas continued, "My mom also told me that no matter how bad you've gone through, you have to keep moving forward in this life..." He looked out at the sea of faces, his eyes brimming with conviction. "Don't wallow in self-pity, each of us has been given a purpose in life... No matter what it is, it's a great purpose."

He chuckled and added, "Even if you're an actor, musician, scientist, politician..." Lucas coughed, "or even a mob boss—"

The crowd erupted in laughter, and he joined them, his smile infectious.

"I'm kidding, I'm kidding. Seriously, you have to live your life to the fullest. That's all, thank you everyone."

The auditorium erupted in applause. Even those who weren't fans, watching from their homes, clapped, moved by his heartfelt speech.

Lucas walked down the stage, greeted by fellow actors and directors on his way back to his seat. George patted him on the back, "Great speech, man."

Lucas smiled, "Thanks..."

The event continued, and before he knew it, the Oscars had come to an end. A glamorous after-party followed, but Lucas wasn't planning on staying long. However, a sea of well-wishers and newfound "friends" kept him from leaving.

He met and greeted many people, shaking hands and posing for photos, until he found himself in front of a man in his 40s.

"Hi, Lucas. Nice to meet you," the man said, extending his hand. "I'm Michel Hazanavicius."

"Nice to meet you too," Lucas replied, shaking his hand and noticing the man's accent, "French?"

Michel smiled, "Oui, that's right." He hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Lucas, I... I've actually wanted to talk to you for quite some time. I have a script I'm planning to make into a film, and I was wondering if you could take a look at it. Perhaps you might be interested in being a part of it?"

Lucas raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A script, huh? Sure, why not?"

Michel reached into his suit jacket and handed Lucas a thick envelope. "Merci beaucoup," he said, relief evident in his voice. "I didn't expect to meet you here tonight, but fate works in mysterious ways."

Lucas took the script and glanced at the title: "The Artist."