Decision

London had become Lucas's base camp, a city pulsing with energy even as he navigated the quieter paths of his audition dreams. He found solace in the warmth of its pubs and the hearty simplicity of English cuisine. He devoured Shepherd's Pie, the robust earthy lamb filling a welcome contrast to the creamy embrace of the mashed potato topping. Each bite of Bangers and Mash was a symphony of textures – the crisp snap of the sausage casing giving way to juicy, savory pork, all cushioned by pillowy mash laced with hints of pepper and onion.

Beyond the delectable world of English cuisine, Lucas's true playground was the Mind Workshop. Delving into the labyrinthine depths of his own consciousness sharpened his understanding of Arthur's intricate world. He navigated the corridors of his subconscious, dissecting emotions and motivations, translating them into subtle gestures and nuanced expressions. This internal exploration, invisible to the eye but palpable to those attuned to his performance, further deepened his portrayal of Arthur, leaving Nolan and John increasingly impressed.

Days after the electrifying audition, Lucas sat in a sun-drenched cafe, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee swirling around him. He savored the lingering memory of meeting Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the actor who brought Arthur to life in his past life. Though their encounter was brief, a glimpse across the audition hall revealed a shared passion burning in Gordon-Levitt's eyes. The script clutched tightly in his hand, he mumbled lines under his breath, rehearsing openly even amidst the nervous energy of the waiting actors. Lucas saw in him a dedication that mirrored his own, a testament to the profound pull of the role.

While the timeline of "Inception" seemed curiously delayed in this reality compared to its filming in Lucas's previous life, this discrepancy was attributed to the inherent differences between the two worlds. It was a subtle shift, like a tremor in the fabric of time itself.

The most obvious example was the filming of "127 Hours."

The audition process for Arthur followed a familiar rhythm, echoing Lucas's experience securing the role of Aron Ralston in Fox Searchlight's "127 Hours." Cold reading, the crucible of instant interpretation, tested his ability to inhabit the character's skin on the spot. A scene materialized, a challenge thrown down, and Lucas responded with an immediate connection, his voice and body weaving a tapestry of Arthur's essence.

Impressed, the director and casting director called him back for further rounds, delving deeper into specific scenes. This was a dance, a nuanced exploration of range and adaptability. They watched as Lucas interacted with other cast members, including Ellen Page, their chemistry sparking and fizzling like controlled lightning.

Witnessing Joseph Gordon-Levitt rehearse with other actors, particularly a captivating scene with Ellen Page, was an unexpected bonus during the audition process. It felt like a glimpse into the world Lucas might inhabit, should he land the role of Arthur. The air crackled with a subtle tension, not between the actors, but in the weight of the opportunity at stake.

Later, during the callback rounds, the director, Christopher Nolan, and casting director, John Papsidera, threw in their curveballs. Improvisation scenes and character exercises tested Lucas's creativity and spontaneity, demanding he think on his feet and adapt to the unexpected. He thrived under pressure, his mind a whirlwind of possibilities channeled into nuanced performances that resonated with the casting team.

He knew he wasn't the only one pushing boundaries. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, an established actor with a magnetic presence, was his formidable rival. They both carried the weight of Arthur's complexities, each etching their own unique fingerprints on the character. The competition was fierce, a silent tug-of-war played out in stolen glances and hushed conversations.

They knew they wouldn't cede the role easily. Arthur was a prize worth fighting for, a character that resonated with both of them on a profound level. But even as they dueled for the spotlight, a sense of respect simmered beneath the surface.

As the callbacks reached their climax, Lucas knew the decision weighed heavily on Christopher and John.

---

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee hung heavy in the air as Christopher Nolan and John Papsidera sat at a corner table in the bustling cafe. The weight of the recent "Inception" auditions lingered between them, unspoken but palpable.

"Didn't expect such strong contenders for Arthur," John finally broke the silence, his voice low and gravelly.

Christopher nodded, sipping his coffee thoughtfully. "Two vastly different approaches, yet both captivating..."

He paused, letting the words hang in the air. They had witnessed Joseph Gordon-Levitt's seasoned prowess, a masterfully nuanced performance. Then there was Lucas, a youthful whirlwind, raw talent pulsing beneath his every twitch and breath.

"The young one, Lucas," John began, eyes fixed on his notes. "He brought a youthful charm to the role, something undeniable in his presence."

Christopher took a thoughtful sip of his coffee. "Lucas, yes. He's rough around the edges, but there's a spark there, a fire in his eyes that mirrors the character."

"Potential," John agreed, his voice laced with a hint of admiration. "He's got that, alright. Raw talent waiting to be sculpted."

"But then there's Joseph," John added, a hint of admiration coloring his voice. "Experience, poise, an undeniable command of the scene."

The air crackled with unspoken questions. Was it Joseph's seasoned professionalism that swayed them, or Lucas's untamed potential?

"Joseph, though," Christopher said finally, "he was impressive. A seasoned performer, bringing his own depth to the role."

John chuckled, a knowing glint in his eyes. "So, you're choosing experience over potential? A seasoned veteran over a wild stallion?"

Christopher chuckled in return, his gaze returning to the notes. "It's not that simple, John. It's about finding the right fit, the actor who embodies the essence of Arthur, not just on paper, but in their soul."

He tapped the note with a finger, his eyes distant. "Lucas, he surprised me. He wasn't what I expected, but somehow, he captured something I didn't even know I was looking for. A vulnerability, a darkness, that aligns perfectly with my vision for Arthur."

John nodded slowly, the weight of responsibility etched on his features. "If that's your vision, Christopher, then the choice is clear."

Silence descended, punctuated only by the clatter of the cafe and the soft tapping of Christopher's pen on the notepad. He stared at the notes, two equally brilliant names staring back at him, two paths branching before him. Finally, with a resolute sigh, he circled a single name, the ink marking the end of this internal debate and the beginning of a new journey.