Carell said he didn’t doubt that Gosling could handle comedy but was surprised at his ability to improvise. Then he cited their three-hour initial meeting in which they discussed topics ranging from family to cartoons. “He was just such a beautiful and deep person,” Carell said, without a trace of irony.

Seeing a quizzical look from this reporter, Gosling, who had laid a napkin across his co-star’s lap before the two started eating, said, “Yes, we’re having a bromance.”

Carell chimed in: “There’s nothing wrong with that,” prompting a quick reply from Gosling. “He’s just so handsome.”