Asked Wednesday about the tragic death of Chris Penn, Winona Ryder just nailed it: "I really hope people go back and watch his movies, because he was such a fantastic actor, and he is going to be so missed," Ryder said, according to an AP report. "Not just Sean Penn's little brother, you know? He was Chris Penn."

Ryder was at the Sundance Film Festival, taking audience questions after the premiere of The Darwin Awards, Penn's latest movie, which stars Ryder and Joseph Fiennes. Ironically, the film is a twisted comedy about accidental death.

Chris Penn should have been there. Should have been taking questions. Cracking some jokes (like ... "Hey, Winona, rooting for the Steelers in the Super Bowl?"). Basking in the glow of the media spotlight. Lunching with studio execs and agents. Plotting his next success story. Sucess he has earned all his own.

Instead, investigators in California are still trying to determine the cause of Penn's death. His body was discovered Tuesday. An autopsy has been performed and toxicology tests have been ordered -- standard procedure, officials say.

His fans and media are left shaking their heads in bewilderment. In disbelief. In disappointment. Again, left wondering "what could have been if only..."