576-580

Chapter 576: Why Would Anyone Dislike Luca?

On November 2, Fake Marriage premiered in the U.S., opening in 3,056 theaters, far fewer than the 3,632 theaters showing American Gangster at the same time.

Yet, Fake Marriage performed admirably at the box office. It grossed $12.57 million on its opening Friday, with an impressive per-theater average of $11,163. The following days were equally strong, with $12.52 million on Saturday and $9.02 million on Sunday.

The film ended its first weekend with a $34.11 million debut, securing the top spot at the weekend box office. It also became the first romantic comedy in three years to claim this position.

The impressive box office results left some surprised, seeing the film as a potential blockbuster, while others thought its success was expected. After all, the lead actress, Jennifer Aniston, has a loyal fan base that supports her movies no matter what.

What's more, the film was genuinely entertaining, blending romance, comedy, workplace drama, and an attractive cast. Luca and Aniston even bared some skin in the film, offering fans a little something extra worth the ticket price.

“Aniston and Luca openly flirt in Fake Marriage. Though it may sting for some, their on-screen chemistry feels fresh and irresistible.”

— Entertainment Weekly

“Romantic comedies have become clichéd over the decades, but the cast and crew of Fake Marriage inject life into the genre, creating a vibrant and fun experience.”

— The Philadelphia Inquirer

“This is a delightful popcorn movie. While the plot may be predictable, the warm interactions and humorous moments provide genuine enjoyment.”

— The Los Angeles Times

“There’s nudity in the film, which makes it far from romantic.”

— The Christian Science Monitor

Despite mixed reviews, the film’s box office success was undeniable. Media outlets projected domestic earnings exceeding $150 million, with a potential to reach $200 million, and global earnings possibly hitting $300 million.

For Luca, it was another low-budget film crossing the $100 million mark, sparking envy among many.

Hollywood releases 500–600 films annually, yet only about 20 of them gross over $100 million—a mere 1 in 30.

In just four years, Luca had appeared in 12 films and been involved in producing 14. Apart from Step Up, Blueberry Nights, and Buried, all had crossed the $100 million mark, with The Blind Side earning $310 million globally.

This led to an intriguing discussion on a movie forum: “Aren’t we supposed to hate Luca? Why can’t we resist supporting his films?”  

The responses were varied:

> "OP, don’t be ridiculous. We’re here for Jennifer! Her comedies never disappoint, and this one’s no exception."

> "Supporting Jennifer +1. Love her boss-lady vibes."

> "Agreed, but Luca isn’t bad either—he’s insanely handsome, sexy, and charismatic. Watching him shirtless, I polished off three tubs of ice cream!"

> "Thirsty much?!”

> "Luca truly is remarkable—great looks, flawless physique, and incredible talent. He even wrote this movie’s script. A man who embodies beauty and brains is hard not to love."

> "Exactly! Luca’s got the looks, acting skills, and creativity—and he’s rich. If he’s a little flirtatious, it’s understandable. I know a broke friend who cheats all the time, so why can’t Luca?"

> "I used to resent Luca for dating Jennifer, but honestly, he’s probably the perfect match for her."

> "Clearly a fake fan. Moving on!"

> "I’ve secretly liked Luca for ages. Everyone used to hate on him, so I stayed quiet. But now that so many adore him, I feel liberated. Luca, I love you—you’re the best!"

> "Paid comments, clearly."

> "Not at all. Let’s face it, is there anyone in showbiz as handsome, talented, and wealthy as Luca? Name one, and I’ll concede."

> "Sure, but don’t forget how shady he is. Aniston, Britney, Lima, Theron, Bündchen, Knightley, Scarlett, Miranda, Jessica, Hathaway—they’ve all been ‘involved.’ Doesn’t that make you mad?"

> "Those are just rumors!"

> "Even if true, none of them ever publicly called him out as a player."

> "If so many stars like him, it proves how outstanding he is."

> "Exactly. If all these famous women adore him, why shouldn’t we?"

> "This thread has lost its purity—clearly overrun by Luca’s fanboys and fangirls."

> "Reading this destroyed my worldview. Are we really saying someone rich, handsome, and talented can do whatever they want?"

> "Yes!"

> "If someone like that can’t live freely, who can?"

A flood of affirmations followed.

Luca chuckled when he first stumbled across the thread. Expecting criticism, he was surprised by the overwhelming praise.

“Annie, did you post this?” Luca asked.

Annie glanced over. “No, it’s likely the work of your fans.”

“Doesn’t feel like it. I doubt I have that many supporters.”

“Why wouldn’t you? You’ve made so many great films, you’re talented, and your life story is inspiring. According to our research, your fans are mostly teens. Boys want to be you—rich and dating stars—while girls are smitten with you, willing to forgive anything. One even said if her boyfriend were like you, she’d forgive him cheating 100 times.”

Luca laughed. “So I’ve corrupted the youth?”

“Not at all. Young people today admire nonconformity and unique personalities. You fit the bill.”

“Well, I hope I can still be a good role model.”

Arriving at Berlin Airport, Luca disembarked, heading for the hotel where his Inglourious Basterds castmates were staying.

While he was away, Eli Roth had led the team in filming exterior shots. Now that Luca was back, production resumed.

“Scene 5, take 7, shot 1. Action!”

(End of chapter)

Chapter 577: Is This Man Truly Shameless or Just Pretending?

In the coffee shop, the sound of a violin played softly. The heroine, Shoshanna, donned a newsboy cap and a coffee-colored coat. She held a book in one hand, a cigarette between her fingers, and a glass of red wine sat on the table. Through the shop window, the bustling pedestrians outside created a lively backdrop—a setting rich in atmosphere.

Yet, the scene had already been filmed six times without success.

"Melanie, you need to relax. You're just reading a book—nothing more," Luca said, arms crossed.

"Director, I am relaxed. I don't feel tense at all," Melanie replied, shrugging.

Luca paused in thought. "Shoshanna, why are you reading here?" He referred to the character's name, testing her understanding of the script.

Melanie frowned slightly, thinking. "Am I waiting for Frederick?" Frederick was a German soldier pursuing her.

Luca shook his head. "That's the problem. You have no idea why you're sitting here."

Melanie blushed faintly. "Mr. Kelly, why do you think Shoshanna is here reading?"

"There’s no reason—she’s just reading. It’s not about a date or waiting for someone. It’s purely about the act of reading."

"Just reading?" Melanie repeated.

"Yes. So when you act, remember: you’re not waiting for anyone. Not at all. Don’t convey any sense of anticipation," Luca explained.

Melanie pondered this. "I understand now."

"Alright, let’s try again!"

Luca returned to his director's seat, and the shoot resumed.

Melanie had strong comprehension skills. The seventh take was a success.

---

The next scene introduced Frederick, a German sniper and war hero who was pursuing Shoshanna, though she had no interest in him.

“Listen, Frederick,” Shoshanna began.

“Oh, you remember my name?” Frederick asked, delighted.

“Yes, you seem like a charming young man,” she replied.

“Thank you for the compliment!”

“You’re welcome. But, regardless, please stop bothering me.”

“I’m sorry, miss. I wasn’t trying to bother you—just being friendly.”

“But I don’t want to be your friend.”

“Why not?”

“Don’t play innocent; you know why. If you’re so keen on finding a French girlfriend, might I suggest you try Vichy?”

“Cut!” Luca reviewed the footage. "Melanie, mind your cigarette movements a bit more. Let’s go again!"

"Got it!" Melanie responded.

The two actors ran through the lines again. Luca remained dissatisfied until the fourth take.

“Mr. Kelly, these takes seem almost identical,” said David Wasco, the art director.

“They’re not. I’m looking for specific details and feelings. Look at this,” Luca pointed out.

In one take, Melanie smoked an unfiltered cigarette. A bit of tobacco fell onto her lips, and she gently brushed it off with her fingers—a subconscious action that appeared effortlessly beautiful. This motion was absent in the earlier takes.

“It’s sensual. Why not make it more deliberate?” Wasco asked.

“Deliberate would ruin it,” Luca replied.

“What if Melanie didn’t make that motion?”

“Then we’d do another take.”

Luca smiled faintly and continued with the next scene.

---

“So, you’re a war hero? What did you do?” Shoshanna asked.

“I held a clock tower—a sniper’s nest—alone with 1,000 bullets against hundreds of enemy soldiers,” Frederick explained.

“What’s a sniper’s nest?”

“It’s what we call a clock tower—a high vantage point offering a 360-degree view. Ideal for a sniper.”

“How many people did you kill?”

“Sixty-eight.”

Shoshanna raised an eyebrow.

“That was the first day. One hundred and fifty on the second day. Thirty-two on the third day. By the fourth day, they had retreated from the town.”

Frederick paused, then added, “Naturally, my story gained attention in Germany. They all know me. They call me the German Sergeant York.”

(Sergeant York was an American soldier who famously killed 21 German soldiers with 20 bullets and captured 90 during World War I.)

“Maybe they should make a movie about you,” Shoshanna said sarcastically.

“Funny you say that. Goebbels thought so too. He made the movie Nation’s Glory and even had me play myself.”

“The movie’s about you? And you’re the star?”

“Yes. Funny, isn’t it?”

“Good luck with your film, soldier. And good luck to Goebbels and yourself,” Shoshanna said, grabbing her belongings and leaving.

“Cut!” Luca identified a few minor issues in the footage and ordered another take.

---

The café scenes weren’t complicated. By late afternoon, the crew had finished and wrapped up for the day.

“Mr. Kelly, can I talk to you?” Melanie approached Luca as he reviewed footage on a monitor.

“Melanie, what’s on your mind?” he asked.

She hesitated. “Mr. Kelly, how do you think I did today?”

“Very well,” he replied.

“Really?”

Melanie bit her lip. “Mr. Kelly, do you have time? I’d like to take you out to dinner.”

“Oh?”

Luca stopped what he was doing and smiled. “Melanie, if there’s something you want to say, just say it. No need to be so formal.”

“Mr. Kelly, I heard you were the one who chose me for this role. I want to thank you with a meal.”

“No need. And don’t feel pressured. Just because I often interrupt your takes doesn’t mean I have any issues with you.”

“Really?”

She was skeptical. Rumors about Luca’s reputation as a womanizer abounded. Supposedly, every actress he worked with ended up in his bed. The fact that she hadn’t made her suspect his constant interruptions were his way of punishing her.

Luca caught her doubtful look. “Melanie, one last time: you’re doing great. You’re perfect for Shoshanna. Don’t overthink it.”

Melanie nodded. “Understood.” But she remained uncertain. Was he truly not interested in her? Or was he just biding his time?

---

“Boss, Melanie seems like she’s trying to ask you out,” Annie, his assistant, teased.

“Don’t be ridiculous. Get dinner ready—I’ve got a lot to do tonight.”

“Got it!” Annie giggled as she left.

Luca shook his head. “I’m a good guy. Why doesn’t anyone believe me?”

He sighed in frustration.

---

After dinner, he joined Eli, the other director. While Luca handled interior scenes, Eli directed outdoor shoots. In the evenings, they reconvened at the studio to review footage with the art director and editor. They discussed improvements and planned reshoots as needed.

For a month, this relentless pace continued until they reached the final scenes. By then, Kate Winslet had joined the cast.

“Luca, congratulations on another blockbuster! Is this your eleventh or twelfth film to gross over a hundred million? You’re truly remarkable,” Winslet said, giving him a warm hug.

“Thank you. But the credit goes to Ms. Aniston—her star power is incredible,” Luca replied modestly.

“But you wrote the script, didn’t you? The Proposal was brilliant. Luca, when will you write another script for me as the lead?” Winslet asked playfully.

“Hmm, if I can come up with the right story, I’d love to work with you,” he replied.

“I’ll hold you to that!” Winslet laughed softly.

“Alright, everyone, get ready! We start filming in five minutes!”

(End of Chapter) 

*Chapter 578: A Knock in the Dead of Night*

"I thought there would be more Frenchmen here than Germans."

In a dimly lit bar, Lieutenant Archie Hicox glanced at the surrounding German soldiers as he spoke.

Archie, a member of the British commando unit, was a film critic before the war. His knowledge of German cinema and fluency in the language earned him a position assisting the "Basterds" in their mission to assassinate high-ranking German officials in France.

Archie and his comrades had come to the bar to meet their contact: the famous actress, Bridget von Hammersmark.

Archie was portrayed by "Fassbender" Michael Fassbender, a 30-year-old German actor known for his impressive acting skills.

"Yes, that’s usually the case. But the soldier over there recently had a child, and his superior allowed him and his comrades to celebrate here tonight."

Bridget, played by the elegant Ms. Winslet, wore a bowler hat and a wool coat. Her makeup was flawless, her smile captivating.

"We should leave," suggested Sergeant Hugo Stiglitz, a former German officer with a psychopathic streak. He had been sentenced to death for murdering 13 Gestapo officers but was rescued by the "Basterds" and joined their cause.

"No, we should stay. If we leave without finishing a drink, it will look suspicious," Bridget said, lighting a cigarette with her lighter.

"She’s right. Stay calm and finish your whiskey," Archie advised his companions.

"There’s been a development," Bridget announced. "The venue for the event has changed."

"Why?" Archie asked.

"No one knows, but it’s not an issue. The new cinema is much smaller than the original venue in Lisieux, so whatever explosives you’ve prepared will have double the impact."

Bridget smiled slightly, leaning back in her chair.

"Cut!"

"That’s a wrap!"

The crew took a ten-minute break before resuming the next scene.

This scene followed the prior narrative where German sniper Fredrick Zoller became a national hero after singlehandedly defending a town. Joseph Goebbels turned his story into a propaganda film, Nation’s Pride.  

The Germans planned to host the film’s premiere at the Lisieux Grand Theatre. However, at Fredrick’s suggestion, the event was relocated to the smaller cinema owned by the female protagonist, Shosanna.

In the bar, Bridget and the "Basterds" plotted how to infiltrate the premiere. Unfortunately, a confrontation with German soldiers exposed the "Basterds" due to a slip in their accents, leading to a violent shootout.

Archie, Hugo, and others perished in the skirmish, leaving only Aldo Raine and a wounded Bridget alive.

Afterward, Colonel Hans Landa, played by Luca, arrived at the bar and discovered evidence implicating Bridget.

The actors delivered stellar performances during the scene, with Ms. Winslet’s portrayal of Bridget standing out as especially nuanced and captivating. Thanks to her leadership, the crew completed the bar sequence within five days.

The production then moved to the cinema for the climactic battle scenes.

In the next setup, under Bridget’s cover, Aldo and his men infiltrated the theater. However, Hans Landa, suspecting their intentions, approached to interrogate them.

"Good evening, Miss von Hammersmark!"

Colonel Landa entered the hall, greeting Bridget with a smile.

Bridget turned, her face changing slightly before forcing a smile. "Colonel Landa, long time no see. You’re as dashing as ever."

Landa smiled faintly, his gaze falling on her leg in a cast. "What happened to your lovely leg? A casualty of your dazzling work in German cinema?"

"Spare me the flattery, you old fox. I’ve seen too many of your former conquests to fall for your charm again," Bridget replied with a chuckle.

"Seriously, though. How did you get injured?"

"Fine, maybe I got a little too ambitious. I went hiking on a whim and paid the price," Bridget said with a strained smile.

"Hiking? You injured your leg climbing a mountain?"

"Believe it or not, yes."

"Ha ha ha ha ha!"

Landa burst into a manic laugh, leaving those nearby bewildered, staring at him as if he’d lost his mind.

Wiping his eyes, Landa said, "Forgive me, Miss von Hammersmark. I didn’t mean to mock your misfortune. I’m just curious—what possessed you to attempt something so reckless?"

"I can tell you one thing: I’m not doing it again."

"Cut!"

Director Eli called out after reviewing the footage. "Everyone, come take a look!"

"What’s wrong?" Luca asked.

"Luca, it’s not your performance—it’s incredible! You nearly scared me half to death," Eli laughed.

"I know what the issue is," Ms. Winslet interjected. "Is it the part where Luca suddenly bursts into laughter?"

"Exactly. Your reactions didn’t match. You all looked shocked, which isn’t right," Eli explained.

"I see. Honestly, I didn’t expect that laugh. Luca, you scared me for real," Ms. Winslet admitted with a smile.

"I didn’t see it coming either," added Robert Downey Jr. and Tom Hardy, nodding in agreement.

Luca chuckled. To perfect the laugh, he had practiced for two months, even scaring his nephew into tears during a visit.

"Landa is a bit unhinged, so the laugh needed to feel deranged," Luca said.

"You nailed it, Luca. I won’t miss a beat next time," Ms. Winslet assured.

"All right, let’s reset and go again."

By late afternoon, the team wrapped up the group scene in the hall, leaving Luca, Eli, and the editors to review and cut the footage. The preliminary edits suggested a film destined for greatness.

"Luca, this movie is shaping up to be a masterpiece," Eli said, satisfaction evident in his voice.

Luca nodded, rubbing his chin. "We’ve worked too hard to settle for anything less."

As night fell, Eli invited Luca to unwind with drinks, but he declined, opting to prepare for the next day’s crucial scenes.

Later, in his hotel room, Luca reviewed the script, ensuring every detail was perfected. Deep in thought, he heard a knock at the door.

Knock, knock, knock.  

Pausing, Luca peered through the peephole to find Ms. Winslet standing there, script in hand. She had mentioned earlier they should rehearse, and now she had come to ensure they’d be ready.

"Good evening, Kate!" Luca said, opening the door.

(End of Chapter)  

*Chapter 579: Why So Rough With Me?*

“Please, have a seat, my lady!”

Luca closed the door and helped Miss Winslet onto the sofa.

Miss Winslet was dressed in a long black gown with a silk ribbon cinched at her waist, accentuating her hourglass figure. Her slightly exposed neckline revealed a hint of fullness.

“Miss Miminilk has kindly allowed me to use her office temporarily,” Luca said, pulling up a chair to sit across from her.

Miss Winslet glanced at him but said nothing.

Luca smiled faintly. “May I take a look at your foot?”

“What did you say?” Miss Winslet asked, puzzled.

“Please, place your foot on my knee,” Luca said, patting his leg.

“Hans, this is making me feel very awkward,” she replied.

Luca stared at her expressionlessly, tapping his knee with his finger. After a moment of hesitation, Miss Winslet lifted her right foot and placed it on his leg.

Luca raised the hem of her dress carefully and unfastened the strap of her high-heeled shoe.

“Please reach into the right pocket of my coat and hand me whatever you find in there,” Luca said with a sly grin.

Miss Winslet looked at him nervously, pretending to find something in his pocket. She handed it to him—following the script where Colonel Hans found a sandal in a bar after a gunfight.

Luca took the "sandal" and gently slipped it onto her foot. It fit perfectly.

“Wow. What do Americans say? Big feet, big shoes,” Luca remarked with a chuckle.

“What now, Colonel?” Miss Winslet asked in despair.

Luca leapt up and tackled her to the sofa, wrapping his hands tightly around her neck with a fierce expression.

“Luca, are you trying to choke me to death?” Miss Winslet exclaimed, hitting him a few times.

“Kate, are you okay? I didn’t use much force just now,” Luca said, getting up.

This was the scene they were rehearsing for tomorrow—a pivotal moment when Colonel Hans confirmed Bridget’s identity, brought her to his office, and strangled her. It showcased Hans's twisted nature.

“Luca, do you have any idea how heavy you are? When you pounced on me, I couldn’t take it,” Miss Winslet said, glaring at him and pulling down her skirt. She had been caught off guard, and her dress had slid up to her waist.

Luca glanced briefly before quickly turning his head away, his mind racing with chaotic thoughts.

Blushing slightly, Miss Winslet sat up straight. “Luca, the rumors say you’re not gentle with women. Why are you so rough with me?”

“It’s because of the character. Colonel Hans is a psychopath. The actions need to be rough and brutal to fit his personality,” Luca explained.

“Really? Are you sure you’re not doing it on purpose?” Miss Winslet narrowed her eyes.

“Absolutely not!” Luca replied with a steady expression, pouring her a glass of red wine. “My apologies, Kate, if I startled you.”

Miss Winslet scoffed, taking the glass. “They say you’re good at playing villains. I used to doubt it—how could someone as charming and attractive as you be convincing as a bad guy? But after filming a few scenes with you, I believe it. When you play a villain, you’re terrifying.”

Luca smiled lightly. “It probably has to do with my personality. In real life, I’m a good guy. Even when I think about doing something bad, my morals stop me. Only on set can I truly embody a villain, so I cherish those moments.”

“Ha! You’re good at praising yourself. A world-famous playboy claiming to be a good guy? Really?” Miss Winslet teased.

“Why not? Being a bit flirtatious doesn’t mean I’m not a good person,” Luca said seriously.

“Being a flirt is the greatest evil in a man,” Miss Winslet said, downing her wine.

“Shall we rehearse some more?” Luca offered, refilling her glass.

“Sure, but let’s switch roles,” Miss Winslet suggested, a mischievous smile on her lips.

“How do you mean?”

“I’ll play Hans, and you’ll be Bridget. We’ll swap roles.”

“Is that really necessary?”

“Yes. Now sit here!” Miss Winslet pulled him onto the sofa. “We’ll start with taking off the shoes.”

“All right!” Luca agreed, ready to embrace the roleplay.

“Let me see your foot,” Miss Winslet demanded.

“What did you say?” Luca asked in a timid, vulnerable voice, fully immersed in the role.

“Miss, put your foot on my knee,” Miss Winslet said coldly, patting her leg.

“Hans, this feels so awkward,” Luca said nervously.

Miss Winslet gave him a cold stare and tapped her knee. Luca hesitated, then placed his right foot on her lap.

Miss Winslet removed his shoe. “Your feet stink!”

“Is that in the script?” Luca asked, exasperated. “I don’t have smelly feet!”

“Hmph!” Miss Winslet glared at him. “Did I say you could talk? Now reach into my coat pocket and give me what you find.”

Luca searched and handed her a "shoe."

Miss Winslet slipped it onto his foot. “Wow, a perfect fit. What do Americans say? Big feet, big shoes.”

“What now, Colonel?” Luca asked.

“You traitor!” Miss Winslet snarled, lunging at him. She pinned him on the sofa, sitting on his stomach and gripping his throat.

“Traitor! I’ll kill you!” she exclaimed.

“Kate, enough with the improvisation,” Luca said, resigned.

“Don’t speak. When I’m choking you, you’re not allowed to talk. And Bridget eventually dies; you need to stop struggling and die peacefully,” Miss Winslet instructed.

“Fine. I’ll cooperate,” Luca said, feigning a few struggles before going limp, arms outstretched in mock death.

“Haha! Traitor, this is what happens when you betray the Führer!” Miss Winslet said triumphantly, standing up.

Suddenly, she tripped and fell forward with a shriek, landing on Luca. Their lips accidentally met.

Luca’s eyes widened as he looked into hers. She stared back, and a spark of heat passed between them.

At that moment, Luca wrapped an arm around her waist and another around her neck. Miss Winslet held his head and kissed him deeply.

“Mmm... Is this part of the rehearsal?” Miss Winslet asked breathlessly.

“Yes,” Luca replied.

“Then go ahead, treat me as Hans would treat Bridget,” she said, tossing her hair back.

“All right.”

With a tearing sound, a pile of shredded fabric hit the floor.

“Mmm...”

—

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 580: "Hail Luca!"

The next day, filming resumed. Colonel Hans discovered a flaw and brought Brigitte to his office, where he personally strangled her.

Since the two had rehearsed multiple times the previous night, they completed the scene in just one take.

After Brigitte’s death, Colonel Hans ordered his men to capture Aldo and bring him to the office.

“So, you’re the infamous Aldo the Scoundrel?”

Colonel Hans asked.

“And you’re the Jew Hunter?”

Aldo replied.

“I’m a detective, an excellent one at that. Finding people is my specialty, so yes, I helped locate individuals. Some of them were Jewish, but Jew Hunter?”

Colonel Hans shook his head.

“I don’t like that nickname.”

“Where are my men?”

Aldo demanded.

“And where’s Brigitte?”

“Well, to put it simply, she got what she deserved,” Colonel Hans said slowly.

“When you bribe someone like Brigitte, you should expect the consequences.

As for your ‘two Italian friends,’ they should still be seated in their designated spots—0023 and 0024, if I’m not mistaken—with explosives strapped to their legs, ready to detonate.

Your mission, or terrorist act, is already underway as we speak.”

“That’s inspiring,” Aldo said sarcastically.

“What’s next? Watching cartoons together?”

“Perhaps,” Hans replied.

“But right now, all I have to do is pick up this phone and inform the theater, and your plan will be ruined.”

“If they’re still alive and if they’re still there, you can’t stop them from detonating the bombs,” Aldo retorted.

“True, I don’t doubt that,” Colonel Hans said with a shrug.

“If the bombs go off, a few locals will die, tonight will be ruined, and Goebbels will be furious. But unless you kill Hitler, Goebbels, Göring, and Bormann, this war won’t end.

However, if I don’t pick up this phone, you have the chance to kill all four of them tonight and end this war.”

“Cut!”

After finishing the scene, Luca reviewed the footage and found some parts unsatisfactory. He reshot it several times until he was completely satisfied.

The crew then moved on to the next plot point: Colonel Hans proposed a deal to Aldo. Knowing the war was lost, Hans sought conditional surrender by helping assassinate Hitler and other high-ranking officials in exchange for amnesty.

Meanwhile, in the theater’s screening room, Hitler and the German elite watched Nation’s Glory, a propaganda film showcasing sniper Fredrick single-handedly killing hundreds of enemies.

In a dramatic twist, the protagonists Shosanna and Fredrick killed each other in a shootout, while Shosanna’s assistant set the theater ablaze using flammable film reels.

The theater descended into chaos. The two members of the “Bastard Squad” took the opportunity to detonate their explosives.

A thunderous explosion reduced the theater to a fiery inferno, killing everyone inside, including Hitler.

This sequence involved extensive special effects, making filming exceptionally challenging.

During one scene, an accidental fire broke out on set, causing severe damage. Despite quick action, the flames were too intense, injuring three crew members, destroying film reels and equipment, and halting production temporarily.

Luca had to rebuild the set and reshoot the damaged scenes. The ordeal lasted until December 2008, when the first snow blanketed the northern plains of Germany.

Standing in the freezing wind, Luca held the microphone and announced to the eagerly awaiting crew, “I hereby declare Inglorious Bastards officially wrapped. Bastards, rejoice!”

“Woohoo!”

“It’s finally done!”

“No more enduring Luca’s torment!”

“This was the hardest project of my career. Luca, where’s your lucky charm?”

“Lucky charm? Luca’s just a fraud!”

The crew cheered loudly, some tossing their hats into the air.

Pop! Pop! Pop!

Thirty-three bottles of Black Diamond champagne erupted, showering the set in a boozy rain as everyone celebrated exuberantly.

Luca smiled faintly as he watched the joyful crowd, his heart swelling with pride.

This production had been anything but smooth—from its inception in March, official launch in June, director changes in July, cast replacements in September, and now, triumph over a disastrous fire just before completion in December.

“Luca, congratulations. You did a great job this time,” said Mr. Ross, giving him a hug.

“Ross, thank you for your support. Without you, I might not have made it,” Luca replied with a grin.

“Ha! I’m flattered, but I don’t believe for a second you’d give up. You’re a tough guy,” Ross said, playfully nudging him.

“Even so, I owe you my thanks.”

Luca raised a champagne glass and clinked it with Ross’s.

“Hey, Luca! Congrats!”

Director Eli toasted him with another glass of champagne.

“Thanks, Eli!”

“Luca, you know, when I first joined the team, I didn’t have much faith in you.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. You were rich, famous, and a notorious playboy. I figured you were just playing director to impress women. I thought I’d have to do all the work myself.”

“Is that what you thought of me?” Luca asked, feigning anger.

“Oh, Luca, forgive my prejudice. But after joining the crew, my opinion gradually changed.

You’re diligent, humble, eager to learn, and relentless in your pursuit of perfection. Whether as an actor or director, you strive for excellence.

You’re a misunderstood genius and the best collaborator and boss I’ve ever worked with.

It’s been an honor working with you.”

“Thank you, Eli. I’ve learned so much from you, and I’m deeply grateful!”

Soon, the entire crew swarmed over, including Robert Downey Jr., Melanie, Fassbender, assistant directors, and over a hundred others.

“Let’s take a group photo!” Anne shouted, holding a camera.

“Everyone, gather around!”

Over 120 people crowded together, squeezing and toppling over each other in a lively, chaotic scene.

Click! Click!

Under the snowy sky, in front of the theater, they captured a joyful group photo.

“Let’s drink! No one goes home sober tonight!”

“Yeah!!!”

(End of Chapter)