576-577

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)