Drake's intense gaze locked onto Lucas, drawing a hush over the room as every cast and crew member's focus converged on them. The moment stretched, filled with anticipation, until finally, Drake broke the silence.
"Alright, Lucas," Drake said, his voice breaking through the tension. "I'm in. Let's do this."
A collective exhale filled the room, shoulders relaxed, and faces lit up with smiles as the decision cemented the project's future. They immediately gathered around the to discuss the scripts, the energy palpable.
As they delved into the script, Felicity Jones and Jennifer Lawrence exchanged meaningful glances, a silent conversation passing between them. "Lucas is really going all in, isn't he?" Felicity whispered, her admiration thinly veiled.
Jennifer's response was measured, her eyes reflecting a mix of surprise and respect. "Indeed, it's quite the gamble. He's clearly committed."
Catching snippets of their conversation, Lucas responded with a modest grin. "For me, it's more than just a financial investment," he said, catching the gaze of both Felicity and Jennifer. "I'm here to immerse myself in the creative process with Drake. It's about broadening my horizons."
Jennifer found Lucas's perspective compelling, a reflection of genuine passion and curiosity. Felicity, however, harbored reservations. To her, the distinction between actor and director was clear, and blurring those lines was a risk she wasn't sure was necessary. Despite her doubts, she chose to keep them to herself, respecting Lucas's decision to pursue his vision.
Later, Drake and Lucas found a quiet corner. "So, we're looking at $380k from you, which takes us to a $630k budget," Drake confirmed, scribbling some notes.
Lucas nodded, his mind already racing with the possibilities. "Exactly. And about the box office shares—"
Their detailed planning was suddenly interrupted by a sharp knock. Drake excused himself and returned moments later, a sheepish grin on his face. "That was Jerry from next door," he explained to the group, "Apparently, we've been a bit too passionate."
He mimed turning down a volume knob. "Let's keep our excitement on the down-low, okay?"
The room erupted in a chorus of light-hearted apologies and chuckles.
The script meeting was a quiet affair, with the team huddled closely, speaking in whispers as they pored over each scene. In the midst of this, Felicity Jones leaned forward, her suggestion slicing through the silence with clarity. "How about, when Anna invites Jacob into her apartment, they communicate in whispers?" she proposed, aiming to add a layer of intimacy to the scene. Drake's face lit up, his surprise quickly turning into enthusiasm. "That's an excellent idea," he said, clearly impressed by the ingenuity of her suggestion.
As they continued to tweak the script, Lucas, Drake, Jennifer, Felicity and the others, found themselves in a gentle buzz of collaboration. Lucas, eager to contribute, shared his vision of blending diverse cinematic styles, drawing inspiration from the rich visual narrative of "Amélie," the mumblecore aesthetics of "Before Sunset," the episodic structure of "Paris, je t'aime," and the documentary-like authenticity of "Weekend." His ambition was to create a film that was as visually engaging as it was emotionally resonant.
Drake nodded thoughtfully at Lucas's ideas, recognizing the depth of his passion for filmmaking. "You've got some fantastic concepts, Lucas," he acknowledged, "but blending them smoothly will be quite the challenge." He appreciated Lucas's fresh perspective, even as he contemplated the practicalities of bringing such a complex vision to life.
As the day wore on, the practical effects of Lucas's financial contribution became apparent. The camera equipment saw a significant upgrade, moving from the Canon EOS 7D to the more advanced Canon EOS 5D Mark II. This wasn't just a technical upgrade; it was a commitment to realizing the unique visual style Lucas had envisioned. Additionally, the lighting and sound gear were enhanced, ensuring that the film could capture the nuanced performances and atmospheric settings with greater fidelity.
The group's dedication was palpable as they discussed and debated well into the evening. By the time they called it a day, there was a collective feeling of achievement and excitement. Lucas's investment had done more than just improve the technical aspects of the film; it had expanded the project's creative potential.
--
As dawn broke, the newly upgraded filming equipment was meticulously arranged on set, heralding the start of an eagerly anticipated day of shooting. Despite not being scheduled to appear on camera, members of the cast drifted to the set, eager to witness the day's filming and support their fellow actors, Lucas and Felicity.
The infusion of Lucas's investment into the project had a palpable impact on the crew's workflow. Initially, many crew members had juggled multiple roles out of necessity, a proof to the resourceful but stretched nature of the indie production. Now, with the budget significantly increased, the production was able to specialize tasks among the crew. This specialization allowed for a more focused and efficient approach to each aspect of filmmaking, attracting professionals with specific expertise to elevate the quality of the production.
The day's filming took place in a meticulously designed school setting, which served as the backdrop for a scene that delved into the rich history of independent journalism:
"Publications like Rolling Stone and Spare Rib were created to feed the need for alternative narratives from the established newspapers of the day. In much the same way, the Pauper Press of the 1790s in England was developed out of a need for mass representation for the popular classes," Felicity articulated, her delivery both poignant and compelling.
As she concluded her lines, the camera operators, now able to work with equipment that matched their ambition, captured the scene with precision. The lighting and sound crews, too, worked in harmony, ensuring that every nuance of Felicity's performance was perfectly illuminated and crisply recorded.
"Thank you, Anna. Very provocative. Well done. Does anyone else have a presentation to make?" a character playing a professor inquired, prompting a murmur of student chatter to fill the room.
"All right, make sure you turn in your final packet to Jacob. And thank you very much," he continued, transitioning the focus to Lucas's character, Jacob.
The availability of four cameras of equal quality transformed the filming process. What had initially been an unconventional approach due to equipment limitations now blossomed into a strategy of flexibility and creative freedom. The team was able to capture multiple angles simultaneously, ensuring that the essence of each scene was preserved from every perspective.
On the bustling set, Jennifer watched intently as her gaze landed on Lucas, who was about to step into Jacob's shoes. The moment Felicity, embodying Anna, greeted Lucas with a simple "Hi," his portrayal of Jacob sprang to life.
The camera didn't miss the fleeting change in Jacob's demeanor as his eyes met Anna's—his look briefly betrayed a wave of nervousness, a moment caught not only by Jennifer but also by the rest of the cast.
Anna's line, "I don't need to give you mine because I've already done it," was delivered with precision.
Despite the visible nerves, Lucas, as Jacob, managed to lock eyes with Anna confidently, responding with a casual, "Cool..."
Anna, maintaining eye contact, echoed with a laugh, "Cool."
Once Anna left, Jacob remained alone in the room. Watching Anna's retreating figure, he let out a soft chuckle, "Heh..." His chest rose and fell more heavily, revealing Jacob's underlying nervous excitement.
Drake watched the scene unfold, his expression one of unexpected admiration. Lucas's interpretation of the character was uniquely his own, leaving an impression.
At the director's call of "Cut," the crew's look of respect towards Lucas was undeniable.
Jennifer, along with the other cast members, was visibly moved by Lucas's performance. Charlie approached her, saying, "He's quite good there, right?"
Caught up in the moment, Jennifer nodded absentmindedly before turning to Charlie. Their previous lack of interaction made his approach unexpected.
"Uhm? Hi, I'm Charlie," he introduced himself. "I didn't get the chance to speak with you yesterday. You were busy with Lucas and Felicity."
Jennifer responded with a friendly, "No worries."
Charlie, curious, asked, "Are you friends with Felicity?"
Shaking her head, Jennifer clarified, "No, I just met her yesterday."
"And Lucas? You seem to know him pretty well..." Charlie prodded.
With a soft laugh, Jennifer admitted, "Not really, but I suppose we could be considered friends."
It was a mystery why Charlie sought her out for conversation, especially since Jennifer and Charlie didn't share any scenes together.
Unbeknownst to many, Charlie's motivation to audition for the project stemmed from its inclusion of intimate and kissing scenes. Eager to rub shoulders with Hollywood's rising stars, Charlie saw it as a golden opportunity, despite not having any scenes with Jennifer. However, he remained hopeful about making a connection off-camera.
As Charlie trying his luck, Lucas, Felicity, and Drake were huddled around the camera's playback screen, scrutinizing their recent takes. Lucas, upon reviewing his own performance, expressed his concerns to Drake, "I feel like my performance is missing something..."
Drake looked at Lucas, genuinely surprised, and reassured him, "Missing something? I don't think so. Your portrayal captured Jacob's nervousness and bravery perfectly when he's alone with Anna. I thought it was quite compelling."
Lucas, unconvinced, responded, "Maybe it's not apparent to you because you're not an actor, or perhaps you don't fully understand my approach, but I believe it could be significantly improved."
Those within earshot, including Drake, Felicity, and other crew members, found Lucas's self-critique hard to fathom. Many silently wondered, "Are you serious? That performance was outstanding..."
What they failed to grasp was Lucas's innate sense that something crucial was missing, something that diminished his portrayal, making it feel like a mix of stage and screen acting—too theatrical for the intimate camera, yet not quite vivid enough for the big screen. In Lucas's eyes, it lacked depth.
As Felicity watched Lucas critique his own performance, she was struck by a whirlwind of emotions. Initially confident in her ability to deliver a standout performance, Lucas's dissatisfaction with his own work ignited a spark of doubt within her. She couldn't help but wonder if her performance had truly been sufficient. Despite believing in her skills, Lucas's self-criticism led her to question the quality of her own portrayal. "Was it really as good as I thought, or am I just seeing it through rose-colored glasses?" she pondered.
The notion that Lucas's discontent might stem from her performance added another layer of worry. Yet, she was possibly overthinking it; Lucas's concern seemed rooted in his own expectations, not directly related to her.
Lucas's dissatisfaction with his performance led to the decision to reshoot the scene, causing a stir among the crew. Initially, they had admired Lucas for both his acting prowess and his financial contribution to the project. However, this admiration began to wane as they perceived his insistence on perfection as somewhat excessive. The general sentiment was one of frustration; they couldn't understand why a performance they deemed outstanding needed to be redone simply because Lucas felt it was lacking.
Amid their conversation, Jennifer and Charlie were taken aback to see the crew and cast preparing for another take. Charlie's curiosity got the better of him, and he inquired, "Wait? Why are they coming back? Wasn't the scene already wrapped up?"
A crew member, unable to hide his irritation, responded with a forced laugh, "Yeah, it's because Lucas didn't think his performance cut it. So, here we are, about to do it all over again."
Hearing this, both Jennifer and Charlie were puzzled. "Not good enough?" They recalled Lucas's performance, which had seemed both powerful and compelling to them.
Charlie, after a brief chat with the crew member, shared his thoughts with Jennifer, "I used to think Lucas was pretty laid-back. Didn't expect him to be this... I don't know, self-important? Maybe he's trying to show off his acting chops by criticizing his own work. Kinda funny, isn't it?" He then speculated, "Could this be why he invested in the film? Just to have the clout to boss everyone around?"
Jennifer, however, remained quiet, her gaze fixed on Lucas in the distance. Her past interactions with him didn't align with Charlie's accusations of arrogance. She felt sure Lucas had a valid reason for wanting to redo the scene. The more she observed him, the more her curiosity about his character grew. Unlike Charlie's quick judgment, Jennifer's thoughts were filled with a desire to understand the deeper layers of Lucas's commitment to his acting career.
On set, Lucas, in his role as Jacob, delivered a performance that impressed everyone. However, after the shoot, Lucas, alongside Drake and Felicity, revisited the footage. Viewing his portrayal on the Canon EOS 7D I's screen, Lucas couldn't shake off a feeling of discontent, remarking, "Something isn't right with my acting here..."
This admission rendered Drake, Felicity, and the nearby crew speechless.
Drake attempted to reassure him, "Come on, we've gone through numerous takes. Your performance is genuinely compelling. Perhaps you're just being overly critical of yourself?"
Drake recognized Lucas's exceptional talent in Hollywood but felt his perfectionism was becoming counterproductive.
This sentiment was shared not only by Drake but also by Felicity and the rest of the crew, who found Lucas's meticulousness increasingly frustrating.
Feeling the need for a moment of solitude, Lucas excused himself and wandered down the hallway, lost in introspection.
Observing his departure, Felicity voiced her concern to Drake, "Is he going to be okay?"
Drake replied with a sigh, "I'm not sure. To be honest, I have great admiration for Lucas. His work in '127 Hours' was exemplary, and his current performance is strong. Yet, he's too self-critical. Does he truly believe his acting is lacking? By that standard, what does it say about the rest of us in Hollywood?"
Felicity nodded in silent agreement.
Elsewhere, Lucas, meandering through the hallway, encountered Jennifer and Charlie engaged in conversation. Aware that their presence might disrupt filming, they, along with others not involved in the current scene, had distanced themselves from the set.
Jennifer inquired, "Have you finished filming?"
Lucas responded, "No, we've barely started. We can't seem to get the first scene right because I feel something's off with my performance..." He was aware of the annoyance his insistence caused among the crew and cast, a departure from his usual demeanor. For the first time, he doubted his portrayal of Jacob, despite extensive preparation.
Jennifer and Charlie looked at him incredulously. Charlie remarked, "Lucas, you're a talented actor, but this perfectionism could hold back the project. Even if you've invested financially, accepting the work might be for the best—"
Interrupting, Jennifer said, "Charlie, don't be so harsh. Lucas only wants what's best for the project."
Lucas, however, conceded, "No, Jennifer. Charlie is right. My insistence on perfection might be troubling everyone..." He sighed, then added, "But I believe if I could get it right, it could truly elevate the film."
The pair fell silent, pondering his words.
Lucas then excused himself, "I need some time alone to clear my thoughts and figure out what's missing in my performance."
As he walked away, Jennifer hastened after him, leaving Charlie behind. Catching up, she tentatively offered, "Lucas, if you'd like, we could discuss your performance. Perhaps I could... help you in some way?" Her offer was made shyly, hinting at a desire to help.
Lucas offered a grateful smile to Jennifer, his heart warmed by her empathy. Amid the growing sense of alienation from the project's team, Jennifer's genuine willingness to help was a ray of light. "I should thank you in advance," he said, his smile reaching his eyes. Jennifer, touched by the authenticity of his smile, felt her heart skip a beat, prompting her to shyly look away as they walked side by side through the hallway. "So, Lucas, you feel there's something off with your performance in that scene. Can you identify what's missing?" she gently probed.
Lucas sighed, his expression clouded with frustration. "I'm at a loss. There's definitely something lacking, but I can't quite figure out what it is."
Jennifer's interest was piqued, thought, "That's quite intriguing. Understanding Lucas situation right now could even offer insights for my own acting career in the future," she reflected. "So, you sense a gap in your performance but can't pinpoint it?"
Lucas simply nodded. Before Jennifer could delve deeper, Lucas mentioned, "Actually, I have the camera right here. You can watch the scene and see for yourself." He proceeded to open his bag, pulled out the handheld camera, and handed it to a surprised Jennifer.
"You have the camera with you?" Jennifer asked, eyebrows raised.
"Yes," Lucas confirmed, "I borrowed it from Drake so I could review the scene more closely. It might help me identify what's missing."
Jennifer nodded thoughtfully as they stepped out into the bright afternoon light. Turning on the camera, she played back the scene they had just filmed, watching Lucas's performance with a critical eye.
Walking side by side along the bustling city street, Jennifer turned to Lucas, her expression contemplative. "It's odd. Watching you act, I can't fault your performance. Yet, something was missing. I felt it more deeply this time, but I can't quite put my finger on what it is."
Lucas, feeling a sense of validation, replied with a sense of relief. "You see it too? I knew something was off. It's reassuring to hear you say that."
Jennifer laughed lightly, a spark of camaraderie between them. "Well, I would hope so. I'm an actor, too, after all."
As they continued their stroll, the conversation flowed easily between them. Deciding to take a break, they spotted a cozy café and decided it was the perfect place to sit down, relax, and delve deeper into the mystery of what Lucas's acting was missing.
Seated comfortably across from each other, they were momentarily interrupted by the server's question about their coffee order. Without hesitation, both Lucas and Jennifer exclaimed, "Classic Latte, please!" Their simultaneous choice surprised them both, leading to a shared moment of laughter.
Jennifer teased, "I didn't know you had the same taste in coffee as me."
Lucas, smiling, responded, "Seems like we have more in common than I thought."
Interrupting their moment, the server asked, "Classic Lattes for both of you?"
Lucas turned and confirmed, "Yes, please."
With a nod, the server went off to place their orders.
Turning back to each other, Jennifer sparked a new conversation. "So, what's your take on Classic Lattes?"
Lucas, with a warm smile, shared, "I love them for their rich, robust espresso flavor, softened by the creamy steamed milk. It's like they're both grounded and versatile at the same time..."
Jennifer nodded in agreement, "Exactly! It's the same reason for me. They're strong yet gentle, very much how I like to see myself, grounded and versatile."
Lucas couldn't help but laugh. "Expressing yourself as a coffee now?"
Blushing slightly, Jennifer replied, "Why not? I think it fits. Grounded and versatile, right?"
Lucas chuckled again, "Heh."
Jennifer, with a playful smile, pressed, "And what does that 'heh' mean?"
"Just amused," Lucas said, his smile brightening. His earlier frustrations seemed to fade away in Jennifer's company, lightening his mood significantly.
Their coffees arrived shortly after, and they resumed their discussion on what Lucas's acting might be missing.
Their attention was briefly diverted by a couple entering the café, openly displaying their affection. Initially, Lucas and Jennifer tried to ignore them, but as the couple settled next to their table, they couldn't help but observe. The unabashed display of love and desire between the two, culminating in a kiss, made both Lucas and Jennifer blush.
It was then that Jennifer had an epiphany. "Lucas," she whispered excitedly, "I think I've figured out what was missing in your performance!"
Author's Note:
For a moment, I genuinely believed I was on the verge of being transported to another world, considering the sheer panic emanating from my neighbors due to a small fire happening in the roof of the house due to electrical circuit, merely dozens of meters away from our home. Thankfully, the situation was swiftly brought under control as the flames were extinguished.
Drake felt the pressure of time ticking away. They had only rented the classroom for a few hours, but Lucas was struggling to deliver the right performance, necessitating multiple takes. If they couldn't wrap up the filming within the allocated time, Drake faced the prospect of additional expenses.
With Lucas having stepped out into the hallway, Drake ventured out in search of him. However, aside from a few cast and crew members, Lucas was nowhere to be found. Drake inquired, "Where's Lucas?"
Charlie, who was close by, responded, "He went out with Jennifer."
Drake was taken aback. Lucas going out with Jennifer? Regardless, Drake could only hope that Lucas would quickly regain his composure, allowing them to complete the filming in the classroom.
At the café, Lucas was taken aback by Jennifer's whispered insight. "She knows exactly what's missing in my acting?" he wondered silently.
Curiosity piqued, he couldn't resist asking, "Oh, you do?"
Jennifer nodded affirmatively, "Yes, I believe I do."
Intrigued, Lucas leaned in, eyebrows raised, "Really? Could you share your thoughts with me?"
With a shy mutter, Jennifer shared, "I think what you're missing is... the passion and yearning for... love."
"I'm lacking... love?" Lucas echoed, visibly surprised as he gazed at Jennifer, who confirmed with a nod.
Reflecting on her words, Lucas experienced a moment of clarity. His performance had elements of nervousness and joy, but his eyes lacked the depth of desire and love required for the scene.
"Thank you, Jennifer, for this insight. I'll never forget it," Lucas expressed his gratitude, looking deeply at Jennifer.
"Consider it a favor," Jennifer replied with a smile, sipping her classic latte. However, she hadn't stirred her coffee thoroughly, leaving a trace of foam on her lips.
Lucas, noticing the foam, chuckled, "You've got a bit of foam on your lips."
Embarrassed, Jennifer attempted, "Oh? Here?" trying to remove it, but to no avail.
Finding the moment endearingly awkward, Lucas offered a gentle hand, wiping away the foam with a touch that seemed unexpectedly intimate, causing Jennifer to blush. She hastily pushed his hand away, cleaning her lips with her forearm, and said with a shy blush, "I can manage on my own..."
This moment revealed a different side of Jennifer to Lucas. Previously, he saw her as strong, independent, and confident. Now, as they grew closer, he discovered her shy and charmingly awkward side, which made her all the more endearing.
"Why do you look so shy? Aren't we going to film intimate scenes together in the future?" Lucas asked, his chuckle lightening the mood.
Jennifer replied softly, "It's different. On set, I'm fully immersed in my role, and for the sake of the film, I can manage."
"So, off-camera, you're not comfortable being intimate with a co-star?" Lucas teased, still chuckling.
Jennifer nodded, "Yes, it's something like that," she admitted. Yet, deep down, she felt an overwhelming shyness and her heart fluttered from Lucas's close presence. Despite their brief interaction, she felt inexplicably drawn to him but couldn't bring herself to acknowledge it, let alone act on it.
"Is this really happening? We've only recently gotten to know each other, but why do I feel this way?" Jennifer wondered, her heart racing at the mere thought of being near Lucas.
"Alright, let's head back to set. Now that I understand what's been missing, I'm hopeful I can nail the performance," Lucas said, determined.
Jennifer smiled, offering encouragement, "Good luck."
As Lucas and Jennifer returned to the set, Drake, visibly anxious, hurried over to Lucas. "Lucas, you're here! Look at the time, we've only got an hour before we have to leave the classroom!"
Lucas acknowledged him, "Alright, but give me a few minutes to get into character, will you?"
Drake agreed, trying to calm down, "We still have an hour, so take a few minutes. It's only a short scene, after all."
Lucas nodded in appreciation, then took a deep breath, sat at the nearby chair, preparing himself under the watchful eyes of the cast, including the fellow lead, Felicity Jones.
What Lucas and the others didn't realize was that, to perfect his role, Lucas delved into the depths of his own mind, tapping into a unique skill he called the "Mind Workshop." This technique allowed him to vividly simulate the scene he needed to enact, bringing every detail to life before his eyes.
Within the confines of this "Mind Workshop," everything he needed appeared with astonishing realism. The characters, including the students, the professor, and Anna—the woman Jacob, his character, falls in love with at first sight—all materialized around him.
As Lucas, embodying Jacob, attempted to reenact the scene with Anna (portrayed by Felicity Jones within his mental realm), he encountered a problem. Despite Anna's flawless performance—given she was a figment of his Mind Workshop—Lucas felt no genuine emotion. The love and desire that should have driven his character were absent, leaving his portrayal lacking in authenticity.
Lucas tried to reset the scene in his mental workshop, hoping to infuse his performance with the necessary passion and desire. Although hours seemed to pass in his mental space, only minutes ticked by in the real world. Despite the urgency, Lucas struggled to convey the depth of emotion required.
The absence of real love and desire made his attempt at conveying genuine fascination, desire and subtle love fall flat.
Lucas attempted to reset the scene, aiming to infuse his performance with the missing emotions. Time seemed to stretch for hours in his Mind Workshop, but back in reality, only minutes ticked by. Still, Lucas struggled to capture the essence of love in his portrayal.
Then, a turning point came. Lucas's thoughts wandered to Jennifer. Her personality culminated warmth, strength, caring and independent, deeply resonated with him. The ease and natural connection he felt with her were unlike anything he'd experienced before. It felt real, unforced, as if they had known each other for years, despite their recent acquaintance.
Reflecting on their moments together, Lucas found the depth of emotion he had been searching for. Imagining Jennifer in place of Anna, he suddenly tapped into a wellspring of genuine fascination, interest and a subtle desire. His performance in the Mind Workshop was transformed, now imbued with a subtle, yet unmistakable spark of love.
Upon exiting the Mind Workshop, Lucas was immediately confronted with the real world, where Felicity Jones stood before him, curiously asking, "Were you napping?"
AN:
(I'd love to hear your thoughts on the writing style. Recently, the posted chapters of this novel have featured less AI influence than before. However, if many of you prefer the chapters with a stronger AI presence, please share your opinions.)
On the set, a blend of anticipation and apprehension filled the air as filming was set to resume, with Lucas already in character and ready to go.
When Felicity caught Lucas's gaze, as if questioning whether he had been dozing off, he simply chuckled, "No, I'm just deeply getting into my character."
Felicity gave Lucas a puzzled look as she made her final preparations, the moment before filming charged with energy.
"Alright, let's dive into filming!" Drake announced, noticing Lucas getting up from his seat where he'd been momentarily seated. He eyed Lucas, signaling to him, "Ready to start, Lucas?"
Lucas gave a nod, then moved to his mark.
With Drake, the cast, and crew all set, Lucas sensed their cautious stares, acutely aware of the meticulous vibe he brought to the set.
Lucas understood the crew's shifting perception of him, yet he was resolved to work seamlessly this time, aiming to minimize any disruption.
"Okay, are we all set?" Drake lingered a bit longer on Lucas before declaring energetically, "Action!"
The filming restarted, this attempt following several previous ones that Lucas felt didn't meet his standards.
But now, Lucas was hopeful to finally achieve the level of performance he could be satisfied with.
As Felicity, portraying Anna, unfolded the narrative about the evolution of publishing, from print to the digital realms like MySpace, Lucas, in the guise of Jacob, observed her closely. The camera focused on Jacob, documents in hand, his gaze locked on Anna.
The lens caught Jacob's nuanced expression, particularly his eyes, which sparkled with interest and a hint of curiosity, yet also betrayed a trace of fascination.
As the cameraman, cast members, and Drake observed the unfolding scene, they were struck by a notable shift in Lucas's performance. While the change wasn't dramatic, there was a clear evolution in his approach and execution. It wasn't about being better or worse in a conventional sense; rather, Lucas's portrayal now carried a new level of nuance and depth that impressed everyone.
After Anna finished her part, the professor offered his praise, then reminded everyone to submit their final assignments to Jacob.
The room buzzed with the sounds of students, played by the cast, shuffling papers and murmuring to each other as they handed their work to Jacob before exiting the classroom, leaving him alone with Anna.
"I don't need to give you mine because I've already done it," Anna informed Jacob, introducing an unexpected twist to their dialogue.
Jacob's response, "Well, I'm okay with that..." took everyone by surprise, clearly deviating from the script.
It was obvious that Lucas was improvising, steering the scene in a new direction.
Felicity, in character as Anna, found herself adapting to Lucas's spontaneous dialogue, keen to avoid another retake. With the scene already filmed eight times due to Lucas's perfectionism, Felicity was determined not to be the reason for yet another.
"Thank you..." Anna's gratitude was heartfelt, accompanied by a smile that lingered as she looked at Jacob.
However, Felicity, embodying Anna, felt a surge of surprise at the intensity of Lucas's, or rather Jacob's, gaze.
The camera captured a tender moment as Jacob's eyes, locked on Anna, softened, conveying a depth of warmth and affection with a mere glance.
"Uhm... If there's nothing else, I'll be on my way," Felicity, visibly moved by the intensity of the moment, ventured off-script.
"Alright," Jacob simply replied, his gaze following Anna as she left the classroom.
In that moment, the camera caught a glimpse of Jacob's eyes, filled with a subtle curiosity and longing, painting the picture of a young man falling in love at first sight. As the scene neared its end, Jacob's smile emerged, genuine and almost spontaneous.
The director, Drake, was so captivated by Lucas's performance that he momentarily forgot to call "Cut!" His astonishment was evident as he finally did, marking the end of the shoot.
Walking over to Lucas, Drake confessed, "Watching your performance just now... I can't quite describe it, but it reminded me of how I fell in love with my ex-wife."
Lucas, still deep in character, simply nodded.
Drake chuckled, appreciative of the moment, "This scene turned out wonderfully. Let's take a look at the playback."
Together, Lucas, Drake, and Felicity reviewed the footage from the various camera angles, each perspective offering a new insight into the scene's emotional depth.
As Drake and Felicity watched Lucas's performance, they were struck by how much he had elevated the scene. It far exceeded their expectations. They had already thought Lucas's earlier takes were exceptional, but this time, he truly captured the essence of a young man falling in love at first sight. Previously, his performance had hinted at nervousness and courage, but now, there was a subtle spark of love that hadn't been there before.
Drake now felt that the effort of filming nine takes was entirely justified. Meanwhile, Felicity, witnessing Lucas's marked improvement, couldn't help but feel a pang of inadequacy. Her own performance seemed lacking in comparison, and it weighed heavily on her.
However, embarrassment prevented her from voicing these concerns to Drake or asking for another take. She had noticed the crew and cast's growing impatience with Lucas's insistence on perfection, and she didn't dare add to the tension.
Later, as Lucas and Drake reviewed the footage, Drake complimented him, "I think your performance was already very good. Job well done, Lucas."
Lucas nodded, acknowledging the praise. "Yeah, I think I captured the essence pretty well."
"You really did," Drake agreed, though inwardly, he couldn't help but feel that Felicity's brief moment, meant to convey curiosity towards Jacob, had fallen short. Nonetheless, Lucas's performance had more than compensated for any shortcomings in the scene.
As they continued reviewing the scene, Jennifer joined in, gently taking the camera from Lucas's hands to get a closer look, particularly interested in Lucas's performance.
Watching closely, she noted the expressions, gestures, and dialogue that effortlessly kept Anna engaged. It was clear to her that Lucas, embodying Jacob, radiated a warmth, curiosity, and fascination that mirrored the beginnings of love.
Jennifer knew she should be pleased with Lucas's excellent portrayal, yet she found herself irked, her hearth fluttering in irritation.
"Why does he look at Felicity with such eagerness, as if he's dying to get to know her?" she thought, her brows knitting together in annoyance.
Lucas caught the slight furrow in Jennifer's brow and asked, "What do you think? Is there something missing in my performance?"
Jennifer seemed lost in thought and didn't respond until Lucas repeated his question. Snapping back to reality, she quickly reassured him, "No, no. Your performance is spot-on. I don't see anything amiss."
Lucas, puzzled, remarked, "I thought you noticed something off, given your frown."
"Haha, that's just how I look when I'm focusing," Jennifer fibbed, masking her true feelings. She was irked by Lucas's convincing display of affection towards another woman, yet she knew better than to voice such sentiments.
Song: Yellow by Coldplay.
--
--
--
After filming concluded in the classroom, the cast and crew swiftly exited the building, following Drake's heartfelt thanks to the individual who had provided the space.
The next scene marked a significant departure from the original script and setting envisioned by Drake and Ben, the film's screenwriter.
Set in a bar, the scene spotlighted Lucas, portraying Jacob, poised to deliver a performance on stage. This represented a notable shift from Jacob's initial portrayal as a carpenter and furniture designer. Instead, Lucas and Drake decided to reimagine Jacob with a newfound passion for music.
This adjustment had been contemplated by Drake, who recognized Lucas's musical talents, highlighted by his contributions to the soundtrack of "127 Hours" and his performance in the TV series "Modern Family."
Therefore, Drake and Ben were confident in the decision to transform Jacob into a bar performer and music enthusiast, seeing no issue with this creative pivot.
At the bar, Felicity, portraying Anna, watched Jacob's performance unfold before her, her curiosity piqued by the moment.
The camera focused intently on Jacob, navigating through the crowded, lively space of the bar. Given the indie nature of their film project and its modest budget, they lacked the authority to manage the patrons who were genuinely enjoying their evening, adding a layer of authenticity to the scene.
In this vibrant atmosphere, the patrons, not merely extras but real people reveling in the bar, took notice of Lucas, embodying the character of Jacob.
From a distance, Jennifer and the rest of the cast observed Lucas's performance, captured by a cameraman wielding a Canon EOS 7D.
Charlie, actively involved in the film despite his scene not yet being shot, approached Jennifer with keen interest. "Drake mentioned Lucas would be performing an original piece. I'm quite eager to hear it," he confessed.
Jennifer simply nodded in agreement. "I've heard Lucas's composition for '127 Hours', he's good..."
"Oh? I haven't had the pleasure yet, but now I'm even more intrigued," Charlie admitted, somewhat skeptical yet curious about Lucas's musical prowess.
As the band, hired for the production, began playing the opening notes crafted by Lucas, his gaze seemed to naturally find Felicity's Anna.
Their eyes met, a moment captured by the cameras, just as Lucas, or Jacob, began to sing with his eyes still fixed on Anna, "Look at the stars, " he sang, "Look how they shine for you, and everything you do"
The bar, initially filled with chatter and laughter, quieted down as everyone's attention shifted to Lucas.
Drake, overseeing the scene, couldn't help but smile, confident in the song's impact after hearing Lucas's brief rendition earlier.
Meanwhile, Felicity, completely taken aback by the original song, was kept in the dark about it by Drake and Lucas to preserve her genuine reaction of astonishment.
Nearby, Jennifer and Charlie were equally captivated by the song's opening, struck by the harmony between the band's music and Lucas's voice.
Despite appreciating Lucas's performance, Jennifer felt an unexpected twinge of jealousy, noticing his attention was solely on Felicity.
"Why am I feeling this way..." Jennifer pondered, troubled by her emotions. She began to question whether her feelings for Lucas were evolving beyond mere friendship and professional admiration.
Lucas, in the role of Jacob, seamlessly wove his melancholy yet mesmerizing voice into the next verse, "Yeah, and they were all yellow, " he continued, "I came along, I wrote a song for you, and all the things you do, " his gaze never straying from Anna, as the band echoed the sentiment of his lyrics.
"And it was called 'Yellow' " he sang, his connection with Anna palpable as the music swelled around them.
"So then I took my turn,
What a thing to have done,
And it was all yellow, "
The lyrics deeply resonated with everyone in the bar, drawing them into a shared experience.
"Your skin, oh yeah, your skin and bones,
Turn into something beautiful,
And you know, you know I love you so, "
Couples exchanged glances, moved by the profound emotions the song evoked.
"You know I love you so, "
"I swam across,
I jumped across for you,
Oh, what a thing to do,
Because you were all yellow, "
The band's performance perfectly matched Lucas's delivery, enhancing the depth and emotion of the lyrics, "I drew a line,
I drew a line for you,
Oh, what a thing to do,
And it was all yellow, "
The harmony between the music and Lucas's voice was entrancing, a melodious treat for all.
"And your skin, oh yeah, your skin and bones,"
"Turn into something beautiful,
And you know, for you, I'd bleed myself dry
For you, I'd bleed myself dry, "
Lucas's voice captivated everyone, but Jennifer, standing a bit apart, gazed at Lucas, her heart beating in a way she found strangely pleasant. Yet, she couldn't help feeling a pang of sadness when she noticed Lucas's gaze wasn't on her, but rather on Felicity.
Jennifer glanced at Felicity, who wasn't too far away, and saw in her eyes a mix of genuine curiosity, fascination, and a subtle hint of love.
Observing this, Jennifer looked back at Lucas, only to find his gaze filled with an intensity that seemed to surpass even Felicity's.
"It's true
Look how they shine for you
Look how they shine for you
Look how they shine for
Look how they shine for you
Look how they shine for you
Look how they shine, "
As the band's music softened towards the end, Lucas wrapped up the song with a heartfelt rendition of, "Look at the stars, look how they shine for you, and everything you do."
Caught up in the moment and observing the exchange of glances between Lucas and Felicity, Jennifer impulsively did something quite foolish to draw Lucas's attention, inadvertently catching the eye of the cameraman and the entire crew on site. "Wow, what a beautiful song!" she shouted, her voice cutting through the bar's noise, pleading for another song. Her voice, distinct and loud, caught Lucas's attention, making him look her way in surprise as she waved at him with a bright smile.
Drake, the director, frowned at this unplanned interruption but continued filming, even choosing to include Jennifer in the scene.
After the scene wrapped up, Jennifer was ready to apologize to Drake for her disruption, fearing she had spoiled the take. However, Drake simply sighed and reassured her, "No, it's alright. I understand the song moved you; I can't blame you for that. Actually, your spontaneity worked in our favor, bringing you into the film much sooner than we planned."
When Lucas took a break from the crowd clamoring for more songs, he joined the cast and crew in a private room within the bar. There, he was taken aback to learn that the film's direction had shifted, with Jennifer's early introduction into the scene now part of the plan.
Drake, upon reviewing the footage, decided Jennifer's early appearance wasn't an issue. In fact, it provided a better narrative for how Jacob and Sam's relationship unfolded, offering a clearer insight into Sam's feelings for Jacob, unlike the original script that left their connection somewhat unexplained.